Multi-Interface Container Storage Driver Routing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing container storage interface drivers typically only support a single instance, limiting their functionality and causing conflicts when multiple instances are deployed on the same host device.

Innovation Solution

A multi-interface container storage interface driver deployment model that allows routing requests through additional container storage interface drivers, acting as proxies, to extend the functionality of the primary driver without conflicts.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a single container storage interface driver instance is deployed, then the system structure is simple and conflicts are avoided, but the functionality and versatility are limited

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedriver functionalityVSAvoiddriver deployment structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the driver functionality by deploying multiple driver instances (e.g., first CSI driver, second CSI driver) on the same host device, where each instance handles specific storage interface requirements. This segmentation allows enhanced functionality while managing complexity through structured instance separation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements multi-functionality by enabling a single driver instance to serve multiple purposes through interface routing. The first container storage interface driver receives requests from multiple interfaces (first container interface, second container interface) and routes them appropriately, making the driver universal and versatile without requiring separate dedicated drivers for each function.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple container storage interface driver instances are deployed on the same host device, then enhanced functionality is achieved, but conflicts arise between instances

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedriver functionalityVSAvoiddriver operation stability

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an intermediary routing mechanism within the first container storage interface driver that mediates between multiple container interfaces and driver instances. The driver receives requests from both the first container interface and second container interface, routes them to the appropriate driver instance, and manages responses, thereby preventing conflicts and ensuring reliable operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Device complexity

If a single driver instance is used for multiple container interfaces, then device complexity is reduced, but functionality extension is limited

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedriver deployment structureVSAvoiddriver functionality

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements multi-functionality by enabling a single driverinstance to serve multiple purposes through interface routing. The first container storage interface driver receives requests from multiple interfaces (first container interface, second container interface) and routes them appropriately, making the driver universal and versatile without requiring separate dedicated drivers for each function.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS12287989B2Multi-interface container storage interface driver deployment model

Publication Date: 2025.04.29 DELL PROD LP

AI summary

Techniques for container environment management are disclosed. For example, a method comprises deploying a first container storage interface driver, wherein the first container storage interface driver comprises multiple interfaces and is configured to: (i) receive a first request from a host configured to execute an application program, wherein the first request is related to a first storage volume associated with a storage system; (ii) receive a second request from a second container storage interface driver configured to provide an additional functionality with respect to the first container storage interface driver, wherein the second request is related to a second storage volume associated with the storage system; and (iii) send the first request and the second request to the storage system.