Memory Block Priority Tables for NAND Flash Lifespan Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional non-volatile memory management techniques lead to premature disablement of memory blocks, resulting in shortened lifespan of storage apparatuses due to inadequate handling of error correction bits, where blocks with error bits near the threshold are frequently used and quickly become unusable.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a method that categorizes memory blocks into block tables with different storing priorities based on the number of error correction bits, where blocks with fewer error bits have higher priority, ensuring they are used before being moved to a disabled state, thereby extending the lifespan of the storage apparatus.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If memory blocks with error correction bits near the threshold are frequently used for data accessing, then storage capacity is maintained, but the lifespan of the storage apparatus is shortened due to premature disablement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameter of error correction bit count by categorizing memory blocks into different tables based on their error correction capability. Memory blocks are divided into normal blocks (with sufficient error correction bits) and degraded blocks (with fewer error correction bits), allowing the system to adaptively manage blocks with varying health parameters rather than treating all blocks uniformly.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the memory block management system into multiple block tables (normal block table and degraded block table) based on the health status of memory blocks. This segmentation allows differential management strategies: normal blocks can be freely used while degraded blocks are reserved for specific purposes, thereby extending overall system lifespan while maintaining storage capacity.
2Reliability
If memory blocks are placed into disabled block table when error correction bits exceed threshold, then data reliability is improved, but storage capacity is reduced due to locked memory blocks
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of binary disabled/enabled status, the patent introduces a graded approach by creating a degraded block category with intermediate status. Blocks are moved to degraded block table when error correction bits fall within a certain range, preserving them for future use when error correction capability is still acceptable, thus maintaining both reliability and storage capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic block management where blocks can transition between normal and degraded states based on real-time error correction bit counts. The system dynamically adjusts which blocks are available for general use versus reserved use, optimizing the balance between reliability and storage capacity based on current block health conditions.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for managing a memory block is provided. In this method, a plurality of block tables having different storing priorities is provided. In addition, the number of error correction bits in the memory block is checked. Thereby, in the present invention, data can be stored into the memory block in a block table according to the number of error correction bits in the memory block so that the sequence in which the memory block is used for storing data is determined.