Dynamic Frequency Adjustment for Flash Memory Power Savings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Flash memory devices, particularly NAND flash devices, consume excessive battery power during active data transfer modes as there is no effective control mechanism to reduce power consumption, unlike in sleep modes.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that adjust operating frequencies by collecting interface-activity parameters to select optimal frequency ranges for clock signals, using a clock generator and frequency divider to operate the processing unit and access interfaces at reduced frequencies during PWM or PWM-auto data transmission modes, thereby conserving battery power.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If the flash device operates in active mode with fixed high frequency, then data transmission speed is maintained, but battery power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic frequency adjustment by monitoring interface activity parameters and switching between multiple frequency ranges (first frequency range for high-speed transmission, second frequency range for lower power consumption). The system transitions from static fixed-frequency operation to dynamic adaptive frequency selection based on real-time data transmission requirements, resolving the contradiction between maintaining speed and reducing power consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operating frequency parameter from a fixed value to a variable that can be adjusted between at least two different frequency ranges. By modifying this key parameter based on interface activity conditions, the system optimizes the balance between data transmission performance and power consumption, directly addressing the technical contradiction.
2Use of energy by moving object
If the flash device uses conventional sleep mode control, then power consumption is reduced during inactivity, but no power savings are achieved during active data transfer
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extends power management from static sleep mode control to dynamic frequency adjustment during active operations. By introducing real-time frequency adaptation based on interface activity monitoring, the system gains flexibility to optimize power consumption across different operational states, not just sleep vs. active modes.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements self-service power management by autonomously monitoring its own interface activity parameters and automatically adjusting operating frequencies without external intervention. This self-regulating mechanism enhances adaptability and provides continuous power optimization during active data transfer operations.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention introduces a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium for adjusting operating frequencies when executed by a processing unit of a device, containing program code to: collect an interface-activity parameter comprising information about data transmissions on a host access interface and/or a flash access interface; select one from multiple frequencies according to the interface-activity parameter; and drive a clock generator to output a clock signal at the selected frequency, thereby enabling the host access interface and/or the flash access interface to operate at an operating frequency.