# Branch Locking System Implementation Plan

   ## Core Requirements
   1. Role-based locking permissions
   2. Lock state indicators in UI
   3. Lock override protocols
   4. Audit logging for lock events
   5. Maximum lock duration: 48hrs

   ## Technical Integration
   - **Model Extensions**  
     Enhance `VersionBranch` (line 14):
     ```python
     class VersionBranch(models.Model):
         lock_status = models.JSONField(default=dict)  # {user: ID, expires: datetime}
         lock_history = models.JSONField(default=list)
     ```

   - **Manager Methods**  
     Add to `BranchManager` (line 141):
     ```python
     def acquire_lock(self, branch, user, duration=48):
         """Implements lock with timeout"""
     
     def release_lock(self, branch, force=False):
         """Handles lock release with permission checks"""
     ```

   - **UI Components**  
     Update `VersionControlUI` interface (line 58):
     ```typescript
     lockState: {
       isLocked: boolean;
       lockedBy: UserRef;
       expiresAt: Date;
       canOverride: boolean;
     };
     ```

   ## Security Considerations
   - Permission escalation prevention
   - Lock expiration enforcement
   - Audit log integrity checks
   - Session validation for lock holders

   ## Phase Plan
   1. **Week 1**: Locking backend implementation
   2. **Week 2**: Permission system integration
   3. **Week 3**: UI indicators & controls
   4. **Week 4**: Audit system & testing