Embedded Sensors in Memory Devices for Direct Data Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing memory devices face inefficiencies in accessing sensor data due to the need for external sensors, which consume resources, occupy space, and are costly, especially in edge computing devices and autonomous vehicles, where quick access to sensor data is crucial.
Innovation Solution
Embedding sensors within memory devices, such as DRAM, allows direct transmission of sensor data through dedicated outputs, eliminating the need for external sensors and utilizing existing bandwidth for efficient data transfer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If external sensors are used to access sensor data, then sensor data can be obtained, but resources are consumed, space is occupied, and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the sensor functionality with the memory device by embedding sensors within the memory device structure. This merging eliminates the need for separate external sensors, reducing hardware complexity while maintaining reliable sensor data access. The sensor and memory device become integrated components, sharing the same physical housing and communication interface.
2Reliability
If external sensors are used, then sensor data can be collected, but hardware costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the sensor within the memory device, the patent reduces the total component count and simplifies the bill of materials. The sensor and memory device are manufactured as a single integrated unit, reducing assembly costs and hardware expenses while maintaining reliable sensor data collection capabilities.
3Reliability
If external sensors are used, then sensor data can be accessed, but access speed is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The integration of the sensor within the memory device enables direct access to sensor data through the memory device's communication interface. This eliminates intermediate data transfer steps required by external sensors, significantly improving access speed and reducing latency while maintaining data reliability.
4Reliability
If external sensors are used, then sensor functionality is provided, but space is occupied
Solution Approach 1:
By embedding the sensor within the memory device structure, the patent eliminates the need for separate external sensor components. The sensor utilizes the same physical housing and mounting structure as the memory device, thereby providing full sensor functionality without occupying additional device space.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, apparatuses, and methods related to using memory device sensors are described. Some memory system or device types include sensors embedded in their circuitry. For instance, a device can be coupled to a memory device with an embedded sensor. The memory device can transmit the data generated by the embedded sensor using a sensor output coupled to the device. The memory device may generate, based at least in part on a characteristic of a memory device, a signal from a sensor embedded in the memory device and transmit the signal generated by the sensor from the memory device to another device coupled to the memory device.