Remote Mirroring Virtual Volumes Heterogeneous Storage

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing data replication systems in storage systems require host computer intervention for mirroring data between heterogeneous storage systems, which burdens the host computers with additional workload.

Innovation Solution

A remote mirroring system that operates without host computer intervention, where the primary storage system treats logical devices in the secondary storage system as virtual volumes, using methods like cache sidefile or journaling to preserve write order, allowing data mirroring between different storage systems from various vendors.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If host computers are used to mirror data between primary and secondary storage systems, then data replication can be achieved, but host computers become burdened with additional workload

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedata availabilityVSAvoidhost computer workload

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The storage system performs self-mirroring by using its own resources (cache memory, control logic) to replicate data to secondary storage without requiring host computer intervention. The storage system manages the mirroring process autonomously, eliminating the burden on host computers while ensuring data availability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a cache sidefile or journaling mechanism as an intermediary between the primary storage and secondary storage. This intermediary structure enables the storage system to track and replicate data changes without direct host involvement, resolving the contradiction between data availability and host workload.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If remote mirroring is implemented between heterogeneous storage systems, then storage versatility is improved, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestorage system compatibilityVSAvoidmirroring system structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The storage system is designed with universal capabilities to handle different storage system types (heterogeneous environments) through a unified approach. The cache sidefile/journaling mechanism and virtual volume treatment work across different vendor storage systems, providing versatility without requiring complex system-specific implementations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses parameter changes in the form of virtual volume mapping and cache sidefile/journaling mechanisms to adapt to different storage system configurations. By changing how data is represented and tracked (using virtual volumes and sidefiles), the system achieves compatibility with heterogeneous storage systems while maintaining a relatively simple structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS7519851B2Apparatus for replicating volumes between heterogenous storage systems

Publication Date: 2009.04.14 GOOGLE LLC

AI summary

In the remote mirroring system of this invention, the primary system has the capability of treating the volume in the remote storage system as a virtual storage devices in the primary storage system. The primary storage system realizes remote mirroring between different storage systems by copying data from the primary volume to the virtual volume(s) defined in the primary storage system. This enables remote mirroring between storage systems produced by the different vendors.