Circuit Simulation Format Conversion Method

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Solution Overview

Problem

Converting circuits developed in one simulation program to another is a time-consuming and non-straightforward task due to differences in component libraries and connection formats between various simulation programs.

Innovation Solution

A method to identify and map components and format connections from a first simulation program to a format recognized by a second simulation program, storing all necessary information in a single computer-readable file, and using a simulation export tool to translate and compare simulation results for accuracy.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a circuit is manually reentered into a second simulation program, then the circuit can be simulated in the second program, but the conversion process becomes time consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecircuit simulation compatibilityVSAvoidconversion time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a digital copy of the circuit from the first simulation program's file format and transforms it into the second program's format. The circuit data is copied including components, connections, and characteristics, then converted to the target format automatically, eliminating manual reentry and significantly reducing conversion time while maintaining simulation compatibility

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs an intermediary conversion process that reads the source circuit file, parses its structure, transforms the data into the target simulation program's format, and outputs a compatible file. This intermediary transformation layer handles the format differences between programs, enabling automatic conversion without manual intervention

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If circuit components and connections are converted between different simulation programs, then the circuit can be used in the second program, but the process becomes non-straightforward due to different component libraries and formats

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecircuit portability between programsVSAvoidconversion process complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a universal conversion method that can handle multiple simulation program formats through a single automated process. The conversion system is designed to be multi-functional, supporting various source and target formats, component types, and connection representations, thereby simplifying the conversion process despite the diversity of program-specific formats

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent systematically changes parameters during conversion, including component identifiers, connection formats, characteristic representations, and file structure elements. By automatically adjusting these parameters to match the target program's requirements, the system handles format differences without requiring manual intervention, reducing conversion complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS10922459B2Methods for converting circuits in circuit simulation programs
Publication Date: 2021.02.16 TEXAS INSTRUMENTS INC
  • US10922459B2 patent drawing
  • US10922459B2 patent drawing
  • US10922459B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method for converting a circuit in a format of a first circuit simulation program to format of a second circuit simulation program includes identifying components in the circuit that are recognized by the second simulation program. Characteristics for components that are not recognized by the second simulation program are created. Connections in the circuit are formatted to a format that is recognized by the second simulation program. The components, characteristics, and connections are stored in a single computer-readable file.