Dynamic ECC Page Allocation for Memory Error Correction

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional semiconductor-based memory devices are ineffective in error correction, leading to data loss when the number of errors exceeds the capability of the error correction scheme, necessitating a novel system and method for improving data reliability and preventing data loss.

Innovation Solution

A dynamic data storage system and method that involves encoding data with an error correction code (ECC) and determining the data percentage to be stored in each partition based on the number of corrected errors, with marked pages being replicated and reserved to manage errors exceeding a predetermined threshold.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional error correction code (ECC) is used in memory devices, then data reliability is improved, but the system cannot effectively correct errors when the number of errors exceeds the capability of the error correction scheme, leading to data loss

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata reliabilityVSAvoiderror correction capability
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic error correction by adjusting the number of ECC bits allocated to each data partition based on the observed error characteristics. The system monitors error patterns and dynamically reconfigures the ECC distribution, transitioning from static to adaptive error correction. This allows the system to handle varying error rates and patterns effectively, preventing data loss when error counts exceed fixed ECC capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the parameter of ECC bit allocation from a fixed value to a dynamically adjustable value. By monitoring error rates and patterns in data partitions, the system modifies the number of ECC bits allocated to each partition, optimizing error correction capability according to actual storage conditions. This parameter adaptation enables effective correction of varying numbers of errors without data loss.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Quantity of substance

If the number of bits stored in each memory cell increases, then storage density is improved, but error detection and correction becomes more significant and difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestorage densityVSAvoiderror detection difficulty
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSDifficulty of detecting and measuring

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the storage space into multiple data partitions, each with its own ECC protection. This segmentation allows independent error detection and correction for each partition, making it easier to manage and track errors in high-density storage. By breaking down the large storage space into smaller manageable units, the system can effectively monitor and correct errors even as overall storage density increases.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements feedback mechanisms by monitoring error patterns in each data partition and using this information to dynamically adjust ECC allocation. The feedback loop continuously tracks error rates and modifies error correction strategies accordingly, making error detection and correction more effective in high-density storage environments where errors may occur more frequently.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Reliability

If dynamic ECC allocation is implemented, then error correction effectiveness is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveerror correction effectivenessVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary actions by pre-calculating and preparing ECC bits for each data partition based on expected error patterns. Rather than complex real-time calculations, the system pre-allocates appropriate ECC resources and prepares correction strategies in advance, reducing the complexity of dynamic error correction while maintaining effectiveness. This preliminary preparation simplifies the overall system architecture.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS8707135B2Method and system of dynamic data storage for error correction in a memory device
Publication Date: 2014.04.22 YEESTOR MICROELECTRONICS CO LTD
  • US8707135B2 patent drawing
  • US8707135B2 patent drawing
  • US8707135B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method of dynamic data storage for error correction in a memory device is disclosed. Data for storage is received, the received data is encoded and error correction code (ECC) is generated. The encoded data is stored in the memory device that includes a plurality of pages each having a plurality of data partitions. More corrected errors a marked page has, a smaller portion with a space of at least one datum of each of the corresponding data partitions associated with the marked page is allocated to store the encoded data, while a size of the ECC is fixed, thereby increasing capability of correcting errors in the marked page.