Resistance Memory Device with Tungsten Oxide for Multi-Bit Storage

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current memory devices struggle to efficiently support multiple-bit storage and thermal stability for high-capacity, quick data transmission in portable digital devices, particularly in varying environmental conditions.

Innovation Solution

A resistance type memory device utilizing a tungsten oxide layer between conductors, with adjustable resistivity through pulse voltage application, enabling multiple-bit storage and integration into both volatile and non-volatile memory systems, and employing self-aligned manufacturing for ease of integration into existing processes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Quantity of substance

If conventional memory devices are used, then single-bit storage is achieved, but storage capacity is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestorage capacityVSAvoidmemory structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by utilizing multiple resistivity states (first, second, and third resistivity) of the metal oxide layer to represent multiple bits of data. By controlling the resistance value through pulse voltage application, the device can store 2 bits or more in a single memory cell, thereby increasing storage capacity without proportionally increasing device complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The memory device achieves multi-functionality by enabling both volatile and non-volatile memory operations through the same metal oxide layer structure. The device can operate in different storage modes (first storage state, second storage state, third storage state) depending on the pulse voltage application, providing versatile storage solutions

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

2Quantity of substance

If high-capacity storage is implemented, then data transmission capacity increases, but thermal stability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata capacityVSAvoidthermal stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a metal oxide layer that can be repeatedly programmed and erased through pulse voltage application. The metal oxide material allows for multiple writing operations to achieve high-capacity storage while maintaining thermal stability through its inherent material properties and controlled resistivity states

Inventive Principle:
Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

3Productivity

If multiple-bit storage is achieved, then storage efficiency improves, but manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestorage efficiencyVSAvoidfabrication process
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple functions into a single memory cell structure consisting of conductors and a metal oxide layer. By combining the storage of multiple bits and the control mechanisms within one cell, the device achieves high storage efficiency while maintaining relatively simple manufacturing processes that can be integrated into existing fabrication lines

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

4Speed

If rapid programming operations are implemented, then data transmission speed increases, but energy consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprogramming speedVSAvoidenergy consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent utilizes periodic pulse voltage application to program the metal oxide layer into different resistivity states. By applying controlled pulses with specific timing and duration, the device achieves rapid programming operations while optimizing energy consumption through the periodic nature of the voltage application rather than continuous power supply

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

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 multiple-bit storage with high thermal stability, allowing for efficient data storage across various temperatures and enabling rapid programming operations, thus addressing the limitations of existing memory technologies.

Implementation Method 1

The resistance type memory device is defined in a first resistivity. The resistance type memory device is defined in a second resistivity after a first pulse voltage is applied to the metal oxide layer. The resistance type memory device is defined in a third resistivity after a second pulse voltage is applied to the metal oxide layer.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectResistivity change: Electrical Resistance

Data Source

PatentUS8927956B2Resistance type memory device
Publication Date: 2015.01.06 MACRONIX INTERNATIONAL CO LTD
  • US8927956B2 patent drawing
  • US8927956B2 patent drawing
  • US8927956B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A resistance type memory device is provided. The resistance type memory device includes a first and a second conductors and a metal oxide layer. The metal oxide layer is disposed between the first and the second conductors, and the resistance type memory device is defined in a first resistivity. The resistance type memory device is defined in a second resistivity after a first pulse voltage is applied to the metal oxide layer. The resistance type memory device is defined in a third resistivity after a second pulse voltage is applied to the metal oxide layer. The second resistivity is greater than the first resistivity, and the first resistivity is greater than the third resistivity.