Cloud Snapshot Migration via Mediator Caching

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current approaches lack the capability to migrate archived snapshots from one cloud storage platform to another, particularly when the platforms are administered by different providers, and do not allow for the transfer of snapshots from a public cloud to a private cloud.

Innovation Solution

A method is provided to migrate snapshots between cloud storage platforms by receiving a user request, retrieving data and metadata objects from the source platform, caching them, and uploading them to the target platform, where new objects are created and updated in the destination platform's database, enabling seamless migration and restoration.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Quantity of substance

If snapshots are archived to cloud storage platforms and deleted from local storage, then storage space is freed and cost is reduced, but the ability to migrate snapshots between different cloud platforms is lost

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestorage spaceVSAvoidsnapshot migration capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a mediation layer between cloud storage platforms that enables snapshot migration. The system retrieves snapshot data from the source cloud platform, processes it through an intermediate storage or processing mechanism, and then uploads it to the destination cloud platform. This intermediary approach allows snapshots to be migrated between different cloud providers without requiring direct compatibility between the platforms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The snapshot migration process is divided into distinct segments: retrieval from source cloud platform, processing/caching of snapshot data, and upload to destination cloud platform. This segmentation allows each step to be independently managed and optimized, enabling migration across different cloud environments while maintaining the ability to free local storage space.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Speed

If snapshots are stored in local storage for fast access, then accessibility is improved, but storage cost increases and cloud migration capability is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccess speedVSAvoidcloud platform flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a dynamic storage architecture where snapshots can be moved between local and cloud storage based on access requirements. Frequently accessed snapshots remain in local storage for fast access, while less frequently accessed snapshots are archived to cloud storage. The migration capability between different cloud platforms ensures flexibility when changing storage strategies or providers.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system provides universal snapshot management that works across multiple cloud platforms and local storage. The migration capability allows snapshots to be universally accessed regardless of which cloud platform they reside on, while maintaining the option for fast local access when needed. This multi-functional approach satisfies both speed and flexibility requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If manual intervention is required for snapshot migration between cloud platforms, then migration accuracy can be monitored, but time consumption and operational complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemigration accuracyVSAvoidmigration time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements automated snapshot migration that performs the entire migration process without manual intervention. The system automatically retrieves snapshots from the source cloud platform, processes the data, and uploads it to the destination platform. Logging and tracking mechanisms provide visibility into the migration process, ensuring reliability while eliminating manual time consumption.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The migration system incorporates feedback mechanisms that track and log the migration process. This automated feedback provides visibility into migration status, success, and any issues encountered, maintaining reliability without requiring manual monitoring. The system can automatically handle errors and retries, reducing both time and operational complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS20240232133A9Snapshot migration between cloud storage platforms
Publication Date: 2024.07.11 DELL PROD LP
  • US20240232133A9 patent drawing
  • US20240232133A9 patent drawing
  • US20240232133A9 patent drawing

AI summary

A method comprises receiving an input requesting migration of one or more snapshots of a logical storage volume from a first cloud storage platform to a second cloud storage platform, and retrieving one or more first objects corresponding to the one or more snapshots from the first cloud storage platform. The one or more first objects are stored in a cache, and contents of the one or more first objects are sent to the second cloud storage platform for storage as one or more second objects.