Cross-layer key-value firmware for computational storage
This technology creates a smarter storage system for databases that need to retrieve data quickly using key-value lookups — the same kind of lookup used by Redis, RocksDB, and similar systems. It coordinates caching between two layers: one on the main computer (host) and one inside the storage device itself (which has its own processor). By tracking where data lives across both caches using lightweight metadata, the system avoids redundant reads and keeps data consistent as it is updated. The result is faster data access and less wasted bandwidth between the host and the storage device.
What you could build
A firmware or middleware layer for computational storage drives (CSDs) that makes them natively aware of host-side key-value stores like RocksDB, enabling hyperscalers, cloud database vendors, and enterprise storage OEMs to ship smarter NVMe SSDs or CSD appliances with measurably lower read latency and higher throughput.
Who in Virginia should care
Northern Virginia data center operators and cloud infrastructure companies — including major hyperscaler campuses — as well as DoD data management programs at nearby federal agencies would have direct interest.
Readiness: Lab validated
Concept — described but not yet demonstrated. Lab validated — supported by experimental results in the patent. Prototype likely — the text describes a built, working embodiment.
Readiness is inferred from the patent text, not from a lab visit.
The record
- Inventors
- Naga Sanjana Bikonda, Wookhee Kim, Madhava Krishnan Ramanathan, Changwoo Min, Vishwanath Maram
- Granted
- July 15, 2025
- Status
- Granted patent
- Patent number
- 12360906
Ready to talk?
Virginia Tech Intellectual Properties handles licensing for this technology.
Prosim summaries are generated from public patent text and are not legal advice.