Non-volatile Memory Secure File Erase via GIDL
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing non-volatile memory systems cannot securely erase individual files from a block without disturbing other data, and they risk data recovery even after deletion due to the flash translation layer's handling of obsolete data.
Innovation Solution
A non-volatile memory system is configured to permanently erase a single file from a block by using a post-program erase method, where the file is removed without moving or disturbing other programmed data, and the system employs GIDL erase to ensure secure deletion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional block erase method is used, then data security is improved by erasing all data in a block, but other programmed data in the same block is lost or disturbed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the erase operation from the programming operation by introducing a post-program erase method. The memory block is divided into programmed data regions and eraseable regions, allowing selective erasure of specific files while preserving other data. The flash translation layer is segmented to map logical addresses to physical addresses, enabling precise control over which data regions undergo erasure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the erase operation to occur after programming is complete, rather than before. By performing erase after program, the system can selectively erase only the necessary data regions while leaving other programmed data intact. This extraction of the erase timing allows the system to achieve secure deletion without disturbing other files in the block.
2Productivity
If data is deleted through flash translation layer, then file access is improved by marking obsolete data, but data recovery risk increases because obsolete data remains physically present
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing the erase operation immediately after programming, while the data is still in the same physical location. This timing ensures that when data needs to be securely deleted, the erase occurs before the data might be moved or before the system enters a state where recovery becomes possible. The post-program erase creates a window where secure deletion can be executed before any potential data migration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the potential harm of data remaining physically present after deletion into a benefit by implementing post-program erase. The same physical presence of data that could enable recovery is now used to enable secure deletion. By erasing after program, the system ensures that obsolete data is physically removed rather than just logically marked, turning the risk of data persistence into a secure deletion opportunity.
3Reliability
If individual file erase is implemented, then data security is improved by selective deletion, but device complexity increases due to additional control mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements universality by making the post-program erase mechanism serve multiple functions. The same erase mechanism is used for both secure deletion of individual files and for traditional block erasure when needed. The flash translation layer serves dual purposes of address mapping and erase region identification. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-service by using the existing programming and erasing hardware infrastructure to achieve selective file erasure. Rather than adding completely new hardware components, the system leverages the existing program-erase cycle and flash translation layer to provide enhanced security functionality. The control mechanisms build upon existing structures rather than requiring entirely new systems.
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 system achieves secure erasure of individual files, preventing data recovery and maintaining the integrity of other data within the block, thereby enhancing data security and system performance.
Implementation Method 1
the system employs GIDL erase to ensure secure deletion
Data Source
AI summary
A non-volatile memory system is configured to permanently erase a single file from a block of non-volatile memory cells. That block is storing programmed data including the single file to be erased and other programmed data. The single file is erased from the block such that the other programmed data in the block is not moved or otherwise disturbed.