Virtual Machine Software Update via Database Linking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Virtualized SIP servers face challenges in becoming real-time capable due to the need for quick database access, which is hindered by separating the database from the SIP server, and the time-consuming process of upgrading software within virtual machines.
Innovation Solution
An updating method and apparatus that manage the software update process for virtual machines in an active/standby configuration by stopping one virtual machine, updating its image with a link to the database, and then switching it to active status, while simultaneously stopping and updating the other virtual machine in a similar manner.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If the database is included inside the virtual machine to secure real-time capability, then the real-time capability is improved, but the time required to upgrade software increases due to the need to copy the database to new VM images
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the database from the virtual machine image, allowing the VM image to be updated independently without copying the database. The database remains as a separate entity that the VM can access, thus resolving the contradiction between maintaining real-time capability and reducing upgrade time.
Solution Approach 2:
The database is extracted from the virtual machine image and managed separately. This extraction allows the VM image to be updated quickly without the overhead of copying large database files, while the VM continues to access the database through external connections, maintaining both real-time performance and efficient upgrades.
2Speed
If the database is arranged outside the virtual machine to facilitate quick access, then the real-time capability is improved, but the complexity of managing database links increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal link mechanism that automatically manages database connections for virtual machines. The link system provides multi-functional capabilities including automatic configuration, persistence across VM updates, and seamless access management, thereby simplifying the overall system despite the external database arrangement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary link mechanism that mediates between the virtual machine and the external database. This intermediary automatically manages the connection details and access paths, reducing the complexity of configuring and maintaining external database connections while ensuring fast access performance.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the database is copied to VM images during software updates, then the virtual machine can be upgraded, but the upgrade process becomes time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary actions by establishing database links in the VM image template before deployment. When VMs are created or updated from this template, the database links are automatically configured without requiring actual database copying at update time, enabling rapid software updates while maintaining full database functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of copying the actual database contents, the patent copies only the database link configuration and metadata to the VM image. This lightweight copying approach enables quick VM image updates while the actual database remains as a shared external resource, significantly reducing upgrade time.
Data Source
AI summary
In an updating method according to the present embodiment, a virtual machine (50-1A) is stopped, a virtual machine (50-1B) is started up using a new VM image (30-1B) to which a link to a database (20-1) is set, and the virtual machine (50-1B) is switched to an active system. A virtual machine (50-0A) is stopped and a virtual machine (50-0B) is started up using a new VM image (30-0B) to which a link to a database (20-0) is set.