Integrated Circuit Short Circuit Location via Terminal Labeling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for locating short circuits in integrated circuits are inefficient, often due to incorrect or insufficient labeling, leading to prolonged search times or failure to find the correct position of short circuits.
Innovation Solution
Assigning a larger number of labels to the input and output terminals of components in integrated circuits based on the comparison results between the original circuit netlist and layout data, using a comparison unit and assignment unit to identify and locate short circuits.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual labeling methods are used to locate short circuits, then the search process can be initiated, but the search time becomes excessively long and may fail to locate the correct position
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by automatically assigning labels to all input and output terminals of components before the short circuit search process begins. The labeling unit assigns unique labels to terminals based on component information from the netlist, preparing the circuit diagram in advance with comprehensive terminal identification. This preliminary labeling enables the search algorithm to quickly locate short circuits without manual intervention during the actual search phase.
2Productivity
If fewer labels are assigned to circuit terminals, then the labeling process is simpler, but the search for short circuits becomes inefficient and may fail
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by enabling the system to automatically generate and assign labels to all circuit terminals without requiring manual input from users. The labeling unit autonomously processes component information from the netlist, extracts terminal data, and assigns appropriate labels to each terminal in the circuit diagram. This automated self-labeling process eliminates the need for manual terminal identification while ensuring complete and accurate labeling for efficient short circuit search.
3Loss of time
If incorrect circuit labels are provided, then the labeling process completes quickly, but the short circuit location cannot be correctly identified
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies feedback by establishing a verification mechanism where the labeling unit cross-checks terminal labels against component information from the netlist. The system continuously validates that assigned labels correctly correspond to the actual circuit connections and component terminals. This feedback loop ensures labeling accuracy throughout the process, preventing incorrect labels from being assigned while maintaining efficient automated processing speed.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein are methods and devices used for the physical design validation of integrated circuits. One method used for the physical design validation of integrated circuits includes comparing the original circuit netlist of an integrated circuit and the layout data of the integrated circuit and assigning labels to the input and output terminals of the components in the integrated circuit based on the results of the comparison.