Memory Control Apparatus Block Merging for Write Reduction
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing memory control systems for nonvolatile memories require multiple blocks for writing data and flag information, leading to increased writing operations and potential incomplete data writing due to power shutdowns.
Innovation Solution
A memory control apparatus and method that writes data and count information in a single block, reducing the number of writing operations and ensuring data integrity by using counter values to determine the latest data block, thereby minimizing the need for additional blocks and enhancing data security.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If flag data describing writing history are written in a block different from the data writing block, then data integrity can be verified, but the number of writing operations increases and memory space is consumed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the data block and flag block into a single integrated block structure. Each block contains both data storage regions and flag regions within the same block, eliminating the need for separate flag blocks. This merging reduces the number of blocks required from at least two to a single block, thereby reducing writing operations and improving efficiency while maintaining data integrity verification capabilities.
2Reliability
If separate blocks are used for data and flag information, then data security is enhanced, but memory space is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges data storage and flag storage into the same block structure, where each block contains both data regions and flag regions. This integration maintains the functional separation needed for data security (data can still be verified against its corresponding flags) while reducing the total memory space consumed by eliminating redundant block overhead and reducing the total block count required in the system.
3Reliability
If multiple blocks are required for data and flag writing, then data verification is possible, but the complexity of block management increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent simplifies block management by integrating data and flag storage within the same block. The control apparatus manages blocks as unified structures containing both data regions and flag regions, reducing the complexity of tracking and coordinating separate data blocks and flag blocks. This integration maintains verification capabilities while simplifying the block allocation, selection, and management processes.
Data Source
AI summary
A memory control apparatus, a memory control method, and a program are provided which allow reduction of the number of times of writing to a nonvolatile memory. According to the present invention, both of data to be written to one block of a plurality of blocks dividing a storage region of a nonvolatile memory and information for identifying the number of times of writing to the nonvolatile memory are written to the one block.