Virtual Network Storage Function Layer Decoupling Data Services
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current information processing systems face limitations in implementing storage functionality effectively, particularly in virtualization techniques, as they often require physical colocation with storage elements and lack flexibility in data processing and service provision.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of a virtual network storage function layer comprising multiple virtual network storage function instances that abstract storage functionality from physical storage elements, enabling dynamic data processing and service implementation across geographically distributed locations, utilizing analytics and local resources for enhanced data services.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If storage functionality is physically collocated with storage elements, then data access speed is improved, but system flexibility and adaptability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments storage functionality into separate virtual network storage function instances that can be independently deployed and managed. These instances are decoupled from physical storage elements, allowing the system to maintain fast local access where needed while providing flexible redistribution of storage services across the network to adapt to changing requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a virtual network storage function layer as an intermediary between physical storage elements and data services. This intermediary layer enables flexible service provision by virtualizing storage resources and allowing dynamic allocation without requiring physical reconfiguration, thus maintaining adaptability while preserving access performance through optimized data paths.
2Adaptability or versatility
If storage functionality is abstracted from physical storage elements, then system flexibility is improved, but data access complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates universal virtual network storage function instances that can serve multiple purposes and different data services through a common interface. These instances provide multi-functional capabilities including data protection, replication, and service provision, reducing the need for specialized storage configurations and simplifying access through standardized operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses virtualization to create virtual copies of storage functionality that can be replicated and distributed across the network. These virtual instances simplify access by providing consistent, standardized interfaces while the underlying physical storage remains abstracted, allowing complex operations to be performed on virtual copies without directly managing physical storage complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple virtual network storage function instances are deployed across distributed locations, then service adaptability is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments storage services into multiple independent virtual network storage function instances distributed across different locations. Each instance can be independently configured and managed for specific services, allowing high adaptability to different service requirements while maintaining manageable complexity through modular, standardized components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a virtualization dimension to storage architecture, creating a logical layer that abstracts the physical distribution of storage instances. This dimensional shift allows services to be adapted and configured in the virtual space without directly managing the complexity of physical distribution, simplifying system management while maintaining service flexibility.
Data Source
AI summary
A first virtual network storage function instance associated with a first portion of at least one network is configured to communicate with at least a second virtual network storage function instance associated with a second portion of the at least one network. The first and second virtual network storage function instances collectively comprise at least part of a virtual network storage function layer configured to interact with an underlying storage layer providing access to physical storage comprising a plurality of storage elements. The first and second virtual network storage function instances are configured to implement at least one data service that involves processing data obtained from at least one of the storage elements via at least one of the first and second portions of the at least one network, responsive to analytics performed by at least one of the first and second virtual network storage function instances.