Memory Controller Seed Offset Randomization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing memory systems face complexity and performance degradation issues due to the lack of effective data randomization methods, particularly in restricted regions of memory devices, which can lead to inefficient data storage and retrieval.

Innovation Solution

A memory system that randomizes data by shifting column addresses using a seed offset within restricted regions, such as unused, spare, or reserved areas, during program/erase or erase/write cycles, thereby stabilizing data storage without altering the random seed, thus minimizing system complexity and degradation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Quantity of substance

If data is stored in restricted regions of memory pages, then data storage capacity is increased, but data randomization effectiveness deteriorates leading to performance degradation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata storage capacityVSAvoiddata randomization effectiveness
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies different randomization strategies to different regions of the memory page. Restricted regions use seed offset-based randomization while other regions can use traditional random seed methods. This localized approach allows effective randomization in each specific region while maintaining overall storage capacity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the randomization parameter from random seed to seed offset specifically for restricted regions. The seed offset is calculated based on the restricted region size and cycle information, providing deterministic yet effective randomization that adapts to the constraints of restricted regions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If traditional random seed methods are used for data randomization, then data randomization is achieved, but system complexity and performance degradation occur

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata randomizationVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the random seed parameter with a seed offset parameter that is deterministically calculated from restricted region size and cycle information. This parameter change simplifies the randomization process while maintaining effectiveness, reducing system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The seed offset is self-calculated based on restricted region characteristics and cycle information, eliminating the need for external random seed generation and management. This self-service approach reduces system complexity while maintaining randomization effectiveness.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Reliability

If random seed is frequently changed to maintain randomization effectiveness, then data randomization quality is improved, but system performance and longevity deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverandomization qualityVSAvoidsystem longevity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDuration of action of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes from frequently changing random seeds to using a stable seed offset that is deterministically derived. The seed offset maintains randomization quality through its calculation methodology while being more stable and less resource-intensive than frequent seed changes, thereby improving system longevity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The seed offset is pre-calculated based on restricted region size and cycle information before the actual randomization process. This preliminary calculation establishes a stable randomization foundation that maintains effectiveness without requiring frequent updates, preserving system performance over time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS9583194B2Memory system and operating method thereof
Publication Date: 2017.02.28 SK HYNIX INC
  • US9583194B2 patent drawing
  • US9583194B2 patent drawing
  • US9583194B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A memory system includes: a memory device comprising at least a page; and a controller suitable for setting a seed offset according to a size of a restricted region in the page, randomizing data using the seed offset at each cycle, and storing the randomized data in the page.