XML Sequencer for Relational Database Data Transfer

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing systems lack a flexible and simple mechanism for transferring data between message attachments and relational database tables with CLOB or BLOB columns, requiring complex programming in languages like Java or C, making it difficult to adapt as database and business requirements change.

Innovation Solution

A method and system using an XML sequence to determine data processing, with an executable sequencer that executes SQL statements for relational database access, allowing for easy modification of data transfer by changing the XML sequence without full recoding or recompilation, and optionally using SQL templates with parameters.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If complex programming in Java or C is used to transfer data between message attachments and relational databases, then data transfer functionality is achieved, but system complexity and difficulty of adaptation increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to database and business requirementsVSAvoidprogramming complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an XML-based intermediary layer that mediates between message attachments and relational databases. This XML sequence acts as a configurable intermediary that defines data transfer rules, mapping message components to database operations without requiring complex programming in Java or C. The intermediary XML structure enables flexible adaptation to different database schemas and business requirements through configuration rather than code changes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses parameter-based configuration through XML attributes and elements to control data transfer behavior. By changing XML parameters (such as mapping relationships, data types, and operation modes) rather than modifying program code, the system adapts to different database requirements and business logic. This parameter-driven approach significantly reduces programming complexity while maintaining high adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Ease of manufacture

If custom-coded programs are used for data transfer, then specific database access requirements are met, but ease of modification and maintenance deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of modificationVSAvoiddata transfer reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a standardized XML template structure that can be copied and reused for different data transfer scenarios. Instead of writing custom code for each database access requirement, practitioners can replicate and adapt existing XML sequence templates, ensuring consistent and reliable data transfer patterns while making modifications easier. The templated approach maintains reliability through proven patterns while improving ease of modification.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

3Adaptability or versatility

If flexible data transfer mechanisms are implemented, then adaptability to different message types and databases improves, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesupport for various message types and attachmentsVSAvoidsystem architecture complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal XML-based data transfer mechanism that can handle multiple message types (email, MIME attachments, SOAP, JMS) and various database systems through a single standardized interface. The XML sequence structure provides multi-functional capabilities, allowing the same framework to adapt to different message formats and database requirements without requiring separate specialized systems, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high versatility.

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

Data Source

PatentUS7984059B2Method and system for transferring data between MIME attachments and relational databases
Publication Date: 2011.07.19 INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINE CORPORATION
  • US7984059B2 patent drawing
  • US7984059B2 patent drawing
  • US7984059B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method and a system for the transfer of data contained in an electronic message, in particular a MIME attachment, to a relational database comprising the steps ofproviding an XML sequence, which determines, how the data is to be processed,executing a sequencer, which takes the message and the XML sequence as input, wherein the executing of the sequence comprises the execution of at least one SQL statement for accessing the relational database.