Solid State Storage Reclamation via Pattern Mapping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Solid state storage devices with limited write cycles face challenges in effectively distributing write operations to prevent wear, as existing wear leveling algorithms are less efficient when a large number of cells are already in use, leading to reduced device lifespan.
Innovation Solution
The method involves receiving write commands and associated data, mapping logical units of storage to physical units, and reclaiming physical storage locations by identifying and overwriting common data patterns, which allows for efficient wear leveling and space reclamation within the storage device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of stationary object
If wear leveling algorithms distribute write operations to unused cells, then the lifespan of the storage device is extended, but the algorithm efficiency decreases when a large number of cells are already in use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameter of data representation by detecting common patterns (such as all zeros or all ones) in the data to be written. When a common pattern is detected, the system skips the actual write operation and directly updates the mapping table, transforming the write operation from a physical cell modification to a logical mapping update, thereby improving efficiency when cells are heavily utilized
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the common pattern detection function from the general write operation. By identifying and separating out common patterns (all zeros, all ones, or repeated patterns) before the write operation, the system can handle these special cases through optimized mapping updates rather than conventional write cycles, reducing wear on physical cells
2Reliability
If physical storage locations are reclaimed for wear leveling, then write operations are distributed more evenly, but the complexity of managing mapping tables increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary action by detecting common patterns in the data before the write operation occurs. When a common pattern is detected, the system preliminarily determines that no actual write to the physical cell is needed, and instead directly updates the mapping table entry. This preliminary detection and classification of write operations simplifies the overall mapping management by reducing the number of physical write operations that need to be tracked and managed
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus are disclosed for reclaiming solid state storage with limited write cycles such as flash memory. Through the use of shared storage for common data patterns, physical space may be conserved or reclaimed in a solid state device. The apparatus may use internal mappings and/or external device drivers to handle the reclamation of unused space. By enabling reclamation of physical space, the disclosed systems, apparatus, and methods may provide more efficient read and write access and improved wear leveling.