System for finding differences between two computer files and updating the computer files
US6526574B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 17, 2000 |
| Grant date | Feb 25, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 17, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S707/99942
- WIPO fieldComputer technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A computer file update or patch process involves building a Patch File. The existing or original file (the OLD file) and the revised file (the NEW file) are input into a Patch Build program. The differences in the OLD file and the NEW file are determined by the Patch Build program, and this information is output by the Patch Build program as a Patch File. The Patch File is distributed, along with a Patch Apply program, to end users so that the OLD file is efficiently converted to the desired, updated NEW file. The OLD file and the Patch File are input by the end user into the Patch Apply program. The Patch Apply program changes, at the bit level, only the portions of the OLD file required to yield the desired file update. By distributing only the Patch File and Patch Apply program to the end users, the desired file update can be implemented by the end user with maximum operational and economic efficiency. Furthermore, the update is implemented with numerous safety features including (1) automatic verification that the correct files have been used and that the patches have been built and applied correctly, (2) automatic check for sufficient disk space, (3) restart capability after p…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.