Database Unit Conversion Scheduling Optimization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Converting data stored in database tables between different units, such as currencies, is resource intensive due to the need for recursive self-joins and can be inefficient when performed before other database operations, which may increase the number of entries that need to be converted.

Innovation Solution

A method for efficiently converting data by determining the optimal timing of unit conversion operations within database processes, such as performing currency conversions after aggregation or join operations to minimize the number of entries that need to be converted, utilizing an in-memory database system with a processor, storage, and input/output components to manage conversion rates and operations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If unit conversion is performed before other database operations, then data is ready for subsequent operations, but the number of entries to be converted increases due to recursive self-joins

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata readinessVSAvoidnumber of entries to convert
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs unit conversion as a preliminary action by materializing conversion results in a separate table before subsequent database operations. This allows the conversion to be done once and reused, avoiding the need to convert the same entries multiple times through recursive self-joins, thus reducing the quantity of entries to be converted while ensuring data readiness.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a copy of the conversion results by materializing them in a separate table. This copy can then be referenced by subsequent operations without requiring re-conversion, effectively reducing the number of entries that need to be processed repeatedly while maintaining data availability for all subsequent operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

2Adaptability or versatility

If unit conversion is performed using recursive self-joins, then conversion rates can be applied, but computational resources and time are consumed

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconversion rate applicationVSAvoidcomputational resources
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The system materializes conversion results in a separate table, creating a copy that can be efficiently queried and reused. This eliminates the need for computationally intensive recursive self-joins in subsequent operations, significantly reducing computational resource consumption while maintaining the ability to apply conversion rates adaptably.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The patent extracts the conversion operation from the main database query flow and separates it into a distinct materialization step. By taking out the conversion logic and executing it separately with results stored in a dedicated table, the system reduces the computational burden on subsequent operations while preserving conversion rate applicability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

3Manufacturing precision

If all table entries are converted, then complete data transformation is achieved, but time and resources are wasted on entries that may not be needed

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata transformation completenessVSAvoidconversion efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system applies partial action by materializing conversion results only for entries that are actually needed based on query patterns and data access requirements. Rather than converting all table entries, the system selectively materializes conversions for relevant entries, achieving necessary data transformation completeness while improving conversion efficiency by avoiding unnecessary conversions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Data Source

PatentUS10108662B2Unit conversion in database systems
Publication Date: 2018.10.23 SAP SE
  • US10108662B2 patent drawing
  • US10108662B2 patent drawing
  • US10108662B2 patent drawing

AI summary

According to various embodiments, systems and methods for performing unit conversion operations in a database system are provided. According to embodiments, a database operation will require unit conversion. A number of unit conversions that might be required both before and after performance of the operation can then be estimated. At least some of the data entries implicated by the operation can then be converted from a first unit to a second unit depending on the result of the estimation.