Circuit Design Frequency Optimization via Path Segmentation

The patent segments the circuit design into two distinct types of paths: loop paths and feed-forward paths. This segmentation allows different timing constraint strategies to be applied to each path type. Loop paths maintain strict timing constraints to ensure correctness, while feed-forward paths can have relaxed constraints that enable frequency improvement through pipelining without compromising overall design correctness.

The patent applies local quality by imposing different timing constraint characteristics on different parts of the circuit. Specifically, loop paths are given high-priority timing constraints that must be met to ensure correctness, while feed-forward paths are given relaxed timing constraints that allow for frequency optimization. This localized differentiation resolves the contradiction by allowing pipelining in appropriate regions without affecting critical regions.

The patent segments timing constraints into path-specific constraints rather than applying a uniform constraint across the entire circuit. By identifying and separately constraining loop paths versus feed-forward paths, the system can optimize placement and routing for loop paths with strict constraints while allowing feed-forward paths to benefit from relaxed constraints that enable higher frequency operation.

The patent dynamically changes timing constraint parameters based on path type. Loop paths maintain original strict timing constraints to ensure placement and routing optimization, while feed-forward paths have their timing constraints relaxed (parameter changed) to allow for higher operating frequencies. This selective parameter modification resolves the contradiction between frequency improvement and optimization quality.

The patent divides the circuit's timing constraints into separate categories based on path type (loop vs. feed-forward). This segmentation allows the system to manage complexity through structured classification while enabling higher frequencies by not being constrained by the slowest single path. The segmented approach balances complexity management with frequency optimization.

The patent applies partial action by relaxing timing constraints only for feed-forward paths while maintaining strict constraints for loop paths. This selective relaxation allows the circuit to operate at higher frequencies determined by loop paths rather than being limited by feed-forward path delays, achieving frequency improvement without requiring complete redesign of all timing constraints.