Workflow Event Coordination for File Processing Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
In typical workflow processing, users are required to define all processing operations within a single workflow for complex file processing, which can be cumbersome and inefficient, especially when multiple workflows need to be coordinated to achieve a series of processing operations.
Innovation Solution
A file processing system that includes a management server and an electronic device connected through a network, where the management server stores and executes a first workflow triggered by a first event, and the electronic device stores and executes a second workflow triggered by a second event, allowing the second workflow to generate the first event, enabling the coordination of multiple workflows to perform a series of processing operations without requiring users to define all operations within a single workflow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a user defines all processing operations within one workflow for complex file processing, then the processing can be performed, but the user effort and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides a single complex workflow into multiple separate workflows, each responsible for specific processing operations. These workflows are coordinated through event generation and consumption mechanisms, allowing complex processing to be achieved without requiring a user to define all operations within one monolithic workflow.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism where workflows communicate through events. One workflow generates events that serve as triggers for other workflows, creating a coordinated chain of processing operations without requiring direct integration or complex definition of all operations in a single workflow.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple workflows are coordinated to perform processing operations, then processing flexibility improves, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses events as intermediaries to coordinate multiple workflows. Each workflow monitors for specific events and executes processing operations when triggered, allowing flexible coordination of multiple workflows through a standardized event-based communication mechanism that manages system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal workflow coordination mechanism where any workflow can generate events that trigger other workflows. This multi-functional event system allows diverse processing operations to be coordinated through a single standardized interface, improving flexibility without proportionally increasing complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A file management system includes a management server, and an electronic device connectable to the management server through a network. The management server includes a first storage unit that stores therein a first workflow that defines first processing, which is executed with a first event as a trigger, for a file, and a first control unit that monitors, based on the first workflow, the first event and executes the first processing if the first event occurs. The electronic device includes a second storage unit that stores therein a second workflow that defines second processing, which is executed with a second event different from the first event as a trigger and in which a final processing operation generates the first event, for the file, and a second control unit that monitors, based on the second workflow, the second event and executes the second processing when the second event occurs.