Collaborative Form Signature Data Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional document-centric approaches for electronically signing data are inefficient and inflexible, requiring the preparation and distribution of completed documents for multiple signatures, which can be time-consuming and resource-intensive, especially when dealing with external users.
Innovation Solution
A collaborative cloud-based file sharing system allows users to create forms with data entry and signature components, enabling individual users to sign their data inputs, which are then stored in a database table separate from the form, facilitating quick and flexible collection of verified data without the need for a completed document.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a document-centric approach is used for electronic signatures, then the document can be formally approved and signed, but the process becomes time-consuming and resource-intensive when multiple users need to sign
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the signature collection process by allowing individual users to sign their data inputs independently rather than requiring sequential signing of a single completed document. Each user's signature is captured separately in a database table, enabling parallel processing and eliminating the time-consuming sequential document distribution and collection process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the signature verification function from the document itself and implements it at the data input level. Instead of signing a completed document, users sign their individual data inputs directly in the form, and these signatures are stored separately in a database table, separating the signature validation process from the document assembly process.
2Reliability
If a document-centric approach is used, then the document can be formally signed, but the data becomes locked and inflexible for modifications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments data and signatures into independent recordable units in a database table. Each user's data input and signature are stored as separate, modifiable records rather than being permanently locked into a finalized document structure. This allows individual data fields to be updated without invalidating the entire signature set.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a dynamic system where forms and their associated data can be modified after signature collection. The database table structure allows for flexible updates to user inputs and form configurations without requiring re-signing, enabling the system to adapt to changing requirements while maintaining signature verification integrity.
3Reliability
If multiple copies of the finalized document are sent to each user for signatures, then each user can sign the complete document, but the process becomes inefficient and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the signature capture function from the complete document and implements it at the individual data input level within a web form. Users sign their specific data inputs directly in the form interface, and these signatures are stored in a database table, eliminating the need to generate, distribute, and track multiple document copies across different users.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a database table as an intermediary structure between form submission and signature verification. This table stores user inputs and signatures in a structured format, serving as a central repository that eliminates the need for complex document distribution and collection workflows while maintaining signature authenticity through centralized storage and verification.
4Reliability
If a traditional document approach is used, then the document can be signed, but extracting and aggregating data from multiple signed documents is time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts data and signatures from the document context and stores them directly in a structured database table in their final aggregated form. User inputs and signatures are captured and stored as structured records during the signing process itself, eliminating the need for subsequent data extraction and aggregation from multiple separate document files.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges data collection, signature capture, and data aggregation into a single integrated process. All user inputs and signatures are collected and stored together in a unified database table structure, combining what would traditionally require separate document handling, signature collection, and data extraction steps into one efficient workflow.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for enabling collection of signed data in a collaborative content sharing platform. One embodiment is a method including producing a form having one or more data entry components and at least one signature block component, selecting assignee users of the content sharing platform, providing the form to the selected assignee users, enabling these users to enter data and sign the form, and storing the assignee users' data in a data structure which is separate from the form, where the data structure includes a record for each assignee user, the record containing data entered by the user and electronic signature data for the user. The data structure is protected in the same manner as other data in the collaborative content sharing platform and may be accessible by some users, but not others, in accordance with their respective roles and authorizations.