Memory optimization for storing objects in nested hash maps used in electronic design automation systems

A non-transitory computer-readable medium comprising stored instructions, which when executed by a processor, cause the processor to:

• receive sets of objects which are desired to be stored using a nested hash map, wherein the nested hash map includes multiple levels, wherein each set of objects in the sets of objects corresponds to a level in the nested hash map, and wherein the sets of objects specify a set of paths in an integrated circuit (IC) design;
• and
• create the nested hash map from a bottom level of the nested hash map to a top level of the nested hash map, wherein the creating comprises:
• creating a first hash map at a first level of the nested hash map,
• creating a first shared pointer which points to the first hash map, and
• creating a second hash map at a second level which is immediately above the first level, wherein the second hash map maps at least one object to the first shared pointer.

An apparatus, comprising:

• a memory storing instructions;
• and
• a processor, coupled with the memory and to execute the instructions, the instructions when executed causing the processor to:
• receive sets of objects which are desired to be stored using a nested hash map, wherein the nested hash map includes multiple levels, wherein each set of objects in the sets of objects corresponds to a level in the nested hash map;
• and
• create the nested hash map from a bottom level of the nested hash map to a top level of the nested hash map, wherein the creating comprises:
• creating a first hash map at a first level of the nested hash map,
• creating a first shared pointer which points to the first hash map, and
• creating a second hash map at a second level which is immediately above the first level, wherein the second hash map maps at least one object to the first shared pointer.