Nonvolatile Memory Device With Composite Resistance Layer

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Current nonvolatile memory devices face challenges in achieving high memory density and operational stability due to limitations in switching probability and cycle life between low and high resistance states.

Innovation Solution

A nonvolatile memory device is designed with a memory layer composed of a material expressed by (M1−uM2u)xX+yα+zβ, where M1 and M2 are selected from specific elements, X includes O or N, α includes alkali metals, and β includes halogens, with specific composition ratios, allowing reversible transition between low and high resistance states, enhancing switching probability and operational stability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional memory materials are used, then manufacturing is simpler, but switching probability and cycle life are insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveswitching probability and cycle lifeVSAvoidmaterial composition complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs composite material structures including tunnel barrier layers, buffer layers, and electrode layers with specific material compositions (e.g., oxides, nitrides, and their combinations) to achieve high switching probability and cycle life. The multi-layer composite structure optimizes both reliability and manufacturability by distributing functional requirements across different material layers.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

Solution Approach 2:

The patent systematically varies material composition parameters (stoichiometric ratios, doping concentrations, layer thicknesses) to optimize memory performance. By adjusting these parameters within specific ranges, the invention achieves high switching probability and cycle life while maintaining compatibility with existing manufacturing processes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Quantity of substance

If memory density is increased, then storage capacity improves, but operational stability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvememory densityVSAvoidoperational stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the memory structure into functionally distinct segments including word lines, bit lines, select transistors, and memory cells arranged in arrays. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each component for high-density storage while maintaining operational stability through proper isolation and addressing schemes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent utilizes three-dimensional stacking and multi-layer configurations to increase memory density without compromising operational stability. By extending memory structures into vertical dimensions and implementing multi-bit per cell architectures, high density is achieved while maintaining reliable read/write operations through careful electrical isolation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

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

The device achieves high operational stability and memory density, with improved switching probability and cycle life, enabling reliable writing and erasing of information, and supports high recording density.

Implementation Method 1

The memory layer is capable of reversibly transitioning between a first state and a second state due to a current supplied via the first conductive unit and the second conductive unit. A resistance of the second state is higher than a resistance of the first state.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectResistive switching: Electrical Resistance

Data Source

PatentUS8816318B2Nonvolatile memory device and method for manufacturing same
Publication Date: 2014.08.26 KIOXIA CORP
  • US8816318B2 patent drawing
  • US8816318B2 patent drawing
  • US8816318B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A nonvolatile memory device includes a first and second conductive unit and a memory layer. The memory layer is provided between the first conductive unit and the second conductive unit. The memory layer includes a material expressed by (M11−uM2u)xX+yα+zβ (M1 and M2 include at least one selected from the group consisting of Mg, Al, Sc, Y, Ga, Ti, Zr, Hf, Si, Ge, Sn, V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, Nb, Ta, Mo, W, Ru, Rh, Ca, Sr, Ba, and Ln (a lanthanoid element), X includes at least one of O and N, α includes at least one of Li, Na, K, Rb, Cs, and Fr, β includes at least one of F, Cl, Br, and I, 0.1≦x≦1.1, 0.0001≦y≦0.2, 0.9≦y/z≦1.1).