Flash Memory Co-processor On-device Data Compression
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Solution Overview
Problem
Flash memory devices have relatively low write and read performance compared to hard disk drives, and existing compression methods are software-based, leading to compatibility issues and requiring cumbersome software installations across different host systems.
Innovation Solution
A flash memory-based mass storage device with a DRAM or SRAM-based cache and an embedded co-processor for on-device compression and decompression of data, eliminating the need for host system-based compression algorithms and enhancing compatibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If software-based compression algorithms are used on host systems, then data storage capacity is reduced, but compatibility problems arise and cumbersome software installation is required across different host systems
Solution Approach 1:
The flash memory device performs compression and decompression operations autonomously using an embedded co-processor, eliminating the need for host system software. The device serves itself by handling data transformation internally, which resolves compatibility issues while maintaining storage capacity benefits.
Solution Approach 2:
An embedded co-processor acts as an intermediary between the host system and flash memory array, performing compression/decompression operations. This intermediary component enables the flash memory device to handle data transformation independently, solving the compatibility problem between different host systems while maintaining reduced storage requirements.
2Quantity of substance
If compression algorithms are implemented on host systems, then storage requirements are reduced, but write and read performance remains limited by host processing capabilities
Solution Approach 1:
The flash memory device autonomously performs compression during write operations and decompression during read operations using its embedded co-processor. This self-service capability eliminates dependence on host system processing power, thereby improving write and read performance while maintaining storage efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces software-based compression on host systems with hardware-based compression using an embedded co-processor in the flash memory device. This substitution of mechanical/computational approach (hardware vs. software) significantly improves processing speed and performance for both write and read operations.
3Adaptability or versatility
If third party compression software is embedded on system partition, then compression capability is provided, but downloading and installation is cumbersome and meets resistance from users
Solution Approach 1:
The flash memory device includes built-in hardware compression capability through an embedded co-processor, eliminating the need for users to install third-party software. The device provides compression functionality autonomously, making it easy to operate across different systems without installation resistance.
Solution Approach 2:
The embedded co-processor serves as a permanent intermediary component within the flash memory device, providing compression capability without requiring external software installation. This integrated approach eliminates the cumbersome installation process while maintaining compression functionality across all host systems.
Data Source
AI summary
A mass storage device having at least one flash memory device and DRAM or SRAM-based cache within a package, and which comprises a co-processor within the package for performing compression and decompression of cached data before writing the cached data to the flash memory device.