Dynamic Browser Cache Allocation via Time Comparison

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing web browser cache management systems on devices, such as mobile phones, inefficiently utilize storage space by using a fixed first-in, first-out (FIFO) method, leading to repeated downloads of web resources when storage becomes full, rather than optimizing between primary and secondary storage based on download and retrieval times.

Innovation Solution

Implementing a cache manager that dynamically allocates web resources between primary and secondary storage by comparing download and retrieval times, moving resources from primary to secondary storage when retrieval is faster and vice versa, and deleting resources based on likelihood of use and availability to prevent primary storage overflow.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If a fixed FIFO method is used for cache management, then the cache structure is simple and easy to implement, but storage space is inefficiently utilized and resources are prematurely purged before expiration

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecache management structureVSAvoidstorage space utilization
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from a static FIFO cache management method to a dynamic allocation system that continuously monitors resource characteristics (size, expiration time, access frequency) and adjusts cache retention decisions in real-time. This allows the system to adaptively optimize storage utilization based on current conditions rather than following a fixed sequence.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The invention introduces multiple parameters for evaluating cache resources including resource size, time remaining until expiration, and access frequency. By changing from a single parameter (insertion order) to multiple parameters, the system can make more informed decisions about which resources to retain or purge, thereby improving storage space utilization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Quantity of substance

If web resources are retained in the cache until expiration, then storage capacity is maximized, but the primary storage may fill up requiring repeated downloads

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecache capacityVSAvoidbrowsing efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the cache management process into distinct evaluation dimensions: resource size, expiration time remaining, and access frequency. By dividing the decision-making process into these segments, the system can balance between retaining resources for future use and freeing space for new downloads, optimizing both cache capacity and browsing efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The invention applies different retention strategies to different cache resources based on their individual characteristics. Instead of a uniform approach, each resource is evaluated locally according to its specific size, expiration timeline, and usage patterns, allowing the system to maximize overall cache effectiveness while preventing primary storage overflow.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Quantity of substance

If the cache is cleared when full, then storage space is maintained, but download time is wasted due to repeated downloads

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveavailable storage spaceVSAvoiddownload time
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism that continuously monitors cache state and resource characteristics. By measuring factors such as time remaining until expiration and access frequency, the system receives feedback about which resources are most valuable to retain, enabling intelligent space management that prevents unnecessary downloads and reduces time loss.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS8214594B1Dynamically allocated secondary browser cache
Publication Date: 2012.07.03 T MOBILE INNOVATIONS LLC
  • US8214594B1 patent drawing
  • US8214594B1 patent drawing
  • US8214594B1 patent drawing

AI summary

A method, system, and medium are provided for managing cache allocation between a primary storage and a secondary storage. The system includes a device with a primary storage, secondary storage, and cache manager. The method includes downloading a web resource, storing the web resource in the primary storage, determining the amount of time required to download the web resource, and determining the amount of time required to retrieve the web resource from the secondary storage. If the amount of time required to retrieve the web resource from the secondary storage is less than the amount of time required to download the web resource, the method stores the web resource in the secondary storage. Additionally, web resources may be moved from the secondary storage to the primary storage based on their likelihood of being utilized.