Time-Window Authorization for Mailbox and Instant Messaging Accounts

The patent segments permission authorization into two independent dimensions: functional permissions (what operations can be performed) and temporal permissions (when operations can be performed). This is achieved by separating the authorization process into functional permission settings and time range settings, allowing independent control over each aspect. The temporal dimension is further segmented into start time and end time parameters, enabling precise time-window based access control.

The patent introduces dynamic time range authorization that allows permissions to automatically become valid or invalid based on time conditions. The authorization system dynamically adjusts access rights by evaluating whether the current time falls within the authorized time range, enabling automatic activation and deactivation of permissions without manual intervention. This dynamic approach replaces static role-based permissions with time-aware adaptive authorization.

The patent segments the authorization interface into distinct functional modules: grantee selection, functional permission selection, and time range setting. Each module handles a specific aspect of authorization independently, making the overall process more manageable and less overwhelming for users. The segmentation allows users to focus on one aspect at a time rather than configuring all permissions simultaneously.

The patent implements preliminary action by providing predefined time range templates and common permission sets that can be selected without detailed configuration. The system pre-configures standard authorization scenarios, allowing users to quickly apply common permission patterns. This reduces the effort required for routine authorization tasks while maintaining the ability to customize when needed.