Western Digital Technologies, Inc. patent applications published on December 14th, 2023

Patent applications for Western Digital Technologies, Inc. on December 14th, 2023

THERMAL MANAGEMENT OF STORAGE DEVICES INCREASING HOST WRITE PERFORMANCE (17748336)

Main Inventor

Sridhar Prudviraj GUNDA

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a technology for managing the temperature of a storage device. Here are the key points:

• The storage device has multiple memory locations on different dies.
• Each die has a group of memory locations that can be addressed.
• A controller is in communication with each die and can detect excessive temperature on one of the dies during sequential host writes.
• When excessive temperature is detected, the controller disables writes to the affected die but continues writing to the memory locations of the other dies without slowing them down.
• Once the temperature drops below a certain threshold, the controller reactivates writes to the affected die.

Potential applications of this technology:

• Data centers and server farms that rely on storage devices can benefit from improved thermal management to prevent overheating and potential data loss.
• Consumer electronics devices, such as smartphones and tablets, can have more efficient storage devices that can handle high data loads without overheating.

Problems solved by this technology:

• Overheating of storage devices can lead to data loss and device failure. This technology helps prevent such issues by managing the temperature of the storage device.
• In multi-die storage devices, excessive temperature on one die can affect the performance and reliability of the entire device. This technology allows for targeted temperature management without impacting the other dies.

Benefits of this technology:

• Improved reliability and longevity of storage devices by preventing overheating.
• Enhanced performance by allowing writes to continue on unaffected dies without throttling.
• Efficient use of resources by reactivating writes to the affected die once the temperature drops, maximizing the storage device's capabilities.

Abstract

Aspects of a storage device are thermal management of a non-volatile storage device are provided. In various embodiments, a storage device includes corresponding memory locations on two or more dies. Corresponding memory locations on each die form an addressable group. A controller in thermal communication with each of the dies may detect an excess temperature on one of the dies while performing sequential host writes. Upon such detection, the controller may disable all writes to the detected die while continuing to perform writes to the memory locations of the other dies without throttling the other dies. The controller may then reactivate writes to the detected die when the temperature drops below a threshold.

PRESERVATION OF VOLATILE DATA IN DISTRESS MODE (17839712)

Main Inventor

Ramanathan Muthiah

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a data storage device that provides improved protections for data during a safety event, such as a collision in an autonomous driving vehicle. 

• The device controller prioritizes more recent data over older data for storage in non-volatile memory when a distress-mode indication signal is received.
• The device controller ensures that the flushed data is routed in a more reliable manner and has better survivability.
• The innovation aims to enhance the protection of data in volatile-memory buffers during safety events.

Potential Applications

• Autonomous driving vehicles: The technology can be applied to data storage devices in autonomous vehicles to protect critical data during collisions or other safety events.
• Aviation: The innovation can be utilized in data storage systems on aircraft to safeguard data during emergencies or accidents.
• Industrial automation: The technology can be implemented in data storage devices used in industrial automation systems to protect data during safety incidents.

Problems Solved

• Data loss during safety events: The technology addresses the problem of potential data loss during safety events by prioritizing and protecting more recent data.
• Data survivability: The innovation ensures that the flushed data has better survivability and is routed in a more reliable manner, reducing the risk of data loss.

Benefits

• Enhanced data protection: The technology provides improved protections for data during safety events, minimizing the risk of data loss.
• Increased data survivability: By positively biasing the flushed data towards better survivability and more reliable routing, the innovation improves the chances of recovering critical data.
• Improved safety event analysis: The prioritization of more recent data allows for a more accurate analysis of safety events, aiding in understanding the causes and improving safety measures.

Abstract

A data storage device having improved protections for in-flight data during a safety event, such as an autonomous-driving-vehicle collision. In an example embodiment, in response to a distress-mode indication signal, the device controller operates to prioritize more-recent data with respect to older counterparts of the same data stream for flushing from the volatile-memory buffers to the non-volatile memory. In addition, the device controller may operate to positively bias the flushed data towards better survivability and/or more-reliable routing.

Data Storage Device and Method for Prediction-Based Improved Power-Loss Handling (17839615)

Main Inventor

Ariel Navon

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a data storage device and method that improves power-loss handling by predicting the probability of an ungraceful shutdown and reducing the risk of data loss in response to this prediction.

• The data storage device includes a memory and a controller.
• The controller is programmed to predict the likelihood of an ungraceful shutdown occurring.
• It determines if the probability of an ungraceful shutdown is higher than a predefined threshold.
• If the probability exceeds the threshold, the controller takes measures to minimize the risk of data loss during the shutdown.
• The invention can be implemented in various embodiments and can be used alone or in combination with other embodiments.

Potential Applications

This technology can be applied in various industries and scenarios where data storage devices are used, such as:

• Computer systems and servers
• Data centers
• Cloud storage services
• Embedded systems
• Industrial control systems

Problems Solved

The technology addresses the following problems related to power-loss handling in data storage devices:

• Ungraceful shutdowns can lead to data loss and corruption.
• Sudden power loss can occur due to various reasons, such as power outages or system failures.
• Traditional power-loss handling methods may not effectively mitigate the risk of data loss during ungraceful shutdowns.

Benefits

The use of this technology offers several benefits:

• Improved reliability and data integrity by reducing the risk of data loss during power loss events.
• Enhanced system performance and uptime by minimizing the impact of ungraceful shutdowns.
• Increased user satisfaction and trust in data storage devices.
• Cost savings by avoiding potential data recovery efforts or loss of critical information.

Abstract

A data storage device and method for prediction-based improved power-loss handling. In one embodiment, a data storage device is provided comprising a memory and a controller. The controller is configured to predict a probability of an ungraceful shutdown of the data storage device; determine whether the probability is greater than a threshold; and in response to determining that the probability is greater than the threshold, reduce a risk of data loss that would occur in response to the ungraceful shutdown of the data storage device. Other embodiments are possible, and each of the embodiments can be used alone or together in combination.

Data Storage Device and Method for Dynamic Prediction of Random Read with Low Memory Consumption (17838493)

Main Inventor

Gadi Vishne

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a data storage device and method for predicting random read commands with low memory consumption. The device includes a volatile memory, a non-volatile memory, and a controller. The controller allocates space in the volatile memory for a history pattern matcher data structure used to predict next read commands. It determines the accuracy of the predictions and dynamically adjusts the space allocated in the volatile memory based on the accuracy.

• Data storage device with low memory consumption for predicting random read commands
• Includes volatile memory, non-volatile memory, and a controller
• Allocates space in volatile memory for a history pattern matcher data structure
• Predicts next read commands from a host to read data stored in non-volatile memory
• Determines accuracy of predictions and dynamically adjusts space allocation in volatile memory

Potential Applications

• Data storage devices with limited memory capacity
• Systems requiring efficient prediction of random read commands

Problems Solved

• Limited memory capacity for predicting random read commands
• Inefficient allocation of memory space for prediction data structure

Benefits

• Low memory consumption
• Improved accuracy of predicted read commands
• Efficient utilization of memory space

Abstract

A data storage device and method for dynamic prediction of random read with low memory consumption are provided. In one embodiment, a data storage device comprises a volatile memory, a non-volatile memory, and a controller. The controller is configured to allocate an amount of space in the volatile memory for a history pattern matcher data structure used to predict next read commands from a host to read data stored in the non-volatile memory; determine an accuracy of the predicted next read commands; and based on the determined accuracy, dynamically allocate a different amount of space in the volatile memory for the history pattern matcher data structure. Other embodiments are possible, and each of the embodiments can be used alone or together in combination.

VERIFY FIRST WRITE TO EACH STORAGE AREA OF HARD DISK DRIVE (17836861)

Main Inventor

Jim French

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a method for identifying defects in a data storage device, such as a hard disk drive, without the need for disk surface scanning during manufacturing. Here are the key points:

• When a user writes data to a specific storage area on the disk, the data is written and then read back to verify its integrity.
• If the verification is successful, subsequent write requests to the same storage area can be fulfilled without re-reading and verifying the data.
• If the verification fails, the storage area is marked as defective and the data is written to a different area on the disk.
• This process is repeated for each storage area on each disk, eliminating the need for disk surface scanning during manufacturing.

Potential applications of this technology:

• Data storage devices, such as hard disk drives, can benefit from this method to identify and avoid using defective storage areas.
• Manufacturers of data storage devices can save time and resources by eliminating the need for disk surface scanning during the manufacturing process.

Problems solved by this technology:

• Traditional methods of identifying disk defects require time-consuming and costly disk surface scanning during manufacturing.
• This method eliminates the need for disk surface scanning, making the manufacturing process more efficient and cost-effective.

Benefits of this technology:

• Saves time and resources by eliminating the need for disk surface scanning during manufacturing.
• Improves the efficiency of the manufacturing process for data storage devices.
• Ensures the integrity of user data by verifying it after each write operation.

Abstract

Identifying recording disk defects in a data storage device such as a hard disk drive (HDD), for which disk defects are not previously identified, includes responsive to a first user data write request to a particular storage area of a disk medium, writing the user data to the particular storage area, reading the written user data from the particular storage area, and verifying the integrity of the user data read from the particular storage area. Upon passing, a second user data write request to the same particular storage area can be fulfilled without again reading and verifying. Upon failing, the particular storage area is marked as defective and the user data is written to a different storage area. This procedure can be repeated in response to each initial user write request to each storage area of each disk medium, foregoing the need for disk surface scanning during manufacturing.

PROACTIVELY BIASING PARAMETERS OF DATA STORAGE DEVICE BASED ON SPATIAL POSITION IN STORAGE ENCLOSURE (17840303)

Main Inventor

Ramanathan MUTHIAH

Brief explanation

The patent application describes systems and methods for proactively biasing parameters of a data storage device based on its spatial position in a storage enclosure. Here is a simplified explanation of the abstract:

• The method involves determining the spatial position of a data storage device within a storage enclosure.
• Based on this spatial position, one or more parameters for controlling the device memory are proactively biased.
• The spatial position corresponds to a predetermined thermal profile.

Potential Applications:

• Data centers and server farms where multiple storage devices are housed in enclosures.
• Cloud storage providers that manage large-scale storage infrastructure.
• High-performance computing environments where efficient data storage is crucial.

Problems Solved:

• Reactive biasing of parameters can lead to inefficient use of device memory and increased power consumption.
• Inconsistent thermal profiles within a storage enclosure can affect the performance and reliability of storage devices.

Benefits:

• Proactively biasing parameters based on spatial position allows for optimized use of device memory.
• By considering the predetermined thermal profile, the method ensures that storage devices operate within their optimal temperature range.
• Improved performance, reliability, and energy efficiency of data storage systems.

Abstract

Disclosed are systems and methods for proactively, instead of reactively, biasing parameters of a data storage device based on a spatial position in a storage enclosure. The method includes obtaining a spatial position for the data storage device in a storage enclosure. The method also includes proactively biasing one or more parameters for controlling the device memory, based on the spatial position. The spatial position has a corresponding thermal profile that is predetermined.

Proactive Storage Operation Management Using Thermal States (17839732)

Main Inventor

Ramanathan Muthiah

Brief explanation

The abstract of this patent application describes a system and method for managing storage operations using thermal states. It involves receiving storage requests from a host and determining storage commands for a data storage device based on these requests. The system then calculates a temperature index value for each storage command, which represents the estimated change in thermal state when executing the command. The storage commands are allocated to command queues based on their temperature index values and executed by the data storage device without triggering thermal throttling.

• The system receives storage requests from a host and determines storage commands for a data storage device.
• Temperature index values are calculated for each storage command, representing the estimated change in thermal state when executing the command.
• The storage commands are allocated to command queues based on their temperature index values.
• The data storage device executes the storage commands from the command queues without triggering thermal throttling.

Potential Applications

• This technology can be applied in various storage systems, such as computer hard drives, solid-state drives, and cloud storage platforms.
• It can be used in data centers to optimize storage operations and prevent thermal throttling.
• The system can be implemented in embedded storage devices, improving their performance and reliability.

Problems Solved

• Thermal throttling can occur during storage operations, leading to decreased performance and potential data loss.
• Managing storage commands based on thermal states can help prevent overheating and improve the overall efficiency of storage systems.
• This technology addresses the need for proactive management of storage operations to ensure optimal performance and reliability.

Benefits

• By considering thermal states, this system can prevent thermal throttling and maintain consistent storage performance.
• It improves the efficiency of storage operations by allocating commands based on their estimated impact on thermal state.
• The proactive management of storage operations helps prevent overheating and potential damage to storage devices.
• This technology enhances the reliability and lifespan of storage systems by optimizing their thermal management.

Abstract

Example storage systems, storage devices, and methods provide proactive management of storage operations using thermal states. Host storage requests are received and used to determine storage commands for a data storage device. For each storage command, a temperature index value corresponding to an estimated change in thermal state for executing the storage command may be determined. The storage commands are allocated to command queues based on the thermal index values and then executed from the command queues by the data storage device without triggering thermal throttling of storage commands.

RESOURCE ALLOCATION IN VIRTUALIZED ENVIRONMENTS (17836927)

Main Inventor

Marjan Radi

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a system that includes a shared memory for a distributed memory system. It also includes a Virtual Switch (VS) controller that establishes different flows of packets between Virtual Machines (VMs) running on the system. Requests to access the shared memory are queued in submission queues and processed requests are queued in completion queues. The system determines indications of queue occupancy and sets memory request rates for applications based on these indications. Additionally, flow metadata is generated for each flow and memory request rates and resource allocations are adjusted for applications based on this metadata.

• The system includes a shared memory for a distributed memory system.
• A Virtual Switch (VS) controller establishes different flows of packets between Virtual Machines (VMs) running on the system.
• Requests to access the shared memory are queued in submission queues and processed requests are queued in completion queues.
• The system determines indications of queue occupancy.
• Memory request rates are set for applications based on the determined indications of queue occupancy.
• Flow metadata is generated for each flow.
• Memory request rates and resource allocations are adjusted for applications based on the generated flow metadata.

Potential Applications

• This technology can be applied in distributed memory systems where multiple VMs are running on different nodes.
• It can be used in cloud computing environments to optimize memory access and resource allocation for different applications.

Problems Solved

• The system solves the problem of efficiently managing memory access and resource allocation in distributed memory systems.
• It addresses the challenge of optimizing memory request rates and resource allocations for different applications running on the system.

Benefits

• The system improves the performance and efficiency of memory access in distributed memory systems.
• It allows for better resource allocation and optimization for different applications.
• The technology enables better management of memory queues and improves overall system performance.

Abstract

A node includes a shared memory for a distributed memory system. A Virtual Switch (VS) controller establishes different flows of packets between at least one Virtual Machine (VM) running at the node and one or more other VMs running at the node or at another node. Requests to access the shared memory are queued in submission queues in a kernel space and processed requests are queued in completion queues in the kernel space. Indications of queue occupancy are determined for at least one queue and one or more memory request rates are set for at least one application based at least in part on the determined indications of queue occupancy. In another aspect, flow metadata is generated for each flow and at least one of the set one or more respective memory request rates and one or more respective resource allocations is adjusted for the at least one application.

Peer Storage Device Messaging for Vulnerability Management (17839727)

Main Inventor

Eran Moshe

Brief explanation

The patent application describes systems and methods for peer data storage device messaging over a peer channel for vulnerability management. Here is a simplified explanation of the abstract:

• The invention focuses on storage devices that have a host interface to connect to a host system and a peer interface to establish communication with other storage devices.
• These storage devices can independently communicate with each other through the peer interface, even when the host system is not available.
• The storage devices are capable of identifying security issues, either for themselves or for other peer storage devices.
• When a security threat is detected, the storage devices can send a threat notification through the peer interface.
• This enables peer storage devices to respond to security threats among themselves without relying on their host connections.

Potential applications of this technology:

• Data centers and server farms where multiple storage devices are interconnected can benefit from this technology.
• Cloud storage providers can use this technology to enhance the security and vulnerability management of their storage infrastructure.
• Distributed storage systems, such as peer-to-peer networks, can leverage this technology to improve their security capabilities.

Problems solved by this technology:

• The technology solves the problem of relying solely on host connections for security management in storage devices.
• It enables storage devices to communicate and address security threats among themselves, even when the host system is unavailable.
• This technology enhances the overall security and vulnerability management of storage systems.

Benefits of this technology:

• Improved security: By allowing storage devices to communicate and respond to security threats independently, the overall security of the system is enhanced.
• Enhanced vulnerability management: The technology enables storage devices to proactively identify and address security issues, improving the vulnerability management of the system.
• Reduced reliance on host connections: Storage devices can communicate and manage security threats among themselves, reducing the dependency on host availability for security management.

Abstract

Systems and methods for peer data storage device messaging over a peer channel, such as a control bus, for vulnerability management are disclosed. Storage devices may include a host interface configured to connect to a host system and a peer interface to establish peer communication independent of host availability. The storage devices may determine security issues (for themselves or for peer storage devices) and send a threat notification through the peer interface, enabling peer storage devices to respond to peer security threats without relying on their host connections.

DATA STORAGE DEVICE WITH SPLIT BURST SERVO PATTERN (17839011)

Main Inventor

Kei Yasuna

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a data storage device that includes disks, heads, and processing devices. The processing devices determine burst values based on sets of bursts and generate a position error signal (PES) to control the position of the heads.

• The data storage device includes disks, heads, and processing devices.
• The processing devices determine burst values based on sets of bursts.
• The processing devices generate a position error signal (PES) based on the determined burst values.
• The PES is used to control the position of the heads.

Potential Applications

• This technology can be used in various data storage devices such as hard disk drives and solid-state drives.
• It can be applied in computer systems, servers, and data centers for efficient data storage and retrieval.

Problems Solved

• The technology solves the problem of accurately positioning the heads of a data storage device.
• It addresses the issue of minimizing errors and improving the performance of data storage systems.

Benefits

• The use of burst values and the PES allows for precise control of head positioning, resulting in improved data access and transfer speeds.
• The technology enhances the reliability and efficiency of data storage devices.
• It can lead to increased storage capacity and improved overall performance of data storage systems.

Abstract

Various illustrative aspects are directed to a data storage device, comprising: one or more disks; an actuating mechanism comprising one or more heads, and configured to position the one or more heads proximate to disk surfaces of the one or more disks; and one or more processing devices. The one or more processing devices are configured to: determine a first burst value based on an averaged value of a first set of one or more bursts; determine a second burst value based on an averaged value of a second set of one or more bursts; generate a position error signal (PES) based on the determined first burst value and the determined second burst value; and control a position of at least one head among the one or more heads based on the PES.

Storage System and Method for Circuit-Bounded-Array-Based Time and Temperature Tag Management and Inference of Read Thresholds (18220363)

Main Inventor

Alexander Bazarsky

Brief explanation

==Abstract==

A storage system with an inference engine that can determine a read threshold based on various memory parameters. This read threshold can be used during regular read operations or error handling processes. By using a machine-learning approach, the accuracy of the read threshold can be greatly improved, resulting in reduced bit error rate, improved latency, throughput, power consumption, and quality of service. Additionally, a circuit-bounded array is utilized to manage updates to time and temperature tag information and to infer read thresholds.

Patent/Innovation Explanation

• A storage system with an inference engine that can determine a read threshold based on memory parameters.
• The read threshold can be used during regular read operations or error handling processes.
• Utilizes a machine-learning approach to improve the accuracy of the read threshold.
• A circuit-bounded array is used to manage updates to time and temperature tag information and to infer read thresholds.

Potential Applications

• Data storage systems
• Computer memory systems
• Error handling processes in storage devices

Problems Solved

• Inaccurate read thresholds in storage systems
• High bit error rate
• Poor latency, throughput, power consumption, and quality of service

Benefits

• Improved accuracy of read thresholds
• Reduced bit error rate
• Improved latency, throughput, power consumption, and quality of service

Abstract

A storage system has an inference engine that can infer a read threshold based on a plurality of parameters of the memory. The read threshold can be used in reading a wordline in the memory during a regular read operation or as part of an error handling process. Using a machine-learning-based approach to infer a read threshold can provide significant improvement in read threshold accuracy, which can reduce bit error rate and improve latency, throughput, power consumption, and quality of service. In another embodiment, a circuit-bounded array is used to manage updates to time and temperature tag information and to infer read thresholds.

OPEN BLOCK BOUNDARY GROUP PROGRAMMING FOR NON-VOLATILE MEMORY (17837345)

Main Inventor

Ke Zhang

Brief explanation

The technology disclosed in this patent application is about programming non-volatile memory, specifically NAND, using open block boundary group programming. This allows for efficient reading of data stored in the group.

• The memory system determines if programming a group of memory cells will result in an open block.
• If it will not result in an open block, a first set of programming parameters is used to program the group.
• If it will result in an open block, a second set of programming parameters is used to program the boundary group.
• The second set of programming parameters tightens Vt distributions, reducing mis-reads when the boundary group is read.

Potential Applications

• Non-volatile memory programming, specifically NAND.
• Data storage and retrieval in electronic devices.

Problems Solved

• Efficient programming of non-volatile memory.
• Mitigating mis-reads in boundary groups.

Benefits

• Improved performance and reliability of non-volatile memory.
• Reduced mis-reads in boundary groups.

Abstract

Technology is disclosed herein for open block boundary group programming of non-volatile memory such as NAND. The open block boundary group could potentially be read in response to a request from a host for the data stored in the group. In an aspect, the memory system will determine whether programming a group of memory cells in a selected block will result in an open block. If it will not result in an open block, then the memory system uses a first set of programming parameters to program the group. However, if it will result in an open block then the memory system uses a second set of programming parameters to program the boundary group. The programming parameters may include verify levels and/or a program voltage step size. The second set of programming parameters can tighten Vt distributions, which mitigates mis-reads if the boundary group is read.

Storage System and Method for Inference of Read Thresholds Based on Memory Parameters and Conditions (17838481)

Main Inventor

Eran Sharon

Brief explanation

Abstract:

A storage system has an inference engine that can infer a read threshold based on various parameters of the memory. This read threshold can be used during regular read operations or as part of error handling processes. By using machine learning, the accuracy of the read threshold can be significantly improved, leading to reduced bit error rate, improved latency, throughput, power consumption, and quality of service.

Patent/Innovation Explanation:

• The storage system includes an inference engine that can determine a read threshold for reading a wordline in the memory.
• The read threshold is inferred based on multiple parameters of the memory.
• This machine-learning-based approach improves the accuracy of the read threshold.
• The read threshold can be used in regular read operations or error handling processes.
• By accurately determining the read threshold, the system can reduce bit error rate and improve various performance metrics such as latency, throughput, power consumption, and quality of service.

Potential Applications:

• Data storage systems in various industries such as cloud computing, data centers, and enterprise storage.
• Solid-state drives (SSDs) and flash memory devices.
• Embedded systems and IoT devices that require efficient and reliable storage.

Problems Solved:

• Inaccurate read thresholds in storage systems can lead to higher bit error rates and reduced performance.
• Traditional methods of determining read thresholds may not account for various parameters of the memory, resulting in suboptimal performance.
• Error handling processes may not have accurate read thresholds, leading to inefficient error recovery.

Benefits:

• Improved accuracy of read thresholds leads to reduced bit error rate.
• Enhanced performance metrics such as latency, throughput, power consumption, and quality of service.
• More efficient error handling processes with accurate read thresholds.
• Increased reliability and data integrity in storage systems.

Abstract

A storage system has an inference engine that can infer a read threshold based on a plurality of parameters of the memory. The read threshold can be used in reading a wordline in the memory during a regular read operation or as part of an error handling process. Using this machine-learning-based approach to infer a read threshold can provide significant improvement in read threshold accuracy, which can reduce bit error rate and improve latency, throughput, power consumption, and quality of service.

Semiconductor Wafer Dicing Method (17838491)

Main Inventor

Zhengjie ZHU

Brief explanation

The patent application describes a method for separating a semiconductor die from a semiconductor wafer without using a DAF laser. The process involves performing a partial cut on the wafer, applying tape lamination to the front side of the wafer, grinding the back side of the wafer, mounting it to a die attach film (DAF) layer, removing the tape lamination, and performing a DAF-die separation operation to separate the die from the adjacent die.

• Method for separating a semiconductor die from a semiconductor wafer without using a DAF laser
• Partial cut is made between the die and an adjacent die on the wafer
• Tape lamination is applied to the front side of the wafer where integrated circuits are exposed
• Back side of the wafer, which is the silicon layer of the die, is ground
• Wafer is mounted to a DAF layer
• Tape lamination is removed from the front side of the wafer
• DAF-die separation operation is performed to separate the die from the adjacent die

Potential Applications

• Semiconductor manufacturing industry
• Electronics industry
• Integrated circuit production

Problems Solved

• Provides an alternative method for separating semiconductor dies from wafers without using a DAF laser
• Eliminates the need for DAF laser equipment and associated costs
• Reduces the risk of damage to the semiconductor dies during the separation process

Benefits

• Cost-effective method for die separation
• Improved yield and quality control in semiconductor manufacturing
• Simplified process compared to traditional methods
• Reduced risk of damage to the semiconductor dies

Abstract

A semiconductor die is separated from a semiconductor wafer using a method that involves performing a partial cut on the semiconductor wafer, applying tape lamination to a front side of the semiconductor wafer, grinding a back side of the semiconductor wafer, mounting the semiconductor wafer to a die attach film (DAF) layer, removing the tape lamination from the front side of the semiconductor wafer, and performing a DAF-die separation operation to separate the semiconductor die from the adjacent semiconductor die. A DAF laser is not used during the method of separating a semiconductor die from a semiconductor wafer. The front side is the side of the semiconductor wafer where integrated circuits are exposed. The partial cut is between the semiconductor die and an adjacent semiconductor die. The back side is opposite of the front side and the back side is a silicon layer of the semiconductor die.

SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICE INCLUDING REINFORCING BLOCKS (17840322)

Main Inventor

Shenghua Huang

Brief explanation

Abstract:

A semiconductor device includes a substrate, semiconductor dies on the substrate, molding compound and reinforcing blocks on the substrate. The reinforcing blocks may be provided at positions on the substrate where mechanical stresses develop in the device during singulation, such as at curves and/or discontinuous points around the outline of the substrate, to add strength to the substrate.

Patent/Innovation Explanation:

• The semiconductor device consists of a substrate, semiconductor dies, molding compound, and reinforcing blocks.
• Reinforcing blocks are strategically placed on the substrate to strengthen it at positions where mechanical stresses occur during singulation.
• These positions include curves and discontinuous points around the outline of the substrate.
• The purpose of the reinforcing blocks is to enhance the overall strength of the substrate, preventing potential damage or failure.

Potential Applications:

• Semiconductor manufacturing industry
• Electronics industry
• Integrated circuit production

Problems Solved:

• Mechanical stresses during singulation can weaken the substrate of a semiconductor device.
• Curves and discontinuous points are particularly vulnerable to damage.
• The invention addresses these issues by adding reinforcing blocks to strengthen the substrate at these critical positions.

Benefits of this Technology:

• Improved durability and reliability of semiconductor devices.
• Reduced risk of substrate damage or failure during singulation.
• Enhanced overall performance and lifespan of the devices.

Abstract

A semiconductor device includes a substrate, semiconductor dies on the substrate, molding compound and reinforcing blocks on the substrate. The reinforcing blocks may be provided at positions on the substrate where mechanical stresses develop in the device during singulation, such as at curves and/or discontinuous points around the outline of the substrate, to add strength to the substrate.

DATA STORAGE DEVICE WITH DYNAMIC MAPPING OF LOW-DENSITY PARITY CHECK (LDPC) ENGINES (17839626)

Main Inventor

Dattatreya B Nayak

Brief explanation

The present patent application addresses the lack of parallelism in a typical approach by introducing a dynamic mapping of low-density parity check (LDPC) engines to flash controllers. This eliminates the static mapping and allows for more efficient processing.

• The patent application introduces a dynamic LDPC mapping to a plurality of flash controllers.
• The approach eliminates the static mapping of LDPC engines, which improves parallelism.
• The devices, methods, and apparatuses described in the patent application aim to address the lack of parallelism in current approaches.
• The innovation allows for more efficient processing of LDPC engines by dynamically mapping them to flash controllers.

Potential Applications

The technology described in this patent application has potential applications in various industries and fields, including:

• Data storage and retrieval systems
• Flash memory controllers
• Error correction systems
• Communication systems
• High-performance computing

Problems Solved

The technology presented in this patent application solves several problems, including:

• Lack of parallelism in current approaches
• Inefficient processing of low-density parity check (LDPC) engines
• Static mapping limitations in flash controllers
• Reduced performance and speed in data storage and retrieval systems

Benefits

The benefits of the technology described in this patent application include:

• Improved parallelism in LDPC processing
• More efficient utilization of flash controllers
• Enhanced performance and speed in data storage and retrieval systems
• Increased reliability and accuracy in error correction systems
• Potential for faster communication systems and high-performance computing

Abstract

The devices, methods, and apparatuses of the present disclosure address a lack of parallelism in a typical approach by eliminating the static mapping of the two or more low-density parity check (LDPC) engines to a plurality of flash controllers. The devices, methods, and apparatuses of the present disclosure include a dynamic LDPC mapping to the plurality of flash controllers.

Data Storage Device and Method for Enabling Metadata-Based Seek Points for Media Access (17839628)

Main Inventor

Ramkumar Ramamurthy

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a data storage device and method that enable quick access to specific points in media files based on metadata. The device includes a memory and a controller that identifies frames in video data that are significantly different from surrounding frames and stores their identifiers in the memory. These identifiers are then sent to the host, allowing for quick playback of the video data.

• The data storage device enables metadata-based seek points for media access.
• It identifies frames in video data that differ significantly from surrounding frames.
• The identifiers of these frames are stored in the memory of the device.
• The identifiers are sent to the host, enabling quick playback of the video data.
• The innovation can be used alone or in combination with other embodiments.

Potential Applications

• Media streaming platforms can use this technology to provide faster access to specific points in videos, improving user experience.
• Video editing software can benefit from quick access to specific frames, making the editing process more efficient.
• Video surveillance systems can use this technology to quickly search for specific events or incidents in recorded footage.

Problems Solved

• Traditional methods of seeking through media files can be time-consuming and inefficient.
• Without metadata-based seek points, users have to manually search through the entire video to find specific frames.
• This technology solves the problem of slow access to specific points in media files, improving efficiency and user experience.

Benefits

• Quick access to specific frames in media files improves the overall user experience.
• The technology reduces the time and effort required to find and play specific parts of a video.
• It enhances the efficiency of video editing and surveillance systems by providing faster access to relevant frames.

Abstract

A data storage device and method for enabling metadata-based seek points for media access are provided. In one embodiment, a data storage device is provided comprising a memory and a controller. The controller is configured to identify a plurality , of frames in video data that differ from surrounding frames by more than a threshold amount; store identifiers of the plurality of frames in the memory; and send the identifiers to the host to enable quick playback of the video data by the host. Other embodiments are possible, and each of the embodiments can be used alone or together in combination.