Compressed Logic Waveform Display for High-Frequency Signals
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current simulation tools face challenges in handling and displaying high-frequency logic signal waveforms due to large file sizes and resolution limitations, leading to inefficient data handling and display generation.
Innovation Solution
A method is introduced to generate a compressed representation of simulated waveforms by processing circuit model information, identifying segments of stable repetition, and representing them using cycle and repetition information, which reduces file size and improves display efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If VCD format records separate transition data for each transition edge in high-frequency signals, then complete waveform information is captured, but file size becomes prohibitively large
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the waveform data into distinct components: clock signals and non-clock signals. By separating these segments and applying different recording strategies to each, the system captures complete waveform information while reducing overall file size. Clock signals are identified and extracted, then recorded using a compressed format that leverages their periodic nature.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the recording parameters for clock signals versus non-clock signals. Instead of using the same transition-by-transition recording for both, clock signals are recorded by capturing their periodic characteristics (cycle information, repetition count, phase relationships), dramatically reducing the data parameters needed while preserving complete waveform information.
2Duration of action of moving object
If clock signals are displayed in a time-compressed window, then extended period waveforms are visible, but individual clock edges become indistinguishable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adds a visual dimension to the display by showing multiple representations simultaneously: the time-compressed waveform view and an expanded clock signal view. This dimensional approach allows users to see both the overall time period coverage and the individual edge details without compromising either view's quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The display is segmented into different visual regions: one showing the time-compressed waveform and another showing the expanded clock signal details. This segmentation allows each region to serve its specific purpose - the compressed view shows the extended time period while the expanded view maintains edge distinguishability.
3Measurement precision
If graphics vectors are drawn for each transition to show waveform shape, then accurate waveform representation is achieved, but display generation overhead increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of drawing graphics vectors for every single transition, the patent creates a template or copy of the clock waveform pattern and repeats it according to the recorded cycle information and repetition count. This copying approach maintains accurate waveform representation while dramatically reducing the computational overhead of display generation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent leverages the periodic nature of clock signals by recording and reproducing their cyclic patterns. Rather than processing each transition individually, the system records the periodic characteristics and uses this information to efficiently generate the display, significantly reducing graphics generation overhead while maintaining waveform accuracy.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for generating a compressed representation of a simulated waveform is disclosed. The method may have the steps of: (a) processing circuit model information, (b) identifying a segment of stable repetition; and (c) generating the compressed representation. Step (a) may generate waveform information representing a simulated waveform occurring in the circuit model. Step (b) may identify the segment in the waveform information. In step (c), the compressed waveform information may define the segment by (i) cycle information representing the waveform cycle and (ii) repetition information representing the stable repetitions of the waveform cycle to form the segment.