Integrated Circuit Architecture Determination Method

The patent segments the design flow into distinct hierarchical levels (architecture level, micro-architecture level, circuit level), with each level having specialized evaluation tools and optimization algorithms. This segmentation allows independent optimization at each level without increasing overall tool complexity, as each segment can be developed and maintained separately with specific expertise.

The patent creates a universal optimization framework that can accommodate multiple evaluation tools and simulation environments through a standardized interface. The hierarchical optimization algorithm serves as a multi-functional engine that can process results from different simulators and evaluation tools, providing unified optimization capability across diverse design exploration needs without requiring separate toolchains for each case.

The patent performs preliminary optimization actions at higher architecture levels before detailed micro-architecture optimization. By establishing the optimal architecture configuration first, subsequent detailed optimizations have a constrained search space, reducing the number of iterations needed at lower levels. This preliminary action prevents wasted iterations on suboptimal architecture choices.

The patent introduces a hierarchical dimension to the optimization process, organizing optimization iterations across multiple levels (architecture → micro-architecture → circuit) rather than performing all iterations at a single level. This dimensional organization allows coarse-grained optimizations at higher levels to guide fine-grained optimizations at lower levels, reducing total iteration count while maintaining precision.

The patent applies local quality by evaluating different optimization criteria with different levels of detail and computational effort appropriate to each criterion. Critical performance metrics receive more rigorous evaluation with multiple simulation iterations, while less critical metrics use faster estimation methods. This differentiated evaluation approach maintains reliability for key decisions while reducing overall computational time.

The patent implements partial evaluation by assessing all optimization criteria but performing comprehensive detailed evaluation only for the most critical criteria that significantly impact architecture selection. Less critical criteria receive sufficient evaluation to ensure adequacy but without excessive computational investment, achieving reliable determination with optimized time expenditure.