Computational Storage Device Integration for CPU-Free Storage Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing storage systems require a separate central processing unit (CPU) for managing storage operations, increasing cost and size.
Innovation Solution
A storage system where at least one storage device includes a computational storage device with a storage controller that performs computational operations, eliminating the need for a separate CPU by integrating storage management functions into the storage device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a separate central processing unit is used to manage storage operations, then storage management functionality is provided, but cost and system size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the storage management functions previously performed by a separate CPU into the storage device itself. The storage device now includes integrated control logic that can perform address management, RAID operations, erasure coding, de-duplication, and compression without requiring an external processing unit, thereby reducing system size while maintaining full storage management functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The storage device is designed to perform multiple functions: it serves as both the storage medium and the management controller. The device can handle data storage, data retrieval, and various storage management operations (address mapping, RAID, erasure coding, de-duplication, compression) within a single integrated unit, eliminating the need for separate specialized components
2Ease of operation
If a separate central processing unit is used to manage storage operations, then storage services are provided, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the storage service delivery and management functions into a single integrated storage device. By eliminating the separate CPU component and its associated costs, the system provides the same storage services through the storage device's integrated control logic, thereby reducing overall system cost while maintaining service functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The storage device is designed to be self-sufficient, performing its own management operations without requiring external processing assistance. The device autonomously handles address management, data protection schemes, and other storage services, eliminating the need for additional processing resources and reducing system cost
Data Source
AI summary
A storage system includes a plurality of storage devices. Each of the plurality of storage devices includes a nonvolatile memory device, a buffer memory and a memory controller that controls the nonvolatile memory device and the buffer memory. At least one storage device of the plurality of storage devices is a computational storage device. The computational storage device further includes a storage controller that performs a computational operation for controlling the storage system.