Capacitive Storage Circuit for Data Integrity During Power Loss
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Solution Overview
Problem
Data integrity issues arise in solid-state memory devices due to sudden power loss, as they lack a rotating medium to store data, necessitating a reliable backup power source to transfer volatile data to non-volatile memory.
Innovation Solution
A data storage device is configured with a backup power source and a control circuit that actively tests the energy availability using a capacitive storage circuit, adjusting memory usage parameters to ensure data integrity by temporarily storing data in a second memory circuit and setting the available memory based on the energy-providing capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a backup power source is added to prevent data loss during power failure, then data integrity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by periodically testing the backup power source before actual power failure occurs. The system proactively charges the capacitive storage circuit and validates its functionality, ensuring readiness to protect data without waiting for a power failure event. This prevents data loss while managing the complexity of the backup system through scheduled maintenance rather than continuous operation.
2Reliability
If the backup power source capacity is increased to ensure sufficient energy for data transfer, then reliability is improved, but use of energy and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies periodic action by implementing scheduled testing of the backup power source at defined intervals rather than continuously monitoring or charging it. The capacitive storage circuit is charged and tested periodically, allowing the system to maintain sufficient energy availability for data protection while minimizing continuous energy consumption. This balances reliability with energy efficiency through time-based management.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs parameter changes by dynamically adjusting the charge level and testing parameters of the capacitive storage circuit based on operational conditions. The system modifies voltage levels, charge duration, and test frequency to optimize between having sufficient energy for data protection and minimizing energy consumption during normal operation. This allows flexible adaptation to different operational states.
3Measurement precision
If active testing of the backup power source is implemented to assess energy availability, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and loss of time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements partial action by performing abbreviated or representative tests of the backup power source rather than exhaustive full-duration testing. The capacitive storage circuit is tested with reduced charge cycles or partial data transfer simulations that provide sufficient assessment of energy availability without consuming excessive time. This balances measurement precision with time efficiency by testing critical functions rather than all possible scenarios.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution ensures data integrity by providing power to solid-state memory devices during power loss, using active testing of the backup power source to manage energy usage effectively, thereby preventing data loss and enhancing reliability.
Implementation Method 1
A capacitive storage circuit is configured and arranged to store energy and to provide the stored energy to the second memory circuit in response to a loss of main power
Implementation Method 2
A test circuit is electrically connected to the capacitive storage circuit to discharge a portion of the stored energy and to provide, in response to discharging, information indicative of energy-providing capabilities
Data Source
AI summary
A variety of data storage devices, methods and systems are implemented for control of memory associated with backup functionality. One such data storage device includes a power circuit that provides main power. The data storage device has a first solid-state memory circuit that maintains data in the absence of electrical power. A second memory circuit is subject to data loss in the absence of electrical power. A storage circuit stores energy and provides the stored energy to the second memory circuit in response to a loss of main power. A test circuit discharges a portion of the stored energy to provide output data indicative of power-providing capabilities of the storage circuit. A memory controller controls data transfers to the data storage device by temporarily storing data destined for the first solid-state memory circuit and setting the amount of memory available for temporary storage in response to the output data.