Virtual Array Management Interface Exchange for Non-Disruptive Data Migration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for partitioning storage systems into virtual arrays are complex and expensive, operating only at the storage array level, and lack a centralized mechanism for managing access and data migration between virtual arrays.
Innovation Solution
A method for migrating data between virtual arrays transparently, involving the exchange of virtual array management interfaces and metadata, allowing seamless communication and operation without disrupting host applications, and enabling centralized partitioning and consolidation of storage arrays.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If data migration is performed between virtual arrays, then data can be moved between storage systems, but management applications may be disrupted or lose track of the migrated data
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a virtual array management interface as an intermediary layer between the host system and the actual storage arrays. This interface abstracts the physical location of data, allowing data to be migrated between arrays while the management application continues to access data through the same virtual interface, thus maintaining continuity without direct knowledge of the migration
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates and maintains copies of management information (such as logical unit numbers, mapping relationships, and access parameters) across source and destination virtual arrays during migration. This copying ensures that the management application can continue to access data through the original virtual interface while the actual data resides on the destination array
2Adaptability or versatility
If virtual arrays are partitioned at the storage array level, then storage can be logically divided into separate groups, but the system becomes complex and expensive to implement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent moves the virtual array partitioning functionality from the storage array level to the host system level, effectively changing the dimension where partitioning occurs. By implementing virtual array management software on the host system rather than requiring specialized hardware features in the storage arrays, the solution reduces device complexity while maintaining partitioning capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal virtual array management interface that can present multiple virtual arrays to host systems through a standardized mechanism. This interface can be implemented across different storage systems and configurations, providing a multi-functional solution that handles partitioning, data migration, and access management through a single unified approach
Data Source
AI summary
Described are systems and methods of migrating data from a source virtual array to a destination virtual array transparently with respect to a management application program executing on a host and using management information to send management messages to the virtual arrays. Data from the source virtual array are copied to the destination virtual array during a data migration event. First and second virtual array management interfaces are associated with the source and destination virtual arrays, respectively. The first and second virtual array management interfaces are exchanged during the data migration event so that the virtual array management interface associated with the destination virtual array becomes associated with the source virtual array and the virtual array management interface associated with the source virtual array becomes associated with the destination virtual array.