Memory Controller Performance Control Module Lifetime Management

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Solution Overview

Problem

Semiconductor storage devices, such as HDDs, face issues with mechanical vulnerabilities and reliability due to complex structures with mechanical parts, while SSDs offer improved speed and reliability but lack effective performance management based on their lifetime.

Innovation Solution

A memory controller with a performance control module that adjusts its performance level based on lifetime and usage information, including input voltage adjustments to optimize operations and extend the device's lifespan.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Speed

If the memory controller operates at high performance levels, then data processing speed is improved, but the lifetime of the memory controller is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedata processing speedVSAvoidlifetime of memory controller

Core Design Contradiction:

SpeedVSDuration of action of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The memory controller dynamically adjusts its operating performance level based on real-time monitoring of its own lifetime state. The performance control module modifies operational parameters such as clock frequency and voltage according to the remaining lifetime, allowing the system to operate at high speed when lifetime is sufficient and automatically reduce performance to extend lifetime when degradation is detected.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes operational parameters including clock frequency and voltage levels based on the memory controller's lifetime state. When lifetime degradation is detected, the performance control module adjusts these parameters to reduce stress on the controller, thereby extending its operational life while maintaining acceptable performance levels.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If the memory controller continuously monitors and adjusts performance based on lifetime, then reliability is improved, but device complexity is increased

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoperational reliabilityVSAvoidcontrol system complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The memory controller performs self-monitoring of its own lifetime through integrated sensors that track operational stress, temperature, and usage patterns. The performance control module automatically adjusts performance parameters based on this self-diagnostic information without requiring external intervention, thereby improving reliability while minimizing the complexity increase through autonomous operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements a feedback mechanism where lifetime monitoring data is continuously fed back to the performance control module, which then adjusts operational parameters accordingly. This closed-loop control ensures reliable operation by adapting performance to the actual state of the memory controller, managing complexity through automated feedback-based decision making.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS9804790B2Method of operating memory controller and semiconductor storage device including memory controller

Publication Date: 2017.10.31 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD

AI summary

Semiconductor storage devices and methods of operating the same are provided. The semiconductor storage device including a non-volatile memory device, and a memory controller configured to control the non-volatile memory device, the memory controller including a performance control module, the performance control module configured to control a performance level of the memory controller based on state information of the memory controller may be provided.