Memory Extension Register for Plug-and-Play Functionality
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current memory systems lack the ability to efficiently implement additional functions on a plug-and-play basis without requiring significant changes to host software, and they struggle with compatibility with multi-function cards/devices and efficient data transfer operations.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an extension register system with a controller that allows for the definition of additional functions using a standard general information field, enabling plug-and-play functionality and compatibility with multi-function cards/devices through dedicated commands and data port management, allowing for relocatable register arrangements and optimized driver development.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If additional functions are added to memory devices, then functionality and versatility are improved, but device complexity and software compatibility issues worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the memory device into distinct functional components: a standard memory region and an extension function region. The extension function region is further divided into executable code areas and data areas. This segmentation allows additional functions to be added without affecting the core memory structure, resolving the contradiction by isolating complexity into manageable segments that can be independently managed and executed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a universal extension function architecture that can accommodate multiple different functions within the same memory device framework. By using a standardized extension function region with general-purpose initialization means, the system achieves multi-functionality without requiring separate dedicated structures for each function, thus improving versatility while controlling complexity through reuse of common infrastructure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If extension functions are integrated into memory devices, then versatility is improved, but initialization complexity and driver development difficulty worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-structuring the extension function region with designated executable code areas and data areas during manufacturing. The general-purpose initialization means is pre-configured to recognize and initialize these predefined regions. This preliminary structuring eliminates the need for complex runtime initialization procedures, allowing plug-and-play operation while simplifying the initialization process through advance preparation of the functional architecture.
3Ease of manufacture
If relocatable register arrangements are implemented, then manufacturing flexibility is improved, but system reliability and data integrity worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements copying by creating standardized templates for extension function regions that can be replicated across different memory devices. The extension function region uses fixed internal structures (executable code area, data area) that are copied consistently during manufacturing. This template-based approach provides manufacturing flexibility through easy replication while ensuring data integrity through consistent, verified structures that maintain reliability across all instances.
Data Source
AI summary
According to one embodiment, a non-transitory medium, a controller, a memory, an extension function section, and an extension register. The controller controls the non-transitory medium. The memory which is serving as a work area is connected to the controller. The extension function section is controlled by the controller. The extension register which is provided on the memory is provided with a certain block length capable of defining an extension function of the extension function section. The controller processes a first command to write header data of a command to operate the extension function section to the extension function section through the extension register, and a second command to read header data of a response from the extension function section through the extension register.