Storage Device Volatile Data Backup via Spindle Motor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Data loss can occur in volatile memory of storage devices due to power interruptions or state resets, leading to potential data corruption or loss, which is unacceptable in domains like enterprise computing.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a system that detects imminent state resets and stores volatile data in non-volatile, solid-state memory, along with header data for recovery, using a spindle motor as a power source during resets, and alerts the host if data cannot be recovered.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If volatile memory is used for caching data, then data transfer speed and performance are improved, but data loss occurs during power interruptions
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by detecting imminent state resets and proactively transferring volatile cached data to non-volatile backup memory before the reset occurs. This advance preparation ensures data is preserved before power interruption, resolving the contradiction between using volatile memory for speed and maintaining data integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
A backup memory system acts as an intermediary between the volatile cache and the host. When power interruption is detected, the volatile data is automatically transferred to this intermediate non-volatile storage, which then serves as a safe repository until the host can recover or alert the user, thus protecting data integrity while maintaining the performance benefits of volatile caching.
2Reliability
If volatile data is continuously backed up to non-volatile memory, then data integrity is improved, but system complexity and overhead increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of continuous backup, the system performs preliminary backup actions only when needed - specifically when an imminent state reset is detected. This event-driven approach provides data protection while avoiding the constant overhead and complexity of continuous backup operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements self-service by automatically detecting state reset conditions and autonomously initiating the data backup process without requiring external intervention or complex control mechanisms. This automatic self-protection reduces the need for additional complexity in data management.
3Ease of repair
If header data is stored with volatile data in backup memory, then data recovery capability is improved, but backup memory space is consumed
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary organization by storing header data alongside the volatile cached data before backup. This header information contains metadata that facilitates quick identification and recovery of the cached data, enabling efficient data restoration while using minimal additional space compared to the actual data being protected.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Ensures data integrity by preventing data loss during power interruptions and state resets, allowing for reliable recovery of volatile data and maintaining system stability.
Implementation Method 1
The hard disk is coupled to a spindle motor that are together configured to act as a generator
Data Source
AI summary
An imminent state reset of a data storage device is detected. In response to determining volatile data of the data storage device could be lost in response to the state reset, the volatile data of the data storage device is stored to a backup memory of the data storage device together with first header data that facilitates recovering the volatile data. The backup memory includes non-volatile, solid-state memory. In response to determining the volatile data would not be lost in response to the state reset, second header data is stored in the backup memory. After the state reset, a recovery of the volatile data from in the backup memory is attempted if the first header data is detected, or a host device is alerted if neither the first header data or second header data is detected.