Edge Connector Configuration Update via Delta Refresh

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Solution Overview

Problem

In software development environments, configuring devices to interface with a Network Based Environment is cumbersome due to the need for different configuration tools, software plug-ins, and device adapters for each type of device, leading to inefficiencies and time-consuming updates.

Innovation Solution

An edge component, such as a Connector, is used to process and transmit data from devices to a Network End Environment, with a configuration update mechanism that provides only changed information, allowing for efficient and reliable interfacing across various devices and networks.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If different configuration tools are used for each device type, then device interface capability is improved, but system complexity and implementation time increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice interface capabilityVSAvoidconfiguration tool complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal configuration tool that can handle multiple device types through a standardized interface. The system uses a common configuration framework that adapts to different devices via configuration files and adapters, eliminating the need for separate configuration tools for each device type while maintaining full device compatibility.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces configuration files and adapter layers as intermediaries between the universal configuration tool and specific devices. These intermediaries translate device-specific parameters into a standardized format, allowing the configuration tool to work with various devices without requiring device-specific tooling.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If configuration tools are updated for each new device interface, then device compatibility is improved, but update time and customer effort increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice compatibilityVSAvoidconfiguration update time
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a configuration file system where device interface parameters are pre-defined and stored in standardized configuration files. When a new device is introduced, its configuration parameters are added to the configuration files in advance, allowing the universal configuration tool to automatically support the new device without requiring tool updates or customer intervention.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a dynamic configuration system where the configuration tool can automatically load and adapt to new device types based on configuration files. The system dynamically adjusts its behavior based on the detected device type and loads appropriate configuration parameters, enabling automatic support for new devices without manual tool updates.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple device adapters and plug-ins are packaged, then device support capability is improved, but software volume and memory requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice support capabilityVSAvoidsoftware volume
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple device-specific adapters and plug-ins into a single universal configuration tool. The tool incorporates a library of configuration files and adapter patterns that can be dynamically selected and loaded based on the specific device type, consolidating what would otherwise require multiple separate tools into one unified solution.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent segments the configuration system into a core universal tool and separate configuration files/adapter modules. The core tool contains the universal logic and framework, while device-specific parameters are separated into configuration files. This allows the core tool to remain compact while supporting numerous devices through external configuration data.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS9553766B2Determined configuration update for edge components
Publication Date: 2017.01.24 SAP SE
  • US9553766B2 patent drawing
  • US9553766B2 patent drawing
  • US9553766B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method, device, system, and computer program product that relate to configuration of an edge component and subcomponents to adapt data from a Device to a readable form and to communicate the adapted data to a Network End Environment. The Network End Environment includes a user interface by which a user requests that the edge component is updated to have a configuration version stored at a source. The system processes the request and updates the edge component configuration. The edge component is updated to a source configuration at a predetermined time interval according to one of a full configuration refresh or a delta configuration. Data received and processed by the edge component can thereafter be pushed to the Network End Environment for storage and/or use in a Network application. The edge component is described as a Connector, and the subcomponents of the edge component are described as Connector components.