VSAM Database Cloning via Point-in-Time Copy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current database cloning methods require additional software and labor, are time-consuming, and necessitate data inaccessibility, posing challenges for efficient and outage-free operations in database systems.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method using point-in-time copy technology, such as IBM's FLASHCOPY®, for initiating an outage-free backup of a production database, executing cloning commands, and activating replication from a source to a target database system, while exporting and renaming files to facilitate cloning without downtime.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional checkpoint and restore mechanisms are used for database cloning, then data can be backed up and restored, but additional software and labor are required, making the process time-consuming and requiring data inaccessibility (outage)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses point-in-time copy technology (such as IBM's FLASHCOPY®) to create a copy of the production database without requiring traditional backup and restore operations. This copying mechanism enables direct cloning of the database while it is online, eliminating the need for data inaccessibility and reducing cloning time significantly.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions by creating a point-in-time copy of the database before the actual cloning operation. This preliminary copy serves as the basis for the cloned database, allowing the cloning process to proceed without requiring full data unavailability and reducing the overall time needed for database cloning.
2Productivity
If traditional database cloning methods are used, then data can be copied to a new system, but additional software and labor are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by using native VSAM (Virtual Storage Access Method) capabilities and built-in copy management services to perform database cloning. The system uses predetermined cloning commands and automated replication mechanisms that eliminate the need for additional specialized software and reduce manual labor requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses universal copy management services and replication technologies that can handle database cloning as part of their broader functionality. These multi-functional services perform multiple operations (copying, replicating, renaming files) through a single integrated approach, reducing the need for separate specialized tools and software.
3Reliability
If traditional backup methods are used for database cloning, then data can be protected, but the process requires data inaccessibility (outage)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent ensures continuity of useful action by performing database cloning operations while the production database remains online and accessible. The point-in-time copy technology allows the cloning process to proceed continuously without interrupting or stopping data access, maintaining operational continuity and eliminating the need for planned outages.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for database cloning is provided. The method initiates an outage-free backup of a production database of a source database system using a point-in-time copy technology which copies both data and object structure. The method executes a cloning command to open a dialog panel menu receiving as input a subsystem name used to generate a set of database restore jobs. The method executes the set of database restore jobs to clone data into a transient area. The method uses a copy management service to activate replication of the data from the source database system created using the copy technology to a target database system. The method exports a file catalog associated with the source database system to the target database system. The method executes a script to rename files according to specifications of the target database system and the file catalog.