Memory Sub-System Level Width Adjustment via Dynamic Program Step Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional memory sub-systems are unable to dynamically and predictably adjust level widths, which affects system quality of service, reliability, and performance across varying environmental conditions and user workloads.

Innovation Solution

A memory sub-system capable of finely controlling level width by modifying characteristics of voltage signals used to program memory cells, allowing for targeted adjustments in program step size and duration to maintain specific reliability and performance levels.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conventional memory sub-systems use fixed programming parameters, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to varying environmental conditions and workloads deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to environmental conditionsVSAvoidcomplexity of control logic
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The memory sub-system automatically adjusts programming parameters (pulse amplitude, pulse width, number of pulses) based on detected environmental conditions and workload characteristics without external intervention. The controller monitors temperature, voltage, and operational patterns, then autonomously modifies programming characteristics to maintain optimal performance across varying conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system transitions from static, fixed programming parameters to dynamic, adjustable parameters that adapt in real-time. The controller continuously modifies programming characteristics based on current operational state, environmental temperature, voltage levels, and workload demands, enabling the memory sub-system to optimize performance adaptability without requiring complex external control infrastructure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Productivity

If conventional memory sub-systems use fixed programming parameters, then ease of operation is improved, but performance under varying workloads deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprogramming speedVSAvoidsimplicity of control
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The controller automatically optimizes programming speed by adjusting parameters based on detected workload characteristics and environmental conditions, eliminating the need for manual configuration while maintaining high productivity. The system self-regulates pulse characteristics to achieve optimal programming performance for different operational scenarios.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

Programming parameters are made dynamic rather than static, allowing the system to adjust pulse amplitude, width, and sequencing in real-time based on current productivity requirements and environmental constraints, thereby maintaining high programming speed across varying workload conditions without complicating user control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Reliability

If conventional memory sub-systems use fixed programming parameters, then manufacturing precision requirements are reduced, but reliability under varying conditions deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereliability across environmental conditionsVSAvoidprecision of programming parameters
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system incorporates feedback mechanisms that monitor programming results and environmental conditions, then adjust subsequent programming parameters accordingly. By continuously measuring actual programming outcomes and comparing them against targets, the controller compensates for manufacturing variations and environmental fluctuations, maintaining high reliability without requiring extremely tight manufacturing tolerances on fixed parameters.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of relying on precisely manufactured fixed parameters, the system uses adjustable parameters that can be modified in operation. The controller dynamically changes programming parameters (amplitude, width, sequencing) to compensate for manufacturing variations and environmental effects, thereby achieving high reliability through adaptability rather than manufacturing precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS10754583B2Level width based dynamic program step characteristic adjustment
Publication Date: 2020.08.25 MICRON TECHNOLOGY INC
  • US10754583B2 patent drawing
  • US10754583B2 patent drawing
  • US10754583B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A level width corresponding to a group of memory cells of a memory component is determined. The determined level width and a target level width is compared. In response to the determined level width being different than the target level width, one or more program step characteristics are adjusted to adjust the determined level width to the target level width.