Storage Controller Idle Mode Control via Memory State Monitoring
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current storage devices lack an efficient method to manage idle periods based on memory operations performed according to internal commands, affecting their operating efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A storage device configuration that includes a controller capable of setting device information based on memory states associated with internal commands and transmitting this information to an external device, allowing for idle mode control signals to be received and applied, thereby optimizing idle periods.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the storage device operates continuously to handle external commands, then productivity is improved, but use of energy deteriorates due to inability to enter idle modes
Solution Approach 1:
The storage device dynamically transitions between active and idle modes based on the completion of internal commands. The controller monitors the execution status of internal commands and automatically adjusts the operational state, enabling the system to be active when needed and idle when not required, thus optimizing energy consumption while maintaining productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller implements a feedback mechanism by monitoring the completion status of internal commands and using this information to determine whether to enter or exit idle mode. This feedback loop ensures that the storage device maintains optimal performance during active operations while efficiently transitioning to low-power states when internal command execution is complete, resolving the contradiction between continuous operation and energy savings.
2Use of energy by moving object
If the storage device enters idle mode to reduce power consumption, then use of energy is improved, but productivity deteriorates due to potential delays in responding to external commands
Solution Approach 1:
The storage device performs preliminary actions by completing internal commands before transitioning to idle mode. This ensures that all necessary data transfers and internal operations are finalized before entering the low-power state, preventing any delay in responding to subsequent external commands. The controller proactively manages the transition timing to maintain productivity while enabling energy savings.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts its operational state based on real-time monitoring of internal command completion. Rather than entering idle mode arbitrarily, the controller continuously assesses the operational status and transitions to idle mode only when appropriate, ensuring that productivity is not compromised while achieving energy efficiency during genuine idle periods.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the storage device monitors memory state for idle mode control, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional control mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The controller is designed with multi-functionality, combining the roles of command execution, memory state monitoring, and idle mode management within a single integrated unit. Rather than adding separate dedicated components for each function, the controller performs multiple tasks using its existing processing capabilities, thereby achieving adaptability for idle mode control without proportionally increasing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the idle mode control functionality with the existing command processing and memory management functions of the controller. By combining these functions into a unified control mechanism, the system achieves enhanced adaptability for managing idle periods based on memory state without the overhead of separate complex control systems, thus resolving the contradiction between adaptability and complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
According to embodiments of the present disclosure, a storage device may externally provide device information according to a memory state associated with a memory operation performed by an internal command during an idle period, and operate in an idle mode according to an idle period set according to the memory state.