Hybrid Memory Cell Switching Between Dynamic and Non-Volatile Modes
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current memory systems in mobile devices face challenges in balancing high-speed operation with low power consumption and efficient use of integrated circuit space, as volatile memory requires frequent refreshing and non-volatile memory operates slowly.
Innovation Solution
A hybrid memory cell that combines a resistive switching device with two switches, allowing operation in both dynamic and non-volatile modes, using capacitance for fast data storage in dynamic mode and resistive states for low-power non-volatile storage, enabling mode switching based on power and memory requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If volatile memory is used for high-speed operation, then data access speed is improved, but power consumption increases due to frequent refreshing
Solution Approach 1:
The memory system dynamically switches between volatile and non-volatile memory modes based on operational requirements. The hybrid memory cell can operate in dynamic mode for high-speed access or in non-volatile mode for low-power operation, allowing the system to adapt its characteristics in real-time rather than being fixed in one state
Solution Approach 2:
The hybrid memory cell structure serves multiple functions by combining both volatile and non-volatile memory capabilities in a single cell. This allows the same physical structure to provide both high-speed volatile storage and low-power non-volatile storage, eliminating the need for separate memory systems
2Use of energy by moving object
If non-volatile memory is used for low power consumption, then power consumption is reduced, but data access speed deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The memory system dynamically switches between non-volatile and volatile modes based on power and speed requirements. When low power is needed, it operates in non-volatile mode; when high speed is needed, it switches to volatile mode, allowing optimal performance for each operational condition
3Reliability
If separate volatile and non-volatile memory systems are used, then each memory type can be optimized, but integrated circuit space increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges volatile and non-volatile memory functions into a single hybrid memory cell structure. By combining the capacitor and resistive switching device in one cell, it achieves both high-speed volatile storage and low-power non-volatile storage without requiring separate memory arrays, thus saving significant integrated circuit space
Solution Approach 2:
The hybrid memory cell is a universal structure that performs both volatile and non-volatile memory functions. The same physical cell can operate in either mode depending on the state of the resistive switching device, eliminating the need for separate specialized memory systems
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The hybrid memory system achieves fast data access while minimizing power consumption by switching between dynamic and non-volatile modes, optimizing space on integrated circuits and ensuring efficient operation in mobile devices.
Implementation Method 1
using capacitance for fast data storage in dynamic mode
Implementation Method 2
resistive states for low-power non-volatile storage
Data Source
AI summary
A two-switch hybrid memory cell device includes a storage node connected between one terminal of a first switch and a gate of a second switch. The device also includes a resistive switching device connected to the storage node. The resistive switching device is to act as a capacitance by being set to a high resistive state when the memory cell is in a dynamic mode.