Position-Measuring Device Volatile Non-Volatile Memory Data Backup
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Solution Overview
Problem
Position-measuring devices face data loss during power failures due to volatile memory usage and limited write cycles in non-volatile memory, requiring high-capacity energy storage for data transfer, which occupies considerable space.
Innovation Solution
A position-measuring device with a volatile memory for storing additional data, a writable non-volatile memory for data transfer, and a memory controller that initiates data transfer upon power failure, utilizing a power supply with energy storage to maintain voltage and signal the memory controller for data backup, allowing data to be stored in non-volatile memory even during power outages.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If volatile memory is used to store additional data, then data can be easily written during operation, but the data is lost when the supply voltage is cut off
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors the supply voltage and prepares for power failure by detecting voltage drops before complete power loss occurs. This preliminary detection enables the controller to initiate data transfer from volatile to non-volatile memory while still having power, preventing data loss without requiring constant backup operations
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism (voltage monitoring system with threshold detection) that mediates between the volatile memory and non-volatile memory. This intermediary detects power failure conditions and triggers the appropriate data preservation action, bridging the gap between the two memory types
2Reliability
If non-volatile memory is used to store additional data, then data is retained during power failures, but the number of write cycles is too low for the required service life
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs data backup only when necessary - specifically when power failure is detected. This preliminary action approach avoids continuous write operations to non-volatile memory, preserving write cycles while ensuring data is saved when actually needed
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different storage strategies to different data types and conditions. Volatile memory is used for frequent writes during normal operation, while non-volatile memory is used selectively for critical data preservation during power failures, optimizing the characteristics of each memory type
3Reliability
If high-capacity energy storage devices are provided to maintain power during data transfer, then data can be transferred from volatile to non-volatile memory during power failure, but the devices require considerable space
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of providing sufficient energy storage to maintain power for the entire device during failure, the system provides just enough energy storage to complete the critical data transfer operation. This partial action approach uses minimal energy capacity focused solely on the essential function of saving data
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the energy storage function from the general power supply system and creates a dedicated, minimal energy storage component specifically for data transfer during power failure. This separated function requires only the minimum necessary capacity, reducing overall space requirements
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
Ensures data retention during power failures by efficiently transferring data from volatile to non-volatile memory, reducing the need for large energy storage devices and maintaining data integrity without significant space occupation.
Implementation Method 1
an input stage having at least one energy storage configured to store energy from a main supply voltage
Implementation Method 2
a voltage monitor configured to monitor the main supply voltage for a drop below a minimum value
Data Source
AI summary
A position-measuring device includes a graduation carrier having a measuring graduation, position measurement electronics, a data memory and a power supply. The data memory includes a first memory which is a volatile memory for storing additional data, a second memory which is a writable non-volatile memory, and a memory controller for controlling transfer and storage of additional data from the first into the second memory. The power supply includes an input stage, a first output stage for the position measurement electronics, a second output stage for the data memory, and a voltage monitor which will turn off the first output stage of the power supply in response to a drop below a minimum value and signal the drop to the memory controller by a backup signal. In response to the backup signal, the memory controller will transfer additional data from the first memory into the second memory.