Dataset Incremental Flash Copy Table for Granular Replication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current incremental flash copy relationships are only available at the volume level, limiting granular control and efficiency in data replication, as they do not support individual data sets within a storage volume.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for data replication that identifies a source data set based on a partially qualified data set name, generates a replication relationship table mapping the source data set to a target data set, and performs incremental copying, allowing for more granular selection and management of data sets participating in flash copy relationships using a data set incremental flash copy table (DIFT).
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If incremental flash copy is performed at the volume level, then data replication is achieved, but granular control and efficiency are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the replication control from volume level to data set level by introducing a data set level flash copy table (DSFCT) that stores individual data set flash copy relationships. This allows selective replication of specific data sets within a volume rather than requiring entire volume replication, thereby improving granular control while managing complexity through structured data organization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a new dimension of control by introducing a intermediate layer (data set level) between volume level and physical data level. The DSFCT maintains flash copy relationships at the data set level, creating a hierarchical structure that enables fine-grained control without directly managing individual physical blocks, thus improving operability without excessive complexity.
2Reliability
If all data sets in a volume are replicated, then complete data protection is achieved, but target space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the replication requirement from the volume level down to the individual data set level. By using the DSFCT to identify and replicate only specific data sets that need protection, the system achieves necessary data protection reliability while avoiding the overhead of replicating entire volumes, thereby reducing target space requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies partial action by replicating only the necessary portion of data (specific data sets identified in DSFCT) rather than the entire volume. This selective replication approach provides adequate protection for critical data sets while minimizing the target space consumed by unnecessary replication of non-critical data.
3Volume of stationary object
If selective data set replication is implemented, then target space is reduced, but management of data set changes becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the system monitors data set changes (extensions, deletions, redefinitions) and automatically updates the DSFCT accordingly. This feedback loop ensures the replication configuration remains synchronized with the actual data set state, simplifying change management by automating the update process rather than requiring manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-service by automatically detecting data set changes and updating the flash copy relationship table without requiring external management intervention. The replication management system monitors and adapts to data set modifications autonomously, reducing the operational complexity of managing selective replication configurations.
Data Source
AI summary
For performing incremental replication of a data set, a source data module identifies a source data set, the source data set including a set of storage locations on a source volume, a target data module that defines the target data set in response to the source data module identifying the source data set, a mapping module that stores a replication relationship table, the replication relationship table mapping the defined data set to a target data set, the target data set including a set of storage locations on a target volume, and a replication module that performs an incremental copy of data stored at the source data set based on the replication relationship.