Memory Device Skew Parameter Adaptation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current memory devices lack the ability to dynamically adjust option parameters based on the skew value, which affects their performance and efficiency, particularly in portable electronic devices where stability and power consumption are critical.

Innovation Solution

A memory device with a memory cell array, a CAM block, and a control logic that measures the skew value during power-on and sets optimal option parameters by selecting and reading CAM data, allowing for adaptive operation based on the measured skew value.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If fixed option parameters are used in memory devices, then device simplicity is maintained, but performance and efficiency cannot be optimized for different operating conditions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveparameter adaptabilityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent stores multiple sets of option parameters in advance in the storage block, each set corresponding to different skew value ranges. During operation, the parameter determining circuit measures the actual skew value and selects the pre-stored parameter set that matches the measured range, eliminating the need for real-time parameter calculation or complex adaptive algorithms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes discrete parameter sets based on measured skew value ranges. Instead of continuously adjusting parameters, the system divides skew values into distinct ranges (first range, second range, etc.) and switches between corresponding pre-defined parameter sets, simplifying the adaptation mechanism while maintaining performance optimization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Productivity

If multiple option parameter sets are stored and selected based on skew value, then performance optimization is achieved, but storage space and circuit complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperation efficiencyVSAvoidcircuit complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the skew value measurement range into multiple discrete intervals (first skew value range, second skew value range, etc.), with each segment associated with a specific option parameter set. This segmentation allows the use of simple range comparison logic instead of complex optimization algorithms, reducing circuit complexity while maintaining the ability to optimize performance for different operating conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Multiple option parameter sets are pre-stored in the storage block during manufacturing or initialization, eliminating the need for complex real-time parameter generation circuits. The parameter determining circuit only needs to measure skew value and select the appropriate pre-stored set, significantly reducing circuit complexity compared to generating parameters dynamically.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Use of energy by moving object

If skew measurement and parameter selection are implemented, then power consumption optimization is achieved, but measurement and control circuitry adds complexity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower consumptionVSAvoidcontrol circuit complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes discrete power management parameters (such as operating voltage levels, clock frequency, or memory refresh rates) based on measured skew value ranges. Low skew values indicate stable conditions allowing higher performance modes, while high skew values trigger power-saving modes with reduced parameters, optimizing power consumption without requiring complex real-time power management algorithms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

Power management parameter sets are pre-configured for different skew value ranges and stored in the storage block. The control logic only needs to measure skew value and retrieve the corresponding pre-configured power parameters, avoiding the complexity of dynamic power optimization calculations while achieving effective power management.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS10916277B2Memory device and operating method thereof
Publication Date: 2021.02.09 SK HYNIX INC
  • US10916277B2 patent drawing
  • US10916277B2 patent drawing
  • US10916277B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A memory device includes a memory cell array including a plurality of memory blocks and a storage block storing a plurality of pieces of option parameter information; a parameter determining circuit outputting a parameter information signal by measuring a skew of the memory device; a peripheral circuit performing a read operation on the storage block; and a control logic controlling the peripheral circuit to perform the read operation on a selected piece of option parameter information, among the plurality of pieces of option parameter information, in response to the parameter information signal, and setting an option parameter according to the selected piece of option parameter information.