EDA Schematic Waveform Annotation for Debugging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current electronic design automation (EDA) systems lack the ability to intuitively correlate schematic nets with waveform outputs, making it cumbersome for designers to debug circuits as they need to continuously switch between schematic and waveform views, leading to overwhelming data displays that obscure critical information.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method that allows users to select design variables, such as time, frequency, or temperature, and automatically annotates device states on a graphical user interface, providing updated values like node voltage, current, or impedance, enabling intuitive visualization and debugging of electronic designs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If waveform viewers are used to display simulation data, then multiple values can be displayed with high precision, but the interface becomes complex and requires continuous switching between schematic and waveform views for debugging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the waveform viewer and schematic viewer into a single integrated interface. The schematic display is enhanced with direct waveform annotations and probe indicators that overlay simulation data directly onto the schematic elements, eliminating the need to switch between separate views. This allows designers to view both schematic context and waveform data simultaneously in one location.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary layer between the schematic and waveform data. This intermediary is implemented through automated correlation mechanisms that link schematic nets to waveform probes, and through visual annotation systems that mediate the display of waveform data directly on schematic elements. This intermediary layer enables intuitive navigation and correlation without requiring manual switching between views.
2Loss of information
If all simulation data is displayed to provide complete information, then comprehensive data is available, but the display becomes overwhelming and hides critical information
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by displaying different levels of detail at different locations and contexts within the interface. Critical simulation states and anomalies are highlighted with enhanced visual markers and annotations directly at their locations in the schematic. Non-critical data is displayed in a condensed format or hidden by default, with the ability to expand only when needed. This selective disclosure maintains information completeness while preventing visual clutter.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts only the most relevant simulation data for display by default, while maintaining access to complete data through contextual menus and expansion options. The system automatically identifies and displays critical information such as anomalies, threshold violations, and key signal transitions, while suppressing redundant data. Users can extract additional data on demand through right-click contexts or filter options.
3Reliability
If designers manually search through simulation data to locate problems, then complete search capability is available, but the process becomes cumbersome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements automated feedback mechanisms that monitor simulation data in real-time and provide immediate visual feedback about anomalies and critical states. The system automatically highlights problematic areas, marks anomalies with visual indicators, and updates the display dynamically as simulation progresses. This eliminates the need for manual searching and provides continuous feedback about the health and status of the circuit under test.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary actions by pre-identifying and pre-highlighting critical simulation states and potential anomalies before the designer needs to investigate them. The system proactively marks areas of interest such as threshold violations, signal transitions, and potential failures, so that when the designer opens the simulation, the most relevant information is already prepared and highlighted for immediate attention.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a computer-implemented method for electronic design simulation. The method may include receiving, using at least one processor, an electronic design and displaying, at a graphical user interface, at least a portion of the electronic design. Embodiments may also include allowing a user to select at least one design variable at the graphical user interface. Embodiments may also include simulating the electronic design, based upon, at least in part, the selected at least one design variable and in response to the simulation, automatically displaying an updated value at the graphical user interface.