Ring Replication System for Redundant Data Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing data storage and transmission systems face challenges in ensuring data reliability and accessibility during network or machine failures, particularly in handling high-speed data streams and maintaining data sequence order, while also being scalable and cost-effective.
Innovation Solution
A redundant data storage system utilizing a ring configuration of multiple electronic storage devices, where each node receives and stores data with a unique ordering identifier, ensuring data records are maintained in a time-ordered manner and accessible sequentially, and capable of quick recovery from node failures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If quorum-based replication systems are used to ensure data reliability, then data loss is avoided through majority voting, but the system requires an odd number of machines and higher network overhead
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the replication task by designating specific nodes as ordering nodes that specialize in sequence assignment, while other nodes handle data storage and forwarding. This segmentation eliminates the need for complex quorum voting across all nodes, reducing system overhead while maintaining reliability through dedicated functional roles.
Solution Approach 2:
Each node in the ring serves multiple functions: it acts as a data storage device, a forwarding node for data circulation, and potentially an ordering node for sequence assignment. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate voting mechanisms required in quorum-based systems, simplifying the overall system architecture while preserving data reliability.
2Reliability
If chain replication systems are used to continuously circulate data, then data is stored redundantly, but a single node must serve as both input and output limiting scalability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables any node in the ring to serve as both a data input point and a data output point simultaneously. Unlike chain replication where a single node handles both roles, this system allows multiple nodes to perform these functions, enhancing scalability and versatility while maintaining data redundancy through the ring structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically allows any node to be designated as an ordering node based on operational needs rather than having a fixed input/output structure. This dynamic flexibility enables the system to adapt to different operational scenarios and scale more effectively compared to the rigid chain structure.
3Reliability
If data records are circulated around the chain before validation, then data completeness is ensured, but the system lacks the ability to associate sequence order with data records
Solution Approach 1:
The ordering nodes perform preliminary sequence assignment by associating ordering identifiers with data records before they complete their circulation around the ring. This preliminary action ensures that sequence order information is captured and preserved, preventing information loss while maintaining data completeness through the circulation mechanism.
4Reliability
If multiple storage devices are used to ensure accurate data retrieval, then reliability against failure is improved, but the system becomes less scalable and more expensive to configure
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the operational parameters by allowing any number of nodes to be added to the ring without requiring odd-number constraints or complex reconfiguration. This parameter flexibility makes the system easier to manufacture and scale while maintaining reliability, as nodes can be added or removed dynamically without rigid structural requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
A ring replication system receives and redundantly stores electronic data for access by users. Two or more storage devices are configured in a ring and circulate received data to each other. At least one such device receives incoming data records from an external source. One storage device is designated as the ordering device for assigning a sequence order to each data record, and the assigned sequence order is circulated around the ring. After confirming that the assigned sequence order has been indexed within each storage device on the ring, data records may then be accessed by users. One or more access portals may be coupled to one or more storage devices in the replication ring for providing users with access to stored data records. Data records are accessed in accordance with the assigned sequence order. A related method for redundant storage of data records is also disclosed.