ERP Agnostic Realtime Data Mesh for Supply Chain Visibility

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Solution Overview

Problem

The global distribution industry faces inefficiencies in distribution management, supply chain management, inventory control, SKU management, compliance, and evolving consumer expectations due to data fragmentation, limited integration, inefficient data processing, and security concerns, which hinder visibility and decision-making capabilities.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of a Single Pane of Glass (SPoG) and Real-Time Data Mesh (RTDM) system that provides a holistic, user-friendly platform for real-time tracking and analytics, integrating multiple touchpoints, enhancing supply chain visibility, inventory management, compliance, and SKU management, while ensuring data consistency and security.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional ERP systems are used for data management, then data security and governance are maintained, but data fragmentation and information silos occur across different systems and departments

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata securityVSAvoiddata fragmentation
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple ERP systems and data sources into a unified data mesh architecture that consolidates fragmented data while maintaining security through centralized governance policies and access controls

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an intermediary data mesh layer between traditional ERP systems and analytical applications, enabling data integration and sharing while preserving the security and integrity of source systems through standardized interfaces and governance mechanisms

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Stability of the object's composition

If data is stored in various legacy ERP systems, then existing business processes are maintained, but real-time visibility and holistic insights are hindered

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebusiness process stabilityVSAvoidreal-time visibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements preliminary data extraction and transformation processes that proactively prepare and harmonize data from legacy ERP systems before it reaches analytical applications, enabling real-time visibility without disrupting existing business processes

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent adds a new dimensional layer (data mesh) above traditional ERP systems, creating a virtualized data environment that provides real-time access to harmonized data while leaving legacy systems intact and operational

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple data sources including ERPs and legacy systems are integrated, then comprehensive data coverage is achieved, but integration complexity and processing time increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata coverageVSAvoidintegration complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the integration architecture into modular components including data extraction modules, transformation modules, and loading modules that can be independently configured and managed for different data sources, reducing overall integration complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements universal data models and standardized interfaces that enable a single integration framework to handle multiple diverse data sources including ERPs, legacy systems, and external providers through common protocols and data structures

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

4Use of energy by moving object

If traditional data processing systems are used, then existing infrastructure is maintained, but efficient handling of data volume, variety, and velocity is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinfrastructure utilizationVSAvoiddata processing efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes key processing parameters by implementing parallel processing architectures, distributed computing frameworks, and optimized data flow mechanisms that dramatically improve data processing efficiency while utilizing existing infrastructure resources

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentEP4492307A1Systems and methods for supply chain management including ERP agnostic realtime data mesh with change data capture
Publication Date: 2025.01.15 INGRAM MICRO INC
  • EP4492307A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4492307A1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4492307A1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

System and methods are provided for dynamically consolidating interaction points in a distribution ecosystem. The method involves integrating multiple touchpoints of communication between distributors, resellers, end-users, vendors, and suppliers into a unified interactive interface. This interface enables the management of end-to-end partner lifecycle, systematic data collection, analysis using advanced statistical algorithms, deployment of artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms, and continuous updates based on user feedback. The system includes modules for communication integration, consolidation, lifecycle management, data collection, data analysis, and artificial intelligence. The disclosed method and system enhance supply chain operations, generate actionable insights, and provide personalized user experiences, ultimately driving business growth and efficiency.