Dual-Port Storage Device Controller Architecture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current dual-port storage solutions lack an efficient method for implementing data storage that effectively manages access to multiple hosts and storage elements, leading to potential failures and inefficiencies in data management.
Innovation Solution
A dual-port, dual-element storage device with a controller providing two separate data paths and a predefined form factor, incorporating combinations of storage elements like SLC/MLC SSDs and HDDs, which allows for optimized data access and redundancy through dynamic switchable paths and migrate functions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single storage device is used to connect to multiple hosts, then host redundancy is achieved, but data access conflicts and management complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The storage device is segmented into two independent storage elements (first storage element and second storage element), each accessible through separate data paths. This segmentation allows different hosts to access different storage elements independently, eliminating data access conflicts while maintaining host redundancy.
Solution Approach 2:
A controller acts as an intermediary between the dual ports and dual storage elements, managing data paths and access permissions. The controller coordinates access to prevent conflicts while enabling redundant host connectivity, resolving the management complexity issue.
2Speed
If flash memory is used for quick access, then write speed and cell endurance improve, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
Different storage elements with different characteristics are assigned to different functional requirements. The first storage element (flash memory) provides fast write speed and high endurance for critical data, while the second storage element (hard disk drive) provides high capacity for less time-sensitive data, optimizing both performance and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The storage device uses a composite architecture combining flash memory and hard disk drive technologies. This hybrid approach leverages the strengths of both storage types - the speed and endurance of flash memory for frequent writes, and the high capacity and lower cost of hard disk drives for bulk storage.
3Ease of manufacture
If MLC NAND flash memory is used, then manufacturing cost decreases, but bit error ratio increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system combines MLC flash memory with a hard disk drive in a dual storage element architecture. The MLC provides cost-effective high-capacity storage, while the hard disk drive serves as a reliable backup or secondary storage, compensating for the higher bit error ratio of MLC through redundancy and error correction mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for implementing data storage and a dual port, dual element storage device are provided. A storage device includes a predefined form factor including a first port and a second port, and a first storage element and a second storage element. A controller coupled between the first port and second port, and the first storage element and second storage element controls access and provides two separate data paths to the first storage element and second storage element.