Dual Port Memory as Working Memory for Flash Systems

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing memory systems for devices like smartphones and digital cameras face challenges in efficiently utilizing flash memory devices and dual port memory for data exchange and working memory operations, leading to complex circuit structures and larger chip sizes.

Innovation Solution

A memory system that includes a host, a flash memory device, and a dual port memory, where the dual port memory is used as working memory, with a memory controller that loads boot code from the flash memory into the dual port RAM and limits host access to the working memory region, simplifying the circuit structure and reducing chip size.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If flash memory device is used for data exchange and working memory operations, then data processing capability is improved, but circuit structure becomes complex and chip size increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedata processing capabilityVSAvoidcircuit structure complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the working memory function into the dual port memory device itself, eliminating the need for separate working memory circuits. The dual port memory is configured to provide both data exchange and working memory functions, thereby simplifying the overall circuit structure while maintaining high data processing capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The dual port memory is designed to perform multiple functions: it serves as both a data exchange interface between the host and flash memory, and as working memory for temporary data storage. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional dedicated circuits, simplifying the overall system architecture.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Productivity

If flash memory device is used for data exchange and working memory operations, then data processing capability is improved, but chip size increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedata processing capabilityVSAvoidchip size

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

By combining the working memory function within the dual port memory chip, the patent eliminates the need for separate working memory circuits that would increase chip area. The integrated design maintains high data processing capability while keeping the chip size compact.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements dynamic allocation of memory regions within the dual port memory, allowing the working memory size to be adjusted based on operational requirements. This dynamic configuration enables efficient use of available memory resources without requiring fixed, oversized hardware structures.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Device complexity

If dual port memory is used as working memory, then circuit structure is simplified, but access control complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecircuit structure simplicityVSAvoidaccess control

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a memory controller as an intermediary component that manages access control between the host, dual port memory, and flash memory. The controller implements access rights management, allowing selective access to different memory regions based on operational requirements, thereby simplifying the overall architecture while maintaining secure access control.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS8041885B2Memory system and method with flash memory device

Publication Date: 2011.10.18 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD

AI summary

A memory system is provided which includes a host, a flash memory device, and a dual port memory which exchanges data with the host and the flash memory device. The flash memory device utilizes a portion of the dual port memory as a working memory.