Multi-function Flexible Computational Storage Bridge
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Solution Overview
Problem
As storage devices increase in capacity, the time required to transfer data between the storage device and main memory for processing becomes significant, potentially slowing down applications and burdening the host processor.
Innovation Solution
A bridge is introduced to connect the host processor, storage devices, and computational storage units, exposing functions to the host processor similar to those offered by the storage devices and computational storage units, and supporting data transfer between them without going through main memory.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If data is transferred from storage device to main memory for processing, then the host processor can access and process the data, but the transfer time increases significantly and the host processor becomes burdened
Solution Approach 1:
A bridge device is introduced as an intermediary between the host processor, storage devices, and computational storage units. The bridge manages data transfers and enables direct communication between storage devices and computational storage units, bypassing the need for data to travel through main memory and reducing the host processor's burden.
Solution Approach 2:
The system segments the data processing function by separating storage devices from computational storage units and introducing a bridge as a separate management component. This segmentation allows different components to specialize in their respective functions: storage devices store data, computational storage units process data, and the bridge coordinates communication between them.
2Productivity
If the host processor executes commands to process data, then data processing can be performed, but the host processor becomes burdened
Solution Approach 1:
The data processing function is extracted from the host processor and relocated to dedicated computational storage units. These units can execute commands and process data locally, taking the processing burden away from the host processor while maintaining data processing capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The bridge acts as an intermediary that manages command distribution between the host processor and computational storage units. It receives commands from the host, determines which computational storage unit should execute them, and coordinates the execution, thereby reducing the host processor's direct involvement in data processing operations.
3Quantity of substance
If storage device capacity is increased, then more data can be stored, but the time to transfer data to main memory increases
Solution Approach 1:
The bridge enables direct peer-to-peer data transfers between storage devices and computational storage units, eliminating the bottleneck of transferring all data through main memory. This direct transfer path significantly reduces transfer time even for large storage capacities.
Solution Approach 2:
Computational storage units can perform preliminary data processing and filtering before data is fully transferred or accessed. This preliminary action reduces the amount of data that needs to be transferred through the system, thereby reducing overall transfer time.
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-function device is disclosed. A first port may be used to communicate with a host processor. A second port may be used to communicate with a storage device. A third port may be used to communicate with a computational storage unit. Circuit may be used to route a message from the host processor to at least one of the storage device or the computational storage unit.