Standard Cell Layout Segmentation for Faster Library Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
The manual process of designing standard cell libraries for advanced semiconductor technology nodes is complex, time-consuming, and costly, especially as nodes shrink, leading to inefficient layout optimization and increased routing congestion.
Innovation Solution
An automated method for generating standard cell libraries, which includes automatically determining device segments, grouping devices based on shared features, and generating optimized physical layouts, reducing the time required from months to weeks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual processes are used for designing standard cell libraries, then design flexibility and control are maintained, but the process becomes complex, time-consuming, and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs automated segmentation and grouping of devices based on shared features, enabling the design process to self-organize without manual intervention. The computer automatically determines segmentations and generates physical layouts, eliminating the need for manual design steps while maintaining optimal design outcomes
Solution Approach 2:
The standard cell design is divided into discrete segments based on shared features among devices. By automatically determining the minimum number of segments and grouping devices accordingly, the system breaks down the complex manual design process into manageable automated steps, improving productivity while reducing overall process complexity
2Manufacturing precision
If manual layout optimization is performed, then design control is maintained, but routing congestion increases and time consumption rises
Solution Approach 1:
The manual mechanical process of layout optimization is replaced with an automated computational system. The computer executes algorithms that automatically determine device segmentations, perform grouping based on shared features, and generate optimized physical layouts, eliminating time-consuming manual iterations while maintaining or improving layout quality
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary automated segmentation and grouping operations before physical layout generation. By pre-determining the minimum number of segments and organizing devices into groups with shared features, the system prepares optimized structures in advance, reducing subsequent design time and preventing routing congestion before it occurs
3Productivity
If automated methods are used for standard cell design, then productivity improves, but automation extent must be increased
Solution Approach 1:
The automated system performs self-directed segmentation and grouping operations without requiring human intervention or supervision. The computer independently determines the minimum number of segments, automatically groups devices based on shared features, and generates physical layouts autonomously, achieving high productivity through complete automation while minimizing the need for human-automation interaction
Data Source
AI summary
In an embodiment, a method includes: receiving data representative of an electrical circuit including an arrangement of devices, inputs, outputs, and power sources; determining a minimum number of segments based on the received data; grouping the devices into N segments based on common features shared between two or more of the devices, where N is equal to the minimum number of segments; and generating discrete portions of the grouped devices to form a physical layout representative of a physical manifestation of the electrical circuit, such that when the discrete portions are integrated together they form a physical manifestation of the electrical circuit.