Automated Element Search in PCB Layouts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional element search methods in Electronic Design Automation (EDA) tools require users to manually determine the category of elements, leading to inefficient searches and significant time wastage due to the complexity of the operation process.
Innovation Solution
An element search method and apparatus that acquires an element search instruction with an identifier, automatically determines the element prediction type, searches for the target element on a search panel, and opens and highlights it in the correct layer of the Printed Circuit Board (PCB) layout, streamlining the search process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual category determination and element search is used, then users can control the search process, but the operation process becomes too complicated and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically determines element categories and performs search operations without requiring manual user intervention. The automated search module identifies element types, retrieves corresponding elements from PCB layouts, and presents results based on user input identifiers, eliminating the need for users to manually determine categories and navigate complex search procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The system pre-configures search parameters, element category mappings, and search algorithms before actual search operations. Users simply provide identifiers without needing to pre-configure search criteria or manually select categories, as the system has already prepared the necessary search framework and classification structures
2Productivity
If automated element search is implemented, then search efficiency is improved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The automated search module is designed as a universal system that can handle multiple element types (components, traces, vias, text annotations) through a single integrated interface. The same search mechanism works across different PCB layers and element categories, eliminating the need for separate search systems for each element type and reducing overall system complexity despite the automation capability
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces an intermediary search module that acts as a mediator between user input and PCB element data. This intermediate layer translates simple user identifiers into complex search queries, manages element category mappings, and coordinates the retrieval process, thereby simplifying the interface while handling the complexity of automated search internally
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to an element search method and apparatus, a computer device, a storage medium and a computer program product. The method includes: acquiring an element search instruction carrying an element identifier information of a target element; determining an element prediction type matching the target element based on the element identifier information; searching for the target element on a search panel according to the element prediction type to acquire element attribute information of the target element; determining a target layer of the target element in a Printed Circuit Board (PCB) layout based on the element attribute information, opening the target element at the target layer, and highlighting the opened target element. Accordingly, the efficiency of searching for the element can be improved.