Static Timing Analysis Configuration via Module Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current static timing analysis tools are inefficient and error-prone due to the need for manual modification and processing of entire integrated circuit designs for each analysis scenario, leading to impractically large run times and increased risk of errors, especially in complex multi-million gate designs.
Innovation Solution
A method and computer program that configures integrated circuit design module data into different scenarios for static timing analysis by selecting configuration items from a list, allowing for the creation of multiple scenarios without manually editing netlists and backannotation files, using a graphical user interface to filter out unnecessary cell and interconnect information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual modification and processing of entire integrated circuit designs is performed for each analysis scenario, then analysis accuracy is maintained, but processing time becomes impractically large and error risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the integrated circuit design into hierarchical modules that can be independently configured. Instead of manually processing entire designs, users select configuration items at specific module levels, allowing the system to process only relevant portions while maintaining accuracy through structured module hierarchy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts and filters out unnecessary cell and interconnect information from the complete design. By selectively including only required modules and parameters in each analysis scenario, the system reduces processing time while preserving timing analysis accuracy through targeted data extraction.
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual modification of netlists and backannotation files is performed, then analysis scenarios can be created, but the process becomes error-prone and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a configuration system where the tool automatically generates analysis scenarios based on user selections of configuration items. The system self-manages the creation of multiple scenarios from module data without requiring manual editing of netlists or backannotation files, reducing operational complexity while maintaining scenario versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal configuration interface that handles multiple analysis scenarios through a single standardized process. Users can select different configuration items for various modules, and the system automatically generates appropriate scenarios, making the tool adaptable to different analysis needs without requiring manual file processing for each scenario.
3Measurement precision
If entire integrated circuit designs are processed for each analysis scenario, then complete timing information is obtained, but processing efficiency decreases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by configuring specific modules with different levels of detail based on analysis requirements. Instead of uniformly processing entire designs, the system allows selective inclusion of modules and parameters, obtaining complete timing information where needed while improving efficiency by excluding unnecessary portions from analysis.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and a computer program for configuring an integrated circuit design for static timing analysis include receiving module data representative of a hierarchy of modules in an integrated circuit design. A configuration item is selected from a list of configuration items for at least one of the modules. The module data is configured for the module from the selected configuration item into a static timing analysis scenario for performing a static timing analysis of the configured module data.