Database Patch Transformation Consolidation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current database replication systems require all instances to be of the same version to apply patches, leading to semantic inconsistencies and a combinatorial explosion of patches, making it impossible to modify one or less than all pillars without replicating across all instances.
Innovation Solution
A method that applies patches to a first version of a table in one database instance, consolidating transformations by identifying and converting Data Manipulation Language (DML) statements, allowing for replication to a second instance even if the patch is not applied there, using consolidation queries that can be executed during subsequent replication processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If patches are applied to all database instances to maintain consistency, then data consistency is improved, but the complexity and cost of patch management increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the patch application process by allowing individual database instances to be patched independently rather than requiring all instances to be patched simultaneously. The system tracks which instances have been patched and applies patches selectively to specific instances based on their version history, thereby reducing the complexity of patch management while maintaining data consistency where needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary action by maintaining a version history that records which patches have been applied to which instances before replication occurs. This historical tracking allows the system to prepare and manage patch applications in advance, understanding which instances are ready for replication and which need patching first, thus simplifying the overall patch management process.
2Reliability
If all database instances must be of the same version to replicate, then replication reliability is improved, but the flexibility to modify individual instances is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamics by allowing database instances to exist in different versions simultaneously and dynamically managing their replication based on patch history. Instead of requiring all instances to be static and uniform, the system dynamically tracks which instances have been patched and enables replication between instances of different versions when appropriate, thereby maintaining reliability while increasing flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by allowing different database instances to have different patch versions applied to them based on their specific needs and histories. Rather than forcing uniformity across all instances, the system permits local variations in patch application while maintaining the ability to replicate data where consistent, thus improving adaptability without sacrificing replication reliability.
3Ease of operation
If patches are applied to reduce the number of instances that need updating, then ease of operation is improved, but semantic inconsistencies may arise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms by tracking the patch history of each database instance and using this information to determine when and how replication should occur. The system continuously monitors which instances have been patched and adjusts replication behavior accordingly, providing feedback that ensures semantic consistency is maintained even when patches are applied selectively to reduce operational complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the invention provide for applying modifications to database instances in a way that allows some of instances to be modified without requiring that all of the instances be modified. Patching less than all of a plurality of replicated database instances can comprise applying a patch to a first version of a table in a first database instance. The first version of the table may be replicated in a corresponding first version of the table in a second database instance. Applying the patch to the first version of the table in the first database instance can result in a second version of the table in the first database instance. Transformations caused by applying the patch to the first version of the table in the first database instance can be consolidated based on differences between the first version of the table and the second version of the table.