Presentation
A Rule-Aware Layout Conversion Framework for Back-End Physical Design
DescriptionAs technology nodes continue to scale, DTCO (Design-Technology Co-Optimization) increasingly requires layout teams to evaluate multiple architectural options early in the design cycle—especially in standard cells and SRAM periphery, where small structural changes can significantly affect area, performance, and DRC results.
In reality, layout implementation has not kept pace with this demand. Even modest architectural updates often invalidate existing layouts, forcing engineers to repeatedly rework structurally similar designs and slowing down DTCO feedback loops.
This work presents a lightweight, rule-aware layout conversion framework aimed at reducing repetitive layout modification effort at the cell- and library-level. Rather than introducing a new design flow, the framework focuses on automating common but time-consuming tasks such as cell-height migration, layout template regeneration, and structural refactoring under updated design rules. Each transformation step is performed in a DRC-conscious manner, helping preserve layout intent and physical consistency.
Experimental evaluations on standard cell and memory-related layouts demonstrate significant reductions in layout turnaround time while maintaining area efficiency and rule compliance comparable to hand-crafted designs. The framework integrates smoothly into existing back-end environments with minimal disruption, making it practical for everyday use.
In the longer term, this structured approach also establishes a solid foundation for future AI-assisted layout automation grounded in real layout expertise and reusable transformation logic.
In reality, layout implementation has not kept pace with this demand. Even modest architectural updates often invalidate existing layouts, forcing engineers to repeatedly rework structurally similar designs and slowing down DTCO feedback loops.
This work presents a lightweight, rule-aware layout conversion framework aimed at reducing repetitive layout modification effort at the cell- and library-level. Rather than introducing a new design flow, the framework focuses on automating common but time-consuming tasks such as cell-height migration, layout template regeneration, and structural refactoring under updated design rules. Each transformation step is performed in a DRC-conscious manner, helping preserve layout intent and physical consistency.
Experimental evaluations on standard cell and memory-related layouts demonstrate significant reductions in layout turnaround time while maintaining area efficiency and rule compliance comparable to hand-crafted designs. The framework integrates smoothly into existing back-end environments with minimal disruption, making it practical for everyday use.
In the longer term, this structured approach also establishes a solid foundation for future AI-assisted layout automation grounded in real layout expertise and reusable transformation logic.
Event Type
Engineering Poster
TimeWednesday, July 293:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
LocationDAC Pavilion, Exhibit Floor