3D Memory Structure Bit Line Density Optimization

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Solution Overview

Problem

High bit line density in memory devices leads to increased capacitance and resistance, causing RC delay and higher power consumption, while also increasing litho-etch process costs.

Innovation Solution

A memory structure with N array regions and N page buffers, where conductive lines have a pitch to lateral distance ratio of 1/5 to 1/2, and M array regions operate simultaneously, reducing the number of connections and capacitance, and using a multi-plane design to decrease resistance and power consumption.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Speed

If bit line density is increased to improve memory speed and parallel operation, then memory speed and parallel operation capability are improved, but capacitance increases causing higher RC delay and power consumption

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvememory speedVSAvoidpower consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The memory array is divided into multiple independent planes (first memory plane, second memory plane, etc.), each with its own set of bit lines. This segmentation allows selective activation of only the required plane for each operation, reducing the number of simultaneously active bit lines and thereby reducing total capacitance and power consumption while maintaining high-speed access capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transitions from a two-dimensional memory layout to a three-dimensional stacked architecture with multiple memory planes arranged vertically. This dimensional change allows increased storage density without proportionally increasing bit line density in the horizontal plane, as multiple planes share the same bit line infrastructure through vertical stacking.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Productivity

If bit line density is increased to improve memory speed, then parallel operation capability is improved, but resistance increases causing higher RC delay

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveparallel operation capabilityVSAvoidRC delay
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

By segmenting the memory into multiple planes with independent bit line sets, the patent enables parallel operations across planes while keeping the bit line length and density within each plane manageable. This reduces the resistance component of RC delay compared to a single high-density plane design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The vertical stacking of multiple memory planes allows parallel operations to be achieved through plane selection rather than solely through increased horizontal bit line density. This dimensional approach reduces bit line length and resistance while maintaining parallel operation capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Speed

If bit line density is increased to improve memory speed, then capacitance increases causing higher power consumption, but memory speed needs to be maintained

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvememory speedVSAvoidcapacitance
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The memory structure is divided into multiple planes where only one plane is actively accessed at a time. This segmentation reduces the total capacitance that must be charged and discharged during each operation, as only the bit lines for the active plane are switched, thereby reducing power consumption while maintaining high-speed access.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Each memory plane is designed with optimized local bit line density appropriate for its function, rather than uniformly high density throughout. The multi-plane structure allows each plane to have controlled capacitance characteristics tailored to performance requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentUS9812176B2Memory structure
Publication Date: 2017.11.07 MACRONIX INTERNATIONAL CO LTD
  • US9812176B2 patent drawing
  • US9812176B2 patent drawing
  • US9812176B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A memory structure includes N array regions and N page buffers coupled to the N array regions, respectively. N is an integer≧2. Each of the N array regions includes a 3D array of a plurality of memory cells. The memory cells have a lateral distance d between two adjacent memory cells on a horizontal cell plane of the 3D array. Each of the N array regions further includes a plurality of conductive lines. The conductive lines are disposed over and coupled to the 3D array. The conductive lines have a pitch p, and p/d=⅕ to ½. The N array regions and the N page buffers are arranged on one line along an extension direction of the conductive lines. M array regions of the N array regions are configured to operate simultaneously. M is an integer. M/N=½ or 1.