Dynamic REST Collection Query Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for managing RESTful resource collections in networked computer systems are inadequate, particularly in evolving environments, as they either rely on fixed URI structures or require cumbersome updates when resources are added or removed, limiting flexibility and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method and system that accesses a persisted collection resource with query parameters to dynamically generate a list of resources, allowing for flexible URI structures and reducing the need for collection updates, enabling easy addition of new collections and efficient resource management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a collection is defined as an entirely virtual resource with contents inferred from URI structure, then the system maintains simple resource representation, but changing URI structure or adding collections becomes very difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms static, fixed URI-based virtual collections into dynamic collections that can be modified at runtime. Collections are no longer bound to fixed URI structures but can be created, updated, and queried dynamically through collection resources, allowing the system to adapt to changing requirements without structural constraints.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces query parameters as the mechanism to define and modify collection contents. Instead of changing URI structures to define collections, the system uses parameters that can be dynamically adjusted, allowing flexible collection definition and modification without affecting the underlying resource structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a collection is defined as a persisted resource with a list of references, then the collection can be dynamically updated, but the list must be updated every time a resource is added or removed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service through automated query processing. When a collection resource is accessed, the system automatically executes the stored collection query against the current resources, generating an up-to-date collection list without manual intervention. This eliminates the need for explicit update operations whenever resources are added or removed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary action by storing the collection query definition in advance within the collection resource. Instead of updating collection lists reactively when changes occur, the system pre-configures the collection query that will automatically generate the correct collection contents on demand, eliminating the need for subsequent update operations.
3Reliability
If collection lists are dynamically generated from queries, then collection lists remain current without manual updates, but the system requires processing power to execute queries
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by executing queries only when collection resources are actually accessed or requested. Instead of continuously maintaining and updating collection lists, the system performs query execution selectively at access points, generating collection lists on-demand only when needed, thus reducing overall processing load while maintaining accuracy.
Data Source
AI summary
Management of resources within a representational state transfer architecture comprising a plurality of service resources. A persisted collection resource is accessed, and the persisted collection resource includes a collection query with at least one query parameter defining a collection of resources. The collection query is processed with respect to the resources within the computer system to generate a list of resources associated with the at least one query parameter.