SCSI Target Device Inter-Controller Communication via Stimuli Mapping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current storage systems require a dedicated management interface for communication between storage controllers serving the same host, which is often dependent on an Internet Protocol network, necessitating outside orchestration or inter-cluster communication methods.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method using Small Computer System Interface (SCSI) specification compliant commands to enable communication between SCSI target devices by mapping defined patterns of stimuli to resultant protocol commands, allowing storage controllers to convey messages without relying on external orchestration or IP networks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a dedicated management interface dependent on IP network is used for communication between storage controllers, then communication capability is provided, but device complexity and dependency on external networks increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the communication functionality from the external IP network dependency and embeds it directly within the SCSI target device hardware. By utilizing the existing SCSI protocol command structure, the invention removes the need for separate management interfaces and external network infrastructure, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining communication reliability between storage controllers serving the same host.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention makes the SCSI target device universal by enabling it to perform both its primary storage function and the additional function of inter-controller communication through the same SCSI protocol interface. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for dedicated management hardware, reducing overall system complexity while ensuring reliable communication through the existing robust SCSI protocol.
2Adaptability or versatility
If outside orchestration or inter-cluster communication methods are used, then communication between storage controllers is enabled, but system complexity and external dependencies increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by enabling storage controllers to communicate directly with each other through the SCSI protocol without requiring external orchestration. Each controller can independently send commands and receive responses through the existing SCSI interface, eliminating the need for external management systems or complex inter-cluster communication methods, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining communication flexibility.
3Reliability
If dedicated management interface is implemented, then communication functionality is provided, but loss of information and communication overhead increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the communication function with the existing SCSI protocol command structure. By combining the data transfer and controller communication functions into a single unified protocol interface, the patent eliminates redundant management interfaces and reduces communication overhead. This integration ensures reliable information transmission while minimizing the loss of data that would occur through separate dedicated management channels.
Data Source
AI summary
Communication between target devices using protocol commands being carried out by a target device includes accessing a key for mapping of a plurality of defined patterns of stimuli and defined patterns of resultant protocol commands to a plurality of messages. A defined pattern of stimuli is sent from a target device to an initiator device to prompt a resultant defined pattern of protocol commands to be sent from the initiator device to all target devices that identify as the same device. The protocol commands including Small Computer System Interface (SCSI) specification compliant commands. A selected pattern of protocol command stimuli is sent from a first target device to the initiator device to prompt a resultant pattern of protocol commands from the initiator device to all target devices that identify as the same device thereby communicating the mapped message to other target devices.