PCell License Validation for IC Layout Security
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing technologies for integrated circuit design lack effective mechanisms to secure Parameterized Cell (PCell) code, leading to potential infringement of circuit designer intellectual property.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that includes a PCell evaluator to check and validate license information, generate a layout by instantiating a super-master PCell if the license is valid, and provide a PCell security control utility to compute and compare checksum values or signatures, ensuring secure access and usage of PCell instances.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If PCell code is made accessible and reusable for successive users, then design productivity and consistency are improved, but intellectual property security deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a license management system as an intermediary between PCell creators and users. This system includes license files, evaluation mechanisms, and access control that mediate the interaction, allowing PCell code to be shared and reused while maintaining intellectual property security through licensed access control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a copying mechanism where PCell master code can be copied to multiple users under license control. The license file accompanies the copied PCell code, enabling successive users to access and use the PCell instances while the original creator retains ownership and control through the licensing system.
2Reliability
If PCell license information is strictly checked and validated, then intellectual property security is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by validating license information in advance before PCell instances are instantiated or used. The license check is performed upfront, and if valid, the system caches the validation result, avoiding repeated checks during operation and thus maintaining ease of use while ensuring security.
Solution Approach 2:
The license management system operates autonomously, automatically checking and validating license information without requiring manual intervention from users. The system self-manages the verification process, reducing operational complexity while maintaining security controls.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for manipulating security of an integrated circuit layout, comprising: rendering a PCell that is created by an original user for a successive user; providing an open access to the PCell; providing a PCell evaluator to execute evaluating steps of: getting license information from the PCell, and checking the PCell license information; and generating a layout of a sub-master by instantiating a super-master of the PCell if the PCell license information is valid, or leave the sub-master empty in a PCell view if the PCell license information is invalid.