External Storage for Redundant Management Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
In redundant computer systems, management information is lost when both main and standby management modules are simultaneously replaced, as the information stored in the management server becomes outdated during backup processes, leading to inconsistencies and inability to restore the original data accurately.
Innovation Solution
The system stores management information from the main system management module into an external storage device separate from the management modules, and uses a switch to prevent simultaneous access by both modules, ensuring data integrity and reliability during module exchanges.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If management information is backed up to an external storage device, then data loss is prevented during module replacement, but simultaneous access by multiple management modules can damage the storage device
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a switching mechanism that pre-establishes exclusive access paths for multiple management modules to the external storage device. Before any management module accesses the storage device, the switching control unit configures the connection path to ensure only one module can access at a time, preventing simultaneous access conflicts and potential device damage while maintaining reliable data storage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a switching control unit as an intermediary between management modules and the external storage device. This mediator manages and coordinates access requests from multiple management modules, controlling the switching of connection paths to ensure exclusive access. The intermediary prevents direct simultaneous access conflicts by routing requests through controlled path switching, thereby protecting the storage device while enabling reliable information storage.
2Ease of operation
If management information is stored in the management module, then easy access is achieved, but information is lost when modules are simultaneously replaced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts management information from the management modules and stores it externally in a separate storage device. By taking the information out of the replaceable modules and placing it in a permanent external storage system with controlled access paths, the system maintains easy accessibility while preventing information loss during module replacement. The switching mechanism ensures continuous access control to the external storage, making the information resilient to module changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent moves management information from the temporal dimension (stored only in temporary module memory) to a spatial dimension (external storage device with persistent storage). This dimensional change allows information to survive module replacement cycles while maintaining accessibility through controlled switching paths. The information exists in a separate dimension that is independent of the module lifecycle, enabling both ease of access and protection against loss.
3Reliability
If a switch is introduced to control access paths, then simultaneous access is prevented, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The switching control unit is designed with multi-functionality to justify its inclusion in the system. It not only prevents simultaneous access to the external storage device but also manages connection paths for data transmission, controls switching between main and standby modules, and coordinates information flow. By consolidating multiple control functions into a single universal controller, the patent minimizes the complexity increase while maximizing the reliability benefits of controlled access.
Data Source
AI summary
If simultaneous replacement main system and standby system of a management module was necessary due to a failure, fault or other problem in a structure containing redundant management modules, then the management information retained in the management module will be lost. A computer system contains an external storage device that is outside the manager module. This external storage device stores the same information as the management information held by the main system management module, and after replacing the management modules the management information held in the external storage device is restored in the management module. A switch is further included between the external storage device and the management module, and controlling this switch from the management module allows the plurality of management modules to exclusively access the external memory device.