Semiconductor Cell Layout for Faster Mixed-Row Legalization

The patent divides the layout into multiple regions and processes each region separately using a sliding window approach. Instead of legalizing the entire layout at once, the method segments the problem into manageable chunks, processing cells in overlapping windows that move across the layout. This segmentation reduces the computational complexity and processing time while maintaining legalization quality in each region.

The patent performs preliminary actions by pre-processing the layout to identify and mark cells that are likely to cause conflicts before the main legalization process. The method also pre-calculates conflict information and prepares data structures in advance, which accelerates the subsequent legalization steps and reduces overall processing time.

The patent applies local quality by allowing different row heights in different regions of the layout to optimize area utilization. The method preserves the mixed-row height structure where beneficial for area optimization while applying targeted legalization strategies in specific regions. This localized approach maintains area efficiency without requiring uniform row heights across the entire chip.

The patent introduces dynamics by making the legalization process adaptive to local conditions. The sliding window approach dynamically adjusts the processing focus to regions with conflicts, and the method dynamically selects which cells to move based on local density and conflict patterns. This dynamic behavior allows the algorithm to efficiently handle mixed-row height variations without being constrained by a rigid uniform approach.