Logic Block Timing Analysis Using Delay-Cones
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current processor design lacks a systematic method for verifying pipeline architecture against cycle time constraints, relying on mental estimation which is impractical and inaccurate due to the complexity of frequency analysis and process variations.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for logic block timing analysis that includes a microprocessor, storage for delay-versus-conesize values, a fitting module for best-fit curve estimation, and a conesize parser to validate design against desired cycle times, using empirical data from existing hardware to estimate delays as a function of cone size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If automated timing analysis is implemented, then productivity and accuracy improve, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary model (delay-cone relationship) that mediates between the complex physical timing analysis and the simplified design validation. This model acts as a bridge, translating complex timing behavior into a manageable functional relationship that can be systematically applied without requiring full complexity of the underlying physical analysis.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms the timing analysis problem by changing parameters from detailed circuit-level timing to aggregated delay-cone relationships. By parameterizing the timing behavior in terms of cone size and associated delay values, the system achieves automated analysis while managing complexity through parameter aggregation and abstraction.
2Measurement precision
If mental estimation of logic delay is used, then device complexity remains low, but measurement precision and reliability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service timing analysis by automatically generating delay estimates from design data without requiring manual intervention. The automated process extracts cone information from design files, applies the delay-cone model, and produces timing estimates, eliminating the need for manual mental estimation while maintaining systematic accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a simplified copy or representation of the actual timing behavior through the delay-cone model. Instead of performing complete physical timing analysis, the system uses a copied functional relationship that replicates essential timing characteristics, achieving good precision without the full complexity of exact physical analysis.
3Measurement precision
If detailed physical timing analysis is performed, then measurement precision improves, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary timing analysis using the delay-cone model during the design phase, before final implementation. By establishing timing estimates early in the design process using the simplified model, designers can identify and correct timing issues before committing to detailed physical design, saving significant time while maintaining adequate precision for design validation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies partial timing analysis using the delay-cone model, performing enough analysis to validate design feasibility without executing complete detailed physical timing analysis. This partial action provides sufficient precision for design-stage decisions while avoiding the excessive time cost of full detailed analysis, allowing iterative design refinement.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for logic block timing analysis may include a controller, and storage in communication with the controller. The storage may provide delay-versus-conesize values of a logic block. The system may further include a fitting module to provide a delay-cone based upon the delay-versus-conesize values of the logic block. The system may also include a conesize parser that uses the delay-cone to provide delay values through the logic block. The conesize parser may be used to validate the design of the logic block by comparing the delay-cone with a desired cycle time.