Signal Line Layout Rule Checking for Custom Circuit Designs
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The increasing complexity of checking key signal lines in highly integrated semiconductor circuit layouts due to the growing number of signal lines significantly affects design efficiency and accuracy.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that generate a layout design rule based on custom design information from a circuit schematic, checking each target signal line against this rule, and adding labels to signal lines that do not meet the rule, thereby facilitating quick identification of defects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual checking of each key signal line is performed, then design accuracy is maintained, but design efficiency deteriorates due to the increasing number of signal lines
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables automatic checking of signal lines through computer-executable instructions that autonomously verify layout rules without requiring manual intervention from layout engineers, thus maintaining accuracy while improving efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical checking process with an automated computer-based system that uses algorithms and software to perform layout rule verification, eliminating the need for engineers to manually examine each signal line
2Adaptability or versatility
If the number of signal lines increases for high integration, then device functionality is improved, but checking complexity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and identifies specific key signal lines that require checking from the overall circuit layout, then applies targeted layout rules to these extracted elements, managing complexity by focusing on critical components rather than the entire system
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameter of signal line identification by using custom design information and labels to distinguish key signal lines from other elements, enabling automated checking to focus on specific parameters that matter for signal integrity
3Productivity
If automated checking is implemented, then design efficiency is improved, but the ability to handle custom design requirements deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal checking system that can handle multiple types of layout rules and custom design requirements through a single automated platform, making the system adaptable to different design scenarios while maintaining efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary action by obtaining custom design information and generating appropriate layout rules before the actual checking process, enabling the automated system to adapt to specific design requirements in advance
Data Source
AI summary
A method and an apparatus for checking a signal line are provided. The method includes: obtaining custom design information of a target signal line in a circuit schematic, and generating a layout design rule corresponding to the target signal line based on the custom design information; checking whether the target signal line meets the layout design rule in a circuit layout corresponding to the circuit schematic; and adding a first label to a position of the target signal line in the circuit layout when the target signal line in the circuit layout does not meet the layout design rule. The first label is configured to indicate that the target signal line does not meet the layout design rule.