Flexible Server System Using Universal Connectors for Dynamic Reconfiguration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional server systems require replacement when switching between web server and storage server functions due to different interfaces for processors and storage devices, limiting flexibility in workload adaptation.
Innovation Solution
A flexible server system with embedded processors, variable processor and storage boards, and a PCIe switch with upstream and downstream ports, allowing dynamic reconfiguration between web and storage server operations by adjusting the number of boards connected through standardized connectors supporting PCIe, SCSI, SAS, and SATA interfaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional server systems use different interfaces for processors and storage devices, then the system can be optimized for specific purposes (web server or storage server), but the system cannot be flexibly changed when workload requirements change
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements universal connectors that support multiple interface types (PCIe, SCSI, SAS, SATA) to enable a single server system to function as both web server and storage server. The connector is designed with contact pins that can detect and adapt to different device types, allowing the same physical connector to serve multiple purposes without requiring system replacement.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes operational parameters by detecting device codes through connector pins and reconfiguring the server's functional mode accordingly. The embedded processor reads device codes from connected devices and adjusts system configuration to optimize performance for the current workload type, enabling seamless transition between web serving and storage functions.
2Productivity
If the server system is designed with fixed configuration for specific purpose, then the initial system performance is optimized, but the system cannot adapt to varying workload demands
Solution Approach 1:
The server system transitions from static fixed configuration to dynamic reconfigurable architecture. The embedded processor continuously monitors connected devices through the universal connector and dynamically adjusts system configuration based on current workload requirements. This allows the system to optimize performance for either web serving or storage operations depending on the actual devices connected and workload demands.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the embedded processor reads device codes from connected devices through connector pins and uses this information to automatically reconfigure system parameters. This closed-loop feedback enables the system to self-optimize its performance based on the actual operational context without manual intervention.
3Reliability
If different interface types are used for different devices, then each device can operate at optimal performance, but the number of connector types increases
Solution Approach 1:
A single universal connector design integrates support for multiple interface types (PCIe, SCSI, SAS, SATA) within one physical structure. The connector contains multiple contact pins that can detect and establish appropriate electrical connections for different device types, eliminating the need for separate specialized connectors while maintaining optimal performance for each interface type through software-based interface adaptation.
Data Source
AI summary
A flexible server system includes an embedded processor, one or more processor boards, one or more storage boards, and a switch including a plurality of ports. The embedded processor, the one or more processor boards, and the one or more storage boards are connected to a corresponding one of the plurality of ports. The embedded processor, the one or more processor boards, the one or more storage boards, and the switch each include a peripheral component interconnect express (PCIe) interface. The one or more processor boards and the one or more storage boards are connected to the switch through connectors where each of the corresponding connectors have a same size. The embedded processor controls the switch to route a packet from one of the plurality of ports to another one of the plurality of ports.