Storage Card NVMe ISP Execution via Ethernet Packet Conversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current in-storage processing (ISP) models face challenges in providing a fully flexible runtime environment and application programming interface (API) for non-volatile memory express (NVMe) solid-state drives (SSDs), leading to storage-related vulnerabilities and resource protection issues, as they require significant source-level modifications and overlook I/O request servicing as a block device.
Innovation Solution
A computing device and storage card configuration that converts Ethernet packets into NVMe requests using an NVMe protocol, with a firmware stack including a mini-Docker layer for container control and an OS feature layer for network and I/O handling, allowing for independent execution of applications within the storage card without modifying existing applications or hardware.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If ISP tasks are executed within the storage device, then data processing efficiency is improved, but storage-related vulnerabilities and resource protection problems occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the storage system into distinct components: a host system for I/O request management and a storage device for data processing. The storage device is further segmented into a file management unit, an ISP task execution unit, and a data processing unit. This segmentation allows the host to retain control over file management while the storage device performs processing, resolving the security vulnerability caused by uncontrolled ISP task execution.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a file management unit as an intermediary between the host and the ISP task execution unit. This intermediary validates and manages file access requests, ensuring that ISP tasks can process data only through proper file management protocols. The intermediary prevents direct unauthorized access to storage resources while enabling efficient data processing.
2Reliability
If static runtime environments and APIs are prepared in advance, then resource protection is improved, but adaptability to changing application requirements deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic ISP task execution mechanism where the storage device can load and execute different ISP tasks based on runtime requirements. The file management unit dynamically manages task execution contexts, allowing the system to adapt to changing application needs while maintaining resource protection through controlled access mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent allows dynamic modification of ISP task parameters and execution contexts without altering the fundamental protected architecture. The system can change task types, data processing parameters, and execution modes while the file management unit maintains security boundaries, enabling adaptability within a protected framework.
3Adaptability or versatility
If source-level modifications are made to ISP algorithms, then application functionality is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a copying mechanism where ISP task definitions and algorithms can be loaded into the storage device from external sources without modifying the host system or requiring source-level changes. The storage device maintains copies of task implementations and can execute them directly, eliminating the need for complex source code modifications while preserving application functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal ISP task execution environment in the storage device that can handle multiple different ISP algorithms and application types through a standardized interface. This multi-functional design allows diverse applications to run on the storage device without requiring separate implementation paths, reducing overall system complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A first IP address is set to the host, and a second IP address is set to the storage card. A storage card includes a storage device and a processor for executing firmware. The host converts a first Ethernet packet including an ISP-related request and destined for the second IP address into an NVMe request according to an NVMe protocol, and transfers the NVMe request to the storage card. The firmware parses the NVMe request to perform the ISP-related request.