Importance

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Abstract

An integrated circuit mask artwork generator (10) is disclosed which can define relationships between individual components and which is also independent of the technology chosen. An artwork library database (58) is provided which contains macros each macro being capable of generating artwork for one of the electrical components of the particular technology type. A device generator (18) is provided for defining the type of circuit to be executed and for executing the macro for that circuit independent of the component's particular technology type. A means for defining relationships between the circuits (16) is provided with the relationships specified desirable physical relationships between sets of related circuit components. In conjunction with the schematic this provides a schematic with relationship annotations (14). A means for determining placement of the components (20) is provided which includes a means for determining the placement groups where the groups consist of groups of components with related placements based on the defined relationships. In addition, the system (10) includes a means for arranging the components (20) so as to optimize a predetermined parameter. The means for determining placement ( 20) also eliminates overlaps between the components by moving the groups as a whole so as to preserve defined relationships. Finally, a router (22) routes the electrical connections between the placed components.

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First Claim