Memory Bank Metadata Mode Dynamic Cell Array Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
As applications using artificial intelligence and big data increase, there is a need for an efficient scheme to store metadata in memory systems, as existing technologies often require high-capacity memories and waste resources when metadata is not used, leading to inefficient data management.
Innovation Solution
A memory system with a data transmission/reception circuit and a memory bank comprising multiple cell arrays, where metadata mode activation allows data and metadata to be distributed and stored across all cell arrays, and deactivation allows storage in all arrays except one or more no-access arrays, optimizing memory usage based on metadata requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If metadata is always stored in memory along with user data, then data management capability is improved, but memory area and resources are wasted when metadata is not needed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a metadata mode that can be dynamically activated or deactivated. When activated, metadata is stored alongside user data in the memory bank. When deactivated, only user data is stored. This dynamic switching capability allows the memory system to adapt to different operational requirements, providing full data management functionality when needed while conserving memory resources when metadata storage is not required.
2Adaptability or versatility
If memory capacity is increased to store both user data and metadata, then data management functionality is improved, but device complexity and resource usage increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the memory bank to serve multiple functions through a single unified structure. The same memory bank that stores user data can also store metadata when the metadata mode is activated. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate dedicated metadata storage structures, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining the capability to store both user data and metadata when needed.
3Quantity of substance
If all cell arrays are used for storing user data, then storage capacity is maximized, but metadata storage capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic configuration of cell array accessibility through a metadata mode. When the metadata mode is activated, all cell arrays become accessible for storing both user data and metadata. When deactivated, only a subset of cell arrays is accessible for user data storage. This dynamic control mechanism allows the system to switch between maximizing storage capacity and enabling metadata storage capability as needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements selective accessibility of cell arrays based on the metadata mode state. The memory controller dynamically determines which cell arrays are accessible for writing operations. When metadata mode is deactivated, certain cell arrays are excluded from access to prevent metadata storage. When activated, all cell arrays become accessible. This local quality control at the cell array level enables flexible allocation of storage resources.
Data Source
AI summary
A memory may include a data transmission/reception circuit and a memory bank including a plurality of cell arrays. When a metadata mode is activated, data and metadata received through the data transmission/reception circuit may be distributed to and stored in the plurality of cell arrays. When the metadata mode is deactivated, the data received through the data transmission/reception circuit may be distributed to and stored in cell arrays except one or more no-access cell arrays, among the plurality of cell arrays.