Workspace Page Content Synchronization via Hierarchical Block References

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Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional computer workspaces are inefficient as they require manual duplication and updating of information across different locations, lacking intuitive synchronization of content across pages, which limits dynamic information management in interconnected environments.

Innovation Solution

A hierarchical block data model where each piece of information is stored as separate objects in a database, allowing for synchronized updates across multiple workspace pages through unique identifiers, attributes, and pointers, enabling bi-directional cross-referencing and permission management.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If information is stored in files and folders locked within a page construct, then data structure simplicity is maintained, but information cannot be dynamically synced across multiple locations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontent synchronization capabilityVSAvoiddata model complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments information into discrete blocks that can be independently identified and referenced. Each block contains specific attributes (unique identifier, type, properties, format) that enable granular control and synchronization across multiple locations without requiring complex file structures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a block reference mechanism as an intermediary between information and its locations. Blocks can be referenced by multiple pages through unique identifiers, allowing dynamic synchronization without direct file-to-file linking or manual copying.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If information is copied and pasted to different locations, then information can exist at multiple locations, but manual updates are required at each location

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinformation update efficiencyVSAvoidtime for manual duplication and updating
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates universal blocks that can serve multiple functions and locations simultaneously. A single block can be referenced by multiple pages, and updates to the block automatically synchronize across all references, eliminating the need for manual duplication and updating at each location.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements automatic feedback mechanisms where changes to a block are detected and propagated to all pages referencing that block. This ensures consistency across the system without requiring manual intervention, as the system automatically detects and resolves updates.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Adaptability or versatility

If conventional content containers are used, then content can be stored, but setting up synchronization requires many steps and is not intuitive

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecross-page content sharingVSAvoidsetup complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent enables blocks to automatically manage their own synchronization state and relationships with pages. The system self-configures the synchronization mechanism through unique identifiers and references, eliminating the need for complex manual setup procedures while maintaining versatile cross-page content sharing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

4Adaptability or versatility

If information is locked within page files, then data integrity is maintained, but bi-directional cross-referencing between locations is not possible

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebi-directional cross-referencingVSAvoiddata consistency
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces blocks as intermediary objects that mediate between pages and information. Blocks maintain unique identifiers and references that enable bi-directional cross-referencing while the system's synchronization mechanism ensures data consistency is maintained across all references.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical file-locking system with a digital reference system based on unique identifiers. This substitution allows bi-directional cross-referencing while maintaining data consistency through automated synchronization rather than physical file constraints.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentUS11868706B1System, method, and computer program for syncing content across workspace pages
Publication Date: 2024.01.09 NOTION LABS INC
  • US11868706B1 patent drawing
  • US11868706B1 patent drawing
  • US11868706B1 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure describes a system, method, and computer program for syncing content across workspace pages. The system creates a first synced block on a first workspace page. Content on workspace pages rendered by the system is stored in blocks and each of the workspace pages has a hierarchy of blocks. The system adds one or more child blocks to the first synced block as content to be synced. The system creates a reference synced block on a second workspace page and adds a pointer to the reference synced block that points to the first synced block. This is done in order to sync the one or more child blocks of the first synced block across the first and second workspace pages, where editing the first synced block or the reference synced block includes editing the one or more child blocks of the first synced block.