Dynamic Memory Cache Allocation for Nonvolatile Write Operations
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional memory systems face inefficiencies due to the idle state of write caches in nonvolatile memory systems, leading to resource waste and reduced system performance, as write operations to nonvolatile memory are infrequent.
Innovation Solution
A memory system comprising a master control module, a memory control module, a nonvolatile memory, and a cache, where the memory control module temporarily stores data in the cache during write operations and releases the cache for reuse as system memory after the write operation is completed, eliminating the need for an additional write cache module.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a write cache is added to improve system performance, then the write time is reduced and performance is improved, but the cache remains idle most of the time causing resource waste
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by enabling the system memory to serve dual purposes: as general system memory during normal operations and as write cache when write operations are needed. The memory control module dynamically allocates system memory as cache only when required, allowing the same memory resources to perform multiple functions without requiring a dedicated permanent cache module.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by making the cache allocation flexible and adaptive rather than fixed. The memory control module dynamically determines when to allocate system memory as cache based on actual write operation needs, and releases the cache allocation when write operations complete. This dynamic behavior allows the system to optimize resource utilization according to real-time requirements.
2Productivity
If a dedicated write cache module is added, then write operations can be buffered, but the chip area and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates the need for a dedicated write cache module by making system memory multi-functional. During normal operation, system memory serves general purposes, but when write operations are needed, the memory control module dynamically allocates portions of system memory as cache buffer. This approach achieves write buffering functionality without requiring additional dedicated cache hardware, thereby reducing chip area.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the write cache function with the existing system memory function. Instead of having separate dedicated cache hardware, the system combines the cache buffering capability with the general system memory, allowing the same physical memory resources to serve both purposes. This merging eliminates the need for additional chip area dedicated to cache storage.
3Productivity
If system memory is allocated as write cache, then write operations can be performed, but the cache must be released after use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the memory control module monitors write operation status and dynamically adjusts memory allocation accordingly. When write operations complete, the system receives feedback and automatically releases the cache allocation back to general system memory usage. This feedback-driven dynamic allocation simplifies cache management by automating the release process based on operational completion.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-service by automatically managing the allocation and release of memory as cache without requiring external intervention. The memory control module autonomously determines when to allocate system memory for write operations and when to release it, based on the operational state. This self-managing capability reduces the complexity of cache management by eliminating the need for manual cache allocation and deallocation operations.
Data Source
AI summary
A memory system comprises a master control module, a memory control module, a nonvolatile memory and a cache, wherein the memory control module is connected with the master control module, the nonvolatile memory and the cache are respectively connected with the memory control module; and the memory control module is configured to, when the master control module sends a write command for the nonvolatile memory, store data to be written in the nonvolatile memory in the cache according to the write command, and release the cache used for storing the data to be written in the nonvolatile memory after finish of the write operation to the nonvolatile memory.