Unified Software-Defined Storage Orchestration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current software-defined storage solutions face challenges in simplifying the installation, configuration, and deployment of multiple storage types, leading to inefficient resource utilization and increased costs due to lack of standardized interfaces and customized management processes.
Innovation Solution
A unified management and orchestration plane automates the installation, configuration, and deployment of software-defined storage assets across various vendors, using predictive analytics and policy-based management to dynamically allocate resources and adapt to changing demands.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple storage types from different vendors are deployed with customized management processes, then storage functionality and versatility are improved, but system complexity and difficulty of management increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal management plane that can manage multiple types of storage assets from different vendors through a single interface. The system uses standardized workflows and orchestration mechanisms that work across diverse storage technologies, eliminating the need for separate management processes for each storage type while maintaining full functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The management plane acts as an intermediary layer between the diverse storage assets and the user/system. It translates various storage-specific operations into standardized commands, mediating between different storage technologies and providing a unified view and control mechanism, thereby reducing system complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual installation and configuration processes are used for storage assets, then flexibility in customization is improved, but deployment time and operational efficiency worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-configures standardized workflows and deployment templates that contain common installation and configuration tasks. These workflows are prepared in advance with all necessary parameters and dependencies defined, allowing rapid deployment while maintaining customization capabilities through parameter adjustment rather than manual reconfiguration.
Solution Approach 2:
The deployment system automatically discovers storage assets, determines appropriate workflows based on asset characteristics, and executes configuration tasks without manual intervention. The system self-adapts to different storage types by automatically selecting and parameterizing the appropriate workflows, eliminating the need for manual customization while maintaining flexibility.
3Productivity
If standardized interfaces and automated workflows are implemented, then deployment efficiency and resource utilization are improved, but adaptability to unique requirements may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The workflow system is designed to be dynamic and adaptable. While workflows are standardized, they contain parameterized variables and conditional logic that allow automatic adjustment to specific requirements. The system can dynamically select different workflow variants or modify workflow parameters based on the characteristics of the storage assets and specific deployment requirements, maintaining both efficiency and adaptability.
4Reliability
If multiple customized management processes are used for different storage types, then specific storage requirements are met, but operational expenses and resource waste increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple customized management processes into a single unified management plane that handles all storage types. By consolidating management functions and sharing common resources (workflow engines, orchestration logic, monitoring systems), the system eliminates redundant operations and reduces operational expenses while maintaining the ability to meet specific storage requirements through standardized interfaces.
Data Source
AI summary
A consumption request, comprising a stack parameter and a resource characteristic parameter, is accessed. The stack parameter specifies at least one type of storage asset that is requested. The resource characteristic parameter specifies at least one functional capability required of the storage asset. Based on the stack parameter, a set of one or more first storage assets able to satisfy the consumption request, is determined. For each first storage asset in the set that is not deployed, a first workflow is generated, the first workflow configured to deploy the respective first storage asset in the set that is not deployed. For each second storage asset in the set that lacks the resource characteristic parameter, a second workflow, configured to implement that resource characteristic in the respective second storage asset, is generated. The set of storage assets is configured to satisfy the consumption request, by miming the first and second workflows.