Storage Device Power Reserve for DRAM Data Protection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current data loss prevention methods, such as battery-backed devices, are costly, bulky, and pose environmental and safety risks due to their size, weight, and hazardous materials, while seeking a cost-effective solution for preserving data in volatile memory during power losses.

Innovation Solution

A system and method utilizing a persistent storage device with a power source, including a power reserve and power-fail detection logic, to transfer data from dynamic random-access memory (DRAM) to a reserved storage in case of power loss, using a dedicated data path and power infrastructure, potentially replacing conventional NVDIMMs with commodity storage devices.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If battery-backed devices are used for data loss prevention, then data protection capability is improved, but device size, weight, and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedata protection capabilityVSAvoiddevice weight

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSWeight of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts the power reserve function from a separate battery-backed device and integrates it into the storage device itself. The storage device now contains both the persistent store and the power reserve components, eliminating the need for external battery units and reducing overall system weight while maintaining data protection capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent combines multiple functions into a single integrated storage device: persistent data storage, power failure detection, and data protection via power reserve. This merging of previously separate components (storage medium + battery unit) into one device reduces weight, simplifies the system architecture, and maintains comprehensive data protection.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Reliability

If battery-backed devices are used for data loss prevention, then data protection capability is improved, but device complexity and hazardous materials increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedata protection capabilityVSAvoiddevice complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent removes the need for complex battery management systems, power conditioning circuits, and safety mechanisms associated with traditional battery-backed devices. By using a simplified power reserve approach with solid-state components, the device complexity is reduced while maintaining data protection functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs solid-state power reserve components that are simpler, more reliable, and free from hazardous materials compared to traditional batteries. These components are designed to be maintenance-free and eliminate the need for complex safety systems required for battery management.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

3Reliability

If battery-backed devices are used for data loss prevention, then data protection capability is improved, but environmental safety and operational safety deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedata protection capabilityVSAvoidenvironmental and safety risks

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional battery technologies with solid-state power reserve components that eliminate corrosive materials and explosive hydrogen gas. These solid-state components are inherently safer, environmentally friendly, and eliminate the safety hazards associated with battery leakage, fire, and explosion risks.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent converts the potential harm of power failure into a controlled scenario by using solid-state power reserve components that safely manage power transitions. Instead of relying on hazardous batteries that pose safety risks, the system uses benign solid-state components that safely bridge power gaps without creating environmental or safety hazards.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #22Blessing in disguise (Convert harm into benefit)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This approach provides a cost-effective, reliable, and environmentally friendly solution for data loss prevention by using commercially available storage devices to ensure data persistence during power failures, enhancing data security and system recovery without the drawbacks of traditional battery-backed systems.

Implementation Method 1

a storage device with a power source and persistent store that provides backup power to DRAM in a power loss event

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectBattery (electricity): Battery (electricity)

Data Source

PatentUS10401935B2Storage device with a power source and persistent store that provides backup power to DRAM in a power loss event

Publication Date: 2019.09.03 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD

AI summary

A system includes a dynamic random-access memory (DRAM); and a storage device comprising a power source and a persistent store. The storage device is configured to provide reserve power to the DRAM. Data stored in the DRAM is transferred to a reserved storage in the persistent store of the storage device in a power loss event using the reserve power.