Distributed ESD Clamp Banks for Flexible IC Layouts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional integrated circuit layouts with ESD clamp devices and I/O devices in a single bank are inflexible and may not be optimal for circuits of different designs.
Innovation Solution
The layout is divided into multiple banks with different configurations, where ESD clamp devices of varying types are placed in separate banks, each powered by distinct supply voltages, allowing for greater flexibility in circuit design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If ESD clamp devices and I/O devices are placed in a single bank, then the layout structure is simple, but the design flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the ESD clamp devices into multiple separate banks (first bank, second bank, third bank) rather than placing them in a single bank. Each bank can be independently configured with different types and numbers of ESD clamp devices, allowing flexible adaptation to different circuit designs while maintaining a structured layout organization.
2Adaptability or versatility
If ESD clamp devices are divided into multiple banks with different configurations, then the design flexibility is improved, but the layout complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments ESD clamp devices into multiple banks that can be independently configured. This segmentation allows each bank to be optimized for specific functions or voltage domains, providing design flexibility while the modular bank structure itself helps manage the overall layout complexity through organized groupings.
3Adaptability or versatility
If ESD clamp devices of different types are placed in separate banks, then the adaptability to different circuit designs is improved, but the device configuration complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent separates ESD clamp devices of different types into different banks, allowing each bank to be independently configured and optimized for specific circuit requirements. This segmentation enables better adaptability to diverse circuit designs while the modular approach actually simplifies configuration management compared to a monolithic structure.
Solution Approach 2:
Different banks can have different configurations of ESD clamp devices tailored to local circuit requirements, such as different voltage domains or protection levels. This local quality approach allows each bank to be optimized for its specific function while contributing to the overall system adaptability.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention provides an integrated circuit layout including a first bank and a second bank. The first bank includes a plurality of I/O circuits and at least one first ESD clamp device. The second bank includes at least one second ESD clamp device, wherein the at least one second ESD clamp device is different in type from the at least one first ESD clamp device.