Variable Channel Multi-Controller Memory System for Shared Resource Coordination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing memory controller systems lack flexibility in handling multiple types of memory devices without requiring a separate controller and interface for each, leading to increased bulkiness and cost, and struggle to independently control memory modules within a device due to shared resources.
Innovation Solution
A variable channel multi-controller memory system that includes flexible and auxiliary memory controllers, which can operate in different control modes to manage various memory protocols and modules, allowing for independent or combined control of memory modules through multiple physical interfaces, and coordinates the use of shared resources using request and acknowledgment signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a separate controller and interface are provided for each type of memory device, then the system can support different memory device types, but the system becomes more bulky and costly to manufacture
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal memory controller that can operate in multiple control modes (single-channel and multi-channel) to support different memory device types and configurations. The controller includes configurable logic that can be programmed to handle various memory protocols and interface requirements, eliminating the need for separate dedicated controllers for each memory type.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller features dynamically reconfigurable control logic that can switch between different operational modes based on the connected memory device type. The control logic can be programmed or configured at runtime to adapt to single-channel or multi-channel operations, allowing the same hardware to serve multiple functions without physical reconfiguration.
2Ease of operation
If multiple memory modules are controlled by separate controllers, then independent control is achieved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the control functionality into separate logical channels within a single controller. Each channel can independently control a memory module while sharing common hardware resources. This segmentation allows independent control of multiple modules without requiring separate physical controllers for each module.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple control channels into a single unified controller architecture. The controller integrates multiple control logic units that can operate independently on different memory modules while sharing common interface circuits and resource management logic, reducing overall system complexity compared to using separate controllers for each module.
3Productivity
If memory modules share common resources, then complete independent control becomes impossible, but resource utilization efficiency improves
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where controllers monitor the state of shared resources and dynamically adjust their control operations. When one controller is using a shared resource, other controllers receive feedback signals that prevent simultaneous access, ensuring proper resource management while maintaining efficient utilization through coordinated control.
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-controller memory system includes a flexible channel memory controller coupled to at least first and second physical interfaces. The second physical interface is also coupled to an auxiliary memory controller. The physical interfaces may be coupled to separate memory modules. In a single-channel control mode, the memory controllers respectively control the memory modules coupled to the first and second physical interface. In a multi-channel control mode, the flexible channel memory controller controls both memory modules while the auxiliary memory controller is inactive. In a single-channel control mode, the memory controllers coordinate restricted memory control commands which access a resource shared by both modules, by one controller transmitting a request signal for the resource to the other controller, awaiting an acknowledgment signal from the other controller, and maintaining transmission of the request signal until the use of the resource is completed.