Time Estimation in Rewritable Non-Volatile Memory Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rewritable non-volatile memory modules face challenges in estimating time information without requiring additional power supplies or clocks, which are essential for determining data integrity and retrieval methods.
Innovation Solution
A time estimating method that writes data into memory cells, reads them using a specific voltage to determine their state, and calculates the quantity of cells in a first state to obtain time information, utilizing a memory controlling circuit unit integrated with a host system and a rewritable non-volatile memory module.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a clock or counter is disposed to obtain time information, then time measurement accuracy is improved, but power consumption increases due to additional power supply requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The memory module uses its own inherent charge leakage characteristics to estimate time information without requiring external clocks or counters. The memory cells' natural charge retention properties serve as the timing mechanism, eliminating the need for additional power-consuming time-keeping components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts time information estimation capability from the memory cells themselves by measuring charge retention levels, rather than relying on separate clock or counter circuits. This removes the need for additional power supply infrastructure dedicated to time-keeping functions.
2Measurement precision
If additional power supply components are added to obtain time information, then time measurement capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The memory cells perform dual functions: storing data and providing time information through charge retention measurement. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for dedicated time-keeping components, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining time measurement capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the time information estimation function with the existing memory cell structure and read operations. By combining these functions, the system avoids adding separate clock circuits, counters, or power management components for time-keeping.
3Use of energy by stationary object
If charge retention characteristics are used to estimate time information, then additional power supply is eliminated, but measurement precision may be affected
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs multiple read operations on the memory cells at different times and uses the changes in charge retention characteristics to calculate time information. This feedback mechanism compensates for variations and improves measurement accuracy without requiring additional power supply infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses the degree of charge retention (which naturally degrades over time) as a proportional indicator of time elapsed. By measuring the extent of charge loss and correlating it with time, the system achieves accurate time estimation using the inherent physical properties of the memory cells without external power sources.
Data Source
AI summary
A time estimating method, a memory storage device, and a memory controlling circuit unit are provided for a rewritable non-volatile memory module having memory cells. The method includes: writing first data into first memory cells of the memory cells; reading the first memory cells according to a reading voltage, so as to determine whether each of the first memory cells belongs to a first state or a second state; and calculating a quantity of the first memory cells belonging to the first state, and obtaining a time information of the rewritable non-volatile memory module according to the quantity.