Multi-Port Storage Device Port-to-Port Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current data bus architectures underutilize host interconnections due to low queue depth, mixed reads and writes, and small transfer sizes, leading to inefficient data movement and high costs in network routing, especially when using data storage devices like SSDs.
Innovation Solution
Implementing multi-port data storage devices (MDSDs) with bridges that enable direct memory access for data packet transmission between nodes, allowing for efficient port-to-port communication without CPU intervention, and configuring network topologies like mesh to optimize data throughput and reduce costs by eliminating the need for network adapters and switches.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional data bus architectures are used for network routing, then existing infrastructure can be maintained, but data movement efficiency is low and costs are high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by enabling data storage devices to perform both their primary storage function and network routing function simultaneously. The bridge circuit in the storage device facilitates direct data packet transmission between nodes, allowing the same hardware infrastructure to serve dual purposes without requiring separate dedicated network routing equipment.
2Productivity
If multi-port data storage devices are used for port-to-port communication, then throughput increases and costs decrease, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges network routing functionality directly into the data storage device by integrating a bridge circuit within the storage device architecture. This combination allows the storage device to handle data packet transmission between multiple nodes, eliminating the need for separate network adapters and switches while improving throughput.
3Productivity
If direct memory access is implemented for data packet transmission, then CPU intervention is eliminated and efficiency improves, but implementation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by enabling the bridge circuit to autonomously handle data packet transmission between nodes without requiring CPU intervention. The direct memory access capability allows the storage device to independently manage data movement, freeing the CPU from routine data transmission tasks and improving overall processing efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-port data storage device to at least provide port-to-port communication between nodes. The multi-port storage device includes a first port, a second port and a bridge. The first port can be operatively coupled to a first node of a plurality of nodes. The second port can be operatively coupled to a second node of the plurality of nodes. The bridge can receive one or more data packets via the first or second ports to be transmitted to one of the plurality of nodes and to transmit one or more received data packets to another multi-port data storage device, to the first node, or to the second node.