Memory Subsystem Program Pulse Control via Environmental Parameters

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional memory sub-systems face reduced lifespan due to unnecessary use of larger program pulses, which are applied to ensure data integrity in worst-case scenarios, even when such conditions are not consistently met, leading to increased wear and tear on NAND components.

Innovation Solution

A memory sub-system that adjusts program pulse characteristics based on usage and environmental parameters, using sensors to monitor real-time conditions and configuration parameters to determine optimal pulse settings, reducing wear while ensuring data integrity.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If larger program pulses are applied to ensure data integrity in worst-case scenarios, then data integrity is improved, but the lifespan of memory sub-system is reduced due to unnecessary wear on NAND components

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata integrityVSAvoidlifespan of memory sub-system
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDuration of action of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic program pulse adjustment by monitoring environmental parameters (temperature, humidity) and usage patterns in real-time. The memory controller dynamically modifies program pulse characteristics (voltage, width) based on current conditions rather than using fixed conservative values, thereby optimizing between data integrity and component wear reduction.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes physical parameters of the program pulse (voltage level, pulse width) based on environmental conditions. When temperature and humidity are within acceptable ranges, smaller program pulses are used; when extreme conditions are detected, larger pulses are applied. This parameter adaptation resolves the contradiction by avoiding unnecessary wear while maintaining data integrity when needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If larger program pulses are used consistently to account for end of life conditions, then data can be properly read, but the life span of memory component is reduced due to unnecessary wear

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata readabilityVSAvoidlife span of memory component
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDuration of action of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs feedback mechanisms where the memory controller continuously monitors environmental parameters and usage statistics. Based on this feedback, the controller adjusts program pulse characteristics to match actual operating conditions. This feedback loop prevents the consistent application of oversized pulses, thereby extending component life while maintaining adequate data readability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent performs preliminary monitoring of environmental conditions and usage patterns to predict when increased program pulse strength will be needed. By anticipating extreme conditions rather than reacting after they occur, the system can prepare appropriate pulse parameters in advance, avoiding premature wear while ensuring data integrity when needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Reliability

If conservative program pulse settings are used to ensure data integrity, then data can be read, but productivity is reduced due to increased wear and tear on NAND components

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata integrityVSAvoidmemory sub-system lifespan
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies different program pulse characteristics to different operating conditions rather than using a uniform conservative approach. When environmental parameters indicate stable conditions, optimized (smaller) pulses are used to maximize productivity. When extreme conditions are detected, protective (larger) pulses are applied to ensure data integrity. This localized quality adjustment resolves the contradiction between reliability and productivity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentUS11742042B2Program pulse control using environmental parameters
Publication Date: 2023.08.29 LODESTAR LICENSING GROUP LLC
  • US11742042B2 patent drawing
  • US11742042B2 patent drawing
  • US11742042B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method comprising receiving, at a memory sub-system from a host system, receiving, at one or more configuration parameters reflecting an expected type of use of the memory sub-system; receiving one or more environmental parameters of the memory sub-system, wherein the environmental parameters reflect characteristics of an environment of the memory sub-system; and selecting a programming operation parameter to be utilized by the memory sub-system based on the configuration parameters and environmental parameters.