Information processing system and information processing method

Abstract

To provide a novel data processing system that is highly convenient, useful, or reliable.SOLUTION: An information processing system is composed of the following three components. A first component receives characteristic information, creates a query via a preprocessing portion and a conversion portion, and transfers the query to a second component. The characteristic information includes a response curve, the preprocessing portion converts the response curve into a normalized curve, and the conversion portion converts the normalized curve into a feature vector. The second component receives the query, obtains a search result from a database using a search engine, and transfers the search result to a third component. The search result may include circuit design information in some cases. The third component receives the search result and makes a report. The report includes the circuit design information.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] One aspect of the present invention relates to an information processing system and an information processing method.

[0002] Note that one aspect of the present invention is not limited to the above technical field. The technical field of one aspect of the invention disclosed in this specification or the like relates to an article, a method, or a manufacturing method. Alternatively, one aspect of the present invention relates to a process, a machine, a manufacture, or a composition of matter. Therefore, more specifically, as the technical field of one aspect of the present invention disclosed in this specification, a semiconductor device, a display device, a light-emitting device, a power storage device, a storage device, a driving method thereof, or a manufacturing method thereof can be cited as an example.

Background Art

[0003] There are known a search system and a search method having means for inputting first circuit diagram information into a terminal, a database in which second circuit diagram information is registered, means for converting the input first circuit diagram information into a first graph, arithmetic means for calculating the similarity between the first graph and a second graph based on the second circuit diagram information, and means for displaying the similarity on the terminal (Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] One aspect of the present invention aims to provide a novel information processing system excellent in convenience, usefulness, or reliability. Or, one aspect of the present invention aims to provide a novel information processing method excellent in convenience, usefulness, or reliability. Or, one aspect of the present invention aims to provide a novel information processing system, a novel information processing method, or a novel semiconductor device.

[0006] Note that the description of these problems does not prevent the existence of other problems. Note that one aspect of the present invention does not necessarily need to solve all of these problems. Note that other problems will become apparent from the description in the specification, drawings, claims, etc., and it is possible to extract these other problems from the description in the specification, drawings, claims, etc.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] (1) One aspect of the present invention is an information processing system having a first component, a second component, and a third component.

[0008] The first component includes a function of receiving characteristic information, a preprocessing unit, a conversion unit, and a function of creating a query and passing it to the second component.

[0009] The characteristic information includes a first response curve, and the first response curve includes an independent variable and a dependent variable.

[0010] The preprocessing unit has a function of converting the first response curve into a normalized curve.

[0011] The conversion unit has a function of selecting a converter based on a combination of the independent variable and the dependent variable. The converter has a function of converting the normalized curve into a first feature vector, and the normalized curve includes an independent variable normalized to a first predetermined range and a dependent variable normalized to a second predetermined range.

[0012] The query passed to the second component includes the first feature vector.

[0013] The second component includes a function of receiving a query, a function of performing processing using a search engine, and a function of passing the search results to a third component.

[0014] The search engine has a function of obtaining search results from a database according to a query. The database stores records, and the records include circuit design information and a second feature vector associated with the circuit design information. Note that the search results include circuit design information associated with a second feature vector similar to the first feature vector.

[0015] The third component has a function of receiving the search results and creating a report. Note that the report includes circuit design information.

[0016] Thereby, the database can be searched using the first response curve. Also, circuit design information of a circuit having an operation similar to the operation represented by the first response curve can be found from the database. Also, for example, design information of circuits designed in the past can be stored in the database, and circuit design information of a circuit having an operation similar to the operation represented by the first response curve can be found. Also, for example, design information of circuits described in documents can be stored in the database, and circuit design information of a circuit having an operation similar to the operation represented by the first response curve can be found. Also, past knowledge can be effectively utilized. As a result, a novel information processing system excellent in convenience, usefulness, or reliability can be provided.

[0017] (2) Also, one aspect of the present invention is the above information processing system in which the circuit design information includes a circuit diagram.

[0018] (3) Also, one aspect of the present invention is the above information processing system in which the circuit design information includes a second response curve of an electronic circuit represented in a circuit diagram, and the report includes the circuit diagram and the second response curve.

[0019] As a result, it is possible to search a database for a circuit diagram of a circuit that performs an operation similar to the operation represented by the first response curve. Also, the second response curve can be viewed. Further, for example, circuit diagrams of circuits designed in the past are stored in a database, and it is possible to search the database for a circuit diagram of a circuit that performs an operation similar to the operation represented by the first response curve. Also, the second response curve can be viewed. Further, for example, design information of circuits published in literature is stored in a database, and it is possible to search for a circuit diagram of a circuit that performs an operation similar to the operation represented by the first response curve. Also, the second response curve can be viewed. Also, past findings can be effectively utilized. As a result, it is possible to provide a novel information processing system excellent in convenience, usefulness, or reliability.

[0020] (4) Another aspect of the present invention is the above-described information processing system having a fourth component and a fifth component.

[0021] The fourth component includes a function of delivering a device model to the fifth component and a function of receiving and providing a report.

[0022] The fifth component includes a function of receiving a device model and performing processing using an electronic circuit simulator, and a function of delivering characteristic information to the first component. The electronic circuit simulator includes a function of generating characteristic information from the device model.

[0023] The third component includes a function of delivering a report to the fourth component.

[0024] As a result, a first response curve can be generated using an electronic circuit simulator. Also, a first response curve can be generated from a device model. Further, a database can be searched using the generated first response curve. Moreover, circuit design information of a circuit that performs an operation similar to the operation represented by the generated first response curve can be retrieved from the database. Additionally, a report including the circuit design information retrieved from the database can be displayed on a fourth component. Also, past knowledge can be effectively utilized. Consequently, a novel information processing system excellent in convenience, usefulness, or reliability can be provided.

[0025] (5) Also, in one aspect of the present invention, the fourth component has a function of receiving a filtering condition and passing it to the first component, the first component has a function of receiving a filtering condition, and the query includes a filtering condition, which is the above information processing system.

[0026] As a result, circuit design information of a circuit that performs an operation similar to the operation represented by the generated first response curve can be retrieved from the database, and further, those that satisfy the filtering condition can be found. Also, a report including the circuit design information retrieved from the database can be displayed on the fourth component. Also, past knowledge can be effectively utilized. Consequently, a novel information processing system excellent in convenience, usefulness, or reliability can be provided.

[0027] (6) Also, in one aspect of the present invention, it is an information processing method having a first step to a sixth step.

[0028] In the first step, the first component receives characteristic information. Note that the characteristic information includes a response curve, and the response curve includes an independent variable and a dependent variable.

[0029] In the second step, the first component selects a transducer based on a combination of independent and dependent variables. The transducer has a function of converting a response curve into a first feature vector.

[0030] In the third step, the first component creates a query and passes the query to the second component. The query includes the first feature vector.

[0031] In the fourth step, the second component receives the query and uses a search engine to obtain search results from a database according to the query. The database stores records, and the records include circuit design information and a second feature vector associated with the circuit design information. The search results include circuit design information associated with a second feature vector similar to the first feature vector.

[0032] In the fifth step, the second component passes the search results to the third component.

[0033] In the sixth step, the third component receives the search results and creates a report from the search results. The report includes circuit design information.

[0034] Thereby, the database can be searched using the response curve. Also, circuit design information of a circuit that performs an operation similar to the operation represented by the response curve can be found from the database. Further, for example, circuit design information of circuits designed in the past can be stored in the database, and circuit design information of a circuit that performs an operation similar to the operation represented by the response curve can be found. Also, for example, circuit design information published in the literature can be stored in the database, and circuit design information of a circuit that performs an operation similar to the operation represented by the response curve can be found. Moreover, past knowledge can be effectively utilized. As a result, a novel information processing method excellent in convenience, usefulness, or reliability can be provided.

[0035] (7) Also, one aspect of the present invention is an information processing method having steps from the first step to the eleventh step.

[0036] In the first step, the first component receives a device model and passes it to the second component.

[0037] In the second step, the second component receives the device model and generates a response curve using an electronic circuit simulator.

[0038] In the third step, the second component passes the response curve to the third component.

[0039] In the fourth step, the third component receives characteristic information. The characteristic information includes a response curve, and the response curve includes an independent variable and a dependent variable.

[0040] In the fifth step, the third component selects a converter based on a combination of the independent variable and the dependent variable. The converter has a function of converting the response curve into a first feature vector.

[0041] In the sixth step, the third component creates a query and passes the query to the fourth component. The query includes the first feature vector.

[0042] In the seventh step, the fourth component receives the query and uses a search engine to obtain search results from a database according to the query. The database stores records, and the records include circuit design information and a second feature vector associated with the circuit design information. The search results include circuit design information associated with a second feature vector similar to the first feature vector.

[0043] In the eighth step, the fourth component passes the search results to the fifth component.

[0044] In the ninth step, the fifth component receives the search results and creates a report from the search results. Note that the report includes circuit design information.

[0045] In the tenth step, the fifth component passes the report to the first component.

[0046] In the eleventh step, the first component receives and provides the report.

[0047] Thereby, using an electronic circuit simulator, a response curve can be generated. Also, a response curve can be generated from a device model. Also, using the generated response curve, a database can be searched. Also, circuit design information of a circuit that performs an operation similar to the operation represented by the generated response curve can be found from the database. Also, a report including the circuit design information found from the database can be displayed on the first component. Also, past knowledge can be effectively utilized. As a result, a novel information processing method excellent in convenience, usefulness, or reliability can be provided.

[0048] In the drawings attached to this specification, the components are classified by function and shown as independent blocks in a block diagram. However, in reality, it is difficult to completely separate the components by function, and one component may be related to multiple functions.

Effect of the Invention

[0049] According to one aspect of the present invention, a novel information processing system excellent in convenience, usefulness, or reliability can be provided. Also, one aspect of the present invention can provide a novel information processing method excellent in convenience, usefulness, or reliability. Also, a novel information processing system can be provided. Also, a novel information processing method can be provided.

[0050] Note that the description of these effects does not preclude the existence of other effects. Note that one aspect of the present invention does not necessarily have to have all of these effects. Note that other effects will be apparent from the description in the specification, drawings, claims, etc., and it is possible to extract these other effects from the description in the specification, drawings, claims, etc.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0051]

Figure 1

Figure 2

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Figure 12

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0052] An information processing system according to an aspect of the present invention includes a first component, a second component, and a third component.

[0053] The first component includes a function of receiving characteristic information, a preprocessing unit, a conversion unit, and a function of creating a query and passing it to the second component. The characteristic information includes a first response curve, and the first response curve includes an independent variable and a dependent variable. The preprocessing unit has a function of converting the first response curve into a normalized curve, the conversion unit has a function of selecting a converter based on a combination of the independent variable and the dependent variable, and the converter has a function of converting the normalized curve into a first feature vector. Note that the normalized curve includes an independent variable normalized to a predetermined range and a dependent variable normalized to a predetermined range. Also, the query includes the first feature vector.

[0054] The second component includes a function of receiving a query, a function of performing processing using a search engine, and a function of passing the search result to the third component. The search engine has a function of obtaining a search result from a database according to the query, and the database stores records, and the records include circuit design information and a second feature vector associated with the circuit design information. Note that when the second feature vector is similar to the first feature vector, the search result includes the circuit design information.

[0055] The third component has a function of receiving the search result and creating a report, and the report includes the circuit design information.

[0056] The embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the following description, and it will be easily understood by those skilled in the art that the form and details thereof can be variously changed without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Therefore, the present invention should not be construed as being limited to the description of the embodiments shown below. In the configuration of the invention described below, the same reference numerals are commonly used among different drawings for the same part or parts having the same or similar functions, and the repeated description thereof will be omitted.

[0057] (Embodiment 1) In this embodiment, an information processing system according to an aspect of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 10.

[0058] FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining the configuration of an information processing system according to an aspect of the present invention.

[0059] FIG. 2(A) is a diagram for explaining the configuration and functions of component 22 of an information processing system according to an aspect of the present invention, and FIG. 2(B) is a diagram for explaining the functions of the preprocessing unit Prep of component 22.

[0060] FIG. 3(A) is a diagram for explaining the configuration of the normalized curve NC_A that can be used in an information processing system according to an aspect of the present invention, and FIG. 3(B) is a diagram for explaining the functions of the converter NN_A of an information processing system according to an aspect of the present invention.

[0061] FIG. 4(A) is a diagram for explaining the configuration of the normalized curve NC_A that can be used in an information processing system according to an aspect of the present invention, and FIG. 4(B) is a diagram for explaining the functions of the converter NN_A different from the configuration explained using FIG. 3(B).

[0062] FIG. 5(A) is a diagram for explaining the configuration of a database that can be used in an information processing system according to an aspect of the present invention, and FIG. 5(B) is a diagram for explaining the configuration of the report Rep created by an information processing system according to an aspect of the present invention.

[0063] FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining the configuration of an information processing system according to an aspect of the present invention.

[0064] FIG. 7(A) is a circuit symbol representing an example of an electronic circuit that can be searched using the information processing system according to an aspect of the present invention. FIG. 7(B) is a response curve representing the operating characteristics of the electronic circuit shown in FIG. 7(A), and FIG. 7(C) is a diagram for explaining a normalized curve obtained by normalizing the response curve shown in FIG. 7(B).

[0065] FIGS. 8(A) to 8(C) are circuit diagrams for explaining search results obtained using the information processing system according to an aspect of the present invention.

[0066] FIGS. 9(A) to 9(D) are an example of a device model that can be searched using the information processing system according to an aspect of the present invention and a response curve representing its operating characteristics.

[0067] FIG. 10 is a block diagram for explaining the configuration of an information processing apparatus that can be used in the information processing system according to an aspect of the present invention.

[0068] <Configuration Example 1 of Information Processing System> The information processing system described in this embodiment includes a component 22, a component 23, and a component 24 (see FIG. 1).

[0069] 《Configuration Example 1 of Component 22》 Component 22 has a function of receiving characteristic information Ch_A (see FIG. 2(A)).

[0070] [Example 1 of Characteristic Information Ch_A] The characteristic information Ch_A includes a response curve RC_A. For example, the operating characteristics of an electronic circuit, specifically, the response of the electronic circuit to an input can be used for the response curve RC_A.

[0071] [Example 2 of Characteristic Information Ch_A] In addition, the operating specifications of the electronic circuit and the like can be included in the characteristic information Ch_A. Specifically, the operating voltage, operating frequency, design specifications, etc. can be used as the characteristic information Ch_A. By using a plurality of pieces of information in the characteristic information Ch_A, a plurality of conditions can be set for the queries described later. Also, not only the response curve RC_A, but also related information such as the operating voltage, operating frequency, power consumption of the electronic circuit, other design specifications, the name of the designer, the design date and time, the change history, and the characteristics of the circuit are added, enabling a narrowing-down search.

[0072] [Example of Response Curve RC_A] The response curve RC_A includes an independent variable Ind and a dependent variable Dep. For example, the input can be treated as the independent variable Ind, and the response can be treated as the dependent variable Dep. Also, the response curve RC_A can be expressed using a matrix with two columns. When using the response of the electronic circuit for the response curve RC_A, the range of the independent variable Ind is set to include the range of the design specifications. For example, the range of the design specifications is made to coincide with the range of the independent variable Ind.

[0073] For example, when the input voltage is used for the independent variable Ind of the response curve RC_A and the output voltage is used for the dependent variable Dep, the response curve RC_A represents the voltage-voltage characteristics of the electronic circuit.

[0074] For example, when the input voltage is used for the independent variable Ind of the response curve RC_A and the output current is used for the dependent variable Dep, the response curve RC_A represents the voltage-current characteristics of the electronic circuit.

[0075] For example, when the elapsed time from the time when a signal or power is applied to the electronic circuit is used for the independent variable Ind of the response curve RC_A and the output voltage is used for the dependent variable Dep, the response curve RC_A represents the time-voltage characteristics or transient voltage characteristics of the electronic circuit.

[0076] For example, when using the elapsed time from the time when a signal or power is applied to the electronic circuit as the independent variable Ind of the response curve RC_A and the output current as the dependent variable Dep, the response curve RC_A represents the time-current characteristic or transient current characteristic of the electronic circuit.

[0077] Also, the type of the response curve of the electronic circuit can be specified by using the combination of the independent variable and the dependent variable that represent the response curve. Note that, for example, voltage-voltage characteristics, voltage-current characteristics, transient voltage characteristics, and transient current characteristics are all expressions for specifying the type of the response curve.

[0078] 《Configuration Example 2 of Component 22》 Also, the component 22 includes a preprocessing unit Prep and a conversion unit Cnv (see Fig. 2(A)).

[0079] [Preprocessing Unit Prep] The preprocessing unit Prep has a function of converting the response curve RC_A into a normalized curve NC_A (see Fig. 2(B)). Note that the normalized curve NC_A includes the independent variable Ind normalized to a predetermined range and the dependent variable Dep normalized to a predetermined range.

[0080] For example, when the independent variable Ind of the response curve RC_A is included in the range of 0 V or more and 5 V or less, the independent variable of the normalized curve NC_A can be normalized to the range of 0 or more and 1 or less. Also, when the dependent variable Dep of the response curve RC_A is included in the range of 0 V or more and 1 V or less, the dependent variable of the normalized curve NC_A can be normalized to the range of 0 or more and 1 or less. Thereby, the size of the normalized curve NC_A can be adjusted.

[0081] [Conversion Unit Cnv] The conversion unit Cnv includes one or more converters. For example, the conversion unit Cnv includes a converter NN_A, a converter NN_B, and a converter NN_C. Also, the conversion unit Cnv has a function of selecting the converter NN_A based on the combination of the independent variable Ind and the dependent variable Dep of the response curve RC_A.

[0082] For example, the converter NN_A has a function of converting the normalized curve NC_A converted from the response curve RC_A into the feature vector FV_A (see Fig. 2(B)). Further, a converter NN_B (not shown) has a function of converting a normalized curve converted from a type of response curve different from the response curve RC_A into a feature vector FV_B (not shown) different from the feature vector FV_A. Also, the converter NN_C has a function of converting a normalized curve converted from a type of response curve different from the response curves RC_A and RC_B into a feature vector different from the feature vectors FV_A and FV_B. Note that the feature vector expresses the features of the shape of the normalized curve using a vector.

[0083] Note that the type of the response curve of the electronic circuit can be specified using the combination of the independent variable and the dependent variable that represent the response curve. For example, by querying a reference table with the combination of the name of the column storing the independent variable and the name of the column storing the dependent variable, the type of the response curve can be specified. Thereby, the component 22 can select a converter according to the type of the response curve using the combination of the independent variable and the dependent variable of the response curve. Also, when comparing response curves of the same type, the feature vectors converted using the same converter can be compared with each other.

[0084] [Example 1 of Converter NN_A] For example, at a predetermined interval, the normalized curve NC_A can be divided into sections of m rows and n columns (see Fig. 3(A)). For sections x1, x2, x n , x m×n-1 , x m×n etc., the value of the section crossed by the normalized curve NC_A is set to 1, and the value of the section not crossed is set to 0. In this way, the normalized curve NC_A can be converted into a vector having m×n elements. Note that the black circles in the figure represent the sections crossed by the normalized curve NC_A, and the white circles in the figure represent the sections not crossed by the normalized curve NC_A.

[0085] A neural network can be used for the converter NN_A (see Fig. 3(B)). For example, a pre-trained neural network used for image recognition can be used for the converter NN_A. Note that, for example, pre-trained neural networks such as VGG16 and ResNet can be used for image recognition.

[0086] The converter NN_A using a neural network includes an input layer IL, a hidden layer HL, and an output layer OL.

[0087] The input layer IL includes, for example, m×n nodes, and a vector representing the normalized curve NC_A can be input to the input layer IL.

[0088] The hidden layer HL can include multiple layers. For example, fully-connected layers and convolutional layers can be used for the hidden layer HL.

[0089] The output layer OL includes a number of nodes that can represent the characteristics of the response curve RC_A. For example, it can include the same number of nodes as the dimensionality of the feature vector suitable for classifying the response curve.

[0090] [Example 2 of Converter NN_A] For example, at a predetermined interval, the normalized curve NC_A can be divided into k points (see Fig. 4(A)). For points x1, x2, x3, x4, x k etc., the values of the normalized curve NC_A can be read and the normalized curve NC_A can be converted into a vector with k elements. In this case, a layer with k nodes can be used as the input layer (see Fig. 4(B)).

[0091] 《Configuration Example 3 of Component 22》 Component 22 has a function of creating a query qu and passing it to Component 23 (see Fig. 2(A)). The query qu includes the feature vector FV_A.

[0092] 《Configuration Example of Component 23》 Component 23 has a function of receiving query qu, a function of performing processing using search engine SE, and a function of passing search result SR to component 24 (see FIG. 1).

[0093] Search engine SE has a function of obtaining search result SR from database DB according to query qu.

[0094] [Database DB] Database DB stores record ID_1, record ID_2, record ID_3 to record ID_n (see FIG. 5(A)). Note that the vector database can search for similar records using vectors as queries.

[0095] Record ID_1 includes circuit design information CDI_1 and feature vectors FV_A1, FV_B1, and FV_C1 associated with circuit design information CDI_1 (see FIG. 5(A)).

[0096] When feature vector FV_A1 is similar to feature vector FV_A, search result SR includes circuit design information CDI_1 (see FIG. 5(B)). For example, the Euclidean distance or cosine similarity between feature vector FV_A1 and feature vector FV_A can be used as a measure of similarity. Note that the closer the Euclidean distance between two vectors is to 0, the more similar the two vectors are. Also, the closer the cosine similarity is to 1, the more similar the two vectors are. Specifically, it is preferable that the cosine similarity is 0.8 or more.

[0097] Also, the cosine similarity between feature vector FV_A1 and feature vector FV_A can be calculated, and when the cosine similarity is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, it can be said that feature vector FV_A1 is similar to feature vector FV_A. Note that there may be a case where a plurality of records similar to one feature vector FV_A are included in the search result.

[0098] 《Configuration Example 1 of Component 24》 Component 24 is equipped with a function of receiving the search result SR and creating a report Rep (see Fig. 5(B)).

[0099] [Example 1 of the composition of the report Rep] The report Rep includes circuit design information CDI_1 (see Fig. 5(B)).

[0100] Thereby, the database DB can be searched using the response curve RC_A. Also, the circuit design information CDI_1 of a circuit that performs an operation similar to the operation represented by the response curve RC_A can be found from the database DB. Also, for example, the design information of circuits designed in the past can be stored in the database DB, and the circuit design information CDI_1 of a circuit that performs an operation similar to the operation represented by the response curve RC_A can be found. Also, for example, the design information of circuits described in the literature can be stored in the database DB, and the circuit design information CDI_1 of a circuit that performs an operation similar to the operation represented by the response curve RC_A can be found. Also, past knowledge can be effectively utilized. As a result, a novel information processing system excellent in convenience, usefulness, or reliability can be provided.

[0101] [Circuit design information CDI_1] Note that the circuit design information CDI_1 includes the circuit diagram SCH_A1 and the response curve RC_A1 of the electronic circuit represented in the circuit diagram SCH_A1. Also, the circuit design information CDI_1 includes the response curve RC_B1 and the response curve RC_C1. Various information can be included in the circuit design information CDI_1. For example, related information such as the operating voltage, operating frequency, power consumption, other design specifications, the name of the designer, the design date and time, the change history, and the characteristics of the circuit can be included in the circuit design information CDI_1.

[0102] The feature vector FV_A1 is a feature vector converted from the response curve RC_A1 using the converter NN_A. The feature vector FV_B1 is a feature vector converted from the response curve RC_B1 using the converter NN_B. The feature vector FV_C1 is a feature vector converted from the response curve RC_C1 using the converter NN_C.

[0103] [Configuration Example 2 of Report Rep] The report Rep includes the circuit diagram SCH_A1 and the response curve RC_A1.

[0104] Thereby, the circuit diagram SCH_A1 of a circuit that performs an operation similar to the operation represented by the response curve RC_A can be retrieved from the database DB. Also, the response curve RC_A1 can be viewed. Also, for example, the circuit diagrams of circuits designed in the past can be stored in the database DB, and the circuit diagram SCH_A1 of a circuit that performs an operation similar to the operation represented by the response curve RC_A can be retrieved from the database DB. Also, the response curve RC_A1 can be viewed. Also, for example, the design information of circuits published in the literature can be stored in the database DB, and the circuit diagram SCH_A1 of a circuit that performs an operation similar to the operation represented by the response curve RC_A can be retrieved. Also, the response curve RC_A1 can be viewed. Also, past knowledge can be effectively utilized. As a result, a novel information processing system excellent in convenience, usefulness, or reliability can be provided.

[0105] [Configuration Example 2 of Information Processing System] The information processing system described in this embodiment has a component 30, a component 21, a component 22, a component 23, and a component 24 (see FIG. 6). Note that the configuration example 2 of the information processing system described in this embodiment is different from the configuration example 1 of the above information processing system in that it has a component 30 and a component 21. Here, the different parts will be described in detail, and for the same configurations, the above description will be incorporated by reference.

[0106] 《Configuration Example 1 of Component 30》 Component 30 has a function of receiving the device model DevM from the user of the information processing system and passing it to Component 21, and a function of receiving the report Rep and providing it to the user of the information processing system.

[0107] For example, a circuit expressed using a hardware description language at the behavioral level can be used for the device model DevM. Specifically, the voltage follower circuit shown in Fig. 7(A) can be expressed by the description in the following paragraph using a SPICE model.

[0108] “X1 Vout Vin Vout Ideal_op_amp .subckt Ideal_op_amp Vout Vinp Vinm G1 Vout 0 Vout Vin 1MEG RL Vout 0 1 .ends”.

[0109] 《Configuration Example of Component 21》 Component 21 has a function of receiving the device model DevM and performing processing using the electronic circuit simulator SIM, and a function of passing the characteristic information Ch_A to Component 22.

[0110] The electronic circuit simulator SIM has a function of generating the characteristic information Ch_A from the device model DevM. The characteristic information Ch_A includes the response curve RC_A (see Fig. 7(B)).

[0111] Note that the preprocessing unit Prep of Component 22 converts the response curve RC_A into a normalized curve NC_A (see Fig. 7(C)).

[0112] 《Configuration Example 2 of Component 24》 Component 24 has a function of delivering Report Rep to Component 30. For example, Report Rep includes Circuit Diagram SCH_A1, Circuit Diagram SCH_A2, and Circuit Diagram SCH_A3 (see FIGS. 8(A) to 8(C)).

[0113] Thereby, using the electronic circuit simulator SIM, the response curve RC_A can be generated. Also, the response curve RC_A can be generated from the device model DevM. Also, using the generated response curve RC_A, the database DB can be searched. Also, the circuit design information CDI_1 of a circuit that performs an operation similar to the operation represented by the generated response curve RC_A can be found from the database DB. Also, a report Rep including the circuit design information CDI_1 found from the database DB can be displayed on Component 30. Also, past knowledge can be effectively utilized. As a result, a novel information processing system excellent in convenience, usefulness, or reliability can be provided.

[0114] Note that various device models can be delivered to Component 21 (see FIGS. 9(A) to 9(D)). FIG. 9(A) shows a voltage follower circuit and its operation characteristics. FIG. 9(B) shows a power supply circuit and its operation characteristics. FIG. 9(C) shows an inverter circuit and its operation characteristics. FIG. 9(D) shows a comparator circuit and its operation characteristics.

[0115] <<Configuration Example 2 of Component 30>> Component 30 has a function of receiving the narrowing-down condition Flt and delivering it to Component 22 (see FIG. 6). For example, as a result of searching the database DB using the response curve RC_A generated from the device model DevM, there may be many unnecessary search results included in Report Rep. A user of the information processing system according to an aspect of the present invention can add the narrowing-down condition Flt to the search condition. Specifically, the information included in the circuit design information can be used for the narrowing-down condition Flt.

[0116] <<Configuration Example 4 of Component 22>> Component 22 has a function of receiving a filtering condition Flt. Also, query qu includes the filtering condition Flt. By adding the filtering condition Flt to the query, a filtered search becomes possible.

[0117] As a result, it is possible to find circuit design information CDI_1 of a circuit that performs an operation similar to the operation represented by the generated response curve RC_A from the database DB, and further find those that satisfy the filtering condition Flt. Also, a report Rep including the circuit design information CDI_1 found from the database DB can be displayed on component 30. Also, past findings can be effectively utilized. As a result, it is possible to provide a new information processing system excellent in convenience, usefulness, or reliability.

[0118] <Configuration Example 3 of Information Processing System> The information processing system described in this embodiment has component 22, component 23, and component 24 (see FIG. 1).

[0119] For example, an information processing system according to one aspect of the present invention can be configured by an information processing device that undertakes the function of component 22, an information processing device that undertakes the function of component 23, and an information processing device that undertakes the function of component 24. Note that the number of information processing devices constituting the information processing system according to one aspect of the present invention is 1 or more. Also, for example, a plurality of information processing devices can be connected using network 51 to configure an information processing system according to one aspect of the present invention.

[0120] When an information processing system according to one aspect of the present invention is configured using a plurality of information processing devices, the load related to information processing can be dispersed.

[0121] 《Configuration Example 1 of Information Processing Device》 The configuration example 1 of the information processing apparatus described in this embodiment can be used for component 22. For example, a workstation, a server computer, a supercomputer, etc. can be used for component 22.

[0122] The configuration example 1 of the information processing apparatus preferably has a function as a parallel computer. By using it as a parallel computer, for example, large-scale calculations required for learning and inference of artificial intelligence (AI) can be performed.

[0123] Also, the configuration example 1 of the information processing apparatus can perform processing using a neural network.

[0124] 《Configuration Example 2 of Information Processing Apparatus》 For example, the configuration example 2 of the information processing apparatus described in this embodiment can be used for component 23. For example, a workstation, a server computer, a supercomputer, etc. can be used for component 23.

[0125] The configuration example 2 of the information processing apparatus can perform processing using a search engine. Also, the configuration example 2 of the information processing apparatus has a larger storage capacity than the configuration example 1 of the information processing apparatus.

[0126] 《Configuration Example 3 of Information Processing Apparatus》 For example, the configuration example 3 of the information processing apparatus described in this embodiment can be used for component 24. For example, a workstation, a server computer, a supercomputer, etc. can be used for component 24.

[0127] For example, a web server or an application server can be used for the configuration example 3 of the information processing apparatus.

[0128] 《Configuration Example of Network 51》 The network 51 that can be used in the information processing system according to one aspect of the present invention can connect a plurality of information processing devices. As a result, the plurality of connected information processing devices can transmit and receive data to and from each other. Also, the load related to information processing can be dispersed.

[0129] When performing wireless communication, as a communication protocol or communication technology, communication standards such as the 4th generation mobile communication system (4G), the 5th generation mobile communication system (5G), and the 6th generation mobile communication system (6G), or specifications standardized by the IEEE such as Wi-Fi (registered trademark) and Bluetooth (registered trademark) can be used.

[0130] For example, a local network can be used for the network 51. Also, an intranet or an extranet can be used for the network 51. Also, a PAN (Personal Area Network), a LAN (Local Area Network), a CAN (Campus Area Network), a MAN (Metropolitan Area Network), a WAN (Wide Area Network), a GAN (Global Area Network), etc. can be used for the network 51.

[0131] Also, for example, a global network can be used for the network 51. Specifically, the Internet, which is the basis of the World Wide Web (WWW), can be used.

[0132] Also, a person who provides a service using the information processing system according to one aspect of the present invention can provide a service using the information processing method according to one aspect of the present invention via, for example, the network 51.

[0133] When the information processing system according to one aspect of the present invention is constructed within a local network, for example, the possibility of confidential leakage can be reduced compared to the case of using the Internet.

[0134] <Configuration Example 4 of Information Processing System> In addition, the information processing system described in this embodiment includes a component 30 and a component 21 (see FIG. 6).

[0135] 《Configuration Example 4 of Information Processing Apparatus》 The configuration example 4 of the information processing apparatus described in this embodiment can be used for the component 30. The configuration example 4 of the information processing apparatus can also be called a client computer or the like. For example, a desktop computer can be used for the component 30.

[0136] The configuration example 4 of the information processing apparatus can receive data input by a user of the information processing system according to one aspect of the present invention. In addition, the configuration example 4 of the information processing apparatus can provide the data output by the information processing system according to one aspect of the present invention to the user.

[0137] For example, dedicated application software or a web browser or the like operates. A user of the information processing system according to one aspect of the present invention can access the information processing system via any of them. Thereby, a service using the information processing system according to one aspect of the present invention can be enjoyed.

[0138] 《Configuration Example 5 of Information Processing Apparatus》 The configuration example 5 of the information processing apparatus described in this embodiment can be used for the component 21. For example, a workstation, a server computer, a supercomputer, or the like can be used for the component 21.

[0139] For example, an information processing apparatus installed with an electronic design automation (EDA) tool can be used for the configuration example 5 of the information processing apparatus.

[0140] 《Configuration Example 6 of Information Processing Apparatus》 An information processing apparatus that can be used in an information processing system according to an aspect of the present invention has, for example, an input unit 110, a storage unit 120, a processing unit 130, an output unit 140, and a transmission path 150 (see FIG. 10).

[0141] In the drawings attached to this specification, the components are classified by function and shown as block diagrams as independent blocks for each other. However, it is difficult to completely separate the actual components by function, and one component may be related to multiple functions. For example, a part of the processing unit 130 may function as the input unit 110. Also, one function may be related to multiple components. For example, the processing performed by the processing unit 130 may be executed on different servers depending on the processing.

[0142] [Input unit 110] The input unit 110 can receive data from the outside of the information processing apparatus. For example, the input unit 110 receives data via the network 51.

[0143] The input unit 110 supplies the received data to one or both of the storage unit 120 and the processing unit 130 via the transmission path 150.

[0144] [Storage unit 120] The storage unit 120 has a function of storing programs executed by the processing unit 130. Also, the storage unit 120 can have a function of storing data generated by the processing unit 130 (for example, calculation results, analysis results, inference results), and data received by the input unit 110, etc.

[0145] The storage unit 120 can have a database. Also, the information processing apparatus can have a database separately from the storage unit 120. The information processing apparatus can have a function of retrieving data from a database existing outside the storage unit 120, outside the information processing apparatus, or outside the information processing system. Also, the information processing apparatus can have a function of retrieving data from both its own database and an external database.

[0146] One or both of a storage and a file server can be used for the storage unit 120. Further, a database recording the paths of files stored in the file server can be used for the storage unit 120.

[0147] The storage unit 120 has at least one of a volatile memory and a non-volatile memory. Examples of the volatile memory include DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) and SRAM (Static Random Access Memory). Examples of the non-volatile memory include ReRAM (Resistive Random Access Memory, also referred to as a resistive change type memory), PRAM (Phase change Random Access Memory), FeRAM (Ferroelectric Random Access Memory), MRAM (Magnetoresistive Random Access Memory, also referred to as a magnetic resistance type memory), and flash memory. Further, the storage unit 120 can have at least one of NOSRAM (registered trademark) and DOSRAM (registered trademark). Further, the storage unit 120 can have a recording medium drive. Examples of the recording medium drive include a hard disk drive (HDD) and a solid state drive (SSD).

[0148] NOSRAM is an abbreviation for "Nonvolatile Oxide Semiconductor Random Access Memory (RAM)". NOSRAM refers to a memory in which the memory cell is a 2-transistor type (2T) or 3-transistor type (3T) gain cell, and the transistor is a transistor that uses a metal oxide for the channel formation region (also referred to as an OS transistor). The OS transistor has an extremely small current flowing between the source and the drain in the off state, that is, a leakage current. NOSRAM can be used as a non-volatile memory by holding charges corresponding to data in the memory cell using the characteristic of an extremely small leakage current. In particular, since NOSRAM can read the stored data without destroying it (non-destructive readout), it is suitable for arithmetic processing that repeatedly performs a large number of only data readout operations. Since the data capacity of NOSRAM can be increased by stacking, high performance of the semiconductor device can be achieved by using it as a large-scale cache memory, main memory, or storage memory.

[0149] DOSRAM is an abbreviation for "Dynamic Oxide Semiconductor RAM" and refers to a RAM having a 1T (transistor) 1C (capacitance) type memory cell. DOSRAM is a DRAM formed using an OS transistor, and DOSRAM is a memory that temporarily stores information sent from the outside. DOSRAM is a memory that utilizes the small off-current of the OS transistor.

[0150] In this specification and the like, a metal oxide is an oxide of a metal in a broad sense. Metal oxides are classified into oxide insulators, oxide conductors (including transparent oxide conductors), oxide semiconductors (also referred to as Oxide Semiconductor or simply OS), and the like. For example, when a metal oxide is used for the semiconductor layer of a transistor, the metal oxide may be referred to as an oxide semiconductor.

[0151] The metal oxide included in the channel formation region preferably contains indium (In). When the metal oxide included in the channel formation region is a metal oxide containing indium, the carrier mobility (electron mobility) of the OS transistor becomes high. Further, the metal oxide included in the channel formation region is preferably an oxide semiconductor containing element M. Element M is preferably at least one of aluminum (Al), gallium (Ga), and tin (Sn). Other elements applicable to element M include boron (B), silicon (Si), titanium (Ti), iron (Fe), nickel (Ni), germanium (Ge), yttrium (Y), zirconium (Zr), molybdenum (Mo), lanthanum (La), cerium (Ce), neodymium (Nd), hafnium (Hf), tantalum (Ta), and tungsten (W). However, in some cases, a plurality of the aforementioned elements may be combined as element M. Element M is, for example, an element having a high binding energy with oxygen. For example, it is an element having a higher binding energy with oxygen than indium. Further, the metal oxide included in the channel formation region is preferably a metal oxide containing zinc (Zn). The metal oxide containing zinc may be likely to crystallize.

[0152] The metal oxide included in the channel formation region is not limited to a metal oxide containing indium. The metal oxide included in the channel formation region may be, for example, a metal oxide containing zinc but not indium, such as zinc tin oxide or gallium tin oxide, a metal oxide containing gallium, a metal oxide containing tin, or the like.

[0153] [Processing unit 130] The processing unit 130 has a function of performing processes such as calculation, analysis, and inference using the data supplied from one or both of the input unit 110 and the storage unit 120. The processing unit 130 can supply the generated data (for example, calculation result, analysis result, inference result) to one or both of the storage unit 120 and the output unit 140.

[0154] The processing unit 130 has a function of acquiring data from the storage unit 120. Further, the processing unit 130 can have a function of recording or registering data in the storage unit 120.

[0155] The processing unit 130 can have, for example, an arithmetic circuit. The processing unit 130 can have, for example, a central processing unit (CPU). Further, the processing unit 130 can have a graphics processing unit (GPU). Also, the processing unit 130 can have a neural processing unit (NPU).

[0156] The processing unit 130 can have a microprocessor such as a digital signal processor (DSP). The microprocessor can be realized by a programmable logic device (PLD) such as a field programmable gate array (FPGA) or a field programmable analog array (FPAA). Further, the processing unit 130 can have a quantum processor. The processing unit 130 can perform various data processes and program controls by interpreting and executing instructions from various programs by the processor. Programs executable by the processor are stored in at least one of the memory area of the processor and the storage unit 120.

[0157] The processing unit 130 can have a main memory. The main memory has at least one of a volatile memory such as a RAM and a non-volatile memory such as a read only memory (ROM). Further, the main memory can have at least one of the above-described NOSRAM and DOSRAM.

[0158] As the RAM, for example, DRAM, SRAM, etc. are used, and a memory space is virtually allocated and used as the working space of the processing unit 130. The operating system, application programs, program modules, program data, look-up tables, etc. stored in the storage unit 120 are loaded into the RAM for execution. These data, programs, and program modules loaded into the RAM are directly accessed and operated on by the processing unit 130 respectively.

[0159] The ROM can store the BIOS (Basic Input / Output System), firmware, etc. that do not require rewriting. Examples of the ROM include mask ROM, OTPROM (One Time Programmable Read Only Memory), EPROM (Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory), etc. Examples of the EPROM include UV-EPROM (Ultra-Violet Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory) that enables erasure of stored data by ultraviolet irradiation, EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory), flash memory, etc.

[0160] The processing unit 130 can have one or both of an OS transistor and a transistor having silicon in the channel formation region (Si transistor).

[0161] The processing unit 130 preferably includes an OS transistor. Since the off-current of the OS transistor is extremely small, by using it as a switch for holding the charge (data) flowing into the capacitive element that functions as a memory element, the data retention period can be ensured for a long time. By using this characteristic for at least one of the register and the cache memory included in the processing unit, the processing unit can be operated only when necessary, and in other cases, the processing unit can be turned off by saving the information of the previous processing in the memory element. That is, normal-off computing becomes possible, and the power consumption of the information processing system can be reduced.

[0162] The information processing apparatus preferably uses AI for at least some of the processing.

[0163] In particular, the information processing apparatus preferably uses an artificial neural network (ANN: Artificial Neural Network, hereinafter also simply referred to as a neural network). The neural network is realized by a circuit (hardware) or a program (software).

[0164] In this specification and the like, the neural network refers to a model that mimics the neural circuit network of a living organism, determines the connection strength between neurons by learning, and has problem-solving ability. The neural network has an input layer, an intermediate layer (hidden layer), and an output layer.

[0165] In this specification and the like, when describing the neural network, determining the connection strength (also referred to as a weight coefficient) between neurons from existing information may be referred to as "learning".

[0166] In this specification and the like, constructing a neural network using the connection strength obtained by learning and deriving a new conclusion therefrom may be referred to as "inference".

[0167] [Output unit 140] The output unit 140 can output at least one of the calculation result, analysis result, and inference result in the processing unit 130 to the outside of the information processing apparatus. For example, the output unit 140 can transmit data via the network 51.

[0168] [Transmission path 150] The transmission path 150 has a function of transmitting data. The transmission and reception of data between the input unit 110, the storage unit 120, the processing unit 130, and the output unit 140 can be performed via the transmission path 150.

[0169] Note that the present embodiment can be appropriately combined with other embodiments shown in this specification.

[0170] (Embodiment 2) In the present embodiment, an information processing method according to an aspect of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 11 and 12.

[0171] FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining an information processing method according to an aspect of the present invention.

[0172] FIG. 12 is a diagram for explaining an information processing method according to an aspect of the present invention.

[0173] <Example 1 of information processing method> An information processing method according to an aspect of the present invention includes the following steps S1 to S6 (see FIG. 11).

[0174] [Step S1] In step S1, the component 22 receives the characteristic information Ch_A. The characteristic information Ch_A includes the response curve RC_A, and the response curve RC_A includes the independent variable Ind and the dependent variable Dep.

[0175] [Step S2] In step S2, the component 22 selects the converter NN_A based on the combination of the independent variable Ind and the dependent variable Dep. The converter NN_A has a function of converting the response curve RC_A into the feature vector FV_A.

[0176] [Step S3] In step S3, component 22 creates query qu and passes query qu to component 23. Note that query qu includes feature vector FV_A.

[0177] [Step S4] In step S4, component 23 receives query qu. Also, component 23 uses search engine SE to obtain search result SR from database DB according to query qu.

[0178] Note that database DB stores record ID_1. Record ID_1 includes circuit design information CDI_1 and feature vector FV_A1 associated with circuit design information CDI_1. Also, when feature vector FV_A1 is similar to feature vector FV_A, search result SR includes circuit design information CDI_1.

[0179] [Step S5] In step S5, component 23 passes search result SR to component 24.

[0180] [Step S6] In step S6, component 24 receives search result SR and creates report Rep from search result SR. Note that report Rep includes circuit design information CDI_1.

[0181] As a result, the database DB can be searched using the response curve RC_A. Also, circuit design information CDI_1 of a circuit that performs an operation similar to the operation represented by the response curve RC_A can be found from the database DB. Further, for example, design information of a circuit designed in the past can be stored in the database DB, and circuit design information CDI_1 of a circuit that performs an operation similar to the operation represented by the response curve RC_A can be found. Also, for example, design information of a circuit described in a document can be stored in the database DB, and circuit design information CDI_1 of a circuit that performs an operation similar to the operation represented by the response curve RC_A can be found. Moreover, past knowledge can be effectively utilized. As a result, a novel information processing method excellent in convenience, usefulness, or reliability can be provided.

[0182] <Example 2 of information processing method> Also, the information processing method according to one aspect of the present invention includes the following steps S1 to S11 (see FIG. 12).

[0183] [Step S1] In step S1, the component 30 receives the device model DevM from the user of the information processing system and transfers it to the component 21.

[0184] [Step S2] In step S2, the component 21 receives the device model DevM and generates the response curve RC_A using the electronic circuit simulator SIM.

[0185] [Step S3] In step S3, the component 21 transfers the response curve RC_A to the component 22.

[0186] [Step S4] In step S4, the component 22 receives the characteristic information Ch_A. Note that the characteristic information Ch_A includes the response curve RC_A, and the response curve RC_A includes the independent variable Ind and the dependent variable Dep.

[0187] [Step S5] In step S5, component 22 selects the converter NN_A based on the combination of the independent variable Ind and the dependent variable Dep. Note that the converter NN_A has the function of converting the response curve RC_A into the feature vector FV_A.

[0188] [Step S6] In step S6, component 22 creates a query qu and passes the query qu to component 23. Note that the query qu includes the feature vector FV_A.

[0189] [Step S7] In step S7, component 23 receives the query qu. Also, component 23 uses the search engine SE to obtain the search result SR from the database DB according to the query qu.

[0190] Note that the database DB stores the record ID_1. The record ID_1 includes the circuit design information CDI_1 and the feature vector FV_A1 associated with the circuit design information CDI_1. Also, when the feature vector FV_A1 is similar to the feature vector FV_A, the search result SR includes the circuit design information CDI_1.

[0191] [Step S8] In step S8, component 23 passes the search result SR to component 24.

[0192] [Step S9] In step S9, component 24 receives the search result SR and creates a report Rep from the search result SR. Note that the report Rep includes the circuit design information CDI_1.

[0193] [Step S10] In step S10, component 24 passes the report Rep to component 30.

[0194] [Step S11] In step S11, component 30 receives report Rep and provides it to the user of the information processing system.

[0195] As a result, response curve RC_A can be generated using electronic circuit simulator SIM. Also, response curve RC_A can be generated from device model DevM. Also, database DB can be searched using the generated response curve RC_A. Also, circuit design information CDI_1 of a circuit that performs an operation similar to the operation represented by the generated response curve RC_A can be found from database DB. Also, report Rep including the circuit design information CDI_1 found from database DB can be displayed on component 30. Also, past findings can be effectively utilized. As a result, a new information processing method excellent in convenience, usefulness, or reliability can be provided.

[0196] Note that this embodiment can be appropriately combined with other embodiments shown in this specification.

Explanation of Signs

[0197] CDI_1 Circuit design information Ch_A Characteristic information Cnv Conversion unit DB Database Dep Dependent variable DevM Device model Flt Filtering condition FV_A Feature vector HL Hidden layer ID_1 Record ID_2 Record ID_3 Record ID_n Record IL Input layer Ind Independent variable NC_A Normalized curve NN_A Converter NN_B Converter NN_C Converter OL Output layer Preprocessing Unit Query Response Curve RC_A Report Search Engine SE Electronic Circuit Simulator SIM Search Results SR x k Point x n Section 21 Components 22 Components 23 Components 24 Components 30 Components 51 Network 110 Input Unit 120 Memory Unit 130 Processing Unit 140 Output Unit 150 Transmission Line

Claims

1. a first component, a second component, and a third component, and the first component includes a function of receiving characteristic information, a preprocessing unit, a conversion unit, and a function of creating a query and passing it to the second component; the characteristic information includes a first response curve; the first response curve includes an independent variable and a dependent variable; the preprocessing unit has a function of converting the first response curve into a normalized curve; the conversion unit has a function of selecting a converter based on a combination of the independent variable and the dependent variable; the converter has a function of converting the normalized curve into a first feature vector; the normalized curve includes the independent variable normalized to a first predetermined range and the dependent variable normalized to a second predetermined range; the query includes the first feature vector; the second component includes a function of receiving the query, a function of performing processing using a search engine, and a function of passing the search result to the third component; the search engine has a function of obtaining the search result from a database according to the query; the database stores records; the records include circuit design information and a second feature vector associated with the circuit design information; the search result includes the circuit design information associated with the second feature vector similar to the first feature vector; the third component has a function of receiving the search result and creating a report; the report is an information processing system including the circuit design information.

2. the circuit design information includes a circuit diagram; the report is the information processing system according to Claim 1, including the circuit diagram.

3. the circuit design information includes a second response curve of an electronic circuit represented in the circuit diagram; the report is the information processing system according to Claim 2, including the circuit diagram and the second response curve.

4. a fourth component, and a fifth component, and the fourth component includes a function of receiving a device model and passing it to the fifth component, and a function of receiving and providing the report. The fifth component includes a function of receiving the device model and performing processing using an electronic circuit simulator, and a function of passing the characteristic information to the first component. The electronic circuit simulator has a function of generating the characteristic information from the device model. The information processing system according to claim 3, wherein the third component has a function of passing the report to the fourth component.

5. The fourth component includes a function of receiving a narrowing condition and passing it to the first component. The first component includes a function of receiving the narrowing condition. The information processing system according to claim 4, wherein the query includes the narrowing condition.

6. An information processing method having first to sixth steps, In the first step, the first component receives characteristic information, The characteristic information includes a response curve, The response curve includes an independent variable and a dependent variable, In the second step, the first component selects a converter based on a combination of the independent variable and the dependent variable, The converter has a function of converting the response curve into a first feature vector, In the third step, the first component creates a query and passes the query to a second component, The query includes the first feature vector, In the fourth step, the second component receives the query and uses a search engine to obtain search results from a database according to the query, The database stores records, The record includes circuit design information and a second feature vector associated with the circuit design information, The search results include the circuit design information associated with the second feature vector similar to the first feature vector, In the fifth step, the second component passes the search results to a third component, In the sixth step, the third component receives the search results and creates a report from the search results, The report includes the circuit design information. An information processing method.

7. An information processing method having first to eleventh steps, In the first step, the first component receives a device model and transfers it to a second component. In the second step, the second component receives the device model and uses an electronic circuit simulator to generate a response curve. In the third step, the second component transfers the response curve to a third component. In the fourth step, the third component receives characteristic information. The characteristic information includes the response curve. The response curve includes an independent variable and a dependent variable. In the fifth step, the third component selects a converter based on the combination of the independent variable and the dependent variable. The converter has a function of converting the response curve into a first feature vector. In the sixth step, the third component creates a query and transfers the query to a fourth component. The query includes the first feature vector. In the seventh step, the fourth component receives the query and uses a search engine to obtain search results from a database according to the query. The database stores records. The records include circuit design information and a second feature vector associated with the circuit design information. The search results include the circuit design information associated with the second feature vector similar to the first feature vector. In the eighth step, the fourth component transfers the search results to a fifth component. In the ninth step, the fifth component receives the search results and creates a report from the search results. The report includes the circuit design information. In the tenth step, the fifth component transfers the report to the first component. In the eleventh step, the first component receives and provides the report, an information processing method.

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