Dynamic Loadable Array Module Upgrade Without Disruption

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional methods for upgrading loadable array modules (LAMs) in multipath environments often result in disruptions and downtime, as they require shutting down the multipathing application, which can lead to service disruptions and inefficiencies.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of a Dynamic Loadable Array Module (DLAM) that allows for the dynamic loading and upgrading of LAM modules during runtime, suspending I/O operations when necessary to prevent disruptions and enabling non-disruptive upgrades.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional upgrade methods are used for loadable array modules, then the module can be upgraded, but the multipath application must be shut down causing service disruption and downtime

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveservice availabilityVSAvoiddowntime

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically manages module upgrades by implementing a state machine that tracks module status (inactive, loading, upgrade in progress, active) and dynamically switches between old and new modules based on operational state, enabling non-disruptive upgrades

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary actions by loading the new module into memory before suspending I/O operations, and by pre-establishing the state machine framework that will manage the transition, ensuring a smooth upgrade process

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 3:

The state machine acts as an intermediary that coordinates between the running multipath application, the old module, and the new module, managing the transition state and ensuring proper resource handling during upgrades

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of manufacture

If the multipath application is shut down for module upgrades, then the array specific module can be upgraded, but I/O operations are disrupted

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveupgrade capabilityVSAvoidI/O operation continuity

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system segments the upgrade process into distinct phases (suspension, loading, activation) and segments the module functionality into old and new versions, allowing the I/O path to remain active through the interface while the backend module is upgraded

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the operational parameters by suspending I/O operations temporarily during module loading, then resuming them after the new module is activated, transforming a disruptive process into a non-disruptive one through parameter control

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS10193752B2Storage system upgrade

Publication Date: 2019.01.29 EMC IP HLDG CO LLC

AI summary

Example embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a method, computer program product, and system for an upgrade of an array specific module in a multipath application comprising suspending all input/output operations associated with the array specific module; and upgrading the array specific module without disrupting any input/output operations associated with the array specific module.