Cell File Attachment in Collaborative Spreadsheets
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing collaborative spreadsheet technologies do not allow users to reference or attach files directly to specific cells, limiting the ability to incorporate additional content within the spreadsheet.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for attaching files to cells of a collaborative spreadsheet, where the attachment module receives a request to attach a file to a specified cell, modifies the spreadsheet to associate the file with the cell, and stores it on a cloud storage device, enabling the file to be accessible with the spreadsheet.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If users reference files through hyperlinks and URLs in collaborative spreadsheets, then file accessibility is improved, but file association with specific cells is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent embeds file attachment functionality within the cell structure of collaborative spreadsheets. Each cell can contain an attached file as a nested element, allowing the file to be tightly associated with the specific cell while maintaining the overall spreadsheet collaboration framework. This nesting approach preserves the cell-file relationship that hyperlinks cannot provide.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a cloud storage device as an intermediary between the collaborative spreadsheet and the attached files. The intermediary stores metadata linking files to specific cells and manages file access, allowing users to associate files with cells while maintaining centralized control and accessibility across multiple users.
2Adaptability or versatility
If files are attached to cells in collaborative spreadsheets, then content integration is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal file attachment mechanism that works across all cell types and spreadsheet formats in collaborative environments. The attachment module provides multi-functional capabilities, allowing files to be attached, viewed, edited, and managed through a standardized interface regardless of the specific cell or file type, thereby reducing the need for multiple specialized systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables users to attach, manage, and access files directly through the spreadsheet interface without requiring external file management systems. The cloud storage device automatically handles file storage, synchronization, and access control, reducing the complexity burden on users while providing comprehensive file integration capabilities.
3Speed
If file attachments are stored locally with the spreadsheet, then access speed is improved, but cloud accessibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent pre-loads file metadata and access information into the collaborative spreadsheet structure, allowing users to quickly access file information without immediately retrieving the actual file contents. The cloud storage device prepares file access paths in advance, enabling fast local access to file references while maintaining the ability to retrieve full files from the cloud when needed.
Data Source
AI summary
One exemplary embodiment involves a computer-implemented method comprising receiving, in a computing device, a first request to attach a file in a cell of a collaborative spreadsheet, wherein the first request comprises the file and a cell identifier, and wherein the collaborative spreadsheet comprises a spreadsheet configured to be accessed and modified simultaneously from a plurality of client devices. The method additionally comprises attaching, via a processor, the file to the collaborative spreadsheet at the cell corresponding to the cell identifier; and storing the file on a cloud storage device, wherein the file is stored to be accessible in conjunction with the collaborative spreadsheet.