Storage Controller Power Throttling via Staggered Command Execution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Semiconductor storage systems face power consumption spikes due to parallel execution of multiple commands, leading to inefficiencies in managing data transactions across multiple memory devices.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a power throttling module and non-volatile memory controllers that monitor power metrics and defer execution of pending memory commands when certain power thresholds are met, using staggered wait periods and priority-based scheduling to manage power consumption across multiple memory channels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple memory commands are executed in parallel across the storage system, then data transaction efficiency is improved, but power consumption spikes occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by introducing wait periods between batches of memory commands. The storage controller executes commands in controlled intervals rather than continuous parallel execution, allowing power consumption to be managed in periodic cycles. This resolves the contradiction by maintaining productivity through batch processing while preventing sustained high power consumption spikes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies dynamics by making the command execution rate adjustable based on power conditions. The system dynamically controls the timing and number of commands executed by introducing variable wait periods, allowing the storage system to adapt its productivity level to match power availability and thermal conditions, thus balancing efficiency with power consumption.
2Speed
If multiple commands are executed simultaneously to optimize command execution, then processing speed is improved, but power consumption exceeds thresholds
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses periodic action to execute commands in scheduled batches with wait periods between them. This maintains processing speed by ensuring commands are executed regularly and efficiently, while the periodic nature prevents continuous high power consumption by allowing power to be managed in discrete execution cycles rather than sustained peaks.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent maintains continuity of useful action by ensuring that command execution proceeds without unnecessary idle time. Commands are executed in continuous batches with minimal wait periods, keeping the system productive while the structured batching prevents uncontrolled power spikes. This resolves the contradiction by maintaining speed through continuous operation while managing power through controlled execution patterns.
3Power
If command execution is deferred to reduce power consumption, then power thresholds are maintained, but execution time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by implementing scheduled wait periods between command batches rather than continuous deferral. This maintains power thresholds by introducing regular intervals where execution is paused, while minimizing time loss by ensuring commands are executed promptly within each batch cycle. The periodic structure prevents excessive delays by guaranteeing regular execution opportunities.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses preliminary action by preparing and staging commands in buffers before execution. Commands are organized in advance and ready for immediate execution when power conditions permit, reducing the actual deferral time. This resolves the contradiction by maintaining power thresholds through controlled deferral while minimizing execution time loss through advance preparation and rapid resumption of execution when conditions allow.
Data Source
AI summary
The various embodiments described herein include methods and/or systems for throttling power in a storage device. In one aspect, a method of operation in a storage system includes obtaining a power metric corresponding to a count of active memory commands in the storage system, where active memory commands are commands being executed by the storage system. The method further includes, in accordance with a determination that the power metric satisfies one or more power thresholds, deferring execution of one or more pending memory commands.