System Call Translation Layer for Database Storage Adaptability
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Solution Overview
Problem
In modern database applications, maintaining large databases is challenging due to rapidly changing technological environments, leading to inefficient hardware and software upgrades, which result in expensive downtimes and lengthy file transfer processes.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method that intercepts and replaces system calls from software processes, allowing them to access different hardware or data storage methods without substantial modification, by translating commands into new system calls if predefined criteria are met, enabling flexible data storage and access without altering the software process or operating system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If hardware and software are constantly upgraded to maintain database systems, then technological adaptability is improved, but system stability and operational continuity deteriorate due to frequent upgrades and downtimes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a translation layer that acts as an intermediary between the database application and the underlying storage system. This translation layer enables the database to interact with different storage technologies without requiring modifications to the application code, thus maintaining system stability while improving technological adaptability. The translation layer mediates between the stable upper layer (database application) and the changing lower layer (storage hardware/software).
2Quantity of substance
If new hardware devices are added to expand storage capacity, then storage capacity is improved, but operational time increases due to lengthy file transfer processes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a virtual copy mechanism where data can be logically copied and accessed from remote storage locations without physically transferring the entire dataset. The translation layer creates virtual references to data blocks stored remotely, allowing the database to access expanded storage capacity without the time-consuming process of physically copying all files to local storage.
3Adaptability or versatility
If software versions are updated to take advantage of new technologies, then technological capability is improved, but system complexity and programming requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the system into distinct layers: the database application layer, the translation layer, and the storage layer. This segmentation allows each layer to evolve independently. The database application remains simple and unchanged, while the translation layer handles the complexity of interfacing with new storage technologies. This modular approach reduces overall software complexity while maintaining technological capability.
4Ease of operation
If proprietary software applications are configured to operate on core DBMS services, then software functionality is improved, but system flexibility deteriorates when hardware changes occur
Solution Approach 1:
The translation layer serves as an intermediary that decouples the proprietary software application from the underlying hardware. The application can operate with full functionality on core DBMS services while the translation layer adapts to different hardware configurations. This maintains software functionality while improving system flexibility when hardware changes occur.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to computer-implemented method for generating one or more system calls from a command originating from a software process. The method comprises the steps of receiving the command from the software process; translating the command into a first set of system calls for execution by an operating system; intercepting said first set of system calls prior to execution by the operating system; and replacing said first set of system calls with a second set of system calls if said first set of system calls meets one or more predefined criteria. This interception and replacement may then be used to map one set of data references onto another set of data references. This mapping can provide flexible data storage, which is transparent to the software process and operating system.