Schema-Based Data Transfer Engine for Database-Document Integration

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional methods for transferring data between data-based applications and document applications are limited, requiring precise column header matching, tabular data arrangement, and significant user involvement, leading to inefficiencies and incompatibilities in data import/export processes.

Innovation Solution

A schema-based method and integration engine that receive connection information to identify schema definitions, extract and map data entities between data-based applications and document applications, enabling seamless data transfer and updates without the need for precise header matching or user-intensive formatting.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional import/export tools are used, then data can be transferred between applications, but column header names must precisely match field names and data must be arranged in specific tabular formats

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata transfer reliabilityVSAvoiddata organization flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an integration engine as an intermediary component between the data-based application and document application. This engine contains logic that automatically maps document elements to database fields using connection information, eliminating the need for precise manual matching and enabling flexible data organization while maintaining reliable data transfer.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Productivity

If conventional import/export protocols are used, then data transfer can occur, but significant user involvement is required for formatting compliance and mapping functions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata transfer efficiencyVSAvoiduser involvement required
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements connection information that is established in advance between documents and databases. This connection information pre-defines the mapping relationships and formatting requirements, so that when data transfer is needed, the integration engine can automatically execute the transfer without requiring users to perform manual mapping or formatting compliance checks each time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Reliability

If conventional tools require precise header matching, then data import/export can succeed, but the spreadsheet cannot be freely used for organizing data and generating reports

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimport/export success rateVSAvoidspreadsheet usage flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent enables dynamic adaptation where the integration engine can handle various document formats and organizational structures. The connection information and schema-based approach allow the system to automatically adjust to different data arrangements in the document while maintaining reliable mapping to the database, freeing users from rigid formatting requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS8666960B2Schema-based data transfer between a data-based application and a document application
Publication Date: 2014.03.04 MICROSOFT TECHNOLOGY LICENSING LLC
  • US8666960B2 patent drawing
  • US8666960B2 patent drawing
  • US8666960B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Systems and methods are described for performing a schema-based data transfer between a database associated with a data-based application and a document associated with a document application. In one implementation, connection information established during an initial schema-based data transfer between the database and the document is maintained in association with the document. This connection information is then used to facilitate subsequent updating of the document based on information currently residing in the database as well as subsequent updating of the database based on information currently residing in the document in a manner that is highly automated and easy to use.