Sensing Circuitry Data Shifting via Ring Architecture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing memory devices face challenges in efficiently shifting data within sensing circuitry, leading to increased circuitry space and power consumption, particularly in processing-in-memory (PIM) devices where data movement affects processing time and power usage.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a method that allows data shifting between sensing components using existing pass transistors, without adding additional transistors or circuitry, by coupling sensing components in a ring architecture, enabling efficient data access and processing within the memory array.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If data is shifted using traditional methods in sensing circuitry, then data movement is achieved, but circuitry space increases and power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by enabling pass transistors to serve dual purposes: their primary function in sensing operations and an additional function for data shifting between sensing components. This eliminates the need for dedicated shifting circuitry, thereby reducing circuitry space while maintaining data shifting capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensing circuitry performs data shifting using its own existing pass transistors without requiring external or additional shifting mechanisms. The circuitry serves itself by utilizing internal components for both sensing and data movement operations, reducing overall circuit complexity and power consumption.
2Loss of time
If data is transferred across I/O lines, then data access is achieved, but processing time increases and power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the memory array into multiple sensing components that can operate independently and process data locally. By dividing the data processing task across multiple sensing components within the array, data can be shifted and processed in parallel without requiring transfer across external I/O lines, thereby reducing processing time and power consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the two-dimensional structure of the memory array to enable data shifting along row and column lines within the array fabric. This internal two-dimensional data movement pathway replaces the traditional one-dimensional I/O line transfer, allowing faster and more energy-efficient data access by leveraging the spatial dimensions already present in the memory architecture.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure is related to shifting data using sensing circuitry. An example apparatus can include a first sensing component and a second sensing component. The first sensing component can include a first sense amplifier coupled to a first pair of complementary sense lines and a first compute component comprising a number of first pass transistors. The second sensing component can include a second sense amplifier coupled to a second pair of complementary sense lines. The second sensing component can include a second compute component comprising a number of second pass transistors. The first pair of complementary sense lines can be coupled to the number of first pass transistors and the number of second pass transistors.