Mainframe Web Service Accelerator via EAI and XML

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing systems for building and modifying web-based applications in mainframe-based computing environments are complex, requiring multiple skilled personnel and resources, and transitioning to distributed application server-based architecture introduces issues with data synchronization, security, and processing speed.

Innovation Solution

The development of systems and processes that allow users to build and modify screens and applications using configurable parameters rather than traditional programming code, leveraging a mainframe-based platform for enhanced data communication and processing, including the use of an EAI framework, XML transformation, and MQ technology to facilitate communication between mainframe and distributed systems.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If traditional programming approaches are used to build web-based applications, then application functionality can be achieved, but the complexity of the system increases and requires multiple skilled personnel

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of application developmentVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system enables business users to develop and configure web-based applications independently through a graphical interface, eliminating the need for skilled programmers. Users can define application functionality, screens, and data relationships without technical expertise, making the system self-service capable and reducing dependency on specialized personnel.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces traditional programming mechanisms with a configuration-based approach. Instead of writing code, users configure applications through graphical interfaces that automatically generate the necessary system components. This substitution of mechanical programming with configuration mechanisms simplifies the development process and reduces system complexity.

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

2Productivity

If multiple skilled personnel are engaged for application development, then application functionality can be achieved, but the time and resources required increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveapplication development speedVSAvoiddevelopment time
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

By enabling business users to develop applications independently through intuitive graphical interfaces, the system eliminates time-consuming coordination between multiple skilled personnel. Users can rapidly configure applications without waiting for programmer availability, significantly accelerating development speed and reducing overall project timelines.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system provides pre-defined templates, screens, and data structures that are prepared in advance. Users can leverage these pre-configured elements to rapidly build applications without needing to create everything from scratch, thereby reducing development time and increasing productivity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Ease of operation

If data is copied from mainframe to distributed application server, then client access is improved, but security and processing speed are negatively impacted

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveclient access capabilityVSAvoiddata security
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system introduces an intermediary layer that enables secure communication between mainframe and client systems. This intermediary manages data transmission securely, maintaining mainframe security controls while allowing distributed access. The intermediary acts as a trusted gateway that preserves security integrity without requiring direct data copying.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

4Reliability

If mainframe-based architecture is used, then data processing control and security are maintained, but adaptability to modern web-based interfaces is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata processing controlVSAvoidweb interface capability
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system creates a universal platform that maintains mainframe processing control while simultaneously supporting modern web-based interfaces. The same mainframe infrastructure can serve traditional applications, web-based applications, and mobile interfaces, providing multi-functionality and broad adaptability without sacrificing processing control or security.

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

Data Source

PatentUS8555239B1Mainframe-based web service development accelerator
Publication Date: 2013.10.08 PNC FINANCIAL SERVICES GROUP INC
  • US8555239B1 patent drawing
  • US8555239B1 patent drawing
  • US8555239B1 patent drawing

AI summary

An interactive computer architecture is provided that can be employed as a bridge between a mainframe-based computing environment and a distributed server-based computing environment. A request/reply contract can be expressed within the mainframe-based environment and employed as the basis for generating a web service in the distributed computing environment.