Automated hierarchical parameterized ESD network design and checking system

Abstract

A computerized method for designing electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection circuits uses a hierarchical system of parametrized cells (p-cells) which are constructed into higher level ESD networks. Lowest order p-cells pass user defined parameters to higher order p-cells to form an ESD protection circuit meeting the design criteria. Ones of the p-cells are “growable” such that they can form repetition groups of the underlying p-cell element to accommodate the design parameters. This allows for change of circuit topology as well as structure size in an automated fashion. Layout and circuit schematics are auto-generated with the user varying the number of elements in the circuit by adjusting the input parameters. The circuit topology automation allows for the customer to autogenerate new ESD circuits and ESD power clamps without additional design work. Interconnects and wiring between the circuit elements are also autogenerated.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.