Semi-Volatile Memory Management for Imaging Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Consumer-grade imaging devices face challenges in providing increased memory capacity without additional cost, as well as simplifying device driver installation and reducing resource wastage from demonstration pages, which are typically stored in non-volatile memory.
Innovation Solution
Implementing semi-volatile NAND flash memory divided into high, medium, and low retention regions within imaging devices, allowing for efficient data storage and wear leveling, thereby reducing the need for volatile memory and enabling reuse of memory space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of stationary object
If non-volatile memory is used to store demonstration pages, then long-term retention is achieved, but memory space is wasted after device sale
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the memory allocation dynamic rather than static. Demonstration pages are stored in volatile memory during the retail display period, and automatically transferred to non-volatile memory after the device is sold. This dynamic reallocation of memory resources based on operational context resolves the contradiction between retention duration and memory space utilization.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements periodic action through time-based memory management. The imaging device periodically assesses its operational state (retail display vs. customer use) and transitions demonstration page storage between volatile and non-volatile memory accordingly. This periodic evaluation and transition mechanism ensures optimal memory usage throughout the device lifecycle.
2Loss of substance
If volatile memory is used for demonstration pages, then memory space is preserved, but data is lost when power is removed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic memory management where the storage medium for demonstration pages changes based on power availability and operational context. During powered retail display, volatile memory is used for space efficiency. Upon power loss or device sale detection, the system dynamically transitions to non-volatile memory to ensure data persistence, thus resolving the retention vs. space utilization contradiction.
3Adaptability or versatility
If more memory is added to imaging devices, then functionality is improved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements multi-functionality by enabling the imaging device to use a single memory system for multiple purposes: volatile memory serves both as general-purpose RAM and as temporary storage for demonstration pages during retail display. The non-volatile memory serves dual roles as permanent storage for device firmware and as overflow storage for demonstration pages. This multi-functional memory architecture eliminates the need for dedicated separate memory components, thereby improving functionality without proportionally increasing cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies parameter changes by dynamically adjusting memory allocation parameters based on operational mode. The controller modifies memory usage parameters (such as buffer sizes, storage locations, and retention policies) depending on whether the device is in retail display mode or customer use mode. This parameter adaptation allows the same hardware configuration to deliver enhanced functionality across different operational contexts without requiring additional memory components.
4Reliability
If demonstration pages are stored in non-volatile memory, then quality is maintained, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service through automated memory management. The controller automatically determines when demonstration pages should be transferred between volatile and non-volatile memory based on predefined criteria (power state, operational mode, time elapsed). This self-managing system eliminates the need for complex manual configuration or user intervention, thereby maintaining image quality while minimizing the actual increase in device complexity. The automation handles the complexity internally without burdening the user or requiring additional control hardware.
Data Source
AI summary
A system including a communication interface, a memory, and a processor. The communication interface is configured to receive data. The memory is divided into a first retention region and a second retention region, wherein the first retention region is configured to store data for a first predetermined period of time, and the second retention region is configured to store data for a second predetermined period of time. The processor is configured to i) initially store, within the first retention region of the memory, the data that is received, and ii) in response to the data that is received having been stored in the first retention region of the memory for a time limit that exceeds the first predetermined period of time, transfer the data that is received from the first retention region of the memory to the second retention region of the memory.