Graphical Interface for Hierarchical Data Transformation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current technologies face challenges in efficiently transforming hierarchical data formats between different structures, requiring complex programming knowledge and lacking intuitive graphical interfaces for developers to create data transformations.

Innovation Solution

A method using a computing device with a processor, memory, and input device to create graphical representations of inbound and outbound data formats, allowing developers to link segments and compile instructions for transforming data, enabling the transformation of inbound instances into outbound instances through temporary segment instances.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If traditional programming languages are used to transform hierarchical data formats, then transformation functionality can be achieved, but programming expertise is required and the process becomes complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of data transformationVSAvoidcomplexity of transformation process
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional programming language-based data transformation (mechanical coding process) with a graphical user interface system. Developers can visually define inbound and outbound data formats and create transformations through graphical representations and links, eliminating the need for programming expertise while maintaining transformation functionality.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a computing device with a graphical interface as an intermediary between the developer and the data transformation process. This intermediary provides visual tools for defining data formats and creating transformation links, serving as a mediator that translates user-friendly graphical inputs into executable transformation instructions without requiring direct programming.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If graphical interfaces are introduced to simplify data transformation, then programming expertise is no longer needed, but the system requires additional components (display device, input device)

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of data transformationVSAvoidhardware components required
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The computing device performs multiple functions: it displays the graphical interface, processes user input through the input device, executes the compilation of transformation instructions, and performs the actual data transformation. By making the computing device universal and multi-functional, the patent minimizes the need for specialized hardware components while achieving the graphical interface goal.

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

3Manufacturing precision

If complex data transformations are performed between hierarchical formats, then accurate data conversion is achieved, but the transformation process becomes time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccuracy of data conversionVSAvoidtime for transformation process
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent performs preliminary action by having developers visually define the inbound and outbound data formats and establish transformation links in advance. The system compiles these graphical definitions into executable instructions before actual data transformation occurs. This preliminary setup creates a reusable transformation framework that accelerates the actual data conversion process while maintaining accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent segments the data transformation process into distinct hierarchical components (inbound data format segments, outbound data format segments, and links between them). By breaking down complex transformations into manageable graphical segments, the system can process and compile transformations more efficiently while maintaining precision in converting between hierarchical structures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS8438534B2Transformation of data between hierarchical data formats
Publication Date: 2013.05.07 APTITUDE SOFTWARE
  • US8438534B2 patent drawing
  • US8438534B2 patent drawing
  • US8438534B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method of creating computer instructions for transforming inbound instances, being instances of an inbound data format, into outbound instances, being instances of an outbound data format. At least one of the inbound and outbound data formats has a number of segments arranged in a hierarchical manner. The method uses a computing device having at least a processor, a memory, a display device and an input device. The method includes allowing a developer to use the input device to create a graphical representation of the inbound data format on the display device and allowing the developer to use the input device to create a graphical representation of the outbound data format on the display device.