Virtual Computational Storage Emulation Module
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Solution Overview
Problem
Computing systems often include storage devices that do not support computation functions, limiting the ability to offload computations and store data efficiently in a single device.
Innovation Solution
A virtual computational storage device system that includes a virtual computational storage emulation module, a storage element, and a compute element. The emulation module provides a virtual computational storage device, stores data associated with it, and translates compute and storage requests between the virtual device and the underlying compute and storage elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If storage devices are used that do not support computation functions, then device simplicity and ease of manufacture are maintained, but computational capability and functionality are lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a virtual computational storage device as an intermediary layer between the host and the physical storage device. This virtual device emulates computational storage functionality through software, allowing standard storage devices to provide computation services without requiring hardware modifications. The virtual device translates compute requests into operations that can be handled by the host processor, bridging the gap between simple storage hardware and complex computational requirements.
2Productivity
If computation functions are integrated into storage devices, then computational tasks can be offloaded to storage devices, but device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual copy of computational storage functionality through software emulation rather than physical hardware integration. The virtual computational storage device replicates the behavior and interface of a computational storage device using software, allowing systems to benefit from computational offloading capabilities without the need to manufacture complex integrated hardware. This copying approach enables deployment on standard storage devices while maintaining the productivity benefits of computational offloading.
3Productivity
If virtual computational storage devices are implemented, then computational tasks can be offloaded and data stored efficiently, but system complexity increases due to additional emulation layer
Solution Approach 1:
The virtual computational storage device is designed as a universal intermediary that can work with any standard storage device and host system combination. It provides multiple functions including data storage, computation coordination, request translation, and protocol adaptation through a single software layer. This multi-functional design consolidates the system complexity into one versatile component rather than requiring multiple specialized elements, thereby improving productivity while managing system complexity efficiently.
Data Source
AI summary
A system includes a virtual computational storage emulation module configured to provide a virtual computational storage device. The system further includes a storage element, where the virtual computational storage emulation module is configured to store data associated with the virtual computational storage device at the storage element. The system further includes a compute element. The virtual computational storage emulation module is configured to send a compute request associated with the virtual computational storage device to the compute element.