Layout Checking System for Semiconductor Circuit Verification
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Solution Overview
Problem
In semiconductor fabrication, existing methods face challenges in efficiently assigning multiple-layout patterns to different groups for enhanced spatial resolution, leading to inconsistencies in layout designs and potential errors in circuit verification.
Innovation Solution
A design system that includes a processor and memory for executing program codes to check and manage layout patterns, utilizing netlist files and layout constraints to ensure consistency and adherence to design rules, thereby automating the assignment of multiple-layout patterns to terminals in semiconductor circuits.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If multiple-layout patterns are manually assigned to different groups by circuit designers, then spatial resolution of the layer is increased, but layout design consistency deteriorates and errors in circuit verification increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-verification by automatically checking layout patterns against design rules and constraints. The layout checking system autonomously identifies inconsistencies and errors without requiring manual intervention, thereby maintaining design consistency while enabling the use of multiple-layout patterns for enhanced spatial resolution.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides feedback by comparing actual layout patterns with predetermined design rules and constraints. This feedback mechanism identifies deviations and errors in layout assignments, allowing designers to correct inconsistencies and maintain reliability when using multiple-layout patterns for improved spatial resolution.
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple-layout patterns are used to enhance spatial resolution, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments layout patterns into distinct groups that can be independently managed and verified. By dividing the complex multiple-layout pattern assignment into manageable segments with specific design rules, the system maintains precision while reducing the perceived complexity through structured organization.
Solution Approach 2:
The layout checking system serves multiple functions: it verifies layout patterns against design rules, checks consistency across different layout groups, identifies errors, and provides feedback. This multi-functional approach consolidates various verification tasks into a single system, managing complexity while maintaining precision.
3Adaptability or versatility
If manual assignment of layout patterns is performed, then flexibility in design is maintained, but productivity decreases due to time-consuming verification processes
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary verification by automatically checking layout patterns against design rules immediately after assignment. This preliminary action catches errors early in the design process, eliminating the need for time-consuming manual verification later, thereby maintaining design flexibility while improving productivity.
Data Source
AI summary
A method includes operation below: extracting layout patterns that include interconnection layers between a first terminal and a second terminal coupled to the first terminal, in a layout design of a circuit; comparing a first portion of the layout patterns with a first coding portion that specifies a first layout constraint, in which the first portion of the layout patterns is extracted in a sequence starting from the first terminal or to the first terminal; comparing a second portion of the layout patterns with a second coding portion that specifies a second layout constraint, in which the second portion of the layout patterns is extracted in a sequence from the second terminal or to the second terminal; in response to comparisons, initiating fabrication of at least one element of the circuit according to the layout design.