Email File Attachment Tracking System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional email applications do not automatically attach files when a user replies to an email that had an attached file, leading to file loss and inconvenience in retrieving the original file, as recipients must manually request and send the file separately.
Innovation Solution
A computer program product that includes instructions for tracking file attachments by adding hidden indications to emails, allowing users to request and send missing files automatically, using a file tracking plug-in that integrates with email applications to manage file metadata and user identifiers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional email applications automatically attach files when forwarding emails, then file availability is maintained, but when replying to emails the file is not attached leading to file loss
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically detects missing attachments in reply emails and initiates file retrieval without user intervention. The email application monitors attachment status and automatically requests files from senders, eliminating the need for manual user actions to restore missing attachments.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements a feedback mechanism where the email application continuously checks whether attachments are present in reply emails. When attachments are detected as missing, the system automatically sends requests to original senders and updates the email thread, creating a closed-loop system that maintains file availability.
2Ease of operation
If users manually request and send files separately through email, then file retrieval is possible, but the process requires multiple manual steps and increases communication overhead
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by automatically detecting missing attachments and initiating file retrieval processes before users need the files. The email application proactively sends requests to original senders and manages the file transfer process, eliminating the need for users to manually request files later.
Solution Approach 2:
The system merges the file retrieval process with the email communication workflow. Instead of separate manual steps for requesting and sending files, the system combines attachment detection, file request sending, and file transfer management into a single automated process that occurs within the email application itself.
3Reliability
If email applications track file attachments automatically, then file integrity is maintained, but the system complexity increases with hidden indications and tracking mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The system introduces an intermediary component that acts as a bridge between email participants and file storage. This intermediary automatically manages attachment tracking, detects missing files, and coordinates file transfers between users, reducing the complexity burden on individual email applications while maintaining file integrity through centralized management.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure involves systems, software, and computer implemented methods for tracking files attached to electronic messages. One process includes operations for receiving a message, the message including information to be displayed by a message reading application, the message including a first indication that a file was attached to the earlier message, wherein the first indication is marked to not be displayed with the information by the message reading application; determining that the file is not attached to the message; sending a request for the file to a user identifier, the user identifier being included in the message and associated with the file or the earlier message or both; and receiving the file.