Non-volatile Sampler Using Memristive Crossbar Array
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Solution Overview
Problem
Sampling systems require both Analog-to-Digital Converters (ADCs) and high-speed volatile memory buffers due to the high sampling rates exceeding typical non-volatile memory writing capabilities, increasing cost and size.
Innovation Solution
A crossbar memory array using memristive devices as non-volatile storage elements, where bias voltages are applied to store analog signals directly, eliminating the need for ADCs and volatile buffers by switching memristive devices at high speeds to represent sampled data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If high sampling rates are used to capture analog signals, then data acquisition speed is improved, but the system requires additional volatile memory buffers and ADCs which increases device complexity and cost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the ADC and volatile memory buffer components from the traditional sampling system by using memristive devices that can directly store analog signals in non-volatile memory, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining high sampling rates
Solution Approach 2:
The memristive device serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as both the storage medium and the sampling element, eliminating the need for separate ADC and buffer components, thus reducing overall system complexity
2Speed
If high sampling rates are used to capture analog signals, then data acquisition speed is improved, but the system size increases due to additional buffers and converters
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the volatile memory buffer and ADC components that occupy additional space, replacing them with a compact non-volatile memory system using memristive devices that maintains high sampling capabilities without increasing system volume
3Duration of action of stationary object
If non-volatile memory is used to store sampled data, then data retention without power is improved, but the writing speed is too slow for high sampling rates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the memristive device by applying different voltage levels (above or below threshold) to achieve both fast analog storage for high sampling rates and maintain non-volatile data retention properties
4Speed
If ADCs and volatile memory buffers are used in sampling systems, then high sampling rates are achieved, but the system cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates expensive ADC and volatile memory buffer components by using memristive devices that can directly store analog signals, thereby reducing system cost while maintaining high sampling rate capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses memristive devices which can be manufactured more cheaply than traditional ADC and volatile memory components, providing a cost-effective solution for high-speed sampling applications
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables high-resolution data storage at high sampling rates without additional buffers, reducing system size and cost while maintaining data retention without power, as memristive devices can store both analog and digital data efficiently.
Implementation Method 1
A non-volatile sampler receives an input signal on a row line intersecting a set of column lines perpendicular to the row line, including a plurality of non-volatile storage elements disposed at intersections between the row line and the set of column lines. Bias voltages are applied to the set of column lines. A sample of the input signal is stored in one of the storage elements disposed at an intersection between the row line and one of the set of column lines having a bias voltage applied.
Data Source
AI summary
A non-volatile sampler including a row line for receiving an input signal to be sampled, the row line intersecting a number of column lines, non-volatile storage elements being disposed at intersections between the row line and the column lines; a bias voltage source connected to the column lines, the bias voltage source for selectively applying a bias voltage to at least one of the non-volatile storage elements to cause the at least one of the storage elements to store a sample of the input signal at the instance the bias voltage is applied.