Memory System Frequency Adjuster for Power Management

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current memory systems face challenges in efficiently managing power consumption across various resources, leading to potential overheating and reduced performance due to fixed operating frequencies, which do not adapt to changing power budgets and resource priorities.

Innovation Solution

A memory system with a frequency adjuster that dynamically adjusts the operating frequencies of resources at predetermined adjustment timings, dividing partial operation periods to optimize power distribution based on power budgets and priorities, thereby controlling total power consumption.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If fixed operating frequencies are used for resources, then device simplicity is maintained, but power consumption efficiency deteriorates leading to overheating and reduced performance

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefrequency control mechanismVSAvoidpower consumption efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic frequency adjustment by dividing operation periods into multiple partial operation periods with different frequencies. The frequency adjuster dynamically selects operating frequencies based on power budgets and resource priorities, transforming the static frequency system into an adaptive dynamic system that optimizes power consumption while maintaining performance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the operating frequency parameter of resources based on power consumption requirements. By adjusting the frequency parameter dynamically according to available power budgets and resource priorities, the system achieves efficient power management without requiring complete system redesign.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Productivity

If operating frequencies are increased to maintain performance, then productivity is improved, but power consumption increases leading to overheating

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperation performanceVSAvoidpower consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the operation period into multiple partial operation periods, each with different frequency settings. During high-priority operations, higher frequencies are used to maintain productivity, while during low-priority operations, lower frequencies reduce power consumption. This segmentation allows the system to balance performance and energy loss across different operational phases.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The frequency adjuster performs periodic frequency adjustments at predetermined adjustment timings. By periodically evaluating power budgets and resource priorities, the system cycles through different frequency configurations, ensuring that high performance is achieved when needed while accepting lower performance during periods when power conservation is prioritized.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

3Loss of energy

If power consumption is reduced by lowering frequencies, then energy efficiency is improved, but operation lifespan is shortened due to insufficient processing capability

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower consumptionVSAvoidoperational lifespan
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSDuration of action of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The frequency adjuster implements a feedback mechanism that continuously monitors power consumption, power budgets, and resource priorities. Based on this feedback, the system dynamically adjusts frequencies to ensure that power consumption remains within acceptable limits while maintaining sufficient processing capability to complete operations within the device's operational lifespan.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically adapts frequency settings based on real-time conditions rather than using fixed low frequencies. This dynamic adjustment ensures that when power is available and operations are critical, higher frequencies extend the effective operational lifespan by completing tasks faster, while during low-power states, lower frequencies conserve energy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

4Use of energy by moving object

If dynamic frequency adjustment is implemented, then power management efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower management efficiencyVSAvoidfrequency adjustment mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The frequency adjuster is designed as a universal component that manages multiple resources with different priorities and power requirements. Rather than implementing separate control mechanisms for each resource, the single frequency adjuster handles frequency optimization across all resources, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining power management efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system manages complexity by focusing parameter changes primarily on frequency rather than redesigning entire resource management architectures. By implementing a relatively simple frequency adjustment mechanism that modifies operating parameters rather than structural components, the patent achieves improved power management with minimal increase in device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS10891075B2Memory system and operating method thereof
Publication Date: 2021.01.12 SK HYNIX INC
  • US10891075B2 patent drawing
  • US10891075B2 patent drawing
  • US10891075B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A memory system may include: a plurality of resources; and a frequency adjuster configured to adjust operating frequencies of the plurality of resources at a predetermined adjustment timing, wherein the adjustment timing comprises at least one timing for dividing partial operation periods of at least one resource among the plurality of resources.