Abstract

A claims-based factory pattern is described for creating objects on an application server. The pattern extends the functionality of factories to include the operations of staking a claim to creating particular objects and re-evaluating their claim in light of other factories staking claims. A process to create an object includes checking all registered factories to see whether they are willing to stake a claim. The claims are then compared to select a factory having the highest claim. If two or more factories have the same claim, they are asked to re-evaluate the claim by providing them information regarding other factories that have also staked a claim. Once the factories have re-evaluated their claims, their number can be reduced to a single factory that will be used to create the object. Alternatively, if no factory can be singled out, the caller can be informed of the deadlock.