Memory Array Sensing Circuitry Longest Element Length Determination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for determining the length of the longest element in memory require significant power consumption and time due to the need to transfer data between memory arrays and processing resources, often involving multiple bus operations and external processing units.
Innovation Solution
The solution involves performing operations such as AND, OR, shift, and invert operations within the memory array itself using sensing circuitry, allowing for parallel processing and eliminating the need for data transfer via input/output lines, thereby reducing computational time and power consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If data is transferred between memory arrays and processing resources via bus operations, then external processing can be performed, but power consumption and time increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the memory array and processing resources into a single integrated structure where processing circuitry is embedded within the memory device. This merging eliminates the need for data transfer via external buses, allowing processing operations to be performed directly on data stored in the memory array, thereby significantly reducing power consumption while maintaining external processing capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary processing circuitry that sits between the memory array and external processing resources. This intermediary can perform preliminary processing operations on data within the memory device itself, reducing the amount of data that needs to be transferred externally and thereby reducing power consumption associated with bus operations.
2Ease of operation
If data is transferred between memory arrays and processing resources via bus operations, then external processing can be performed, but computational time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the memory array and processing resources into a single integrated structure where processing circuitry is embedded within the memory device. This merging eliminates the need for data transfer via external buses, allowing processing operations to be performed directly on data stored in the memory array, thereby significantly reducing computational time while maintaining external processing capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables preliminary processing operations to be performed on data while it remains stored in the memory array, before external processing is required. This preliminary action reduces the amount of preprocessing needed externally and accelerates the overall computational process by eliminating transfer delays.
3Ease of operation
If multiple bus operations are performed for data transfer, then external processing can be accomplished, but the number of operations increases complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the memory array and processing resources into a single integrated structure where processing circuitry is embedded within the memory device. This merging eliminates the need for multiple external bus operations, simplifying the system architecture and reducing operational complexity while maintaining external processing capability.
4Ease of operation
If data is transferred via input/output lines, then processing can be performed outside memory, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the memory array and processing resources into a single integrated structure where processing circuitry is embedded within the memory device. This merging eliminates the need for data transfer via input/output lines, allowing processing operations to be performed directly on data stored in the memory array, thereby significantly reducing power consumption while maintaining external processing capability.
Data Source
AI summary
A length of a longest element can be determined in a memory device. An example method includes determining, using a controller to control sensing circuitry, a length of a longest element of a plurality of variable length elements of a vector stored in a memory array. The determination of the length of the longest element can include performing a number of AND operations, shift operations, and invert operations.