Data Migration Path Mapping for Heterogeneous Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current data migration techniques in data storage networks are inefficient due to lack of identification of the fastest data transfer paths and lack of automated error checking, leading to increased transfer times and potential errors during heterogeneous data transfers.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that identifies optimal data transfer paths by mapping controllers and ports in the network, allowing for concurrent data transfer using multiple efficient paths and includes error detection to ensure data integrity during migration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If block-level data copying is used for heterogeneous storage system migration, then data transfer can be performed between different storage systems, but transfer time increases dramatically (2-3 times slower)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses virtual copy operations instead of physical block-level copying. The virtual copy mechanism allows data to be referenced or linked between storage systems without actual byte-by-byte duplication, dramatically reducing transfer time while maintaining data integrity across heterogeneous systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical block-level data copying with a software-based virtualization approach. By using virtual volumes and logical unit numbers (LUNs), the system substitutes physical data movement with logical data reference, eliminating the time-consuming mechanical copying process.
2Productivity
If automated path identification is not implemented, then system complexity remains low, but data transfer efficiency decreases due to use of non-optimal paths
Solution Approach 1:
The storage system automatically identifies and selects optimal data transfer paths without requiring external intervention or complex manual configuration. The system performs self-diagnosis and self-optimization by analyzing available paths and selecting the fastest route for data migration between storage systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary path analysis and identification before actual data migration begins. By pre-mapping controllers, ports, and available communication paths, the system prepares optimal transfer routes in advance, ensuring maximum transfer speed from the start of the migration process.
3Reliability
If error checking is not performed during data transfer, then migration process is simpler and faster, but data integrity cannot be ensured
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements automated error checking and verification mechanisms that provide feedback during the data migration process. The system monitors data transfer integrity, detects errors, and triggers appropriate corrective actions, ensuring reliable data migration while maintaining manageable system complexity through automated feedback loops.
4Reliability
If entire data batches are retransferred upon error occurrence, then data integrity is maintained, but migration time increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides data migration into smaller, manageable units or segments. When errors occur during data transfer, the system identifies and retransfers only the specific erroneous segments rather than entire data batches. This segmented approach maintains data integrity while minimizing the time loss associated with error recovery.
Data Source
AI summary
One or more techniques and/or systems are disclosed that provide for improved speed and efficiency when transferring data from a source data storage device to a destination data storage device in a data storage network. A data storage network is configured such that a source data storage device, a destination data storage device and a migration server can communicate with each other. Both a source data storage drive and a destination data storage drive are mapped to the migration server. The migration server identifies controllers coupled to the data storage network for the source and destination data storage drives. A route of data transfer is mapped from the source data storage drive to the destination data storage drive through the identified controllers, and the data is transferred from the source data storage drive to the destination data storage drive using the mapped route of data transfer.