In-sync hierarchy browser which provides version and access control on design collaboration for chip designs

Abstract

An integrated circuit chip design system for a design hierarchy is disclosed. The chip design is provided by a plurality of design blocks. The system comprises version and access control which controls the design hierarchy. The system further includes an in-synchronization hierarchy display responsive to the version and access control which illustrates the design hierarchy based upon an ownership of the plurality of design blocks within the hierarchy. A system and method in accordance with the present invention can help designers to control the design process, can automatically highlight design dependency change, and can minimize human mistakes.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.