Template-Based File Synchronization for Selective Data Updates
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing file synchronization methods are inefficient and costly due to the synchronization of entire files, even when only a specific portion is needed, and lack the ability to differentiate between user-relevant and irrelevant changes.
Innovation Solution
Partition files based on user-defined templates to identify and synchronize only the relevant portions, using checksums to compare and update these portions, while leaving the remainder of the file unchanged.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If complete files are copied from one location to another, then file synchronization is achieved, but data transfer volume and processing time increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides files into multiple portions based on user-defined templates, allowing selective synchronization of only relevant portions rather than entire files. This segmentation enables the system to transfer minimal data while maintaining synchronization reliability for the specific portions that matter to users.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts and identifies specific portions of files that contain user-relevant changes using templates, separating these from the rest of the file content. This extraction allows the synchronization system to focus only on transferring the necessary portions, dramatically reducing data transfer volume while maintaining completeness for relevant data.
2Quantity of substance
If rsync updates portions of files based on modification timestamps and sizes, then data transfer is reduced, but the system cannot differentiate between user-relevant and irrelevant changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where user interactions with files (such as opening, editing, or viewing specific portions) are tracked and used to refine template definitions. This feedback loop enables the system to learn which file portions are relevant to each user, improving the accuracy of selective synchronization over time while reducing data transfer volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameters used for determining synchronization needs from generic file attributes (timestamps, sizes) to user-specific parameters derived from template definitions and user behavior patterns. This parameter transformation enables differentiation between user-relevant and irrelevant changes, allowing precise control over what data is transferred.
3Reliability
If entire files are synchronized, then all changes are captured, but time and cost increase due to unnecessary data transmission
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting files into template-defined portions, the system captures changes in relevant portions without needing to transfer entire files. This segmentation maintains reliability for user-cared-about changes while dramatically reducing synchronization time by excluding irrelevant portions from the transfer process.
4Productivity
If selective portion synchronization is implemented, then data transfer efficiency improves, but system complexity increases due to template management
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables templates to be automatically generated and refined based on user behavior patterns without requiring manual configuration. The system self-adjusts template definitions by monitoring which file portions users interact with, thereby improving synchronization efficiency while minimizing the complexity burden on users through automated template management.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of synchronizing files includes partitioning, based on a template, a first file into a first file portion and partitioning based on the template a second file into a second portion. The method further includes comparing a first value associated with the first portion with a second value associated with the second portion. The method further includes updating the first portion or the second portion based on the comparison.