Storage Job Workflow Using Dynamic Task Queues and Containers

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing storage service job workflows require different static workflows for various types of storage service jobs, which can be cumbersome and inefficient, especially when handling multiple entities, and often impact system performance.

Innovation Solution

A dynamic workflow system that allows storage service jobs to be performed without predefined sequences, utilizing virtualization containers to dynamically determine task orders and resource allocation based on real-time conditions, with checkpointing and heartbeat signals for resilience and resource management.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If different static workflows are specified for various types of storage service jobs, then job execution can be controlled, but system complexity and operational burden increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveworkflow configurationVSAvoidworkflow management
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic workflow generation where the system automatically determines the sequence of tasks based on real-time conditions and job requirements, rather than using predefined static workflows. The workflow manager dynamically selects and orders tasks from available templates, allowing flexible adaptation to different storage service job types without manual configuration of each workflow variant.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a universal workflow management system that handles multiple types of storage service jobs (backup, restore, replication, migration) through a single dynamic workflow engine. Instead of maintaining separate static workflows for each job type, the system uses a unified approach with task templates and dynamic sequencing that works across all job types.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Productivity

If static workflows are used for storage service jobs, then execution sequence is defined, but resource utilization efficiency decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveresource utilizationVSAvoidworkflow execution time
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically determines task execution sequences based on real-time resource availability, job priorities, and dependencies. This allows optimal resource allocation and execution ordering that adapts to changing system conditions, improving resource utilization efficiency compared to fixed static workflows that cannot respond to real-time conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The workflow manager autonomously determines task sequencing and resource allocation without external intervention. The system self-adjusts the execution plan based on job requirements and system state, eliminating the need for manual workflow design and enabling more efficient resource utilization through automated optimization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple static workflows are maintained for different entities, then specific job requirements can be met, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvejob type handlingVSAvoidworkflow definitions
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments storage service jobs into standardized task templates with specific functions (e.g., backup task, restore task, replication task). Each template can be independently configured and combined dynamically to handle different job types and entity requirements, reducing the need for maintaining separate complete workflows for each scenario.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically assembles task sequences from available templates based on job requirements, allowing flexible adaptation to different entities and job types. This dynamic composition replaces the need for maintaining multiple static workflows, as the same template library can be combined in different ways to meet various requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS20260023616A1Dynamically performing a storage service job workflow
Publication Date: 2026.01.22 COHESITY INC
  • US20260023616A1 patent drawing
  • US20260023616A1 patent drawing
  • US20260023616A1 patent drawing

AI summary

An indication of a storage service job to be performed is received. A task to be performed for the storage service job is determined. The task is added to a work queue. Execution of one or more tasks in the work queue that includes the task is dynamically managed. Resources are dynamically allocated to one or more virtualization containers that are assigned to execute the one or more tasks in the work queue. An identification of one or more new tasks to be performed for the storage service job is received from one of the virtualization containers executing the task. The one or more new tasks are added to the work queue.