Generic XML Data Import Export Method for Database Tools
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing import and export methods for data between software tools are costly and inflexible, requiring specific development for each tool and modifications to the meta-model, which hampers data exchange and flexibility in system and software engineering.
Innovation Solution
A generic data import and export method using XML files, where data is selected, exported, and modified, with a data exchange file model describing types and links, allowing independent import and export operations across different software tools, and managing reservations and modifications within the database.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If specific import/export methods are developed for each software tool, then data exchange between tools is enabled, but development cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal import/export method that can be used across multiple software tools through a common interface. The method defines standardized data structures and protocols that allow different tools to exchange data without requiring tool-specific implementations, thus reducing development costs while maintaining adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary data exchange format and interface layer between software tools and the database. This intermediary standardizes the interaction protocol, allowing tools to communicate with the database through a common mechanism rather than requiring individualized integration for each tool.
2Reliability
If import/export methods are modified to accommodate meta-model changes, then data consistency is maintained, but development cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic import/export methods that can automatically adapt to meta-model changes without requiring manual reconfiguration. The system detects changes in the meta-model and adjusts the data exchange protocols accordingly, maintaining data consistency while reducing the complexity of method modifications.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses parameter-based configurations that can be automatically updated when the meta-model changes. By defining the import/export methods in terms of adjustable parameters rather than fixed logic, the system can adapt to meta-model evolution through simple parameter updates rather than complex code modifications.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple import/export methods are developed for different tools, then tool-specific requirements are met, but maintenance cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent establishes a universal import/export framework that serves multiple software tools through a single standardized interface. This framework handles the core data exchange logic once, and all tools benefit from this shared implementation, significantly reducing maintenance costs compared to maintaining separate methods for each tool.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the import/export functionality into a unified method that combines the common operations shared across different tools. By consolidating redundant functionality into a single standardized process, the system reduces maintenance overhead while preserving tool-specific capabilities through configuration rather than separate code paths.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a system to implement a method of importing exporting data originating from a database by way of an XML file. The export method includes the steps of: selecting data from the database; requesting an export of the selected data; verifying that the selected data are not reserved in the database; constructing an export set comprising the selected data that are not reserved; reserving the selected data not reserved in the database; generating a data exchange file comprising the data of the export set, the data exchange file being constructed according to a data exchange file model, the file model describing types of data, links between the types of data, existing in the database; and transferring the exchange file generated to the second computer.