Memory Grid Cache for Business Process State Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing Business Process Management (BPM) workflow engines inefficiently store and manage process states, requiring significant computing resources due to database formatting requirements, leading to complex configurations and resource-intensive data handling.
Innovation Solution
Storing BPM process states in a memory grid using tree-structured cache nodes, with a converter formatting the data into plain text or serialized Java objects for efficient storage, reducing the need for resource-intensive database communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If BPM process engine stores state in database with specific formatting requirements, then data persistence and reliability are improved, but computing resource consumption and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the storage system into two parts: a database for persistent storage and a cache layer for temporary storage. The cache holds process state data in a simplified format, reducing the need for resource-intensive database operations while maintaining data persistence through periodic flushing to the database.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a cache as an intermediary layer between the BPM process engine and the database. This cache absorbs the formatting and conversion overhead, acting as a buffer that reduces direct database access frequency and simplifies the data path for frequent read/write operations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If BPM process engine formats raw data into specific database format, then data storage compatibility is improved, but processing time and productivity decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary formatting and conversion of process state data when it is first cached, rather than formatting it repeatedly during each database access. The cache stores data in an optimized format that can be quickly written to the database when needed, eliminating repeated conversion overhead.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a simplified copy of the process state data in the cache layer, which mirrors the essential information needed for BPM operations but uses a less complex format. This copy allows rapid access and manipulation without requiring full database-format conversion for every operation.
3Reliability
If BPM process engine uses database with strict formatting requirements, then data integrity is improved, but configuration complexity and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The cache serves as an intermediary that handles the complexity of data formatting and validation. It maintains data integrity through validation rules and conversion logic, while shielding the BPM process engine from direct exposure to database schema complexities and formatting requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The cache layer performs self-service by automatically formatting, validating, and converting data before it reaches the database. This automation reduces the need for manual configuration and intervention, as the system self-manages the complexity of data format translation and integrity enforcement.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus and a method for storing a BPM process state is described. A process engine generates a business process state. The business process state is stored in a memory grid of a tree structured cache nodes. A converter converts the business process state to a plain text file or a binary format file prior to storing the business process state.