IC Layout Density Adjustment via Dummy Block Sizing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manual adjustment of high layout density in integrated circuits is time-consuming and inefficient, requiring repeated manual operations to meet design specifications.
Innovation Solution
An electronic apparatus and layout method that analyzes blank areas in integrated circuits, selects and fills them with dummy blocks of varying sizes based on center positions, and adjusts the size of these blocks to achieve optimal layout density automatically.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If dummy blocks are filled into all blank areas to maximize chip utilization rate, then layout density is improved, but layout specification requirements are not met due to overly high density
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by adjusting the size parameters of dummy blocks. Multiple sets of dummy blocks with different sizes are prepared, and the system automatically selects and adjusts dummy block sizes based on layout density analysis. This allows the layout to maintain high chip utilization while meeting specification requirements through controlled parameter variation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback through automated layout density checking. The system performs density analysis on the layout, compares it against specification requirements, and uses this feedback to automatically adjust dummy block sizes and positions. This closed-loop feedback mechanism ensures that layout specifications are met while maximizing chip utilization.
2Manufacturing precision
If manual adjustment operation is performed on blank areas to meet layout specification requirements, then layout density is improved, but time and manpower are wasted due to repeated operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by implementing automated layout density adjustment. The system automatically analyzes layout density, identifies areas requiring adjustment, selects appropriate dummy blocks, and performs the adjustment without manual intervention. This self-service capability eliminates repeated manual operations and significantly reduces adjustment time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical manual adjustment process with an automated electronic system. The layout adjustment that previously required manual engineer intervention is now performed through automated software algorithms that analyze density distributions and automatically modify dummy block configurations, substituting human labor with computational mechanisms.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple sets of dummy blocks with different sizes are prepared, then layout density adjustment flexibility is improved, but device complexity is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a multi-functional dummy block system. Multiple sets of dummy blocks with different sizes serve multiple purposes: they can be used to fill various blank area sizes, adjust layout density to different levels, and meet different specification requirements. This universal approach provides flexibility without requiring entirely separate solutions for each adjustment scenario.
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic apparatus and a layout method for an integrated circuit (IC) are provided. The layout method for the IC includes: receiving layout information, analyzing the layout information to obtain a plurality of blank areas in the IC; presetting a plurality of dummy blocks which respectively have a plurality of sizes; selecting at least one of the dummy blocks to fill in each of the blank areas based on a center position of each of the blank areas according to a size of each of the blank areas and generating updated layout information; performing a layout density checking operation on the updated layout information to generate a checking result; and shrinking sizes of a plurality of setting dummy blocks in the IC according to the checking result and generating output layout information.