Mainframe Web Service Bridge for Distributed Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional approaches to building and modifying web-based applications in mainframe-based computing environments are complex, requiring multiple skilled personnel and resources, and often result in inefficiencies due to the need for data synchronization and security concerns when transitioning from mainframe to distributed systems.
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 the mainframe-based platform for enhanced data communication and processing, including the use of an EAI framework and XML-based business rules engines to facilitate integration and data transformation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering 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
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a visual application builder that enables users to create web-based applications without traditional programming knowledge. Users can drag and drop components, configure parameters, and generate applications automatically, making the system self-serve its own development needs without requiring skilled developers for each application.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical programming process with an automated visual builder system. Instead of manually writing and compiling code, users interact with graphical interfaces where the system automatically generates the underlying application logic, substituting the mechanical coding process with an automated configuration system.
2Reliability
If multiple skilled personnel are engaged for application development, then application quality can be maintained, but time and resources are consumed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent provides pre-configured templates, components, and frameworks that are prepared in advance. Users can select from pre-built application patterns and configurations, eliminating the need to start from scratch and reducing the time required for development while maintaining quality through standardized, pre-vetted components.
Solution Approach 2:
The visual application builder enables end-users to develop applications independently without requiring skilled developers for each project. The system provides built-in guidance, templates, and automated generation that allow users to create quality applications on their own, eliminating the time loss associated with coordinating multiple personnel.
3Ease of operation
If data is pushed to distributed application servers, then client access is improved, but security and control are negatively impacted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary layer between the mainframe and distributed clients. This intermediary serves as a secure gateway that manages data communication, maintaining security controls while enabling client access. The intermediary abstracts the complexity of data distribution while preserving mainframe security protocols.
4Power
If mainframe-based architecture is used, then data communication and processing power are maintained, but adaptability to modern web standards is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal application builder that can generate multiple types of applications (web-based, mobile, desktop) from a single mainframe-based core. The system provides multi-functional output capabilities, allowing the same mainframe infrastructure to serve diverse client platforms and communication protocols simultaneously, thereby achieving both processing power and adaptability.
Data Source
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.