Configuration File Generation via Template-Based User Interface
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Solution Overview
Problem
The generation and maintenance of configuration files are complex and error-prone, requiring specialized knowledge, and structural differences can increase complexity and costs, especially due to the flexibility provided by XML, which leads to functionally identical but structurally distinct files that do not conform to enterprise standards.
Innovation Solution
A user interface tool simplifies the creation and maintenance of configuration files by guiding users through a self-service interface that generates files based on user inputs, using XML schemas to define structures and data types, and integrates with source code repositories for version control and distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If XML schemas are used to define configuration file structures, then flexibility in structure definition is improved, but structural differences lead to functionally identical but structurally distinct files that do not conform to enterprise standards
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameter of structure definition from flexible XML schemas to rigid templates. By using templates with fixed structures and predefined elements, the system maintains conformability to enterprise standards while still allowing configuration of specific parameters within the template framework.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the configuration file creation process into template selection and parameter filling. The template provides the standardized structure, while user inputs fill in specific parameters. This segmentation ensures that the overall structure conforms to standards while individual parameters can be customized.
2Reliability
If configuration files are generated manually with specialized knowledge, then accuracy and customization are improved, but complexity and maintenance costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service configuration generation where users select templates and provide parameters without needing specialized knowledge. The system automatically generates valid configuration files, eliminating the need for manual expertise while maintaining accuracy through template validation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces templates as intermediaries between user inputs and final configuration files. Templates act as mediators that translate simple user parameter inputs into properly formatted, standard-compliant configuration files, reducing the complexity barrier for users.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple configuration types with different structures are supported, then adaptability to different systems is improved, but maintenance complexity and errors increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal template-based system that can generate multiple configuration types through a single interface. Users select from different templates (e.g., XML, JSON, YAML) and provide parameters, and the system automatically generates the appropriate configuration file, making maintenance easier despite supporting multiple formats.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer programs encoded on computer storage media, for generating configuration files. One of the methods includes presenting a plurality of configuration types to a user, each configuration type associated with a schema. The methods include the actions of receiving a selection of a configuration type. The method includes presenting a user interface to the user, the user interface including a plurality of fields, at least some of the fields corresponding attributes of the schema. The method includes receiving a plurality of values. The method includes generating a configuration file based on the plurality of values and the schema.