Coupled Model-Instance Graph Databases for Platform Data Correlation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Managing complex platform data across different stakeholders is time-consuming and error-prone due to fragmented information sources and the need for manual correlation of disparate systems, especially in aircraft maintenance and operations.

Innovation Solution

Implementing a coupled graph database pair comprising a model graph database in the manufacturer environment and an instance graph database in the customer environment, with defined relationships between nodes to facilitate efficient data management and navigation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If manual correlation of information from disparate systems is used, then data accuracy can be maintained through human verification, but time consumption increases significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata accuracyVSAvoidtime consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an automated data correlation system that acts as an intermediary between disparate information sources. This system automatically matches and correlates data from multiple sources using algorithms and data matching techniques, eliminating the need for manual correlation while maintaining data accuracy through systematic verification processes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical manual process of data correlation with an automated computational system. The system uses software algorithms, data processing mechanisms, and automated matching techniques to perform correlations that were previously done manually, significantly reducing time consumption while maintaining or improving accuracy.

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

2Loss of information

If information is delivered in document format, then comprehensive detail can be provided, but navigation and location of desired information becomes time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinformation completenessVSAvoidnavigation time
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transforms information from traditional linear document format into a multi-dimensional structured database format. This allows information to be organized hierarchically and cross-referenced through multiple dimensions (e.g., by component, by system, by maintenance task), enabling users to navigate directly to desired information through various pathways rather than searching through linear documents.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent segments comprehensive information into structured, modular database records that can be independently accessed and correlated. Instead of presenting all information in monolithic documents, the system divides information into discrete data elements that can be quickly located, retrieved, and cross-referenced based on specific needs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Reliability

If document revisions occur frequently, then up-to-date information is maintained, but document complexity increases making information harder to locate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinformation currencyVSAvoiddocument complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the fundamental parameter of information organization from static document versions to dynamic database records with version control. Each piece of information is stored as a discrete record with metadata including version, revision history, and effective dates. This allows the system to maintain information currency through automated updates while managing complexity through structured data organization rather than complex document hierarchies.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a database management system as an intermediary that handles revision control and information updates. This system automatically manages versioning, tracks changes, and ensures that the most current information is available without requiring manual document consolidation or complex version management procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

4Measurement precision

If manual correlation of disparate systems is performed, then data accuracy can be verified, but error potential increases due to human factors

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata accuracyVSAvoiderror rate
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual data correlation processes with automated computational systems that eliminate human factors such as fatigue, distraction, and inconsistency. The automated system uses algorithms, data validation rules, and systematic matching procedures to ensure consistent and accurate correlations across all data sources without the error potential associated with manual operations.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements automated feedback mechanisms including data validation checks, consistency verification, and error detection algorithms. The system continuously monitors data correlations, validates results against predefined criteria, and provides feedback loops that identify and correct errors automatically, thereby maintaining high data accuracy while reducing error rates compared to manual processes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS12505161B2Instance graph database and model graph database for data management of a platform
Publication Date: 2025.12.23 THE BOEING CO
  • US12505161B2 patent drawing
  • US12505161B2 patent drawing
  • US12505161B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A coupled graph database pair for management of a platform is presented. The coupled graph database pair comprises a model graph database managed in a manufacturer environment, an instance graph database managed in a customer environment, and a plurality of relationships between the nodes of the model graph database and the nodes of the instance graph database. The model graph database comprises nodes of assemblies, sub-assemblies, and parts for a designed configuration of a model of the platform. The instance graph database comprises nodes of assemblies, sub-assemblies, and parts for a real-time configuration of the platform.