Rule Engine for Web Services in Ubiquitous Computing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current web services lack the functionality for distributed devices to actively interact with each other through simple messages based on given rules in a ubiquitous computing environment, where network efficiency and device cooperation are crucial.
Innovation Solution
A method and device for processing rules based on web services, utilizing a global rule manager and event-condition-action (ECA) rules, allowing devices to automatically interact by exchanging events and executing actions, enabling effective use by both small terminals and general computers in ubiquitous environments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If web services use standard SOAP-based communication protocols, then interoperability between service providers and requesters is improved, but device complexity and communication overhead increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the monolithic SOAP communication protocol into modular event-based messages. Instead of requiring full SOAP envelopes for every interaction, the system divides communication into discrete event notifications (e.g., device status changes, location updates) that can be transmitted independently. This reduces the complexity burden while preserving interoperability through standardized event formats.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an event broker as an intermediary component that mediates between service providers and requesters. The broker receives event messages from devices, validates their format, routes them to appropriate services, and manages subscription relationships. This intermediary layer simplifies direct peer-to-peer SOAP interactions by handling communication overhead centrally while maintaining standard protocol compliance.
2Productivity
If distributed devices actively interact through rule-based event exchange, then network efficiency and device cooperation are improved, but the lack of standardized rule processing mechanisms increases implementation complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal rule processing engine that can handle multiple types of events and conditions through a single standardized framework. The ECA rule structure (Event-Condition-Action) provides a multi-functional template that works across different device types, communication protocols, and service domains. This universal approach enables network efficiency through standardized processing while reducing implementation complexity by providing a ready-made rule engine architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes within the ECA rule structure to enhance flexibility without increasing complexity. The rule engine allows dynamic adjustment of event thresholds, condition parameters, and action priorities. For example, devices can publish events with varying parameter sets (location, status, timestamp) that the rule engine processes using the same core logic, adapting to different scenarios through parameter variation rather than structural changes.
3Adaptability or versatility
If web services are designed for general computers, then service functionality is improved, but ease of use on small terminals deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic service composition where the service interface adapts to the capabilities of the accessing device. The rule-based event subscription mechanism allows small terminals to selectively subscribe only to events relevant to their capabilities and needs, rather than requiring full service functionality. Services dynamically adjust their event publication and handling based on the terminal type, providing appropriate functionality while maintaining ease of use through automated adaptation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates simplified copies of service interfaces tailored for different device types. Instead of requiring small terminals to implement full general-purpose service clients, the system provides lightweight event subscription copies that replicate only the essential functionality needed for mobile devices. These copied interfaces maintain compatibility with the core service logic while reducing resource requirements and improving ease of operation on constrained platforms.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a device for storing a rule describing an event, a condition to be satisfied by the event, and an action to be executed when the condition is satisfied and executing the action of the rule in an expended structure for using web services so as to effectively process the web services in various devices as well as a computer. In addition, a global rule manager for inspecting the validity of the rule when the rule is stored and executed is provided. Accordingly, the web services can be effectively used in a ubiquitous environment.