File Storage System Contact Verification and Time-Based Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current online storage systems lack efficient methods for secure, unsolicited file transfer and access management, particularly in ensuring file owners are alerted to communication failures and enabling time-based access permissions.
Innovation Solution
A system that hosts files online, allowing file owners to authorize unsolicited transfers to predetermined recipients after a set time period, with mechanisms for alerting owners of contact failures and managing access through a network of contacts and time-based approval periods.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If unsolicited file transfer is enabled for automated access, then productivity is improved, but security is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by obtaining file owner authorization and setting a predetermined time period before enabling unsolicited file transfer. This ensures that automated access is only activated after proper authentication and within a controlled timeframe, resolving the security concern while maintaining productivity benefits
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms by notifying the file owner of contact failures and allowing them to verify or update their contact information. This continuous feedback loop ensures that automated transfers only occur when the system can successfully communicate with the authorized owner, maintaining security while enabling efficient transfer
2Reliability
If multiple contact verification methods are implemented, then reliability is improved, but device complexity is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies multi-functionality by using a single contact management mechanism that supports multiple contact methods (email, phone, etc.) and multiple verification scenarios (initial authorization, failure notification, expiry warning). This universal approach improves reliability without proportionally increasing complexity, as the same infrastructure handles diverse verification needs
3Reliability
If time-based access control is implemented, then security is improved, but ease of operation is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies self-service by automatically managing time-based access control parameters. The predetermined time period is set and enforced automatically by the system without requiring manual intervention from users during the transfer process. This automation maintains security while simplifying operation, as users only need to provide initial authorization rather than continuously manage time parameters
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods of the present invention allow a file owner to upload and store a file to a File Storage Area. The file owner may synchronize a periodic clock to a time-based approval period during which the file owner may grant permissions to access the file. A file owner interface may store contact information for the file owner, and ping the information, substituting alternate contact information as necessary, alerting the file owner of any failure of the contact information prior to expiration of the time-based approval period. After expiration of the time-based approval period, grant of file permissions may be automatically approved.