Emulated Switch Architecture for Hot-Pluggable Storage Allocation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cloud-based storage solutions incur unnecessary hardware costs and require constant on-site IT support for managing dynamic storage needs.
Innovation Solution
Implement an emulated switch and emulated devices between physical ports and a host device, managed by an emulation manager, to dynamically allocate hardware resources without physical intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If physical machines with multiple sockets or switches are deployed to support dynamic storage needs, then storage flexibility and dynamic resource allocation are improved, but hardware costs and device complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates virtual copies of physical storage devices through virtualization. Virtual storage devices are presented to virtual machines, allowing dynamic allocation and reconfiguration of storage resources without physically moving or reconfiguring hardware. The virtualization layer copies the interface and functionality of physical devices, enabling flexible resource management while maintaining a stable physical infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical hardware reconfiguration with software-based virtualization management. Instead of physically plugging and unplugging devices or reconfiguring switch connections, administrators use software to dynamically allocate and reconfigure storage resources. This substitution eliminates the need for on-site IT support and reduces hardware complexity while maintaining adaptability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If physical interconnects are plugged or unplugged by administrators to expose or remove interfaces, then dynamic resource allocation is achieved, but the requirement for on-site IT support and maintenance increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables self-service dynamic resource allocation through virtualization. Virtual machines can be dynamically connected to or disconnected from storage interfaces through software control without requiring physical administrator intervention. The system automatically manages the allocation and reconfiguration of storage interfaces, eliminating the need for on-site IT support while maintaining ease of operation.
3Reliability
If physical hardware is used to support cloud-based storage services, then hardware performance and reliability are improved, but hardware costs and the need for constant maintenance increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes physical hardware resources universal and multi-functional through virtualization. A single physical storage device can be simultaneously allocated to multiple virtual machines or reconfigured for different uses through software control. This eliminates the need for dedicated hardware for each service or customer, reducing total hardware requirements while maintaining reliability through virtualized access and management.
Data Source
AI summary
A networking device, system, and method of operating a networking device are provided. The illustrative networking device is disclosed to include one or more physical ports, an emulated switch positioned between the one or more physical ports and a host device, and one or more emulated devices positioned between the emulated switch and the one or more physical ports. The one or more emulated devices may be configured to populate the one or more physical ports.