Optical Memory Module for High-Speed Data Transfer

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current memory modules face limitations in data processing rate and capacity, especially in portable devices where low power consumption and compact size are prioritized, and they often rely on electrical signals for data transfer, which are inefficient for high data transfer rates.

Innovation Solution

The integration of an optical signal processing system within the memory module, including an optical detector and generator, allows for high-speed data transfer through optical signals, increasing data processing rates and capacities, and includes a power management system to prevent data loss during power failures using either an external or internal battery.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Speed

If electrical signals are used for data transfer in memory modules, then the device structure remains simple and power consumption is low, but the data transfer rate is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata transfer rateVSAvoiddevice structure
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the electrical signal transmission system with an optical signal transmission system. Specifically, it uses an optical detector to convert external input optical signals into internal input electrical signals, and an optical generator to convert internal output electrical signals into external output optical signals. This substitution of electrical signals with optical signals enables significantly higher data transfer rates while maintaining the fundamental memory module structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the fundamental parameter of signal transmission from electrical to optical domain. By using optical signals instead of electrical signals for data transfer between the memory module and external devices, the system achieves much higher transmission speeds. The optical detector and optical generator enable this parameter change while maintaining compatibility with existing electrical interfaces through signal conversion.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Productivity

If optical signals are used for data transfer, then the data transfer rate increases significantly, but the device complexity increases due to additional optical components

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata processing rateVSAvoiddevice structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent integrates multiple functions into the controller, which not only manages the memory chip operations but also coordinates the optical detector and optical generator. The controller serves as a universal management unit that handles both electrical memory operations and optical signal conversion coordination, reducing the need for separate dedicated control circuits for each function.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The optical detector and optical generator act as intermediary components that bridge the optical external interface and the electrical internal memory system. These intermediaries enable seamless signal conversion without requiring complete system redesign, allowing gradual integration of optical technology into existing memory architectures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Reliability

If power is supplied from external power supply only, then the device structure is simple, but data loss occurs during power failures

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata safetyVSAvoidpower management system
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent incorporates a built-in battery that is charged in advance during periods when external power is available. This preliminary charging action ensures that sufficient energy is stored before a power failure occurs, enabling the memory module to complete data operations and maintain data safety during unexpected power interruptions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The built-in battery serves as a cushioning energy source that protects against power failures. By having this backup power source prepared in advance, the system can withstand external power disruptions without losing data or requiring complex real-time power switching mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

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

This solution significantly enhances data transfer rates and processing capacities by utilizing optical signals and ensures continuous operation during power failures by automatically switching to a built-in battery, preventing accidental data loss.

Implementation Method 1

an optical detector converting an external input signal into an internal input signal to transmit the converted signal to the controller

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhotoelectric Effect: Photoelectric Effect

Implementation Method 2

an optical generator converting an internal output signal received from the controller into an external output optical signal

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectroluminescence: Electroluminescence

Data Source

PatentUS8625323B2Memory module having high data processing rate
Publication Date: 2014.01.07 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
  • US8625323B2 patent drawing
  • US8625323B2 patent drawing
  • US8625323B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A memory module having a high data processing rate and high capacity is provided. The memory module may include a memory chip, a controller controlling an operation of the memory chip, an optical detector converting an external input signal into an internal input signal to transmit the converted signal to the controller, and an optical generator converting an internal output signal received from the controller into an external output signal. The optical detector converts an external input optical signal into an internal input signal to transmit the converted signal to the controller. The optical generator converts an internal output signal received from the controller into an external output optical signal.