POS Device Configuration Through GUI-Code Layering
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Solution Overview
Problem
WYSIWYG editors for orchestration flows in retail environments are cumbersome and difficult to maintain, especially for end users who need to modify their orchestration flows frequently.
Innovation Solution
A multi-layer system integrating a graphical user interface with stable, easy-to-maintain fixed software code allows end users to dynamically manipulate retail-related orchestration flows, enabling quick configuration and re-configuration of Point-of-Sale (POS) devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If WYSIWYG editors are used for orchestration flows, then users can create finished products using predefined objects without worrying about coding details, but the editors become cumbersome and difficult to maintain
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the orchestration flow configuration into two distinct layers: a simplified user interface layer for high-level flow definition and a code generation layer for implementation details. This segmentation allows users to work with abstract flow concepts while the system handles the complex code translation automatically.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary code generation layer that translates between the user-friendly flow definition and the actual implementation code. This intermediary layer absorbs the complexity of code generation and translation, shielding users from coding details while maintaining ease of operation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If WYSIWYG editors allow users to modify orchestration flows frequently, then adaptability improves, but maintainability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements dynamic configuration capabilities that allow users to modify orchestration flows in real-time without affecting the underlying code structure. The dynamic nature of the flow definition layer enables frequent changes while the stable code generation layer maintains maintainability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs preliminary code generation where the system pre-generates implementation code based on flow definitions before users make modifications. This preliminary action ensures that code is always up-to-date with user requirements while maintaining a stable foundation for maintenance.
3Ease of operation
If a multi-layer system integrates GUI with fixed software code, then usability and maintainability improve, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adds a dimensional layer between the user interface and the code execution layer. This additional dimension (the code generation layer) enables the system to maintain both usability and maintainability by separating concerns across different dimensional layers.
Solution Approach 2:
The code generation layer serves multiple functions simultaneously: it translates flow definitions to code, generates executable code, and maintains synchronization between UI and implementation. This multi-functionality justifies the added complexity by delivering multiple benefits from a single layer.
Data Source
AI summary
A system allows users to dynamically manipulate an orchestration flow to eliminate deprecated functionality and/or to include new or modified functionality. The system provides multiple layers configured to combine the functionality provided by a graphical user interface (GUI) with fixed software code associated with the orchestration flow. With the system, users can quickly and easily configure and/or re-configure various Point-Of-Sale (POS) devices to execute the functions of the modified orchestration flow.