Placeholder-Based Report Generation via Automated Query Mapping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current database systems require extensive knowledge of database structure and query syntax for users to generate reports, making it difficult for non-technical users to create customized reports with desired formatting, as they need to work with complex queries and inflexible tools.
Innovation Solution
A method that allows users to design report templates with placeholders in word processing applications, which are then mapped to executable database queries using a data mapper, enabling the retrieval of information from the database and automatic generation of completed reports without requiring intimate knowledge of database structures or query syntax.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If users use specialized design tools to generate reports, then report generation capability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to requiring knowledge of internal data structures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a specialized design tool that acts as an intermediary between users and the database system. This tool automatically generates executable queries from user-defined placeholders in report templates, eliminating the need for users to directly write or understand complex query syntax while maintaining full report generation capability
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service report generation by allowing users to create report templates with placeholders that automatically map to database queries. The tool autonomously handles query generation and data retrieval, making the process accessible to users without technical expertise in database structures or query languages
2Ease of operation
If users use pre-programmed report types, then ease of operation is improved, but adaptability deteriorates due to inflexibility and lack of customization ability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms static pre-programmed report types into dynamic, customizable templates. Users can define their own report structures using placeholders that adapt to different data sources and query requirements, allowing the same template framework to serve multiple customization needs while maintaining ease of use
Solution Approach 2:
The report template system serves multiple functions: it acts as both a design interface for customization and an executable query generator. A single template with placeholders can be adapted to various database structures and query types, providing universal functionality across different reporting scenarios
3Loss of information
If users work with large amounts of structured data in databases, then information availability is improved, but device complexity increases due to costly and complicated data access requiring skilled users
Solution Approach 1:
The specialized design tool serves as an intermediary that automatically translates user-friendly placeholder definitions into complex database queries. This mediator handles the complexity of data access internally, allowing users to retrieve information from large databases without needing to understand or manually construct complex queries
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-service by automatically generating and executing the appropriate queries to access database information. The tool autonomously handles the complexity of data retrieval, mapping placeholders to queries and executing data access operations without requiring user expertise in database structures or query syntax
Data Source
AI summary
A computerized method, implemented in at least one processor, for automatically generating a report, the method including, receiving, by the at least one processor, a document that includes placeholders arranged in a layout, reading, by the at least one processor, the placeholders, mapping, by the at least one processor, the placeholders to respective executable queries, executing, by the at least one processor, a search of a database using the executable queries to retrieve information from the database, mapping, by the at least one processor, the information from the database to the layout, and generating an updated document that includes the information retrieved from the database arranged in a layout defined by the layout of the placeholders.