Storage System Node Modules Mesh Network Scalability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current storage systems face challenges in efficiently distributing data across multiple nodes in a network, leading to reduced throughput due to concentrated access and limited scalability, especially in cloud computing environments where multiple information processors are connected.
Innovation Solution
A storage system configuration featuring a mesh network of node modules (NMs) connected through interfaces, allowing efficient data transmission and distribution across multiple paths, with a management module (MM) for monitoring and controlling the network, and an interface unit (I/F unit) for expanding and connecting multiple storage systems as one unified memory unit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple information processors are connected through a network to operate as one system, then system scalability is improved, but throughput reduction due to concentrated access increases
Solution Approach 1:
The storage system is divided into multiple independent node modules (NMs), each capable of autonomous data storage and processing. This segmentation allows data to be distributed across multiple nodes, preventing concentrated access bottlenecks while maintaining system scalability through modular expansion.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a mesh network topology that adds spatial dimensionality to data access paths. Instead of linear or hierarchical access structures, multiple dimensional pathways enable parallel data retrieval across the network, improving throughput while supporting system expansion.
2Reliability
If data is distributed across multiple nodes, then system reliability is improved, but data distribution efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The management module implements feedback mechanisms that monitor network conditions, node status, and data access patterns. This feedback enables dynamic optimization of data distribution routes and node workload allocation, maintaining high distribution efficiency while ensuring data is reliably distributed across multiple nodes for enhanced system reliability.
3Quantity of substance
If multiple DRAM chips or NAND flash chips are connected through wiring, then storage capacity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple DRAM chips or NAND flash chips are merged into unified node modules with integrated control logic. This merging approach increases storage capacity while managing complexity by consolidating chip interconnections through standardized wiring patterns and modular architecture, preventing exponential complexity growth.
Data Source
AI summary
A storage system includes a memory unit group that includes a first memory unit and a plurality of second memory units, and the first memory unit is connected to the plurality of second memory units so that data can be transmitted between the first memory unit and the second memory units. The plurality of second memory units is mounted on a same first substrate. One second memory unit of the plurality of second memory units cooperates with the first memory unit and does not cooperate with the other second memory units of the plurality of second memory units.