Dynamic Memory Timing Parameter Adjustment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current memory devices use fixed timing parameters, leading to idle data bus time when accessing data from the same row, reducing data bus throughput for sequential requests.

Innovation Solution

Dynamic timing parameters are determined based on column access latency to optimize data bus utilization by modifying the timing parameters based on memory access requests, reducing idle time when accessing data from the same row.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Stability of the object's composition

If fixed timing parameters are used for memory access, then timing parameter stability is improved, but data bus throughput deteriorates due to idle cycles when accessing sequential data in the same row

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetiming parameter stabilityVSAvoiddata bus throughput
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from fixed timing parameters to dynamic timing parameters that adapt based on memory access patterns. Specifically, the system determines whether sequential memory accesses target the same row and adjusts the timing parameter (RL value) accordingly - using a reduced value when accessing the same row and a standard value when accessing different rows, thereby optimizing data bus utilization while maintaining operational stability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements parameter changes by modifying the timing parameter (read-to-data latency) based on the specific access pattern detected. The system changes the RL parameter value dynamically: when sequential accesses are detected within the same row, a reduced timing parameter is applied to eliminate idle cycles; when accessing different rows, the standard timing parameter is maintained, thus improving throughput without compromising reliability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Device complexity

If fixed timing parameters are used for all memory accesses, then device complexity is reduced, but loss of time increases due to unnecessary idle data bus cycles

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetiming control complexityVSAvoididle data bus time
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies self-service by implementing an automatic detection and adjustment mechanism within the memory system. The system autonomously monitors memory access patterns, identifies sequential accesses to the same row, and dynamically adjusts timing parameters without requiring external intervention or complex external control logic, thereby reducing time loss while maintaining manageable device complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements feedback by creating a closed-loop system that monitors memory access requests, detects patterns (specifically sequential accesses to the same row), and uses this information to adjust timing parameters dynamically. This feedback mechanism enables the system to eliminate unnecessary idle cycles automatically, reducing time loss without proportionally increasing device complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentEP2973576B1System and method to dynamically determine a timing parameter of a memory device
Publication Date: 2017.11.08 QUALCOMM INC
  • EP2973576B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2973576B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2973576B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A particular method includes receiving, from a processor, a first memory access request at a memory device. The method also includes processing the first memory access request based on a timing parameter of the memory device. The method further includes receiving, from the processor, a second memory access request at the memory device. The method also includes modifying a timing parameter of the memory device based on addresses identified by the first memory access request and the second memory access request to produce a modified timing parameter. The method further includes processing the second memory access request based on the modified timing parameter.