Parametric Analog IC Design Framework
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for designing analog or mixed analog/digital circuits require high expertise, making them inaccessible to users without extensive knowledge in analog and/or mixed signal design.
Innovation Solution
A framework and method for designing and implementing circuits using parameterizable integrated circuits (ICs) with configurable analog elements, allowing users to specify requirements and set parameters through a computer-executable code on a server connected to a client computer via an IP network, enabling the design and implementation of sensor and actuator sub-circuits.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional methods of designing analog circuits are used, then the design can be customized and optimized, but the process requires high expertise and is complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary tool (computerized design system with automated parameter optimization) that mediates between the user's design requirements and the complex analog circuit design process. This intermediary handles the complexity of parameter optimization, simulation, and verification automatically, allowing users without extensive analog design expertise to achieve precise circuit designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The design system performs self-service by automatically optimizing parameters, running simulations, and verifying circuit performance without requiring manual intervention from expert analog designers. The system independently adjusts parameters to meet specifications, reducing the need for high-level expertise while maintaining design precision.
2Reliability
If conventional analog circuit design methods are used, then the circuit can be optimized for performance, but the process requires extensive time and repeated iterations
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-calculating optimal parameter ranges, pre-running simulations with initial parameter sets, and pre-identifying potential design issues before the user finalizes the design. This preliminary optimization reduces the need for repeated iterations and accelerates the overall design process while maintaining high circuit performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The design system implements continuous feedback loops where simulation results automatically feed back into parameter optimization algorithms. The system monitors performance metrics in real-time during simulation and automatically adjusts parameters to meet specifications, reducing the need for manual re-iteration and speeding up the optimization process.
3Ease of operation
If parameterizable ICs are used, then the design becomes accessible to users without expertise, but the level of customization is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adapts the level of parameter customization based on user input and design requirements. For simple applications, the system uses pre-configured parameter sets for ease of use. For more complex requirements, the system automatically unlocks advanced parameter optimization capabilities, allowing users to customize parameters without needing expertise. This dynamic approach maintains accessibility while preserving adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically changes parameters based on design requirements and performance targets. Users specify high-level requirements, and the system translates these into specific parameter values through automated optimization. This parameter transformation maintains ease of operation while achieving the customization needed for specific applications.
Data Source
AI summary
An environment and method are provided for designing and implementing a circuit comprising an integrated circuit (IC) including a number of parametric analog elements for which operating parameters can be set. Generally, the method comprises: specifying requirements for the circuit including physical properties to be sensed by the circuit and actions to be taken by the circuit; designing the circuit based on the specified requirements and resources available on the IC; and setting parameters of at least one of the parametric analog circuit elements of the IC based on the circuit design. In one embodiment, the specifying, designing, and setting parameters steps are performed using a computer executable code embodied in a computer readable medium on a server coupled to a client computer through an internet protocol network. Other embodiments are also provided.