Scripting language-based network tracking method from schematic diagram to layout

Through the scripting language-based network tracking method, the complexity, version compatibility and custom configuration requirements of network tracking in integrated circuit design are solved, efficient and accurate network tracking is achieved, and the requirements of different software versions are adapted.

CN119885980APending Publication Date: 2025-04-25SHANGHAI XINSHI MICROELECTRONICS TECHNOLOGY CO LTD
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202411970101.1
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Applications(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2024-12-30
Publication Date
2025-04-25

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

In integrated circuit design, existing network tracking methods are difficult to ensure high efficiency while ensuring tracking accuracy and consistency, and there are problems such as version compatibility issues and custom configuration requirements that are not fully supported.

Method used

The network tracking method based on scripting language is adopted, and network tracking scripts are enabled through shortcut keys and function call modules. The version information of the Cadence software is obtained based on the software version and the optimal tracking method selection module, and the user-defined parameters are obtained based on the custom network tracking and display module, and the network tracking results are obtained and feedback in real time through the tracking result feedback and update module.

Benefits of technology

It realizes the precise control of network tracking using custom parameters and optimization algorithms, ensures the consistency and accuracy of design, adapts to the flexibility of different software versions, and provides personalized network tracking and display settings.

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Abstract

The invention relates to a network tracking method from a schematic diagram to a layout based on a scripting language, and belongs to the technical field of integrated circuit design and electronic engineering. The method comprises the following steps: starting a network tracking script or function and loading current schematic diagram view information through a shortcut key and a function calling module; a module is selected based on the software version and the optimal tracking method, and version information of Cadence software is obtained; based on a user-defined network tracking and display module, obtaining a user-defined network tracking starting layer, a user-defined network tracking stopping layer, a user-defined network tracking rule and a user-defined display effect setting; and based on a tracking result feedback and updating module, obtaining a network tracking result and performing real-time feedback. The invention provides a flexible and efficient network tracking method, tracking parameters can be customized according to personalized requirements of a user, meanwhile, operability and accuracy of a tracking result are improved by a real-time feedback function, and working efficiency in an integrated circuit design process is remarkably improved.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of integrated circuit design, and in particular to a network tracing method from a schematic diagram to a layout based on a scripting language. Background Art

[0002] In integrated circuit design, the conversion and association between schematics and layouts is a crucial task. The schematic is a description of the electrical connections of the integrated circuit, while the layout is the actual physical layout design. NetTracing, as the core technology connecting schematics and layouts, is usually used to ensure accurate mapping from schematics to layouts and consistency of design data. However, existing network tracing methods often face the following technical challenges:

[0003] Complexity and accuracy issues: In large-scale integrated circuit design, the network tracing process between the schematic and the layout is complex and involves a large amount of components, connections, and hierarchical information. Existing technologies make it difficult to ensure accuracy and consistency in tracing while ensuring efficiency.

[0004] Version compatibility issues: Different versions of design software may have functional differences, resulting in incompatibility issues in the selection and execution of tracking methods, thus affecting the quality and efficiency of tracking.

[0005] Custom configuration requirements: For different design projects, users often need to customize network tracing parameters according to specific needs, including tracing start layer, stop layer, rule settings, and display effects. Existing technologies fail to fully support flexible custom configuration and personalized tracing optimization.

[0006] Therefore, how to use custom parameters and optimization algorithms to achieve precise control of network tracking while ensuring high efficiency and accuracy has become a major problem in current integrated circuit design. Summary of the invention

[0007] A network tracing method from schematic to layout based on scripting language is used to solve the problem of how to achieve efficient and accurate network tracking and updating based on the network tracing needs between schematic and layout, using custom parameters and optimization algorithms to ensure the design consistency and accuracy from schematic to layout.

[0008] In order to solve the above technical problems, the present invention provides a network tracing method from schematic diagram to layout based on scripting language, comprising:

[0009] Use shortcut keys and function call modules to enable network tracing scripts and / or functions and load the current schematic view information;

[0010] Select modules based on software version and optimal tracking method to obtain Cadence software version information;

[0011] Based on the custom network tracking and display module, obtain the user-defined network tracking start layer, stop layer, tracking rules and display effect settings;

[0012] Based on the tracking result feedback and update module, network tracking results are obtained and real-time feedback is provided.

[0013] Furthermore, the step of enabling the network tracking script and / or function specifically includes:

[0014] Receive a shortcut key signal triggered by a user, and load the required network tracking function according to the shortcut key signal;

[0015] Calls predefined network tracing scripts and / or functions.

[0016] Furthermore, the step of loading the current schematic view information specifically includes:

[0017] Call the window identity information acquisition function of the schematic view to obtain the component and network connection information in the schematic view;

[0018] The information is stored in a tracking data structure.

[0019] Furthermore, the step of obtaining the version information of the Cadence software specifically includes:

[0020] Call the software version detection module to extract the current Cadence software version information;

[0021] Determine whether the version supports NetTracer and / or Mark function set, and input the result into the subsequent tracing process.

[0022] Furthermore, the judging step specifically includes:

[0023] Compare the current Cadence version number with the preset version support list;

[0024] If the current version supports NetTracer, NetTracer is preferred; if not, the Mark function set is used.

[0025] Furthermore, the step of obtaining user-defined network tracking start layer, stop layer, tracking rules and display effect settings specifically includes:

[0026] Read tracking parameters entered by the user through the interface or script;

[0027] The parameters are stored as a tracking configuration to control the hierarchy, rules, and display effects of network tracking.

[0028] Furthermore, the tracking rules include:

[0029] Cross-layer tracing rules, connection prioritization rules, and specific network exclusion rules.

[0030] Furthermore, the step of obtaining network tracking results and providing real-time feedback specifically includes:

[0031] Call the tracking result generation module to obtain the network tracking path and connection information;

[0032] The tracking path is fed back in real time through the display module, and the tracking result is highlighted according to the display effect set by the user.

[0033] Furthermore, the step of real-time feedback also includes:

[0034] While feeding back the tracking results, the connection information in the layout view is updated in real time;

[0035] Adjust tracking parameters and update feedback content based on user interactions.

[0036] Furthermore, the network tracing method from schematic to layout based on scripting language further includes:

[0037] Generate a consistency verification report based on the comparison of the tracking results and the current layout status;

[0038] The report is saved as part of the project design file to record the historical status of network tracing.

[0039] The key innovative features of the present invention include:

[0040] (1) Software version and tracking method selection module: It can automatically select the most suitable tracking method according to different Cadence software versions, improving compatibility and adaptability of the method.

[0041] (2) Customized network tracking and display module: allows users to adjust tracking parameters according to specific needs, enhancing flexibility and personalized settings.

[0042] The following are its main beneficial effects:

[0043] (1) Efficient view switching and tracing process: By introducing shortcut keys and view switching modules, users can quickly obtain schematic view information and easily switch to the corresponding layout view through custom shortcut keys. Compared with the cumbersome process of manually switching views in traditional methods, the present invention provides a more efficient and convenient operation method, which significantly improves the work efficiency of designers when performing network tracing.

[0044] (2) Flexibility to adapt to different software versions: Based on the software version and the optimal tracking method selection module, the present invention can automatically identify and obtain the version information of the current Cadence software, thereby selecting the network tracking method that best suits the version. This innovation solves the compatibility problem of different versions of software, allowing the present invention to run stably in different working environments, avoiding the functional incompatibility or low efficiency caused by version differences in traditional methods.

[0045] (3) Personalized network tracking and display settings: By customizing the network tracking and display module, users can flexibly configure the network tracking start layer, stop layer, tracking rules and display effect settings according to the specific needs of the project. This highly customized function can meet different design requirements, greatly improve the accuracy and flexibility of network tracking, and avoid the limitation of fixed parameters in traditional methods that cannot meet complex design requirements. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0046] Figure 1 A flowchart of a network tracing method from a schematic diagram to a layout based on a scripting language is provided in an embodiment of the present application. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0047] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as those commonly understood by technicians in the technical field of the present application; the terms used in the specification of the application herein are only for the purpose of describing specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the present application; the terms "including" and "having" and any variations thereof in the specification and claims of the present application and the above-mentioned drawings are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusions. The terms "first", "second", etc. in the specification and claims of the present application or the above-mentioned drawings are used to distinguish different objects, not to describe a specific order.

[0048] Reference to "embodiments" herein means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in conjunction with the embodiments may be included in at least one embodiment of the present application. The appearance of the phrase in various locations in the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor is it an independent or alternative embodiment that is mutually exclusive with other embodiments. It is explicitly and implicitly understood by those skilled in the art that the embodiments described herein may be combined with other embodiments.

[0049] Example 1: Reference Figure 1 , is a flowchart of a network tracing method from a schematic diagram to a layout based on a scripting language provided by an embodiment of the present invention, and the process may at least include steps S100-S400:

[0050] S100, using shortcut keys and function call modules, enabling network tracking scripts or functions and loading current schematic view information;

[0051] S200, selecting a module based on the software version and the optimal tracking method, and obtaining version information of the Cadence software;

[0052] S300, based on the customized network tracking and display module, obtaining the user-defined network tracking start layer, stop layer, tracking rules and display effect settings;

[0053] S400: Based on the tracking result feedback and update module, the network tracking result is obtained and real-time feedback is provided.

[0054] Step S100 at least includes steps S110-S130:

[0055] S110, obtaining current schematic view information, identifying and recording identity information of each element in the current schematic view.

[0056] In step S110, first, the information of the current schematic view needs to be obtained. Specifically, based on Cadence's internal tools and commands (such as geGetWindowCellView), the window identity information of the current schematic and the related CellName information are obtained. The element identity information in the schematic view includes each component (such as resistors, capacitors, transistors, etc.) and the network (net) information connected to it. By identifying and recording this identity information, key information can be provided for subsequent layout view switching.

[0057] The specific steps are as follows:

[0058] Get schematic view information: Get the window identity information (ID) of the currently opened schematic view through the tool function in Cadence (such as geGetWindowCellView). This information includes the CellName (name of the circuit cell), CellViewType (view type, such as schematic or layout) of the current view, and other parameters related to the current view.

[0059] Record the element information of the schematic view: Get the identity information of the currently selected unit (such as netlist information, component identifier, etc.) by calling functions such as geGetSelSet. Specifically, the system records the obtained component identity information into a data structure, which will be used to track the network connection relationship between the schematic and the layout.

[0060] Record connection information: Extract the selected netname information through the indicator-->car function, and record the network connection information associated with the current element. This step ensures that the connection relationship between networks can be accurately tracked to prepare for subsequent layout view switching.

[0061] In this step, the input data mainly comes from various element identity information of the schematic view (such as component and network connection information), and all relevant parameters in the schematic view identified by this information.

[0062] S120: According to the user-defined shortcut key configuration, determine whether the user has triggered an operation to enable the network tracking function.

[0063] The core task of step S120 is to determine whether the user has triggered the function activation operation according to the user-defined shortcut key configuration. If the user has triggered the shortcut key operation, the network tracking process will be entered. To this end, it is necessary to check whether the system has received the corresponding shortcut key signal and execute the corresponding network tracking function based on the signal.

[0064] The specific steps are as follows:

[0065] Determine whether the shortcut key is triggered: By setting a custom shortcut key in Cadence (for example, using the hiSetBindKey function), the system will monitor whether the user-defined shortcut key is pressed. If the shortcut key is triggered, the layout view switching process will be started. If the shortcut key is not triggered, the current schematic view remains unchanged.

[0066] Execute view switching: Once the user triggers the shortcut key, the system will determine whether the current window is a schematic view. The identity information of the current window (such as CellName information) is obtained through the geGetWindowCellView function. If the current view is a schematic view, the subsequent view switching operation is performed to switch the view to the corresponding layout view.

[0067] Trigger shortcut key condition judgment: By monitoring user-defined shortcut key events and combining the system's built-in shortcut key management tool, it is determined whether the user has triggered a version-specific view switching operation. If triggered, the system will select and load the appropriate layout view based on the subsequent steps.

[0068] In this step, the input data comes from the user-defined shortcut key settings, and the output result is to determine whether the shortcut key is triggered to decide whether to enter the network tracking process.

[0069] S130. If the user triggers a shortcut key operation, the layout view corresponding to the schematic diagram is automatically switched to, the view information is updated, and a version compatibility check is performed to prepare for further operations on the layout view.

[0070] The core task of step S130 is to automatically switch to the layout view corresponding to the schematic after the user triggers the shortcut key operation, update the view information, and check the compatibility of the Cadence software version to ensure that the layout view can be loaded smoothly. This step realizes the automatic switching and updating of the view, and prepares for the subsequent network tracing operation.

[0071] The specific steps are as follows:

[0072] Switch to the corresponding layout view: First, the system searches for the layout view corresponding to the CellName in the currently opened window based on the CellName information of the schematic view. If the corresponding layout view is found, the system sets the view as the current active window through the hiSetCurrentWindow function. If the layout view is not found, the system automatically loads the corresponding layout view and sets it as the active window.

[0073] Update view information: After switching to the layout view, the system will update the relevant information in the layout view, including window ID, view type (such as layout), element identity information, etc. This information will be recorded and used for subsequent network tracing operations. The updated view information will ensure that subsequent operations can correctly map the network connections in the schematic.

[0074] Perform version compatibility check: After switching to the layout view, the system will check the Cadence software version to determine whether the current version supports Net Tracer or Mark function set. If the current version supports Net Tracer, this method is used first; if not, the Mark function set is used for network tracing. This step ensures that the system can automatically select the best network tracing method based on function support in different versions of Cadence.

[0075] Prepare for further operations of the layout view: After completing the view switching and version check, the system will prepare all the parameters required for network tracing, including network name, tracing hierarchy, tracing rules, and display effects. These parameters will be adjusted through user-defined settings to ensure that subsequent network tracing operations meet user needs.

[0076] In this step, the input data includes the CellName of the schematic view, the window ID of the layout view, and the software version information. The output result is the switched layout view and the updated view information, preparing for subsequent tracking operations.

[0077] Step S200 at least includes steps S210-S230:

[0078] S210, obtaining the version information of the currently used Cadence software, and determining whether the software version supports the Net Tracer or Mark function set through a built-in function.

[0079] In step S210, the system first needs to obtain the version information of the currently running Cadence software through the built-in Cadence function. This version information is the key to determine whether the Net Tracer or Mark function set is supported, and directly affects the selection of subsequent tracing methods. Cadence software supports different tracing methods (such as Net Tracer and Mark function sets), which are applicable to different versions of Cadence software. The system determines whether the Net Tracer function set can be used by judging the current software version.

[0080] The specific steps are as follows:

[0081] Get software version information: By calling built-in functions in Cadence (such as dbGetVersion or getVersion), the system will obtain the version number and related version information of the current Cadence environment. This information includes key information such as the major version number, minor version number, and revision number.

[0082] Determine software version support: Once the software version information is obtained, the system will use conditional judgment (such as if statement) to determine whether the current software version supports the Net Tracer function set based on the preset version support list. If supported, the system will continue to use the Net Tracer method for subsequent operations; if not, it will switch to the Mark function set for tracing operations. At this time, the system will use the if statement to determine the current version number to determine whether it is greater than or equal to the minimum version number required to support Net Tracer.

[0083] Output version judgment result: Finally, the system will record the version judgment result and use it as the basis for subsequent operations. If the Cadence version supports Net Tracer, the system will select the Net Tracer method; if not, it will automatically switch to the Mark function set for network tracing.

[0084] In this step, the input data is the version information of the current Cadence software. Based on this information, the system determines whether the Net Tracer or Mark function set is supported and provides decision support for subsequent operations.

[0085] S220. According to the obtained software version information, a suitable tracing method is selected. If the software version supports NetTracer, this method is selected first. If not, the Mark function set is used for tracing.

[0086] The main task of module S220 is to select a suitable network tracing method based on the Cadence software version information obtained in step S210. If the Cadence version supports the Net Tracer function set, the system will give priority to this method; if the Cadence version does not support Net Tracer, the system will use the Mark function set for tracing. The Net Tracer method generally supports more efficient network tracing, while the Mark function set is suitable for older versions of software that do not support Net Tracer.

[0087] The specific steps are as follows:

[0088] Select the tracing method: Based on the version information obtained in step S210, the system will make a judgment. If the current Cadence version meets the minimum version requirement of Net Tracer (for example, the version number is greater than or equal to 6.0), the system selects Net Tracer as the tracing method. Net Tracer has higher tracing efficiency and can support complex network tracing operations. If the current software version does not support Net Tracer (the version number is lower than 6.0), the system will select the Mark function set for network tracing by default.

[0089] Setting the trace method flag: Based on the result of software version determination, the system will set a trace method flag (eg, traceMethod = 'NetTracer' or traceMethod = 'Mark'). This flag will be used to determine which trace method to use when initializing the trace parameters in the subsequent steps.

[0090] Output tracking method selection result: After this step is completed, the system will determine the tracking method to be used based on the software version support, and output it to the subsequent steps to initialize the tracking parameters. This selection result will affect the execution method and parameter settings of the tracking process in the subsequent steps.

[0091] In this step, the input data includes the software version information obtained in step S210, and the output result is the tracing method selection (Net Tracer or Mark function set) determined according to the version information.

[0092] S230: Initialize the relevant parameters of network tracking according to the selected tracking method, and prepare the tracking level, connection rules and display effect settings required for tracking.

[0093] The main task of step S230 is to initialize the relevant parameters required for network tracing according to the tracing method selected in S220. Different tracing methods (Net Tracer or Mark function set) may require different parameter configurations. The system initializes the hierarchy, connection rules and display effect settings required for tracing according to the selected tracing method, preparing for the specific operation of network tracing.

[0094] The specific steps are as follows:

[0095] Initialize the tracing hierarchy: Depending on the tracing method, the system will initialize the hierarchy required for network tracing. For example, if the Net Tracer method is used, the system will determine which layers participate in network tracing based on the hierarchy in the design (such as M1, M2, M3, etc.). For the Mark function set, you may need to manually specify the tracing hierarchy. The system will call functions such as dbSetSoftConnectTermConnectToLayer to initialize these layers.

[0096] Set connection rules: According to the selected tracking method, the system also needs to initialize the network connection rules. These rules usually include the connection method of the network and the connection type of the components (such as same-layer connection, cross-layer connection, etc.). The system will set the network tracking rules according to the electrical rules in the current design to ensure that the tracking results accurately reflect the actual connection situation in the design. At this time, the system will call functions such as dbSetSoftConnectTermPinlessLayer to set the connection rules.

[0097] Setting display effects: The tracing results need to be accurate and have good display effects. The system will set the display effects of the tracing results according to the user's needs, such as displaying the tracing path, error markers, warnings, etc. If NetTracer is used, the display effect settings are usually more detailed, while the display effects may be simplified when the Mark function set is used. The system will call functions such as leHiDisplayTechGraphFrom to set the display effects, such as path color, layer transparency, etc.

[0098] Output tracking parameter settings: After this step is completed, the system will prepare all the parameters required for tracking (such as hierarchy, connection rules, display effects, etc.) according to the selected tracking method and configured parameters. These parameters will serve as input data for subsequent network tracking operations to ensure that the tracking process can proceed smoothly as expected.

[0099] In this step, the input data includes the tracking method selected in step S220 and the hierarchical information, connection rule information and display effect settings in the network design, and the output result is the initialized network tracking parameters, ready for subsequent operations.

[0100] Step S300 at least includes steps S310-S330:

[0101] S300: Based on the customized network tracking and display module, obtain the user-defined network tracking start layer, stop layer, tracking rules and display effect settings.

[0102] In the S300 module, the system's task is to obtain user-defined network tracking parameters. These parameters include the starting layer, stop layer, tracking rules, and display effect settings of the network tracking. These user-defined parameters will determine the specific execution method of subsequent network tracking operations to ensure that network tracking can be carried out according to user needs and design requirements.

[0103] Specifically, the system receives the custom parameters input by the user through the script or graphical interface to form a data set containing all necessary configurations. This data set will serve as the input for subsequent network tracing operations.

[0104] S310, obtaining the network tracking custom parameters set by the user through the script, including the starting layer, the stopping layer, the tracking rules and the display effect.

[0105] In step S310, the system will obtain user-defined network tracking parameters through the interface or script that interacts with the user. The user can set the starting layer, stop layer, tracking rules and display effects of network tracking through the graphical interface or programming script. These customized parameters are the core of the network tracking operation, and they will directly affect the execution process of network tracking.

[0106] The specific steps are as follows:

[0107] Get the start layer and stop layer: The user first defines the start layer (for example, starting from the M1 layer) and the stop layer (for example, until the M6 ​​layer) of the network trace. The system reads the layer information entered by the user in the interface or script and stores these layer parameters in the memory. Specifically, the system obtains the set start layer and stop layer by calling functions such as leHiDisplayStartRouterForm and leStartRouter.

[0108] Get tracing rules: Users further define network tracing rules in the script or interface, such as whether to perform cross-layer tracing, whether to group by layer, etc. These rules will determine how to handle connections between layers during network tracing. The system obtains these rules by calling corresponding functions (such as dbSetSoftConnectTermPinlessLayer) and stores them in the tracing parameter configuration.

[0109] Get display effect settings: Users can also customize display effects, such as highlighting the traced path on the board, showing the connection relationship of the network during the trace process, etc. The system will obtain the display options set by the user on the interface, including color, line thickness, etc., and store them in the display effect configuration. At this time, the system will call a function (such as leHiDisplayTechGraphFrom) to obtain these display settings and save them as part of the tracking configuration.

[0110] Output custom parameter set: All obtained custom parameters (start layer, stop layer, tracking rules, display effect) will be integrated into a parameter set and provide input data for the execution of subsequent steps.

[0111] In step S310 , the input data includes user-defined network tracing parameters, and the output result is a set of user-defined parameters including a start layer, a stop layer, tracing rules, and a display effect.

[0112] S320. Based on the user-defined parameters, call the relevant functions of the Net Tracer or Mark function set to perform the network tracing operation.

[0113] In step S320, the system selects a suitable tracing method according to the custom parameters obtained in step S310, and calls the corresponding function to perform the network tracing operation. The selected tracing method may be Net Tracer (if the software version supports it) or Mark function set (if Net Tracer is not available). The system will call the corresponding function to start the network tracing process according to the custom start layer, stop layer, tracing rules and display effect configuration.

[0114] The specific steps are as follows:

[0115] Select the tracing method: According to the tracing method (Net Tracer or Mark function set) selected in step S220, the system will select and initialize the corresponding function in this step. If the user-defined parameters use Net Tracer related functions, the system will call the NetTracer::lntAddTrace function; if the Mark function set is used, the Mark::LeMark function will be called for tracing.

[0116] Perform network tracing operations: The system will perform network tracing operations within the specified layer range based on the user-defined start layer and stop layer. Specifically, the system will use functions such as leHiDisplayStartRouterForm and leStartRouter to set the start layer and stop layer of the trace, and then start the network tracing. During the tracing process, the system will process each component and its connection in the network according to the tracing rules set by the user (such as cross-layer tracing, whether to ignore certain specific connections).

[0117] Update tracking parameters and rules: During the tracking process, the system will update the tracking rules in real time, such as automatically adjusting the tracking rules when a new layer or connection type is detected. At this time, the system will call functions such as ciListProcessRules to ensure that the tracking operation complies with the rules set by the user.

[0118] Generate tracing results: After the network tracing process is completed, the system will generate tracing results according to the preset rules and display effect settings, and prepare for visual display. The system will save the tracing results (such as each tracing path, connection relationship, and network topology between levels) as available data for subsequent processing steps.

[0119] In step S320, the input data includes the set of custom parameters obtained in step S310 (including the start layer, stop layer, tracking rules, and display effects). The output result is the preliminary result of the network tracking, ready to enter the next step of display update.

[0120] S330. During the tracking operation, the layout view is updated in real time to highlight and display the connection relationship of the tracked network.

[0121] In step S330, the system needs to update the layout view in real time, display the connection relationship of the tracked network, and highlight the tracking path. The purpose of this process is to visualize the tracking results so that users can clearly see the network connection status during the tracking process. The system dynamically displays in the layout view by calling the corresponding display update function.

[0122] The specific steps are as follows:

[0123] Real-time update of the layout view: During the network tracing process, the system needs to continuously update the layout view to display the latest tracing results. Specifically, the system will call the lxHiUpdateCellViewPair function to dynamically update the graphic elements in the layout view based on the path and connection relationship of the network tracing.

[0124] Highlight the trace path: According to the display effect settings obtained in S310, the system will highlight the current trace path. Specifically, the system can change the color or line thickness of the trace path in the layout view by calling functions such as lnAddTrace to ensure that the user can clearly see the currently traced path and network connections. At this time, the system updates the display effect according to the current state of the trace (such as setting the path color through the lntSetTraceColor function).

[0125] Display network connection relationship: During the tracing process, the system will display the connection relationship of the traced network in real time. For example, when a network is traced from layer M1 to layer M2, the system will display the connection between the layers in the layout and dynamically adjust it when necessary. These connection relationships and layer information are displayed by calling functions such as ciGetConnectInsts to clearly present the connection topology of the network.

[0126] Update display content: As the tracking operation progresses, the display content in the layout view needs to be continuously updated to ensure that the tracking path and network connection relationship reflect the tracking progress in real time. The system ensures that the layout view is synchronized with the tracking operation by periodically calling update functions, such as ciRefreshCellView.

[0127] In step S330, the input data includes the tracking results obtained in step S320 and the display effect settings in step S310, and the output result is a dynamically updated layout view that clearly shows the connection relationship and path of the tracked network.

[0128] Step S400 at least includes steps S410-S430:

[0129] S410 , obtaining tracking result data, including the network tracking path, layer, and highlighted network information, and generating a feedback result sequence.

[0130] In step S410, the system obtains the completed network tracing results, which include network paths, layer information, and traced network highlight data. These tracing results will serve as the basis for subsequent updates to the layout view and display effects.

[0131] The specific operations are as follows:

[0132] Get network tracing path: The system obtains the path information of all network connections by calling the tracing function (such as lntGetTraceInfo). This path information contains all the connection paths from the starting layer to the stopping layer, reflecting the connection relationship between different components. The system sorts out the path sequence through the data generated during the tracing process (such as network nodes, connecting lines, path segments, etc.) to form the path data of network tracing.

[0133] Get network hierarchy information: When the system performs network tracing, it obtains the hierarchy information of each network connection to ensure that the correct hierarchy is displayed in the layout. The system obtains the hierarchy to which each tracing path belongs by calling functions (such as ciGetConnectInsts) and stores this hierarchy information as part of the tracing results. Specifically, the system records which paths belong to which layer to ensure that the tracing results can correctly reflect the relationship between the layers.

[0134] Get highlighted network information: According to the display effect set by the user in step S310 (such as highlighting the tracking path, connection relationship, etc.), the system will extract and save the highlighted network information. Specifically, the system obtains the highlighted data by calling a function (such as geGetHightObjectFigId), determines which paths need to be highlighted in the layout view, and sets the highlight color, width and other display effects.

[0135] Generate feedback result sequence: The system organizes the network path, hierarchical information and highlighted network data obtained above into a feedback result sequence. This sequence is the input data of the feedback module for real-time updating of the layout view in subsequent steps.

[0136] In step S410, the input data includes the aforementioned network tracing path, hierarchical information and display effect settings, and the output result is a sequence of feedback results of the network tracing, which provides basic data for subsequent updating of the layout view.

[0137] S420. Update the network connection information and display effect in the current layout view in real time according to the feedback tracking result.

[0138] In step S420, the system uses the feedback result sequence generated in step S410 to update the network connection information in the current layout view and updates the visual presentation of the tracking results according to the display effect set by the user. The goal of the system is to ensure that all network connection relationships and display effects in the layout are always consistent with the network tracking results.

[0139] The specific operations are as follows:

[0140] Real-time update of network connection information: The system uses the path and layer information in the feedback result sequence to update the network connection information in the layout view in real time. Specifically, the system calls functions (such as dbSetSoftConnectTermPinlessLayer) to update each network connection line and node in the layout to ensure that the tracking results match the actual connection relationship in the layout. Based on the path data and layer information in the feedback results, the system gradually adds, modifies or deletes connection lines in the layout to ensure that the network topology displayed in the layout is consistent with the tracking path.

[0141] Update display effects: Based on the highlight information extracted in step S410, the system will highlight the tracking path. Specifically, the system calls the display function (such as leHiDisplayTechGraphFrom) to adjust the color, thickness and other visual attributes in the layout view according to the display effect data in the feedback result, so that the tracking path stands out in the layout. At this time, the system will adjust the display status of the network path in real time according to the display effects defined by the user (such as highlight color, line width, etc.) to ensure that the tracking results can be clearly displayed to the user.

[0142] Optimize display effect and visual Figure 1 Consistency: The system will continuously optimize the updated display to ensure that the highlighted paths are exactly the same as the connections in the actual layout. Specifically, the system will continuously evaluate the difference between the layout view and the trace results, and adjust the display to keep the two consistent. For example, when a new network path is traced, the system will automatically adjust the layout view to show the new connection relationship.

[0143] In step S420, the input data comes from the feedback result sequence of step S410 (including network path, hierarchy information and highlight display data), and the output result is an updated layout view, in which all network connection information and display effects are consistent with the tracking results.

[0144] S430: During the layout design process, each time the view is switched or the user operates, the tracking results are automatically updated and feedback is performed to continuously maintain the accuracy and consistency of the layout design.

[0145] In step S430, the system needs to ensure the accuracy and consistency of the layout design, especially when the user operates or switches the view, the system will automatically perform the update and feedback operation of the tracking result. Whenever the user switches the view or performs other operations, the system will update the layout view based on the current network tracking results to ensure that the tracked path and network connection relationship are always consistent.

[0146] The specific operations are as follows:

[0147] Update tracking results when switching views: When the user switches views during layout design, the system needs to automatically update the tracking results to ensure that the network connection information in the view always reflects the current tracking status. Specifically, the system listens to view switching events and calls an update function (such as ciRefreshCellView) each time a switch occurs to reload and update the network connections and display effects in the layout view.

[0148] Automatic feedback of tracking results when users operate: When users perform certain operations (such as adding, deleting, or moving components) during the layout design process, the system will detect these operations and automatically perform feedback operations on the tracking results. Specifically, the system captures user operation events, updates the tracking results in a timely manner, and feeds them back to the layout view. At this time, the system calls feedback functions (such as ciCacheNeedRefresh) to recalculate the tracking results and update the network connection relationships in the layout.

[0149] Maintaining the consistency of the layout design: Whenever the user switches views or performs operations, the system ensures that the design in the layout remains consistent. Specifically, the system monitors the layout design status in real time to ensure that the network paths and connection relationships in the layout view are updated in a timely manner after each view switch or user operation, making the design accurate and correct. At this time, the system uses callback functions (such as ciRefreshCellView) to ensure that the layout view is always synchronized with the tracking results.

[0150] In step S430, the input data includes the network tracking data updated in step S420, and the output result is the layout view updated according to user operations and view switching, always ensuring the accuracy and consistency of the layout design and the network tracking results.

[0151] The following are its main beneficial effects:

[0152] (1) Efficient view switching and tracing process: By introducing shortcut keys and view switching modules, users can quickly obtain schematic view information and easily switch to the corresponding layout view through custom shortcut keys. Compared with the cumbersome process of manually switching views in traditional methods, the present invention provides a more efficient and convenient operation method, which significantly improves the work efficiency of designers when performing network tracing.

[0153] (2) Flexibility to adapt to different software versions: Based on the software version and the optimal tracking method selection module, the present invention can automatically identify and obtain the version information of the current Cadence software, thereby selecting the network tracking method that best suits the version. This innovation solves the compatibility problem of different versions of software, allowing the present invention to run stably in different working environments, avoiding the functional incompatibility or low efficiency caused by version differences in traditional methods.

[0154] (3) Personalized network tracking and display settings: By customizing the network tracking and display module, users can flexibly configure the network tracking start layer, stop layer, tracking rules and display effect settings according to the specific needs of the project. This highly customized function can meet different design requirements, greatly improve the accuracy and flexibility of network tracking, and avoid the limitation of fixed parameters in traditional methods that cannot meet complex design requirements.

[0155] Obviously, the embodiments described above are only some embodiments of the present application, rather than all embodiments. The preferred embodiments of the present application are given in the accompanying drawings, but they do not limit the patent scope of the present application. The present application can be implemented in many different forms. On the contrary, the purpose of providing these embodiments is to make the understanding of the disclosure of the present application more thorough and comprehensive. Although the present application is described in detail with reference to the aforementioned embodiments, for those skilled in the art, it is still possible to modify the technical solutions recorded in the aforementioned specific implementation methods, or to replace some of the technical features therein with equivalents. Any equivalent structure made using the contents of the specification and drawings of this application, directly or indirectly used in other related technical fields, is also within the scope of patent protection of this application.

Claims

1. A network tracing method from schematic to layout based on scripting language, characterized in that: The method comprises: Use shortcut keys and function call modules to enable network tracing scripts and / or functions and load the current schematic view information; Select modules based on software version and optimal tracking method to obtain Cadence software version information; Based on the custom network tracking and display module, obtain the user-defined network tracking start layer, stop layer, tracking rules and display effect settings; Based on the tracking result feedback and update module, network tracking results are obtained and real-time feedback is provided.

2. The network tracing method from schematic diagram to layout based on scripting language according to claim 1, characterized in that: The steps of enabling the network tracking script and / or function specifically include: Receive a shortcut key signal triggered by a user, and load the required network tracking function according to the shortcut key signal; Calls predefined network tracing scripts and / or functions.

3. The network tracing method from schematic diagram to layout based on scripting language according to claim 2, characterized in that: The step of loading the current schematic view information specifically includes: Call the window identity information acquisition function of the schematic view to obtain the component and network connection information in the schematic view; The information is stored in a tracking data structure.

4. The network tracing method from schematic diagram to layout based on scripting language according to claim 1, characterized in that: The step of obtaining the version information of the Cadence software specifically includes: Call the software version detection module to extract the current Cadence software version information; Determine whether the version supports NetTracer and / or Mark function set, and input the result into the subsequent tracing process.

5. The network tracing method from schematic diagram to layout based on scripting language according to claim 4, characterized in that: The judging step specifically includes: Compare the current Cadence version number with the preset version support list; If the current version supports NetTracer, NetTracer is preferred; if not, the Mark function set is used.

6. The network tracing method from schematic diagram to layout based on scripting language according to claim 1, characterized in that: The step of obtaining the user-defined network tracking start layer, stop layer, tracking rules and display effect settings specifically includes: Read tracking parameters entered by the user through the interface or script; The parameters are stored as a tracking configuration to control the hierarchy, rules, and display effects of network tracking.

7. The network tracing method from schematic diagram to layout based on scripting language according to claim 6, characterized in that: The tracking rules include: Cross-layer tracing rules, connection prioritization rules, and specific network exclusion rules.

8. The network tracing method from schematic diagram to layout based on scripting language according to claim 1, characterized in that: The step of obtaining network tracking results and providing real-time feedback specifically includes: Call the tracking result generation module to obtain the network tracking path and connection information; The tracking path is fed back in real time through the display module, and the tracking result is highlighted according to the display effect set by the user.

9. The network tracing method from schematic diagram to layout based on scripting language according to claim 8, characterized in that: The step of real-time feedback also includes: While feeding back the tracking results, the connection information in the layout view is updated in real time; Adjust tracking parameters and update feedback content based on user interactions.

10. The network tracing method from schematic diagram to layout based on scripting language according to claim 1, characterized in that: The method further comprises: Generate a consistency verification report based on the comparison of the tracking results and the current layout status; The report is saved as part of the project design file to record the historical status of network tracing.

Citation Information

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