Abstract
Disclosed is a method for decentralized, real-time synchronization of Non-Linear Editor (NLE) timelines by mapping the OpenTimelineIO (OTIO) schema to Conflict-Free Replicated Data Types (CRDTs). The core innovation is the specific application of the Replicated Growable Array (RGA) algorithm (e.g., via Automerge) to manage the temporal sequence of clips in an OTIO Track. RGA avoids array indices, instead using persistent UUIDs and relative positioning ("Insert Clip B after UUID-A"). This mathematically guarantees convergence and solves the "index shifting" problem inherent in concurrent timeline edits, enabling offline-capable collaboration without central servers. The system defines a direct isomorphism between OTIO components and Automerge structures, ensuring lossless serialization to standard .otio files.
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.
Recommended Citation
Judson, Matthew D., ""Live OTIO": Decentralized NLE Timeline Synchronization via OpenTimelineIO and RGA CRDT Mapping", Technical Disclosure Commons, (December 02, 2025)
https://www.tdcommons.org/dpubs_series/8968