Dual Path Static Timing Analysis for Circuit Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional static timing analysis methods rely on global timing margins and single-point flip-flop models, leading to inefficiencies in circuit design, increased power consumption, and undetected timing errors, especially when dealing with varying signal setup and hold times.
Innovation Solution
A dual path static timing analysis method that simulates the reception of input and clock signals at flip-flops, calculates time differences, and uses lookup tables to model clock-to-output delays across a range of signal setup and hold times, allowing for context-accurate characterization and reduced global timing margins.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If global timing margins are added across the circuit design to compensate for clock-to-Q delay variations, then timing reliability is improved, but circuit performance and power efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the single global timing margin into multiple context-specific timing values. Instead of applying one universal margin to all flip-flops, the system divides timing margins into path-specific segments (e.g., synchronous vs. asynchronous paths, different setup/hold conditions) that are applied locally where needed. This segmentation allows tighter overall timing while maintaining reliability in each specific context.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements local quality by assigning different timing margin characteristics to different regions or paths within the circuit. Each flip-flop or logic path receives a customized timing value based on its specific context (synchronous/asynchronous nature, path delay characteristics, signal transition types). This local customization eliminates the need for conservative global margins, improving overall circuit performance while maintaining local timing reliability.
2Use of energy by stationary object
If circuit speed is reduced to meet timing criteria with power-efficient devices, then power consumption is reduced, but the number of undetected timing errors increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamics into the timing analysis by making timing values adaptive rather than static. The system dynamically determines appropriate timing margins based on actual path characteristics, signal transition types, and operational context. This dynamic approach allows the use of tighter (faster) timing values where appropriate, enabling higher circuit speeds without compromising reliability, while still maintaining power efficiency through context-aware optimization.
3Device complexity
If single-point flip-flop models are used in static timing analysis, then analysis simplicity is maintained, but timing analysis accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by transitioning from a single static timing parameter per flip-flop to multiple context-dependent timing parameters. The system introduces parameters such as synchronous/asynchronous path indicators, setup/hold time variations, and path-specific delay characteristics. These parameter changes enable more accurate timing analysis that reflects actual circuit behavior, while the underlying methodology remains systematic and manageable.
4Use of energy by stationary object
If slower devices are used to meet timing criteria, then power efficiency is improved, but circuit performance and design freedom deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables designers to maintain power efficiency while improving performance by applying local quality optimization. Instead of uniformly slowing down the entire circuit, the system identifies specific paths or flip-flops where tighter timing margins are appropriate and applies optimized timing values locally. This allows the use of faster devices in critical paths while maintaining power-efficient operation in less critical regions, achieving both performance and power efficiency goals.
Data Source
AI summary
A method to analyze timing in a circuit, generally including (A) simulating reception of an input signal and a clock signal at a first flip-flop, wherein (i) the input signal has a latest transition, (ii) the input signal arrives through a first path and (iii) the clock signal has an active edge, (B) calculating a value of a time difference between the latest transition and the active edge, (C) calculating a delay between the active edge and the latest transition appearing in an output signal, wherein (i) the delay is based on a model responding to the value, (ii) the model characterizes a clock-to-output delay as a function of the time difference and (iii) the characterization covering a range of values, (D) calculating an arrival time of the latest transition at a second flip-flop through a second signal path and (E) storing the arrival time in a recording medium.