Configurable Volatile Memory Flush to Non-Volatile Storage

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Solution Overview

Problem

Data stored in volatile memory is at risk of being lost when the memory is not powered for a threshold period without data refresh, necessitating a method to transfer data to non-volatile storage during triggering events like power loss or system errors.

Innovation Solution

A device with configurable operating parameters transfers data from volatile storage to non-volatile storage using a battery backup or alternate power sources, optimizing power consumption and transfer speed based on available power and the type of triggering event, employing modes such as aggressive performance, aggressive power, and base modes to manage component operation during data transfer.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If data is transferred from volatile storage to non-volatile storage during triggering events, then data integrity is improved, but power consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedata integrityVSAvoidpower consumption

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs data transfer operations in advance before a triggering event occurs. The memory controller monitors volatile memory for signs of impending failure or power loss, and initiates data transfer to non-volatile storage proactively, ensuring data integrity without waiting for a critical failure event.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically adjusts its operation based on available power and system state. During normal operation, the system maintains optimal performance. When a triggering event is detected or power constraints are identified, the system automatically initiates data transfer operations, balancing power consumption with data protection needs in real-time.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Productivity

If data transfer is performed at high speed, then productivity is improved, but power consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetransfer speedVSAvoidpower consumption

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The system transfers only the necessary portion of data that is at risk during a triggering event, rather than performing a complete system shutdown or transferring all data. This partial action approach achieves data protection for critical information while consuming less power and time than a full data transfer operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #16Partial or excessive action

3Speed

If device components are configured to operate during data transfer, then transfer speed is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetransfer speedVSAvoidcomponent configuration

Core Design Contradiction:

SpeedVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The memory controller automatically performs data transfer operations without requiring complex external coordination or manual intervention. The controller monitors system state, detects triggering events, and autonomously manages the data transfer process, reducing the need for complex device configuration and external control mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS10496298B2Configurable flush of data from volatile memory to non-volatile memory

Publication Date: 2019.12.03 INTEL CORP

AI summary

An apparatus is provided which includes: a first storage to store one or more parameters, a second storage to store data, and a third storage. The apparatus may further include a first circuitry to detect a triggering event. The apparatus may further include a second circuitry to, in response to the triggering event, cause transfer of the data from the second storage to the third storage, while one or more components of the apparatus is to operate in accordance with the one or more parameters.