TMK Hierarchy Interchange via Standardized XML Format
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current computer knowledge acquisition systems face difficulties in combining task-method-knowledge (TMK) hierarchies due to non-interchangeable forms of knowledge representation, leading to errors and incompatibilities when merging or exporting hierarchies, which is essential for collaboration and market packaging.
Innovation Solution
A method for extracting a TMK hierarchy into a standard XML format and installing it on another system, allowing for the resolution of ambiguities and conflicts, enabling the combination of hierarchies across different systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If knowledge hierarchies are represented in textual language statements or internal forms, then the hierarchies can be used within their respective systems, but the hierarchies cannot be combined or exchanged between different systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary conversion process that transforms knowledge hierarchies from their native textual or internal representations into a standardized exchange format. This intermediary format acts as a universal language that enables different knowledge systems to communicate and combine their hierarchies without direct compatibility, thereby resolving the interchangeability issue while managing complexity through standardized transformation rules.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies parameter changes by transforming the representation parameters of knowledge hierarchies. Specifically, it converts hierarchies from system-specific textual language statements or internal forms into a standardized format with defined parameters and structures. This parameter transformation enables interchangeability between different systems while maintaining the essential knowledge content, thus resolving the contradiction between adaptability and complexity.
2Productivity
If knowledge hierarchies are extracted and transported to another system, then collaboration and market packaging become possible, but manual name matching and error-prone processes are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a copying mechanism where knowledge hierarchies are extracted from their source systems and replicated in a standardized exchange format. This copying process preserves the knowledge content while transforming the representation to be system-agnostic. The standardized format includes explicit naming conventions and structure definitions that enable automated processing, thereby improving both productivity through automation and reliability through consistent representation rules that reduce manual errors.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-defining the standardized exchange format and naming conventions before the actual knowledge exchange occurs. The extraction process includes preliminary transformation steps that prepare the hierarchy data in advance, converting it to the standardized format with pre-established naming rules. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for manual name matching during the actual combination process, thereby improving both efficiency and accuracy.
3Manufacturing precision
If manual name matching is performed when merging hierarchies, then name and property alignment can be achieved, but the process becomes difficult and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a universal standardized format that serves multiple functions: it acts as both the extraction format and the combination format for different knowledge systems. This universal format includes standardized naming conventions, data type definitions, and structural rules that work across all systems. By using this multi-functional standardized format, the patent eliminates the need for manual name matching while maintaining high precision in element alignment, thereby resolving the contradiction between matching precision and operational ease.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses copying to replicate knowledge hierarchy elements in a standardized format that preserves their essential properties while using consistent naming conventions. When hierarchies are extracted and transformed into the standardized format, element names and properties are copied with explicit definitions that ensure accurate matching during combination. This copying process with standardized naming eliminates manual intervention, making the merging process both precise and easy to operate.
Data Source
AI summary
A means for exporting a Task-Method-Knowledge (TMK) hierarchy is disclosed using XML as an intermediate file format. Using a computer interface, a user selects the TMK hierarchy, or portion of a TMK hierarchy, to export. The elements of the selected are written to a XML document using an XML schema specifically designed for the task. The order of element export assures that elements and relationships between elements are complete. The exported hierarchy as an XML document is transported to another XML hierarchy and imported. The user selects a receiving TMK project on the receiving system and resolves any naming conflicts.