Memory Holdup Power Using Thermoelectric Generation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing memory sub-systems face inefficiencies in power management during power loss events due to the need for large capacitors or supercapacitors, which consume significant physical real estate and reduce storage capacity.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a thermoelectric generator (TEG) module attached to memory components to generate holdup power during power failures, reducing the need for capacitors and freeing up space for additional memory components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If large capacitors or supercapacitors are used to provide holdup power during power loss events, then power loss protection is achieved, but physical real estate is consumed and storage capacity is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical/electrical capacitor-based holdup power system with a thermoelectric generator system that converts thermal energy from heat-generating components into electrical energy. This substitution eliminates the need for large physical capacitors while providing the same power loss protection function.
Solution Approach 2:
The thermoelectric generator utilizes the waste heat naturally produced by heat-generating components (such as processors or memory devices) to generate holdup power. The system serves itself by converting its own thermal byproduct into useful electrical energy, eliminating the need for separate power storage components.
2Reliability
If large capacitors or supercapacitors are used to provide holdup power during power loss events, then power loss protection is achieved, but storage capacity is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional capacitor-based holdup power system with a thermoelectric generator system, freeing up the physical space previously occupied by capacitors. This space can then be utilized for additional storage components, thereby increasing overall storage capacity while maintaining power loss protection.
Solution Approach 2:
By utilizing waste heat from heat-generating components to generate holdup power, the system eliminates the need for separate power storage components. This self-service approach allows the same physical space to be dedicated to storage functions, increasing effective storage capacity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The TEG module provides sufficient holdup power to complete critical operations, optimizing performance and increasing storage capacity by eliminating the need for bulky capacitors.
Implementation Method 1
a thermoelectric generator (TEG), or module along with PCM for heat storage, that is physically attached to one of the memory sub-system components
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of the present disclosure configure a memory sub-system processor, to use a thermoelectric generator during a power loss event. The processor delivers power to a set of memory components from a power source. The processor detects a power failure event associated with the power source and, in response to detecting the power failure event, receives holdup power from the thermoelectric generator. The processor delivers the holdup power from the thermoelectric generator to the set of memory components.