Dynamic Cache Allocation for Storage Logical Partitions

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Solution Overview

Problem

In storage systems, the fixed assignment of cache memory resources based on peak load conditions often results in underutilization when the actual load is lower, leading to wasted resources and inefficient hardware utilization.

Innovation Solution

The storage system dynamically reconfigures resource assignments to logical partitions based on predetermined configurations, such as job execution schedules, and cancels reservations after a predetermined time, allowing for more efficient allocation of resources across different partitions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If cache memory capacity is assigned to a logical partition based on peak load conditions, then the service level is guaranteed, but the utilization factor of cache memory deteriorates when actual load is lower

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveservice levelVSAvoidhardware resource waste
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic resource allocation by allowing the storage system to reconfigure cache memory assignments between logical partitions based on actual load conditions. The system can switch between different allocation patterns (first pattern for high load, second pattern for low load) to optimize resource utilization while maintaining service guarantees, thereby resolving the contradiction between reliability and hardware waste.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the allocation parameters of cache memory resources based on load conditions. By detecting whether the system is in a high-load or low-load state, the storage control unit adjusts the cache memory capacity assigned to each logical partition, enabling the system to maintain service levels during peak demand while reducing resource waste during normal operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If fixed cache memory assignment is used to ensure service level, then reliability is maintained, but adaptability to changing loads deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveservice level guaranteeVSAvoidadaptability to load changes
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transforms the fixed cache memory assignment into a dynamic configuration that can adapt to changing load conditions. The storage control unit monitors system load and automatically switches between different allocation patterns, enabling the system to maintain service level guarantees during peak loads while improving adaptability during normal operation through pattern switching.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system prepares multiple allocation patterns in advance (first pattern for high load, second pattern for low load) and selects the appropriate one based on detected load conditions. This preliminary preparation of configuration options enables the system to respond quickly to load changes while maintaining service level guarantees.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Reliability

If surplus cache memory capacity is allocated to logical partitions, then service level is ensured, but the utilization factor of hardware resources deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveservice levelVSAvoidhardware resource utilization
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic adjustment of cache memory allocation based on actual system load. The storage control unit switches between different allocation patterns depending on whether the system is experiencing high or low load conditions, thereby optimizing hardware resource utilization while maintaining service level guarantees. This dynamic approach eliminates the need for permanent surplus allocation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the cache memory allocation parameters dynamically based on load detection. By adjusting the allocation parameters between different patterns, the system optimizes the balance between service level guarantees and hardware resource utilization, preventing waste of surplus capacity while ensuring adequate resources when needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS7516294B2Logical partitioning method for storage system
Publication Date: 2009.04.07 GOOGLE LLC
  • US7516294B2 patent drawing
  • US7516294B2 patent drawing
  • US7516294B2 patent drawing

AI summary

When a static logical partition is set in a storage system, wasted resources are generated depending on the load state of the logical partition. Thus, after a logical partition is created, the storage system reconfigures the assignment of resources to the logical partition based on a predetermined configuration. The timing of a resource assignment reconfiguration is based on a job execution schedule, which is associated with a predetermined configuration, and which is executed by a computer utilizing the logical partition. There is also a constitution, wherein a computer sends a predetermined command to the storage system to instruct the storage system to reconfigure the resource assignment. There is also a constitution of a storage system, wherein a resource required for reconfiguring the resource assignment to the logical partition is reserved beforehand, and this reservation is canceled after the passage of a predetermined period of time.