In-Memory Database Information Model Generation via Semantic Layer Import

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Solution Overview

Problem

Users of semantic-based information design tools face the manual re-creation of data foundations for in-memory computing, which is time-consuming and inefficient, as they need to recreate entire tables and relationships from existing semantic layer data foundations.

Innovation Solution

A method for generating information models in an in-memory database system by importing data foundations from existing semantic layer files, where table objects and relationships are automatically extracted and populated onto a modeler canvas, allowing for the automatic identification and definition of cardinality between table columns.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If users manually re-create data foundation from existing semantic layer files, then information models can be created in in-memory database system, but the process is time-consuming and inefficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinformation model generation speedVSAvoidmanual re-creation time
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent automatically copies and imports data foundation objects (tables, columns, relationships, cardinality) from existing semantic layer files into the in-memory database system. This eliminates manual re-creation by directly transferring the structural definitions and metadata from the source semantic layer to the target information model, significantly reducing time and effort.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary actions by pre-defining the data foundation structure in semantic layer files before import. The semantic layer files contain pre-configured table definitions, column specifications, relationship mappings, and cardinality rules that are prepared in advance and then automatically applied during the import process to the in-memory database system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Ease of manufacture

If users manually recreate entire tables and relationships, then data foundation is established, but manual effort and complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata foundation creation easeVSAvoidmodeling process complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system enables self-service by automatically performing the data foundation creation process. The import functionality autonomously reads semantic layer files, extracts table and relationship definitions, and populates the in-memory database system without requiring manual intervention. This self-automating approach simplifies the process while reducing the perceived complexity for users.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses semantic layer files as an intermediary format that bridges the gap between existing data models and the in-memory database system. This intermediary contains all necessary structural information in a standardized format, allowing automatic translation and import, thereby reducing both manual effort and process complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS9519701B2Generating information models in an in-memory database system
Publication Date: 2016.12.13 SAP SE
  • US9519701B2 patent drawing
  • US9519701B2 patent drawing
  • US9519701B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Various embodiments of systems and methods for generating information models in an in-memory database system by importing data foundation from existing Semantic layer files are described herein. The method includes specifying a type of information view to be generated to model content data. Further the method includes invoking the content data from existing semantic layer files using an import option of a content data editor interface. Subsequent to selecting one or more semantic layer files, automatically extracting table objects corresponding to the selected semantic layer files along with data foundation objects from a file source.