Segmented Source Plates for Memory Sub-Block Activation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing memory devices face challenges with physical segregation of select gate devices at the drain-side and source-side of sub-blocks, leading to increased complexity, size, and variability in threshold voltages, which affect reliability and performance.
Innovation Solution
Implementing segmented source plates in memory devices, where each sub-block has a separate segment, and using non-segregated logical select gate layers at the drain-side, allowing for programmable threshold voltages and reduced physical segregation, thereby enabling precise control of sub-block activation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If physical segregation of select gate devices is implemented at drain-side and source-side of sub-blocks, then sub-block control is achieved, but device complexity and manufacturing variability increase
Solution Approach 1:
The source plate is divided into multiple segmented source plates, with each segment corresponding to a specific sub-block. This segmentation allows independent voltage control for each sub-block without requiring physical segregation of select gate devices, thereby achieving sub-block control while reducing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The segmented source plates serve multiple functions: they act as both the source electrode and the control mechanism for sub-block selection. By applying different voltages to different source plate segments, the system can selectively activate or deactivate specific sub-blocks, eliminating the need for separate select gate devices at both drain-side and source-side
2Reliability
If physical segregation of select gate devices is implemented, then sub-block isolation is achieved, but threshold voltage variability increases
Solution Approach 1:
The source plate is segmented into multiple independent segments, each controllable by separate voltage lines. This allows precise voltage control for each sub-block, ensuring consistent threshold voltages and reducing manufacturing variability while maintaining proper sub-block isolation
Solution Approach 2:
The system controls sub-block isolation by dynamically changing voltage parameters applied to segmented source plates rather than relying on fixed physical segregation. By adjusting voltage levels and patterns, the system achieves reliable sub-block isolation with consistent threshold voltages across manufacturing variations
3Area of stationary object
If segmented source plates are implemented, then block width is reduced and space is saved, but control signal complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The source plate is divided into segments that align with sub-block boundaries, enabling compact block design. Each segment can be controlled independently through dedicated voltage lines, allowing precise sub-block selection without requiring additional physical space for separate control structures
Solution Approach 2:
The segmented source plates perform dual functions as both data storage electrodes and sub-block control mechanisms. This multi-functionality reduces the overall block width by eliminating redundant control structures while the control signal complexity is managed through systematic voltage patterning algorithms
Data Source
AI summary
Control logic in a memory device causes a plurality of source control signals to be applied to a plurality of deintegrated source segments of a first block of a plurality of blocks of a memory array of a memory device to selectively activate a plurality of sub-blocks of the first block and programs a plurality of select gate devices in a plurality of logical select gate layers spanning the plurality of sub-blocks and positioned at a drain-side of the first block of the memory array with a threshold voltage pattern.