Merge Base Patch Branch for Safe Version Control Reverts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current version control systems cannot safely revert merges across branches without unintended consequences, such as changes disappearing during subsequent merges, due to the inability to rewrite shared history.
Innovation Solution
The system automatically reverts merges by forming a merge base patch branch, which includes a copy of the original merge base, and then merges this patch branch back into the trunk and branch, ensuring that subsequent merges choose a valid merge-base, thus preventing unintended changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a merge is reverted in a version control system where shared history cannot be rewritten, then the merge is undone and branches are separated, but changes may disappear during subsequent merges
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a copy of the original merge base commit to serve as a new merge base for subsequent merges. This copy preserves the historical reference point without requiring rewriting of shared history, allowing reverts while maintaining change integrity through the copied baseline.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the version control history by creating a distinct copy of the merge base rather than rewriting the entire shared history. This segmentation allows the revert operation to affect only the specific merge point while preserving the integrity of other parts of the version control graph.
2Adaptability or versatility
If shared history is rewritten to enable merge revert, then revert operation becomes possible, but system complexity and risk of errors increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a disposable copy of the merge base commit that serves its purpose for the revert operation and then can be discarded or replaced. This temporary object enables the revert functionality without permanently complicating the version control system structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The copied merge base acts as an intermediary element between the original history and the revert operation. It mediates the revert process by providing a safe reference point that enables the operation without requiring direct modification of shared history, thus reducing system complexity.
3Extent of automation
If manual revert procedures are used, then revert capability is achieved, but user error and unintended consequences increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-service by automatically creating the appropriate merge base copy and structure when a revert is initiated. The version control system handles the complex operations of copying commits and updating references automatically, reducing reliance on manual user actions and minimizing user error.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms that allow the system to verify the correctness of the revert operation and detect potential issues. The automated process includes validation steps that provide feedback on whether the revert was successful and whether it maintains the integrity of the version control graph.
Data Source
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AI summary
A system for safely reverting merges across branches in version control systems where shared history cannot be rewritten is described. A computer-implemented method, comprising: identifying a first merge base at a trunk, the first merge base merging with a branch of the trunk; identifying, at the branch, a second merge base, subsequent to the first merge base, the second merge base merging with the trunk; forming a merge base patch branch from the branch at the second merge base, the merge base patch branch including a copy of the first merge base; merging the merge base patch branch with the trunk; and merging the merge base patch branch with the branch.