Product configuration using configuration patterns

Abstract

In a particular embodiment, configuration patterns are used to provide solutions to configuration problems that repetitively occur. Use of configuration patterns in connection with a configuration model has many benefits. A configuration pattern is a parameterized or otherwise easily extensible solution to that problem, such that the solution is reusable by modifying the parameters of the pattern or extending the pattern in pre-defined ways. Configuration patterns are inherently data-driven and provide improved maintenance for data and logic as well as reduced programming effort. Configuration patterns can be reused within and across different product families and can be specialized from other patterns. Thus, the use of configuration patterns facilitates reduced maintenance cost and reduced programming effort for product configuration data and logic systems.

1 . A configuration model for use with a product configuration software system, the configuration model comprising: 
 configuration patterns having configuration logic for performing tasks related to a configuration of a product.    
     
     
         2 .- 43 . (canceled)