Snapshot File Stripe Reuse for Reduced Disk I/O
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing data management systems face inefficiencies in consolidating snapshot files, leading to excessive disk input/output cycles, resource consumption, storage corruption, and disk fragmentation during the copy consolidation process.
Innovation Solution
Implement a reuse consolidation procedure at the stripe level, where data portions of expired and subsequent snapshot files are reused to generate replacement snapshot files, with the determination of consolidation methods based on criteria such as data block reuse and sequence.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If copy consolidation is used to consolidate snapshot files, then snapshot chain integrity is maintained, but disk input/output cycles and resource consumption increase excessively
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a hybrid approach where data blocks are copied only when necessary (e.g., when not already present in the replacement snapshot) rather than copying all data. This selective copying reduces disk I/O cycles while maintaining snapshot chain integrity through the replacement snapshot mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent consolidates expired snapshot files by identifying and discarding redundant data blocks while recovering and retaining useful data blocks in the replacement snapshot. This process reduces the number of disk I/O operations by avoiding unnecessary data transfers and only consolidating what is needed to maintain snapshot chain integrity.
2Productivity
If copy consolidation is performed, then snapshot files are consolidated, but storage corruption and disk fragmentation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments snapshot files into data blocks and organizes them into stripes, allowing consolidation to be performed at the block level rather than requiring complete file transfers. This segmentation reduces the impact of consolidation operations on storage integrity by minimizing disruptive write operations and reducing disk fragmentation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary analysis of snapshot chains to identify expired snapshots and determine consolidation requirements before executing the consolidation process. This preliminary action allows for planned, organized consolidation that minimizes disruption to storage systems and reduces the risk of storage corruption during the consolidation process.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, systems, and devices for data management are described. A first snapshot file associated with a first point-in-time may be identified as expired. The first snapshot file may be partitioned into a first set of data portions stored at a first set of storage locations. Also, a second snapshot file associated with a second point-in-time may be partitioned into a second set of data portions stored at a second set of storage locations. Based on the first snapshot file being expired, a third snapshot file associated with the second point-in-time may be generated from the first snapshot file and the second snapshot file. The third snapshot file may be partitioned into a third set of data portions, where data portions of the third data portions may be stored at storage locations of the first set of storage locations and the second set of storage locations.