Memory Array Sensing Circuitry for In-Place Logical Operations
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing semiconductor memory systems face inefficiencies in performing logical operations due to the need for data transfer between memory arrays and processing resources, leading to high power consumption and reduced parallelism, especially when processing resources are external to the memory array.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of sensing circuitry within the memory array that can perform logical operations such as corner turn operations, AND, OR, NOT, NOR, NAND, XOR, and SHIFT operations without transferring data via a bus, allowing for direct storage of results back into the memory array and reducing the need for external processing resources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If data is transferred between memory arrays and external processing resources via a bus, then logical operations can be performed, but power consumption increases and parallelism is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the processing resources directly into the memory array by implementing sensing circuitry that can perform logical operations (AND, OR, NOT, NOR, NAND, XOR, SHIFT, and corner turn operations) within the memory structure itself. This integration eliminates the need for separate external processing units and data transfer buses, thereby reducing power consumption and enabling parallel operations across multiple memory cells simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The memory array becomes self-sufficient by incorporating sensing circuitry that can perform logical operations directly on stored data without requiring external processing resources. The sensing circuitry utilizes the existing memory structure and data lines to execute computational tasks, allowing the memory system to serve both storage and processing functions independently.
2Speed
If data is transferred via a bus between memory and processing resources, then logical operations can be executed, but the number of data movements increases and processing speed decreases
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating sensing circuitry within the memory array, the patent eliminates the physical separation between storage and processing components. Logical operations are performed in-place using the existing data lines and circuitry, removing the time-consuming data transfer steps between memory and external processors while maintaining full computational capability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If external processing resources are used to perform logical operations, then complex operations can be executed, but device complexity and interconnection requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The sensing circuitry within the memory array is designed to perform multiple logical operations (AND, OR, NOT, NOR, NAND, XOR, SHIFT, and corner turn operations) using a unified structure. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for separate dedicated circuits for each operation, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining versatile computational capabilities.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure includes apparatuses and methods related to performing corner turn operations using sensing circuitry. An example apparatus comprises a first group of memory cells coupled to an access line and a plurality of sense lines and a second group of memory cells coupled to a plurality of access lines and one of the plurality of sense lines. The access line can be a same access line as one of the plurality of access lines. The example apparatus comprises a controller configured to cause a corner turn operation on an element stored in the first group of memory cells resulting in the element being stored in the second group of memory cells to be performed using sensing circuitry.