Freeform Sketch Trace Routing for PCB Layout Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
The complexity of routing traces on printed circuit boards, especially with multiple components and layers, makes it challenging to efficiently connect components without crossing traces, requiring manual intervention despite the existence of automated tools.
Innovation Solution
The method involves identifying a group of netlines and routing them as traces according to a freeform sketch, using an automated trace routing engine to approximate the geometry of the sketch, and forming a container shape to guide the routing within, which includes routing ball grid array escapes and trace fanouts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If automated trace routing tools are used, then routing speed is improved, but routing precision and optimality deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a freeform sketch as an intermediary element between the designer's intent and the automated routing engine. The sketch serves as a mediator that captures precise geometric guidance while the automated engine handles the actual trace generation, combining the speed of automation with the precision of manual guidance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by having the user create a freeform sketch that pre-defines the desired trace geometry before automated routing occurs. This preliminary sketch establishes the target path, and the automated engine then efficiently generates traces that follow this pre-planned geometry, achieving both speed and precision.
2Manufacturing precision
If manual trace routing is performed, then trace placement precision is improved, but routing time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by having the user manually define only the critical geometric guidance through the freeform sketch, while the automated routing engine handles the remaining trace generation, extension, and optimization. This divides the workload so that manual intervention occurs only where precision is most important, reducing overall routing time while maintaining accuracy.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple layers and vias are used to route traces, then routing flexibility is improved, but design complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent leverages the third dimension (vertical layer transitions) by allowing the freeform sketch to span multiple layers. The sketch can define traces that move between layers through vias, enabling three-dimensional routing paths that provide flexibility without requiring the user to manually manage complex multi-layer routing rules, thus reducing design complexity while maintaining versatility.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and apparatuses for routing traces in a layout design, such as for example a layout design for an integrated circuit, are disclosed. In various implementations, a group of netlines within a layout design and a freeform sketch are identified. Subsequently, the netlines are routed as traces according to the freeform sketch. More particularly, the geometry of the traces is determined by approximating the geometry of the freeform sketch. Various implementations of the invention provide for the netlines to be routed by an automated trace routing engine. With further implementations of the invention, ball grid array escapes and trace fanouts are additionally routed. For example, ball grid array escapes may be routed prior to netlines being routed according to the freeform sketch. In further implementations of the invention, the freeform sketch is deleted after the traces have been routed. With various implementations of the invention, the netlines are routed as traces by forming a container shape around the freeform sketch, approximating the geometry of the freeform sketch within the container shape, and routing traces within the container shape using the approximation of the freeform shape as a guide.