Storage Controller Word Line Clustering for Write Efficiency
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing storage systems face inefficiencies in write operations due to the use of a buffer memory operated based on the worst-performing word line, leading to prolonged write times as the generation and block size of non-volatile memory devices increase.
Innovation Solution
The proposed storage system improves write operation efficiency by clustering word lines into groups based on their feature information and rearranging the access order of these groups, allowing for optimized data writing across the non-volatile memory device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the buffer memory is operated on the basis of a word line having the worst feature, then all word lines can be handled uniformly, but the write operation takes a long time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments word lines into multiple groups based on their feature characteristics (e.g., program speed, error rate). Instead of treating all word lines uniformly, the controller divides them into first, second, and third groups with different features, allowing differentiated handling of each group to optimize write operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by assigning different buffer memory operations to different word line groups based on their specific features. For example, word lines with fast program speed use one buffer operation mode, while those with slow program speed use another mode, tailoring the operation to local characteristics rather than applying a uniform approach.
2Quantity of substance
If the generation and block size of non-volatile memory devices increase, then storage capacity improves, but write operation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary actions by pre-characterizing word lines and storing their feature information in a table before actual write operations. The controller预先 determines the optimal buffer operation for each word line group based on pre-measured features, avoiding real-time decision delays and optimizing write speed for large-capacity devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes operational parameters (buffer operation modes) based on word line feature parameters. By measuring and categorizing word lines according to their program speed, error rate, and other features, the system dynamically adjusts buffer operations to match the actual performance characteristics, improving write efficiency in large-capacity devices.
3Device complexity
If word lines are accessed in a fixed order, then control is simple, but buffer memory efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic control by adjusting the buffer operation based on the specific word line group being accessed. Instead of a fixed access order, the controller dynamically selects the appropriate buffer operation (e.g., immediate write, buffered write, or write-after-verify) according to the real-time features of the target word line group, optimizing buffer efficiency while maintaining manageable complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A storage system includes a non-volatile memory (NVM) device, having a memory cell array, and a storage controller. The storage controller receives a write command and data from a host and controls the NVM device to write the data in the memory cell array. Additionally, the storage controller determines a memory region of the memory cell array in which the data will be written, clusters a plurality of word lines into a plurality of groups on the basis of feature information of the plurality of word lines, rearranges an access order in units of groups according to the feature information, and accesses the word lines in the rearranged order to write the data in the memory region.