Write Cache Enablement Based on Battery Capacity

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional data storage systems with rechargeable battery backup power face inefficiencies due to finite battery life and prolonged cache disablement after power failures, leading to reduced system performance and increased costs for larger, more expensive batteries.

Innovation Solution

Implementing a system that estimates the power source capacity and enables the write cache progressively based on the available charge level, allowing the cache to be re-enabled before the battery is fully charged, thereby reducing the time needed to save data during power failures and improving system performance.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If the write cache is enabled after power restoration, then system performance is improved, but data loss risk increases if battery capacity is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem performanceVSAvoiddata integrity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic cache enablement by continuously monitoring battery capacity and adjusting cache availability accordingly. The system transitions from a static post-power-failure cache state to a dynamic state where cache enablement is continuously adapted based on real-time battery status, allowing the system to optimize between performance and reliability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs feedback mechanisms by monitoring battery capacity levels and using this information to control cache enablement decisions. The system receives feedback about battery state and adjusts cache policy accordingly, creating a closed-loop control system that balances performance gains against data protection requirements

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Reliability

If a larger battery is used to ensure sufficient backup capacity, then data protection is improved, but system cost and size increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata protectionVSAvoidbattery size
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSWeight of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies partial action by enabling the cache only when sufficient battery capacity is available, rather than requiring full battery capacity for cache operation. This allows the system to use a smaller battery while still providing cache protection during adequate battery conditions, avoiding the need for oversized battery capacity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the operational parameters of the cache based on battery capacity thresholds. By defining specific capacity thresholds and adjusting cache enablement status accordingly, the system optimizes battery utilization and reduces the required battery size while maintaining adequate data protection

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Reliability

If the cache is disabled after power failure, then data loss is prevented, but system performance suffers during recharge period

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata safetyVSAvoidoperational downtime
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic cache policy adjustment based on battery capacity thresholds. Instead of maintaining a static disabled state after power failure, the system dynamically transitions the cache from disabled to enabled as battery capacity increases during recharge, reducing operational downtime while maintaining data safety

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent performs preliminary capacity assessment during the recharge period to determine when cache enablement becomes safe. By monitoring battery capacity in advance and preparing for cache enablement when thresholds are met, the system reduces the duration of cache disablement and minimizes operational downtime

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS7725653B2Method for enabling a memory as a function of estimated power source capacity
Publication Date: 2010.05.25 EMC IP HLDG CO LLC
  • US7725653B2 patent drawing
  • US7725653B2 patent drawing
  • US7725653B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Memory parameters are controlled. A power source capacity estimate is determined. Based on the power source capacity estimate, an amount of cache to enable is determined and is enabled.