Graceful Degradation in Virtual Server Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing redundancy techniques using virtual machine technology fail to ensure graceful degradation in computer systems with multiple virtual servers, as they do not account for changes in computer resource allocation, leading to potential violations of availability requirements when a physical server fails.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that includes input means for entering information about a failed physical server and determining means to calculate the number of processing programs insufficient to meet availability requirements, adjusting computer resource allocation to ensure graceful degradation across subsystems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the quantity of computer resources allocated to redundant virtual servers is increased, then the reliability of the system is improved, but the productivity of other virtual servers deteriorates due to reduced available resources
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic resource allocation where the quantity of computer resources allocated to virtual servers is not fixed but can be adjusted in real-time. The management server continuously monitors system state and dynamically reallocates resources between active and redundant virtual servers based on current needs, allowing resources to flow to where they are most needed without permanently sacrificing productivity of any single virtual server.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameter of resource allocation quantities by calculating optimal allocation amounts based on availability requirements and system state. The management server determines specific numerical values for resource allocation to each virtual server, adjusting these parameters dynamically to balance reliability and productivity requirements.
2Reliability
If redundant virtual servers are configured to ensure availability requirements, then the reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases due to resource allocation management
Solution Approach 1:
The management server automatically performs resource allocation calculations and adjustments without requiring manual intervention. The system self-manages the complexity of allocating resources to multiple virtual servers by implementing automated calculation of allocation quantities based on availability requirements, eliminating the need for complex manual configuration and management.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where the management server monitors the state of virtual servers and continuously adjusts resource allocations. By receiving feedback on system performance and availability status, the management server can dynamically recalculate and redistribute resources to maintain availability requirements while simplifying management through automated closed-loop control.
Data Source
AI summary
When information about a failed physical server is inputted, the number of processing programs which are insufficient to meet an availability requirement specified in advance is calculated for each subsystem executing on a computer system, and a graceful degradation which meets the availability requirement is determined by changing the quantity of computer resources allocated to processing programs.