Cloud-Based Remote Storage with Direct Flash Mapping and Non-Volatile RAM
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing storage systems face inefficiencies in data management and reliability due to redundant write operations and lack of centralized control over storage processes, particularly in flash storage systems.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a direct-mapped flash storage system where the operating system directly addresses data blocks without translation by storage controllers, offloading device management responsibilities, and utilizing non-volatile RAM for quick data buffering and power failure protection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If storage controllers translate and manage data blocks, then device management is centralized, but write operations become redundant and efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the data block translation and management functions from storage controllers and relocates them to the operating system. This eliminates redundant write operations by allowing the OS to directly address flash storage data blocks without controller intervention, while still maintaining centralized management through OS-level control
2Reliability
If traditional storage controllers manage data blocks, then centralized control is maintained, but data integrity during power failures is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces non-volatile RAM as an intermediary layer between the operating system and flash storage. This mediator captures write operations and ensures data integrity during power failures by maintaining data in non-volatile memory, while reducing the complexity of storage controller management
3Ease of operation
If storage controllers translate data blocks, then device management is simplified, but unnecessary write operations increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the operating system to directly manage and address flash storage data blocks without requiring storage controller translation services. This self-service approach eliminates redundant write operations and the associated energy waste, while maintaining simplified storage management through direct OS control
Data Source
AI summary
Secure cloud-based storage system management that includes: extending a cloud-based storage management session by using cloud-based user credentials to securely manage a remote storage system, and executing, on the remote storage system, data storage operations generated from commands issued via the cloud-based storage management session.