Self-Powered Memory System Using Silicon Battery for Data Persistence
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing memory systems face limitations in volatile memory's data retention without power and non-volatile memory's limited write cycles and slow access times, necessitating a solution that combines the benefits of both for persistent data storage.
Innovation Solution
A self-powered memory system incorporating a silicon battery and switch component that provides persistent power to volatile memory, using non-volatile power when main power is unavailable, thereby maintaining data integrity and extending write cycles while maintaining faster access times.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If volatile memory is used, then data access speed and cost are improved, but data retention without power deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges volatile memory with a power harvesting circuit and energy storage element to create a hybrid memory system. The volatile memory provides fast access speeds, while the power harvesting circuit collects energy from environmental sources and stores it in an energy storage element, enabling data retention without continuous external power supply.
2Reliability
If non-volatile memory is used, then data retention without power is improved, but write cycle lifetime and access speed deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines non-volatile memory with a power harvesting circuit that collects energy from environmental sources. This hybrid approach allows the system to leverage the data retention capability of non-volatile memory while using harvested power to extend write cycle lifetime and improve access speeds through active refreshing and writing operations.
3Reliability
If non-volatile memory is used, then data retention without power is improved, but device complexity and size requirements deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a power harvesting circuit that automatically collects energy from environmental sources without requiring external intervention. The circuit self-regulates power management, harvesting energy continuously to support memory operations, thereby reducing the need for complex external power supply systems and battery components.
4Ease of operation
If conventional power supply is used, then memory operation is simple, but energy efficiency and sustainability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The power harvesting circuit automatically collects energy from environmental sources such as vibrations, heat, or light without requiring external power supply connections. This self-powered approach eliminates the need for continuous external power delivery while maintaining simple operation, significantly improving energy efficiency and sustainability.
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 system ensures data persistence even without main power, extends the lifetime of volatile memory by using non-volatile power, and reduces the complexity and size requirements of memory systems, enabling reliable and efficient data storage.
Implementation Method 1
A self powered memory system with an on chip battery is provided
Data Source
AI summary
A self powered memory system is disclosed. The system includes a volatile supply component, a battery component, a switch component, and a volatile memory component. The volatile supply component is configured to provide a time varying supply. The battery component is configured to generate a non-volatile supply. The switch component is configured to generate a persistent supply from the time varying supply and the non-volatile supply. The volatile memory component is configured to maintain data by using the persistent supply.