Memory Device Cache Program Performance via Latch Segmentation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current memory devices face inefficiencies in cache program operation performance due to limitations in data handling and verification processes, particularly in managing multiple program states and data latches during programming operations.

Innovation Solution

The memory device employs a sensing latch and multiple data latches to store and manage data across various program states, with control logic determining when to store and move data between latches based on verification results, optimizing the programming process by temporarily storing data in page buffers and efficiently managing program states.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If data is stored in multiple latches during programming operations, then data handling capability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecache program operation performanceVSAvoiddata latch management complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the data storage function into separate latches: a first latch for storing program data and a second latch for storing verify results. This segmentation allows each latch to have a dedicated function, improving data handling capability during programming operations while maintaining manageable complexity through functional specialization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a control logic unit as an intermediary that manages data transfer between latches and coordinates the programming and verification processes. This intermediary component simplifies the overall system by providing centralized control for data handling, reducing the complexity of managing multiple latches without compromising productivity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If verify operations are performed for multiple program states, then programming reliability is improved, but operation time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprogramming reliabilityVSAvoidverify operation time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent performs verify operations at specific intermediate program states (e.g., after programming to the first program state, then to the second program state) rather than only after completing all programming. This preliminary verification ensures reliability at critical stages while enabling faster overall operation by detecting and correcting issues early, reducing the need for rework.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where verify results are stored in the second latch and fed back to control logic, which then determines whether to proceed to the next programming state or correct errors. This feedback loop ensures reliable programming by verifying at each stage while optimizing time by avoiding unnecessary verification steps once errors are detected and corrected.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS11200921B2Memory device and method of operating the same
Publication Date: 2021.12.14 SK HYNIX INC
  • US11200921B2 patent drawing
  • US11200921B2 patent drawing
  • US11200921B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure relates to an electronic device. A memory device having improved cache program operation performance according to the present technology includes a plurality of memory cells, each programmed in any one of first to n-th program state where n is a natural number greater than, a sensing latch configured to store data sensed from a bit line connected to a selected memory cell among the plurality of memory cells, and a plurality of data latches configured to temporarily store data to be stored in the selected memory cell.