Flash Memory Redundant Columns for Faster Data Relocation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing non-volatile storage devices, such as solid-state drives, inefficiently utilize redundant columns in memory devices, limiting resource usage and increasing time during background operations like relocation and garbage collection.
Innovation Solution
Utilize unused bits in the redundant column section of memory device planes for storing relocation information and managing background operations, reducing the need for costly LBA translations and header reads.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If redundant column sections are left unused when payload/ECC sections don't need replacement bits, then memory device structure remains simple, but resource usage efficiency deteriorates and background operations take longer
Solution Approach 1:
The redundant column section is designed to serve multiple functions: it provides replacement bits for damaged columns in the payload/ECC sections when needed, and simultaneously stores relocation information for background operations when replacement bits are not required. This multi-functionality eliminates resource waste while maintaining structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The memory device uses its own redundant column section to store relocation information during background operations, eliminating the need for external storage structures. The system serves itself by utilizing already-present hardware resources (redundant columns) for additional purposes without requiring separate dedicated storage areas.
2Quantity of substance
If relocation information is stored in redundant column section, then resource usage during background operations improves, but the redundant column section must support dual purposes (replacement bits and relocation information)
Solution Approach 1:
The functionality of the redundant column section is dynamic rather than static. When replacement bits are needed, the redundant columns serve their traditional purpose. When replacement bits are not needed, the same physical structure is repurposed to store relocation information. The system adapts the usage of redundant columns based on operational requirements, maximizing resource utilization without permanent structural changes.
Data Source
AI summary
A storage device may use unused bits in a memory device communicatively coupled to the storage device to reduce resource usage and time on the storage device during background operations. The memory device includes a plane having a redundant column section including unused bits. When the storage device receives instructions from a host device, a controller on the storage device may determine that the instructions are associated with data to be discarded from the memory device and may associate the data to be discarded with fragments in the memory device. The controller may generate relocation information, associate the relocation information with data stored in the memory device, and store the relocation information in the unused bits. During relocation operations, the controller may use the relocation information to determine whether fragments in the memory device include the data to be discarded and/or whether to move data in the memory device.