Distributed Data Layer for Scalable Node Cooperation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Expanding computing infrastructure to meet growing resource demands is costly and difficult due to hardware and software incompatibilities, often requiring large-scale 'forklift' upgrades.
Innovation Solution
A distributed computing environment where nodes with varying resources cooperate to provide load balancing, caching, and redundant storage, using a distributed data layer and protocols to manage data across nodes, allowing for flexible resource allocation and efficient expansion without extensive upgrades.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If specialized devices (caching servers, application servers, backup servers) are used to provide reliable computing resources, then system reliability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase when expanding infrastructure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple specialized server functions (caching, application hosting, backup) into a unified distributed file system where ordinary storage devices perform multiple roles. The distributed architecture merges storage, caching, and application delivery functions into a single system that uses standard hardware, eliminating the need for separate specialized servers for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables ordinary storage devices to perform multiple functions simultaneously - serving as cache storage, application servers, and backup repositories. The distributed file system protocol allows these devices to be universally accessed for different purposes without requiring specialized hardware configurations for each function.
2Adaptability or versatility
If piecemeal increase of resources is engaged in, then adaptability is improved, but hardware and software incompatibilities arise
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the fundamental parameter of hardware requirements by designing a distributed file system that operates effectively with ordinary, commodity storage devices rather than requiring specialized server hardware. This parameter change allows incremental addition of resources using standard equipment while maintaining system compatibility through a unified access protocol.
3Adaptability or versatility
If large-scale 'forklift' upgrade is engaged in, then adaptability is improved, but cost and time loss increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements dynamic scalability where resources can be added, removed, or upgraded independently without requiring system-wide changes. The distributed architecture allows individual nodes to be modified or replaced while the overall system continues to operate, enabling gradual evolution rather than forced large-scale upgrades.
Solution Approach 2:
The infrastructure is segmented into independent distributed nodes that can be managed, upgraded, or replaced individually. This segmentation allows selective modification of specific components without affecting the entire system, eliminating the need for coordinated forklift upgrades of all infrastructure elements simultaneously.
Data Source
AI summary
Distributing data is disclosed. A first request for data associated with a first file is received at a first node. It is determined, at the first node, that the first file is located on a second node. A second request for data associated with the first file is received at the first node. It is determined that a third node should have an instance of the first file. The third node is caused to have an instance of the first file.