SAN Task Framework Separating GUI Presentation From Business Logic
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional storage area network management software requires changes to the graphical user interface when underlying functionality is updated, disrupting user familiarity and efficiency, as the GUI is inextricably linked to the task management framework.
Innovation Solution
A new task management framework that separates graphical user interface (GUI) design from underlying functionality, using task objects and a presentation component to map GUI objects to task objects, allowing improvements in functionality without altering the familiar GUI, and enabling flexible design according to best practices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the graphical user interface is inextricably linked to the task management framework, then the underlying functionality can be updated, but the graphical user interface must also change, disrupting user familiarity and efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the software architecture into distinct layers: the task management framework (business logic) and the graphical user interface (presentation layer). This segmentation allows independent evolution of each layer - the framework can be updated with new functionality while the GUI remains unchanged, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the GUI from its tight coupling with the task management framework by introducing an abstraction layer. The GUI is taken out as an independent presentation component that interacts with the framework through standardized interfaces, allowing the framework to evolve without forcing GUI changes.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the graphical user interface is changed to reflect new functionality, then the underlying functionality is improved, but user efficiency is reduced due to unfamiliarity with the new interface
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic configurability where the GUI can be adapted through configuration files or parameters without code changes. This allows the system to dynamically adjust to new functionality while maintaining the familiar visual interface, preserving user efficiency during transitions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates an abstraction copy between the GUI and the task management framework. The GUI operates on a model or representation that can be updated independently of the actual framework implementation, allowing functionality improvements to be copied into the abstract model without changing the user-visible interface.
3Ease of manufacture
If the graphical user interface is tightly integrated with the task management framework, then development is simplified, but flexibility to maintain familiar GUI while improving functionality is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal interface layer that serves multiple functions: it provides a standardized communication mechanism between the GUI and framework, supports both simple and composite tasks, and enables both familiar GUI maintenance and functionality improvement. This universal abstraction simplifies development while providing the flexibility needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary layer (abstraction layer or adapter) between the GUI and task management framework. This mediator handles the complexity of integration, providing simple standardized interfaces to both sides while managing the underlying complexity, thus maintaining development simplicity while enabling design flexibility.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems for separating presentation and business models for common management platform tasks in a storage area network (SAN) are disclosed. A graphical user interface (GUI) object may be mapped to a task object, which include action(s) performed on a SAN. A selection of task objects from a collection of task objects is received, which are needed to implement the underlying functionality of a GUI object. The collection of task objects is part of a task framework. An arrangement of the task objects according to a hierarchy of the framework is received. The hierarchy includes simple task objects, corresponding to actions performed on a SAN, and composite task objects, corresponding to at least two simple task objects and may include other composite task objects. The arranged task objects are mapped to the GUI object by extending a presentation object to encapsulate the GUI object and the arranged task objects.