Patent ID: 8185754
Filing Date: 2012-05-22
Classification: G06F,G06Q,Y02D

Abstract:
1. A method of time-based storage access, the method comprising: associating a plurality of storage volumes with specific periods of time during which they can be accessed; adjusting user fees based on access time periods of storage volumes; packing the plurality of storage volumes in available storage bins in the system based on periods of access for the plurality of storage volumes, wherein volumes with similar access time periods are packed into a same storage bin; switching a storage bin to off or a reduced power state during periods when the storage volumes placed in the storage bin are not required, wherein power consumption is reduced, and powering off and entering a power saving state for a storage bin between two access time periods is performed upon determining that a cost of cycling power on the storage bin is less than a cost of power saved in the power saving state.