Company Filing History:
Years Active: 1997-2000
Title: Richard Byron Ward: Innovator in File System Management
Introduction
Richard Byron Ward is a notable inventor based in Austin, TX. He has made significant contributions to the field of file system management, holding 2 patents that enhance the efficiency and reliability of data communication in distributed systems.
Latest Patents
Ward's latest patents include a "System and method for efficient cache management in a distributed file," which introduces a cache manager that supports both connected and disconnected client operations. This innovative system maintains a single integrated cache for file system data, status, and pathname information. It efficiently satisfies file system requests through the cache and communicates with a remote file system when necessary. The cache manager operates independently of the operating system's file syntax and distributed file system protocol. Additionally, it supports disconnected operations through an aggressive caching policy and logs file system modifications when clients are offline.
Another significant patent is the "System and method for dynamically varying low-level file system," which minimizes the time a client system waits before declaring a data communication link as disconnected. This method dynamically adjusts the file system request time-out value based on the actual time required to service each request. It includes a monitoring system that periodically tests the server to ensure a physical connection still exists, thereby enhancing the overall efficiency of data communication.
Career Highlights
Richard Byron Ward is currently employed at International Business Machines Corporation (IBM), where he continues to innovate in the field of file systems. His work has had a profound impact on how data is managed and accessed in distributed environments.
Collaborations
Throughout his career, Ward has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Thomas George Cantrell and Sebnem Jaji. These collaborations have contributed to the development of advanced technologies in file system management.
Conclusion
Richard Byron Ward's contributions to file system management through his patents demonstrate his commitment to innovation and efficiency in technology. His work continues to influence the way data is handled in distributed systems, making significant strides in the field.