Mirroring Restoration via Bidirectional Data Recording
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image recording systems require lengthy mirroring restoration times due to sequential data transmission and backup processes, which can be inefficient and time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
An image recording apparatus and method that control the recording of first and second image data in opposite directions within a second recording medium, allowing them to meet at a specific position for synchronized recording, thereby reducing the time needed for mirroring restoration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If sequential data transmission and backup processes are used for mirroring restoration, then data integrity is maintained, but restoration time becomes excessively long
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the restoration process into two simultaneous segments: one process transmits data from the first HDD to the second HDD in the normal direction, while another process transmits data from the second HDD to the first HDD in the opposite direction. Both segments operate concurrently, effectively halving the restoration time while maintaining data integrity through synchronized position matching.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary actions by preparing both forward and backward transmission processes before actual restoration begins. The control unit pre-calculates writing start positions and determines the meeting point where both transmission processes will converge, ensuring that data integrity is maintained from the outset while maximizing parallel processing efficiency.
2Reliability
If entire image data is transmitted for mirroring restoration, then complete data backup is achieved, but processing time increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by transmitting only the necessary portions of data in each direction until the predetermined positions are reached. Instead of transmitting entire image data sets sequentially, the system transmits partial data sets simultaneously in both directions, stopping exactly when the transmission positions match, thereby achieving complete backup with significantly reduced processing time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent ensures continuity of useful action by maintaining both forward and backward transmission processes running simultaneously without interruption. The control unit continuously monitors transmission positions and maintains both data flows until they meet at the predetermined matching point, maximizing productivity while ensuring backup completeness through continuous parallel operation.
3Loss of time
If data is recorded in opposite directions in the second recording medium, then recording time is reduced through parallel processing, but control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback control by continuously monitoring the transmission positions of both forward and backward data streams. The control unit receives position information from both transmission processes and adjusts the operation to ensure they meet at the predetermined matching point. This feedback mechanism manages control complexity while enabling parallel processing that reduces recording time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical coordination with a control-based system that uses position matching logic. Instead of physically coordinating multiple recording heads or mechanisms, the system uses a control unit to manage data transmission positions virtually, substituting mechanical complexity with software-based position tracking and matching, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining parallel processing benefits.
Data Source
AI summary
An image recording apparatus includes an image recording unit which records a first image data, and a second image data which is recorded in a first recording medium in a second recording medium; an instruction unit which gives an instruction regarding writing start positions of the first image data and the second image data in the second recording medium; and a recording ending control unit which performs a control so that recording of the second image data is ended when a recording position of the first image data and a recording position of the second image data in the second recording medium match with each other.