Library-Based IC Solver Using Segmented Matrix Operations
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current IC modeling tools for RF circuits are computationally intensive and inefficient for incremental design changes, making them more suitable for verification rather than design optimization due to the complexity of fullwave solutions and large matrix sizes.
Innovation Solution
A method for modeling integrated circuits that approximates operating points by separating voltage values into nearby and far-away components using equivalent matrix operations, basis-function expansions, and spatial-frequency expansions, allowing for flexible and accurate incremental design adaptations by reusing calculated values for nearby and far-away mesh-element pairs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If fullwave electromagnetic solvers are used to model RF integrated circuits, then accuracy of electromagnetic field modeling is improved, but computational time and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the electromagnetic field calculation into two distinct parts: near-field components calculated using basis-function expansions for accurate local interactions, and far-field components calculated using spatial-frequency expansions for efficient global interactions. This segmentation allows each method to be applied where it is most effective, reducing overall computational time while maintaining fullwave accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary calculation and storage of the Green's function and its derivatives before the actual electromagnetic field calculation. By pre-computing these fundamental components that are reused multiple times in the field calculation, the method avoids redundant computations and significantly reduces the total computational time required for fullwave analysis.
2Measurement precision
If fullwave electromagnetic solvers are used to model RF integrated circuits, then accuracy of electromagnetic field modeling is improved, but device complexity increases due to large matrix sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the electromagnetic field solution into near-field and far-field components, each handled by different mathematical expansions. This segmentation transforms the single large matrix problem into two smaller, more manageable calculation domains, reducing memory requirements and computational complexity while preserving fullwave accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces the Green's function as an intermediary mathematical tool that mediates between the current distribution and the electromagnetic field. By using the Green's function and its derivatives as intermediate quantities, the method simplifies the direct solution of large matrix equations while maintaining accuracy in the electromagnetic field calculation.
3Measurement precision
If fullwave electromagnetic solvers are used for incremental design changes, then accurate modeling is maintained, but computational efficiency decreases as calculations must be substantially redone
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary calculation and storage of the Green's function and its derivatives, which are fundamental to the electromagnetic field calculation. When incremental design changes occur, these pre-computed values can be reused or minimally updated, allowing designers to efficiently assess the impact of small changes without performing complete fullwave calculations from scratch.
Solution Approach 2:
By segmenting the field calculation into near-field and far-field components with different mathematical treatments, the patent enables selective updating of only the affected portions when design changes occur. This segmentation allows incremental modifications to be processed efficiently while maintaining fullwave accuracy for the complete structure.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for modeling an IC (integrated circuit) employs a mesh model and a grid model for separating impedance effects between nearby and far-away pairs of mesh elements. Models for relating currents and voltages can be incrementally adapted from other designs or design elements in applications including mixed-signal, analog and RF (radio frequency) circuits.