{"schema_version":"1.0","canonical_url":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854052","patent":{"patent_number":"US-9854052","title":"Business object attachments and expiring URLs","assignee":null,"inventors":[],"filing_date":"2013-09-27T00:00:00.000Z","publication_date":"2017-12-26T00:00:00.000Z","cpc_codes":["H04L","G06F","H04L"],"num_claims":13,"abstract":"A computer implemented method may include requesting details of an object and attachments associated with the object. The attachment details for each attachment may include an attachment name and an attachment ID. In response to a selection of an attachment associated with the object, a determination may be made as to whether a cache already includes the selected attachment. If the cache includes the selected attachment, the selected attachment may be retrieved from the attachment cache. If the cache does not include the selected attachment, the attachment may be downloaded using an attachment URL. The attachment URL may be requested and generated based on the attachment ID. The downloaded attachment may also be stored in the attachment cache."},"analysis":{"summary":"The Business Object Attachments and Expiring Urls patent introduces a computer-implemented method for secure and efficient management of file attachments associated with business objects. The core innovation lies in the generation of time-limited URLs for accessing these attachments, enhancing data security by restricting access to authorized users for a specific duration. This approach solves the problem of unsecured file sharing and potential data breaches associated with traditional methods like direct database storage or shared network drives.\n\nThe technology works by first requesting details of an object and its associated attachments. For each attachment, the system provides an attachment name and ID. Upon user selection, the system checks if the attachment is already cached. If not, it downloads the attachment using an attachment URL generated based on the attachment ID. The downloaded attachment is then stored in the cache for future access.\n\nThe business value of this innovation is significant. It improves data security, reduces the risk of unauthorized access, and enhances application performance through attachment caching. This technology is particularly valuable for industries dealing with sensitive data, such as healthcare, finance, and legal services. The market opportunity lies in providing a secure and efficient solution for managing file attachments, addressing the growing concerns around data privacy and security. This patent offers a robust solution for businesses looking to protect their data assets and streamline their data management processes.","layman_explanation":"The Business Object Attachments and Expiring Urls patent addresses the problem of securing and efficiently managing file attachments in business applications. Traditional methods of handling attachments, such as storing them directly in a database or on a shared network drive, often fall short in terms of security and performance.\n\n**1. What Problem Does This Solve?**\nStoring attachments directly in a database can slow down the application and make it vulnerable to security breaches. Shared network drives lack the necessary access controls to ensure that only authorized individuals can view sensitive documents. The invention solves these issues by providing a secure and efficient way to manage attachments.\n\n**2. How Does It Work?**\nInstead of directly providing the attachment, the system generates a temporary, time-limited web address (URL) for each attachment. This URL is like a key that unlocks the attachment for a short period. Once the time expires, the URL no longer works, preventing unauthorized access. Think of it like a limited-time ticket to a show – once the show is over, the ticket is no longer valid.\n\nThe system also uses a cache, which is a temporary storage area for frequently accessed attachments. This allows the system to quickly retrieve attachments without having to access the main database every time, improving performance. It's like having a shortcut to your favorite files.\n\n**3. Why Does This Matter?**\nThis technology matters because it enhances data security and improves application performance. By using expiring URLs, businesses can reduce the risk of data breaches and unauthorized access. The caching mechanism improves application speed and reduces the load on the database. This leads to cost savings, improved efficiency, and enhanced data protection.\n\n**4. What's Next?**\nFuture applications of this technology could include integration with cloud storage services and content delivery networks (CDNs). The concept of expiring URLs could be extended to other areas of data management, such as secure document sharing and collaboration platforms. The market adoption timeline will likely depend on the increasing demand for robust data security solutions and the growing awareness of the risks associated with traditional attachment methods. Investment implications include opportunities for companies specializing in data security and cloud computing.","technical_analysis":"The Business Object Attachments and Expiring Urls patent outlines a system designed to enhance the security and efficiency of accessing file attachments within business applications. The technical architecture centers around the generation and management of expiring URLs, coupled with a caching mechanism to optimize performance. \n\nThe system typically comprises several key components: a web server responsible for handling user requests, an application server for generating expiring URLs and managing access control, a database for storing attachment metadata and potentially the attachments themselves, and an attachment cache for storing frequently accessed files. When a user requests an attachment, the application server generates a unique, time-limited URL based on the attachment ID and user authentication credentials. This URL is then provided to the user.\n\nUpon accessing the URL, the web server validates the request, ensuring that the URL is still valid and that the user has the necessary permissions. If the validation is successful, the server checks the attachment cache. If the attachment is present in the cache, it is served directly to the user, minimizing latency and reducing load on the database. If the attachment is not in the cache, it is retrieved from the database, served to the user, and simultaneously stored in the cache for future access. The caching mechanism can be implemented using various strategies, such as Least Recently Used (LRU) or Least Frequently Used (LFU), to optimize cache utilization.\n\nThe implementation details involve secure URL generation algorithms, robust authentication and authorization mechanisms, and efficient caching strategies. The performance characteristics of the system are influenced by factors such as cache size, network bandwidth, and database performance. Integration patterns typically involve APIs for seamless integration with existing business applications. At the code level, the system requires careful attention to security vulnerabilities, such as URL tampering and unauthorized access attempts.","business_analysis":"The Business Object Attachments and Expiring Urls patent presents a significant business opportunity by addressing critical needs in data security and efficiency within business applications. The core value proposition lies in providing a secure and streamlined method for managing file attachments, reducing the risk of unauthorized access and improving application performance.\n\nThe market opportunity size is substantial, driven by the increasing demand for robust data security solutions across various industries, including healthcare, finance, legal, and government. Companies are facing growing pressure to protect sensitive data and comply with stringent data privacy regulations. This technology offers a competitive advantage by providing a secure and efficient alternative to traditional file attachment methods, such as direct database storage or shared network drives.\n\nThe revenue potential stems from several sources, including licensing fees, subscription services, and implementation services. The business model can be structured around providing a software platform or a cloud-based service that integrates seamlessly with existing business applications. Strategic positioning involves targeting industries with high data security requirements and offering a comprehensive solution that addresses their specific needs.\n\nROI projections are favorable, considering the potential cost savings associated with reduced data breaches, improved application performance, and streamlined data management processes. By implementing this technology, businesses can mitigate the risk of costly data breaches, enhance their reputation, and improve their overall operational efficiency. The competitive advantages, such as expiring URLs and attachment caching, provide a compelling value proposition for businesses seeking to enhance their data security posture.","faqs":null,"topics":["data security","expiring URLs","attachment caching","business objects","data management","business","object","attachments"],"tech_cluster":null},"seo":{"title":"Business Object Attachments and Expiring Urls - Patent US-9854052","description":"Secure file attachments with expiring URLs and caching. Discover how Business Object Attachments and Expiring Urls enhances data security and improves application performance.","keywords":["data security","expiring URLs","attachment caching","business objects","data management","patent","patent US-9854052"]},"attribution":{"source":"Patentable","source_url":"https://patentable.app","canonical_url":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854052","license":"CC-BY-4.0-like","license_terms":"AI-generated analysis on this page (summary, layman_explanation, technical_analysis, business_analysis, faqs) may be reused with attribution and a visible link back to the canonical URL above. Patent abstracts, claims, and bibliographic data are USPTO public domain.","required_link":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854052","citation_suggestion":"Patentable. \"Business object attachments and expiring URLs\" (US-9854052). https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854052","copyright_holder":"Nomic Interactive Technology LLC"},"links":{"html":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854052","json":"https://patentable.app/api/llm-context/US-9854052","site":"https://patentable.app","llms_txt":"https://patentable.app/llms.txt"},"generated_at":"2026-05-30T23:24:25.129Z"}