Partial Index Segmentation for Distributed Database Query Optimization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional database indexes in non-relational and dynamic schema environments struggle to efficiently include records based on criteria fields not included in the index, leading to performance issues and increased processing time due to the need for extraneous fields, which dilutes the index's usefulness.

Innovation Solution

A system and method for creating partial database indexes using criteria fields distinct from index fields, allowing for filtered indexes that reduce processing time and error, improve query efficiency, and enable more indexes to be maintained in memory, by using a criteria field and condition to selectively include records in the index.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If conventional database indexes include all fields necessary for query filtering, then query accuracy is improved, but index size and processing time increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvequery accuracyVSAvoidprocessing time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the index into two distinct parts: index fields (for efficient data location) and criteria fields (for filtering). This segmentation allows the index to store only the minimum necessary fields for locating data, while filtering is performed separately using criteria fields, thereby reducing index size and processing time while maintaining query accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent extracts the filtering function from the traditional index structure. Instead of including all filtering fields within the index, the criteria fields are separated and used to filter results after the index locates candidate records. This extraction reduces the index's computational burden and size while preserving query accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

2Adaptability or versatility

If conventional database indexes include extraneous fields for filtering, then query flexibility is improved, but index performance deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvequery flexibilityVSAvoidindex performance
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

By segmenting the index and criteria fields, the patent enables flexible querying without including extraneous fields in the index structure. The criteria fields can be freely added or modified to support different query types, while the index fields remain optimized for performance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies local quality by giving different functions to different parts of the query system: index fields are optimized for fast data location with simple data structures, while criteria fields handle the complexity of filtering and adaptability. This separation allows each component to be optimized for its specific purpose.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Loss of information

If conventional database indexes store complete field data, then data completeness is improved, but memory usage and storage requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata completenessVSAvoidmemory usage
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts only the essential fields needed for indexing and storing them in a compact index structure. Complete field data is not stored in the index; instead, the index stores minimal information necessary for locating records, while the actual complete data remains in the original database records.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a simplified copy of the data structure for indexing purposes. The index contains a streamlined version with only index fields, while the full data with all fields remains in the original records. This copying approach maintains data completeness in the source while reducing memory usage in the index.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Data Source

PatentUS10585867B2Systems and methods for generating partial indexes in distributed databases
Publication Date: 2020.03.10 MONGODB INC
  • US10585867B2 patent drawing
  • US10585867B2 patent drawing
  • US10585867B2 patent drawing

AI summary

According to one aspect, methods and systems are provided for creating partial indexes in a distributed database environment. The database includes an index engine configured to receive at least one index field, a criteria field, and a criteria condition, wherein the criteria field is not included in the at least one index field; and generate an index comprising the at least one index field from at least one record of the plurality of records and a pointer to the at least one record of the plurality of records, wherein the criteria field of the at least one record of the plurality of records satisfies the criteria condition. The database further includes a query engine configured to receive a search query containing the at least one index field; and search the index for the at least one index field.