Multi-Plane Read Command Coordination in NVM Storage

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current storage devices with nonvolatile memory, such as SSDs and eMMC, face inefficiencies in multi-plane read operations due to the need for multiple data output command sets and plane switching, leading to delays and reduced read performance.

Innovation Solution

Implementing a method where the storage device performs a multi-plane read operation by transmitting a single multi-plane read command set and automatically switching planes after outputting data from one plane, reducing the need for multiple data output command sets and minimizing plane switching delays.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If multiple data output command sets are used for multi-plane read operations, then data can be read from multiple planes, but plane switching delays increase and read performance decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveread performanceVSAvoidplane switching delay
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple data output operations into a single data output command set that simultaneously handles multiple planes. Instead of issuing separate data output commands for each plane, the system transmits one unified command set that coordinates data output from multiple planes, thereby eliminating the time loss associated with sequential plane switching and command issuance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent performs preliminary actions by pre-configuring the multi-plane read operation with a single command set that anticipates the need for data output from multiple planes. The system prepares the read operation by establishing the multi-plane context in advance, so that when data is ready, it can be output immediately without waiting for additional command sets or plane switching delays.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Ease of operation

If separate data output command sets are transmitted for each plane, then data output can be controlled per plane, but the number of commands increases and operation complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecommand transmission simplicityVSAvoidnumber of command sets
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a universal data output command set that can handle multiple planes simultaneously. This single command set is designed to be multi-functional, capable of coordinating data output from any combination of planes without requiring separate specialized commands for each plane. This reduces the total number of commands while maintaining the ability to control data output per plane when needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Speed

If the storage device waits for separate data output command sets for each plane, then precise control over data output timing is achieved, but read operation speed decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata read speedVSAvoidread operation efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent enables continuous data output from multiple planes by using a single command set that keeps the data output operation ongoing without interruption. Instead of stopping to wait for the next command set between planes, the system maintains continuous useful action by coordinating multiple planes under one command, thereby increasing both speed and overall read operation efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

Data Source

PatentEP3654189B1Storage device and method of operating the storage device
Publication Date: 2023.02.15 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
  • EP3654189B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3654189B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3654189B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

In a method of operating a storage device including anon-volatile memory (NVM), the non-volatile memory including a memory cell array, the memory cell array including a first plane and a second plane, the method includes receiving a read command set for data sensing of the first and second plane; simultaneously loading first page data stored in the first plane into a first age buffer of the first plane and second page data stored in the second plane into a second page buffer of the second plane based on the read command set; receiving a data output command set that includes the first plane; and continuously transmitting the first page data and the second page databased on the data output command set.