Circuit Operation Visualization Using Spatial Signal Mapping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional methods for representing digital circuit simulations are limited in their ability to visually convey complex circuit behavior, leading to increased effort in developing and debugging complex ICs as design complexity grows, and they often rely on literal, signal-level views that are difficult to scale.
Innovation Solution
The system and method for displaying electronic circuit operation using graphical elements on a computer display, where the position, shape, and color of these elements convey signal values, allowing for interactive visualization of circuit behavior through user input and data processing, enabling the representation of circuit operation at different levels of hierarchy and points in time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If traditional signal-level views are used to represent digital circuit simulations, then the representation method is simple and direct, but the ability to visually convey complex circuit behavior is limited and difficult to scale
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from traditional one-dimensional waveform displays to a two-dimensional spatial representation where circuit elements are positioned according to their physical layout. This dimensional change allows simultaneous visualization of multiple signal levels and circuit relationships without increasing complexity, directly addressing the limitation of traditional signal-level views.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements hierarchical nesting by allowing users to zoom into specific circuit blocks to see detailed signal-level views while maintaining the overall circuit context. This nested structure enables visualization of both complex circuit behavior at high levels and detailed signal transitions at lower levels without losing information or overwhelming the user with complexity.
2Measurement precision
If detailed signal-level views are used to debug complex ICs, then signal precision is maintained, but the effort required for debugging increases as design complexity grows
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic visualization that automatically adjusts the level of detail based on user interaction and context. When debugging, the system can dynamically zoom into specific time periods or circuit blocks to show detailed signal transitions only where needed, maintaining measurement precision while reducing overall debugging effort by hiding irrelevant details.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by providing detailed signal-level information only at specific locations in the circuit where problems are suspected or where complex behavior occurs. Other areas of the circuit are displayed at a higher level of abstraction, reducing the effort required to understand overall circuit operation while maintaining precision where needed for debugging.
3Loss of information
If complex circuit behavior is visualized with high detail, then understanding of circuit operation improves, but the scalability of the visualization method decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the circuit visualization into hierarchical blocks and modules that can be independently analyzed. This segmentation allows the system to handle large complex circuits by dividing them into manageable sections, each visualized with appropriate detail, thereby maintaining information completeness while improving scalability through modular processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal visualization framework that can adapt to different circuit complexities and user needs. The same basic visualization system can display both simple circuits in detail and complex circuits at an appropriate level of abstraction, achieving scalability through multi-functionality rather than requiring separate visualization methods for different circuit sizes.
Data Source
AI summary
A system displays a visual representation of the operation of an electronic circuit. The position of graphical elements representing values of signals in the circuit convey information about the operation of the circuit. The visual representation may further depict navigable levels of hierarchy of the electronic circuit.