XML Schema Version Management via XSLT Transformation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional data management systems using XML formats face challenges in managing large collections of data across various formats and schemas, leading to operational slowdowns and intractable management issues when performing data reception, storage, and provision tasks.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a server and client architecture that manages data files and schemas using validator, transformer, and compiler processes to validate, transform, and compile XML files across different schema versions, enabling efficient data management and transformation between schema versions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If data files are stored in multiple schema formats to support various client services, then data compatibility and versatility are improved, but system complexity and management difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal schema management system where a single data file can be validated against multiple schemas and transformed between different schema versions. The server maintains a registry of schemas and provides unified access points that handle format conversion transparently, allowing one storage mechanism to serve multiple client service requirements without requiring separate storage systems for each format.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a schema transformation service as an intermediary layer between data storage and client services. This mediator component receives data requests, automatically determines the appropriate schema version, performs necessary transformations, and delivers the data in the required format. This intermediary abstracts the complexity of multiple schemas from both storage and consumption operations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If data conversion between formats is performed to support multiple client services, then service versatility is improved, but operational downtime and service interruption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent pre-loads and caches schema definitions and transformation rules into memory before they are needed for data operations. The schema registry maintains ready-to-use transformation configurations that can be applied immediately without requiring format conversion at runtime. This preliminary preparation eliminates conversion delays during actual data access operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements background schema validation and transformation processes that operate continuously without interrupting data service operations. Multiple schema versions are maintained simultaneously in the registry, allowing seamless switching between formats. Data requests are processed continuously with automatic format detection and conversion, ensuring uninterrupted service delivery across different client requirements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple schema versions are maintained for historical data compatibility, then data adaptability is improved, but data management complexity and validation overhead increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments schema management into distinct functional components: a schema registry that stores and versions schema definitions, a validation service that checks data against specific schemas, and a transformation service that converts between schema versions. Each component handles a specific aspect of schema management independently, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining support for multiple schema versions through modular architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements automatic schema validation feedback mechanisms that check data files against the appropriate schema version based on metadata or version indicators. When validation failures occur, the system provides detailed error information and can automatically attempt transformation to a compatible schema version. This feedback loop reduces manual management overhead by automatically detecting and resolving schema compatibility issues.
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided a method of managing a plurality of data files using a plurality of schemas. The method comprises selecting a first schema from the plurality of schemas, determining current data files of the plurality of data files with respect to the first schema, identifying an outdated data file of the plurality of data files with respect to the first schema, selecting a transform file configured to transform the outdated data file into a current data file with respect to the first schema, transforming the outdated data file into a current data file with respect to the first schema by applying the transform file to the outdated data file. The method may further comprise validating the current data file against the first schema after transforming the outdated data file. The data files, schema, and transform file may comprise, respectively, an XML file, an XSD file, and an XSLT file.