Memory Parameter Tuning for Extreme Temperature Operation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Memory devices face performance inconsistencies and inefficiencies when operating across varying ambient temperatures, particularly in environments with extreme temperature ranges such as those found in automotive and networking systems, due to temperature-dependent operation parameters.

Innovation Solution

A system and method for temperature-based memory management that adjusts operating parameters of memory devices based on temperature, using temperature sensors and host devices to optimize performance by adjusting timing, voltage, and frequency parameters, and sharing cooling systems to maintain consistent performance across temperature ranges.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If memory devices operate in extreme temperature ranges, then they can be used in automotive and networking systems, but performance inconsistencies and inefficiencies occur

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperating temperature rangeVSAvoidperformance consistency
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic adjustment of memory operating parameters based on real-time temperature sensing. The system continuously monitors temperature and adapts timing parameters, voltage levels, and frequency settings to maintain optimal performance across varying thermal conditions, transforming the static memory operation into a dynamic, temperature-responsive system

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes physical operating parameters of the memory device in response to temperature variations. Specifically, it adjusts timing parameters (such as refresh intervals and access times), voltage levels, and frequency settings based on sensed temperature conditions, allowing the memory to maintain reliable operation across extreme temperature ranges by modifying its operational characteristics

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If temperature-based parameter adjustments are implemented, then performance consistency is improved, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveperformance consistencyVSAvoidcontrol system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a self-service mechanism where the memory system autonomously monitors its own temperature and automatically adjusts its operating parameters without external intervention. The temperature sensor integrated within the memory system enables it to self-diagnose thermal conditions and self-correct performance deviations by dynamically modifying timing, voltage, and frequency parameters

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent establishes a feedback loop where temperature sensors continuously monitor thermal conditions and feed this information back to the memory controller. The controller processes this feedback and automatically adjusts operating parameters to maintain performance consistency, creating a closed-loop control system that responds to thermal variations in real-time

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentEP3881320B1Temperature-based memory management
Publication Date: 2026.01.28 MICRON TECHNOLOGY INC
  • EP3881320B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3881320B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3881320B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

Methods, systems, and devices for temperature-based memory management are described. A system may include a memory device and a host device. The host device may identify a temperature (e.g., of the memory device). The host device may determine a value for a parameter for operating the memory device—such as a timing, voltage, or frequency parameter—based on the temperature of the memory device. The host device may transmit signaling to the memory device or another component of the system based on the value of the parameter. In some cases, the host device may determine the temperature of the memory device based on an indication (e.g., provided by the memory device). In some cases, the host device may determine the temperature of the memory device based on a temperature of the host device or a temperature of another component of the system.