Dual Processor Data Storage Task Alignment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Data storage devices face inefficiencies in task alignment and processing due to high overhead on the first processor and potential starvation of the second processor, as they sequentially execute tasks for multiple logical units without load-based task distribution.

Innovation Solution

Implementing a system where the first processor analyzes workloads and entrusts task alignment operations to the second processor based on workload distribution, allowing the second processor to align and execute tasks for non-high-priority logical units, thereby reducing processing overhead and preventing starvation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the first processor sequentially executes task alignment operations for multiple logical units, then task alignment is completed, but processing overhead increases and the second processor experiences starvation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetask alignment completionVSAvoidprocessing throughput
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the task alignment workload between two processors: the first processor handles task alignment for the first logical unit, while the second processor independently handles task alignment for the second logical unit. This segmentation allows parallel processing of task alignment operations, eliminating the sequential bottleneck and preventing the second processor from starving while maintaining reliable task alignment completion for all logical units.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Measurement precision

If the first processor handles all task alignment operations, then task alignment accuracy is maintained, but the second processor remains idle causing resource underutilization

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetask alignment accuracyVSAvoidprocessor utilization balance
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent makes both processors universal by enabling the second processor to perform task alignment operations in addition to its primary data processing function. When the second processor is idle or has completed its primary tasks, it can universally handle task alignment for the second logical unit, ensuring both processors are productively utilized while maintaining alignment accuracy through the same task alignment methodology.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Ease of manufacture

If task alignment is performed sequentially by one processor, then processing simplicity is maintained, but overall device performance is reduced due to idle processor time

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprocessing simplicityVSAvoiddevice performance
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements preliminary action by having the second processor prepare and align tasks for the second logical unit in advance, before the first processor completes its task alignment for the first logical unit. This preliminary parallel preparation ensures that when data processing needs to occur, both processors have their tasks ready, eliminating waiting time and improving overall device performance while maintaining the simplicity of individual task alignment procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS10437475B2Data storage device and operating method thereof
Publication Date: 2019.10.08 SK HYNIX INC
  • US10437475B2 patent drawing
  • US10437475B2 patent drawing
  • US10437475B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A data storage device includes a storage medium including a plurality of logical units; and a controller suitable for accessing the storage medium by logical unit, the controller comprising: a first processor suitable for aligning tasks corresponding to at least one logical unit among the plurality of logical units, depending on a priority; and a second processor suitable for accessing other logical units among the plurality of logical units, wherein the first processor entrusts a task alignment operation for the other logical units, to the second processor, based on workloads of the first and second processors.