Dynamic Topology Generation for ESD Sensitivity Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current circuit analysis software for determining electrostatic discharge (ESD) sensitivity is limited by its reliance on topology-based search algorithms, which may miss potential issues in designs not explicitly defined, making it difficult to ensure satisfactory operation across various technologies like CMOS or BiCMOS process technologies.
Innovation Solution
A computer program that generates and compares multiple circuit topologies based on retrieved rules, a list of fundamental devices, and a topology map, allowing for comprehensive analysis of ESD sensitivity by identifying present topologies and assessing the design's sensitivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If topology-based search algorithms are used to check ESD sensitivity, then the analysis can be performed efficiently, but the completeness of the check is limited by the predefined topologies
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically generates topology definitions during runtime based on the actual circuit design characteristics, rather than relying on static predefined topologies. The topology generator creates customized topology definitions by analyzing device connections and configurations in the subject design, enabling the system to adapt to any circuit topology automatically.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameter of topology definitions from fixed predefined values to dynamically generated values based on circuit analysis. By extracting actual connection patterns and device configurations from the subject design, the system generates topology definitions that match the specific design being analyzed, thereby improving both completeness and accuracy.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a large set of predefined topologies is defined to cover various technologies, then the search range increases, but the difficulty of definition and maintenance increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service by automatically generating topology definitions from the subject design itself. Rather than requiring manual definition of topologies for each technology, the topology generator extracts connection patterns and device configurations directly from the circuit design, allowing the system to serve itself in creating appropriate topology definitions for any technology node.
Solution Approach 2:
The topology generator serves multiple functions: it analyzes device connections, extracts topology patterns, generates topology definitions, and adapts to different technologies all through a single automated process. This universal approach replaces the need for separate predefined topology sets for different technologies with a single system that can handle any technology automatically.
Data Source
AI summary
Circuit analysis software packages are a significant tool used today in the design of integrated circuits (ICs). Many of the conventional and commercially available simulation or analysis packages, however, are limited to performing static design “checks” using topology based search algorithms to find potential problems in a subject design. Here, a system is provided that allows a user to define parameters that comport with the subject design to generate a set of specific topologies from a set of generic topologies. These generated topologies can then be used to perform a more thorough analysis of the subject design.