Memory System Meta-Page Layout for Dynamic Metadata Allocation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing memory systems face inefficiencies in storing meta data during firmware updates, leading to wasted storage space and difficulty in maintaining the layout of meta pages due to reserved regions that are either unused or filled, necessitating additional read operations.
Innovation Solution
A memory system with a dedicated region for storing meta data of specific types and a common region for additional meta data, along with a read buffer and meta data storages, allows for efficient classification and storage of meta data based on type, eliminating reserved regions and optimizing storage layout.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If reserved spaces are allocated in the meta page to store new meta data, then the ability to store additional meta data is improved, but storage space is wasted when no meta data is stored
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the concept of reserved spaces from the meta page layout and replaces it with a dynamic allocation mechanism. The memory controller now dynamically allocates regions within the meta page based on actual meta data requirements, eliminating the need for pre-allocated reserved spaces that remain wasted when empty.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic allocation and deallocation of storage regions within the meta page. Instead of static reserved spaces, the system dynamically adjusts the layout based on the size and type of meta data being stored, allowing flexible utilization of available space without waste.
2Adaptability or versatility
If reserved spaces are allocated in the meta page, then the ability to store new meta data is improved, but it becomes difficult to store new meta data when reserved spaces are full
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic region allocation system where the memory controller can flexibly assign storage regions based on actual needs. When meta data is added, the system dynamically expands the used region without being constrained by fixed reserved space boundaries, simplifying the layout maintenance process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of storage region allocation from fixed (reserved spaces) to variable (dynamic allocation). The memory controller adjusts the allocation parameters based on the type and size of meta data, enabling flexible storage while maintaining layout integrity.
3Productivity
If meta data is stored in dedicated regions according to types, then the classification and storage efficiency is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the meta data storage into different regions based on data types (e.g., map data region, garbage collection region, error log region). This segmentation enables efficient classification and storage while the memory controller manages the complexity of region allocation and data routing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal meta data storage framework where a single meta page structure can accommodate multiple data types through dynamic region allocation. The memory controller provides multi-functional capabilities to handle different meta data types using the same underlying storage structure, reducing overall system complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A memory system includes: a memory device including a plurality of memory blocks each including a plurality of pages; and a memory controller configured to allocate, to a meta page among the plurality of pages, a first region including regions configured to store plural pieces of meta data respectively according to types of the plural pieces of meta data, and a second region configured to store additional meta data corresponding to at least one meta data among the plural pieces of meta data is stored, and control the memory device to store the plural pieces of meta data and the additional meta data in the first region and the second region, respectively.