Storage Network Topology Mapping Using Cable List Comparisons
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing storage systems face challenges in effectively managing their network structure due to frequent changes in device connections and additions/removals, leading to inefficiencies and increased network loads.
Innovation Solution
A method that determines the network structure of a storage system by comparing cable lists associated with nodes, using cable identifiers instead of MAC addresses, to identify direct and indirect connections without additional message exchange.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional MAC address-based methods are used to determine network structure, then device identification is achieved, but network load increases due to additional message exchange
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the network structure determination process from message exchange-based methods to cable list-based methods. By taking out the dependency on MAC address communication and replacing it with pre-collected cable connection information, the solution eliminates unnecessary message exchange while maintaining accurate network structure determination.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by collecting cable connection information in advance and storing it in a manageable format. Instead of discovering network structure through real-time message exchange, the system pre-processes connection data into cable lists that can be directly compared to determine network topology, reducing runtime network load.
2Adaptability or versatility
If frequent device additions and removals are supported, then system adaptability improves, but network structure management complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by enabling the network management system to automatically update cable lists when devices are added or removed. The system independently tracks connection changes without requiring manual intervention or complex coordination protocols, simplifying the management of dynamic device configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
By pre-organizing connection information into structured cable lists associated with each node, the system prepares data in advance for quick comparison and updates. This preliminary structuring enables efficient handling of device additions and removals without increasing management complexity.
3Loss of energy
If cable list comparison method is used to determine network structure, then network load is reduced, but implementation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces cable lists as an intermediary data structure that mediates between physical connections and network structure determination. Instead of directly comparing raw connection data or exchanging complex messages, the system uses standardized cable lists as an intermediate representation, simplifying the comparison process while maintaining accuracy.
4Speed
If shortest path identification is implemented, then access speed improves, but computational requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-calculating and storing cable list information that enables efficient shortest path determination. Instead of performing complex computational algorithms at access time, the system prepares connection data in advance, allowing quick path identification when devices need to communicate.
Data Source
AI summary
A technique manages a storage system. In particular, multiple cable lists associated with multiple nodes included in the storage system are acquired, respectively, a cable list including an identifier of cable of at least one cable for connecting a node of the multiple nodes with a node other than the node. A distance between a first node in the multiple nodes and a second node in the multiple nodes is determined based on a comparison between a first cable list associated with the first node and a second cable list associated with the second node in the multiple cable lists. A network structure of the storage system is determined based on the distance between the first node and the second node. Accordingly, the distances between the nodes can be determined in a simple and effective manner, and thus the network structure of the storage system can be determined.