Installable File System Extends OS Functionality
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mobile computing devices face limitations in storage and memory capacity due to their small size, and existing methods to extend operating system functionality, such as hooking file system calls, often lead to instability.
Innovation Solution
An installable file system is mounted as the root file system, allowing it to process data between the operating system and the default file system, and maps read/write requests to a storage area network, thereby extending functionality without causing instability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If hooking calls to the file system is used to extend operating system functionality, then the functionality is extended, but the operating system stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a virtual file system as an intermediary layer between the application and the default file system. This virtual file system intercepts and processes file system calls, allowing functionality extension through encryption and antivirus scanning without directly hooking into the default file system, thus maintaining system stability while achieving the desired functionality extension
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple software programs hook the same file system call simultaneously, then more functionality is added, but the operating system becomes unstable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the file system functionality by creating a separate virtual file system layer that handles specific operations (encryption, antivirus scanning) independently. This segmentation allows multiple functionality extensions without conflict, as each function operates in its own designated space within the virtual file system rather than competing to hook the same call
3Reliability
If the default file system is used, then the operating system remains stable, but the desired level of functionality is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested file system structure where the virtual file system is layered over the default file system. The default file system remains intact and stable at the base layer, while the virtual file system provides additional functionality in the outer layer. This nesting allows the system to maintain stability from the default file system while gaining enhanced functionality from the virtual layer
Data Source
AI summary
A method, apparatus and computer-readable medium for extending the functionality of an operating system is described. The method comprises installing an installable file system as a root file system of the operating system, mounting a default file system of the operating system as a folder accessible by the installable file system and using the installable file system to process data between the operating system and the default file system. The apparatus is a system for extending the functionality of an operating system comprising a computing device comprising a processor and a memory for executing the operating system, wherein the operating system mounts an installable file system other than a default file system of the operating system as a root file system and the installable file system mounts the default file system of the operating system as a folder.