Configurable Storage Enclosure Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current storage enclosure management systems require separate hardware and software configurations for in-band and out-of-band management, leading to increased costs and complexity due to the need for different chassis and component inventories for NAS and SAN enclosures.
Innovation Solution
A configurable storage enclosure with a midplane, processor module, and management module that allows for either in-band or out-of-band management, using common hardware and software components, with program code execution switching between the processor and management modules based on configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate hardware and software configurations are used for in-band and out-of-band management, then reliable enclosure management is achieved, but device complexity and inventory costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal management module that can operate in both in-band and out-of-band management modes. The management module includes a microcontroller that can execute different program codes depending on the configuration, allowing the same hardware platform to support both management approaches. This eliminates the need for separate hardware configurations for NAS and SAN enclosures while maintaining the reliability benefits of both management types.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate chassis and component inventories are maintained for different enclosure types, then application-specific optimization is achieved, but manufacturing and inventory costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal enclosure platform with standardized chassis and components that can be configured for different applications (NAS or SAN) through software configuration. The management module can be programmed to perform either in-band or out-of-band management functions based on the enclosure's intended use, eliminating the need to maintain separate inventories for different enclosure types while still providing application-specific optimization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic configurability where the enclosure's management mode can be changed through software configuration rather than requiring physical hardware changes. The microcontroller in the management module can execute different program codes to switch between in-band and out-of-band management, allowing the same physical enclosure to adapt to different application requirements without requiring separate inventories.
Data Source
AI summary
Described is an enclosure that is configurable to perform either in-band or out-of-band enclosure management. The enclosure includes a midplane, a processor blade, and a management module. The processor blade has program code for collecting management information from other components in the enclosure. If the enclosure is configured for in-band enclosure management, the processor blade executes the program code to collect the management information. If the enclosure is configured for out-of-band enclosure management, the management module is configured to execute program code for collecting the management information instead of the processor blade.