IC Layout Coordinate Transfer via System Hook Interception

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing methods for testing, diagnostics, and failure analysis of integrated circuits (ICs) are inefficient due to manual processes and errors in converting layout coordinates for analytical tools, which are time-consuming and require special handling.

Innovation Solution

Implementing a system that uses system hooks for message interception to automatically read and transfer layout coordinates between chip layout display software and tool control software, enabling seamless communication and operation of analytical tools without the need for manual input or special formatting.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If manual processes are used to convert layout coordinates for analytical tools, then flexibility in handling different formats is maintained, but the process becomes time-consuming and error-prone

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvespeed of coordinate transferVSAvoidcomplexity of coordinate transformation system

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a background process as an intermediary component that automatically intercepts coordinate data from layout software and transfers it to analytical tools. This mediator handles the coordinate transformation and data format conversion automatically, eliminating manual processes while maintaining flexibility through programmable transformation rules.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual mechanical processes of coordinate copying and formatting with an automated software-based system. The background process uses message interception and automated data transfer mechanisms to substitute for manual user actions, thereby increasing productivity while reducing errors.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Reliability

If manual coordinate conversion is performed, then user control over the process is maintained, but human errors increase and time is consumed

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccuracy of coordinate transferVSAvoidtime for coordinate conversion

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The background process performs preliminary actions by automatically intercepting and preparing coordinate data before it is needed by the analytical tool. The system proactively captures coordinate information from layout software and pre-processes it into the required formats, eliminating the need for manual conversion at the moment of use and thereby reducing both time loss and human error.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements self-service automation where the background process independently handles coordinate transfer without requiring user intervention. The automated message interception and data transfer mechanisms perform the conversion and transfer operations autonomously, maintaining high reliability while eliminating time consumption associated with manual processes.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If layout coordinates are manually entered into analytical tools, then format flexibility is maintained, but special handling and parsing are required

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveability to handle different coordinate formatsVSAvoidease of coordinate input

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The background process dynamically changes parameters such as data formats, coordinate systems, and message types to adapt between different software environments. By programmatically adjusting these parameters, the system maintains versatility in handling various coordinate formats while presenting a simplified, easy-to-use interface that requires no special handling from the user.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS8635582B2Navigating analytical tools using layout software

Publication Date: 2014.01.21 GLOBALFOUNDRIES US INC

AI summary

A background process installs a system hook for message interception of integrated circuit chip layout display software. A call message is intercepted through the system hook, and current layout coordinates are read from the integrated circuit chip layout display software. A representation of the current layout coordinates is entered into tool control software configured to control a physical tool for analyzing integrated circuits, and the physical tool is controlled with the tool control software. In an “inverse” approach, a background process is used to install at least one system hook for message interception of tool control software configured to control a physical tool for analyzing integrated circuits, and a call message is intercepted through the system hook. Current coordinates are read from the tool control software. A representation of the current coordinates is entered into integrated circuit chip layout display software, and at least a portion of an integrated circuit layout is displayed.