Synonym Dictionary for Automated Data Model Mapping

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for mapping elements across different data models are inefficient, requiring manual effort and resulting in increased costs and time, especially when integrating independently developed applications like ERP and CRM systems.

Innovation Solution

A method and apparatus that generate a synonym dictionary by inferring pairs of synonyms based on user inputs and program logic, considering identical or similar spellings, and the probability of parent elements being synonyms, to automate the mapping process across different data models.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If manual mapping of data elements is performed, then mapping accuracy can be ensured, but time consumption and costs increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemapping accuracyVSAvoidtime consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a synonym dictionary as an intermediary component that stores pre-defined synonym relationships between data elements. The inference engine uses this dictionary to automatically determine synonym relationships without requiring manual mapping for each pair of data models, thus reducing time consumption while maintaining accuracy through the structured knowledge base

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary action by pre-defining synonym relationships in a synonym dictionary before actual data model mapping is needed. This allows the system to quickly infer mappings by referencing pre-established relationships rather than performing manual analysis during the mapping process

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Adaptability or versatility

If manual mapping is performed for each pair of data models, then comprehensive coverage can be achieved, but overall cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemapping coverageVSAvoidcost
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The synonym dictionary serves as a universal resource that can be applied across multiple pairs of data models. Once synonym relationships are established in the dictionary, they can be reused for any number of mapping scenarios, providing comprehensive coverage without repeating the manual mapping process for each pair

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system creates a reusable synonym dictionary that can be copied and applied to multiple data model pairs. Instead of manually mapping each pair separately, the same synonym knowledge base is copied and utilized across different mapping scenarios, reducing overall cost while maintaining comprehensive coverage

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

3Productivity

If automated inference is used to generate synonym dictionary, then time and cost are reduced, but mapping precision may decrease

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemapping efficiencyVSAvoidmapping precision
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the inference engine analyzes the generated synonym dictionary and refines its inferences based on the structure and content of existing mappings. This feedback loop allows the automated system to improve its precision by learning from the patterns it discovers in the data

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical manual mapping process with an automated inference system that uses algorithmic analysis of data element relationships. This substitution maintains precision by using systematic rules and patterns rather than human judgment, while dramatically improving productivity through automation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentUS7600186B2Generating a synonym dictionary representing a mapping of elements in different data models
Publication Date: 2009.10.06 ORACLE INT CORP
  • US7600186B2 patent drawing
  • US7600186B2 patent drawing
  • US7600186B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Additional synonym pairs are inferred from a pair of schema elements (of different schemas) mapped by a user, and the inferred pairs are added to a dictionary. According to one aspect of the present invention, a mapped pair is inferred as a synonym pair if the elements of the mapped pair cannot be mapped according to a program logic otherwise. According to one more aspect of the present invention, the parents of the mapped elements are also inferred as synonym pairs if sufficient peer (to the mapped elements) elements are already mapped or considered synonyms.