Automatic Convergent Data Mapping for Integration Workflows

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Solution Overview

Problem

Manual schema implementation for convergent data mappings in complex integration workflows becomes time-consuming and unwieldy due to the increasing number of branches and nodes, requiring manual definition of output schemas and mappings at convergence points.

Innovation Solution

A computer-implemented method for automatic generation of convergent data mappings, which involves generating a branch schema for each branch, a common output schema for convergence points, and branch mappings from each branch node to the common output schema, using a processor and memory configured to execute these functions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If manual schema implementation is used for convergent data mappings, then users can define output schemas and mappings at convergence points, but the process becomes time-consuming and unwieldy as the number of branches and nodes increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemapping accuracyVSAvoidtime to define schemas and mappings
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs self-service by automatically generating branch schemas and convergence mappings without requiring manual user intervention. The computer program instructions autonomously analyze branch node output schemas, generate union schemas for each branch, compute intersection schemas at convergence points, and create the mappings between them, eliminating the time-consuming manual process while maintaining accuracy

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary actions by pre-generating branch schemas through union operations on node output schemas before reaching convergence points. This preliminary schema generation and mapping creation automates the process in advance, eliminating the need for manual schema definition and mapping configuration when branches converge

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Ease of operation

If manual schema implementation is used, then users can control the mapping process, but the complexity increases dramatically with more branches and nodes

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuser controlVSAvoidworkflow complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system takes over the complex tasks of schema generation and mapping creation through automated computer program instructions, reducing the operational burden on users. The system self-manages the complexity of analyzing multiple branch schemas, computing unions and intersections, and generating mappings, thereby simplifying the user experience while handling workflow complexity internally

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the manual mechanical process of schema definition and mapping configuration with an automated computational system. The computer program instructions execute algorithmic operations (union, intersection, mapping generation) that substitute for manual user operations, reducing perceived complexity for users while systematically handling the intricate workflow structures

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Productivity

If automatic generation is implemented, then efficiency increases and user cognitive load decreases, but automation extent must be increased

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveschema generation efficiencyVSAvoidautomation level
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSExtent of automation

Solution Approach 1:

The system achieves high automation by performing self-service through computer program instructions that automatically generate branch schemas, convergence schemas, and mappings without user intervention. This complete automation drives productivity by eliminating manual schema generation tasks, allowing the system to handle complex workflows efficiently while users experience reduced cognitive load and faster processing

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS12106105B2Automatic generation of convergent data mappings for branches in an integration workflow
Publication Date: 2024.10.01 INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINE CORPORATION
  • US12106105B2 patent drawing
  • US12106105B2 patent drawing
  • US12106105B2 patent drawing

AI summary

In an approach to improve integration workflows by automatically generating convergent data mappings for branches in an integration workflow using a computer. A branch schema for each branch is generated, wherein the branch schema represents the union of all the individual node output schemas on the branch. A common output schema for a convergence point is generated, wherein the common output schema represents an intersection of all the branch schemas and generates branch mappings from each branch node to the common output schema.