NFC Data Storage Location Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Managing large-scale data centers with numerous data storage systems is challenging due to the difficulty in accurately locating specific storage systems in a timely manner, which can lead to increased costs and potential damage during alerts or issues.
Innovation Solution
A method and system utilizing a wireless mobile communications device with near field communication capabilities to collect and transmit location information from an asset management system, allowing for efficient identification and location of data storage systems within a data center, including the use of near field communication readers to identify and store system identifiers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If traditional manual methods are used to locate data storage systems in large-scale data centers, then system management can be performed, but the time required to locate specific storage systems increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The data storage system automatically generates and transmits its own location information to the mobile device without requiring manual intervention or complex querying procedures. The system serves itself by providing the location data that operators need to find it.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual physical location methods (mechanical/search-based approaches) with wireless communication technology. The mobile device uses wireless signals to automatically retrieve and display storage system location information, eliminating the need for manual directory lookups or physical searching.
2Quantity of substance
If data storage systems are densely packed to increase capacity, then space utilization improves, but the difficulty of accurately locating specific systems increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mobile device acts as an intermediary between the operator and the densely packed storage systems. It receives location information wirelessly from the target storage system and presents it to the operator in an easily readable format, bridging the gap between system density and locateability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses visual display of location information (analogous to color changes in making objects visible) to make the location data prominent and easy to read on the mobile device screen, enabling operators to quickly identify and navigate to specific storage systems even in densely packed environments.
3Reliability
If manual tracking methods are used for data storage systems, then system management is possible, but the cost and potential damage during alerts increase
Solution Approach 1:
The data storage system automatically provides its location information when needed, without requiring complex manual tracking infrastructure. This self-service capability enables rapid response during alerts while keeping the management system relatively simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The mobile device serves multiple functions: it acts as a communication interface, a display device, and a navigation aid. This multi-functionality reduces the need for specialized equipment while improving response reliability during alerts.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables rapid and accurate location of data storage systems, reducing costs and potential damage by facilitating timely access and management, while allowing for centralized tracking and management of storage systems within the data center.
Implementation Method 1
A near field communication link is established between a wireless mobile communications device and the management system
Data Source
AI summary
There is disclosed a method and system for use in managing a data storage system. A management system stores information in connection with a data storage system. The information comprises a location of the data storage system. A near field communication link is established between a wireless mobile communications device and the management system in response to the wireless mobile communications device being positioned substantially adjacent the management system. The location of the data storage system is transmitted from the management system to the wireless mobile communications device over the near field communication link. The transmitted location of the data storage system is received in the wireless mobile communications device such that the wireless mobile communications device can assist in locating the data storage system.