Seemed simple at first, just set a value in a dict and return true or false.
First, clarify the requirements and constraints, such as whether locks can overlap, how to handle time intervals, and if concurrency is a concern. Then, design the data structure to store lock intervals, ensuring efficient overlap checks. Finally, implement the acquire method with proper validation and return values, and discuss potential optimizations.
Pro tip: Mention that you would use an interval tree or a sorted list of intervals for efficient overlap detection, and consider thread-safety if the scheduler is accessed concurrently. Also, discuss how to handle edge cases like zero-duration locks or locks that start in the past.
Ask questions to understand the expected behavior: Can locks overlap? What is the granularity of time? Should the method be thread-safe? What should happen if t is in the past?
Decide on a data structure to store existing locks, such as a list of intervals, a sorted list, or an interval tree, balancing simplicity and efficiency based on expected usage.
Write a helper function to check if the new interval [t, t+duration) overlaps with any existing lock intervals. Consider edge cases like adjacent intervals.
Use the overlap check to determine if the account is available. If available, add the new interval and return true; otherwise, return false.
Mention potential improvements like using a balanced BST for O(log n) checks, handling concurrency with locks, and cleaning up expired locks.
AI-generated suggestions, not part of the candidate's original notes. May be inaccurate — verify before relying on them.