Multi-Channel Data Mirroring for Storage Backup Bandwidth
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing mirroring channel backup systems in storage systems are limited by restricted data traffic bandwidth, leading to decreased system performance when the inter-board control channel replaces a mirroring channel.
Innovation Solution
Implementing multiple mirroring channels between mainboards, with a fault judging unit and traffic balance controlling unit to ensure data transmission through remaining effective channels if one or more mirroring channels fail, and using an active-standby channel mode to dynamically switch between active and standby channels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If an inter-board control channel is used to replace a mirroring channel for data backup, then device complexity is reduced, but data traffic bandwidth decreases massively and system performance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments data into multiple data segments and transmits them through different mirroring channels simultaneously. This segmentation allows the system to utilize multiple channels in parallel, thereby increasing overall data traffic bandwidth while maintaining the simplicity of using standard mirroring channel infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple mirroring channels to work together for data transmission. By merging the capacity of multiple channels and transmitting different data segments through each channel in parallel, the system achieves higher aggregate bandwidth than a single channel could provide, resolving the bandwidth limitation without requiring a completely new channel architecture.
2Device complexity
If a single mirroring channel is used for data backup, then device complexity is minimized, but reliability decreases when the channel fails
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments data for transmission across multiple mirroring channels, so that if one channel fails, only the corresponding data segment is affected while other segments continue transmitting through remaining channels. This segmentation approach maintains backup continuity without requiring complex redundant channel configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent dynamically changes transmission parameters by adjusting which data segments are transmitted through which channels based on channel status. When a channel fails, the system modifies the transmission plan to redistribute data segments across available channels, thereby maintaining backup reliability without permanent complex configuration.
3Reliability
If multiple mirroring channels are used for data backup, then reliability is improved and bandwidth is increased, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service mechanisms where the system automatically detects channel status, dynamically segments and redistributes data across available channels without manual intervention. This automation reduces the operational complexity of managing multiple channels while maintaining high reliability and bandwidth utilization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic channel allocation where data segment routing is adjusted in real-time based on channel availability. This dynamic approach allows the system to adapt to changing conditions automatically, reducing the need for static complex configurations while maintaining optimal performance and reliability across multiple channels.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for backing up data of a storage system, where at least two mirroring channels are provided between a first mainboard and a second mainboard of a storage system, and the method includes: transmitting data through at least one mirroring channel if all the mirroring channels are effective; and transmitting the data through remaining mirroring channel(s) if at least one of the mirroring channels for transmitting the data fails. The present disclosure enables traffic to be transmitted evenly on normal mirroring channels, and ensures maximized utilization of the bandwidth of mirroring channels. Corresponding to the foregoing method, an apparatus for backing up data of a storage system is provided in another embodiment of the present disclosure.