Cache Memory Allocation by Access Type and Program Phase
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional cache memory systems lack efficiency in allocating storage elements due to their inability to dynamically adapt to changes in program phases, leading to suboptimal performance in memory access patterns.
Innovation Solution
A set associative cache memory system that dynamically updates its mapping based on detected program phases by allocating storage elements in response to specific memory access types, optimizing allocation into subsets of ways associated with each memory access type.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional cache memory systems use static allocation strategies, then device complexity is reduced, but cache memory efficiency and hit rates deteriorate due to inability to adapt to program phase changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic allocation by allowing the cache to transition between different allocation modes (first mode for initial program phases, second mode for later phases) based on detected program phase changes. This enables the cache memory system to adapt its allocation strategy dynamically without requiring complete reconfiguration, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes allocation parameters (allocation mode) in response to detected program phase transitions. By monitoring program execution and detecting phase changes, the system adjusts the allocation parameter from first-mode to second-mode allocation, improving adaptability while maintaining manageable complexity through parameter-based control.
2Productivity
If cache memory uses fixed allocation into ways, then manufacturing precision is simplified, but memory access performance deteriorates due to suboptimal allocation for different access patterns
Solution Approach 1:
The allocation logic transitions from static to dynamic operation by detecting program phase changes and switching between first-mode and second-mode allocation. This dynamic behavior allows the cache to optimize memory access performance for different program phases while using a unified allocation control structure, avoiding the need for completely separate control logics.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the allocation strategy into two distinct modes: first-mode allocation for initial program phases and second-mode allocation for later phases. Each mode can be optimized for specific access patterns, and the segmentation allows independent optimization without increasing overall system complexity.
3Loss of energy
If cache memory allocates storage elements without considering memory access type, then ease of operation is improved, but power consumption increases due to inefficient cache utilization
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the allocation parameter based on memory access type and program phase. By detecting changes in access patterns and program phases, the system adjusts allocation parameters to optimize cache utilization, reducing power consumption through more efficient memory access while using a unified allocation unit that handles both modes.
4Adaptability or versatility
If cache memory uses dynamic phase detection and mapping updates, then adaptability to program phases is improved, but device complexity increases due to detection and update mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The cache memory system performs self-service by automatically detecting program phase changes and updating its own allocation mode without external intervention. The allocation unit monitors program execution and autonomously transitions between allocation modes, reducing the need for complex external control logic while maintaining high adaptability.
Data Source
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AI summary
A set associative cache memory (102), comprising: an array (104) of storage elements (112) arranged as N ways; an allocation unit (106) that allocates the storage elements of the array in response to memory accesses that miss in the cache memory (102); wherein each of the memory accesses has an associated memory access type (MAT) (101) of a plurality of predetermined MATs, wherein the MAT is received by the cache memory; a mapping (108) that, for each MAT of the plurality of predetermined MATs, associates the MAT with a subset of one or more ways of the N ways; wherein for each memory access of the memory accesses, the allocation unit allocates into a way of the subset of one or more ways that the mapping associates with the MAT of the memory access; and wherein the mapping is dynamically updatable during operation of the cache memory.