Layout design automation for power devices

03/12/2024

The objective of this work is to develop a tool for optimization and automatic layout design of power devices. Summarily, these consist of several transistors organized in a matrix-type structure, used to manage very large currents. These devices require proper connections with higher metal layers for current transport, using adequately placed vias. Additionally, common design practices include the placement of an outer ring to polarize the substrate, and the use of a top metal structure extending all transistor columns. The design of these stages includes some degrees of freedom, such as the finger width of each transistor, but also restrictions, namely the total channel width of the device and its maximum current values. Apart from these user specifications, the constraints inherent to a particular technology node must be taken into account, in order to hinder design rules violations. Although some particularities may vary between circuit topologies, these devices are usually constructed according to specific design practices, which makes them susceptible to automation. This tool will allow circuit designers at SiliconGate to accelerate their work by automatically generating a fundamental block used in a vast number of projects, enabling them to focus on design innovation and reduce time-to-market. Additionally, in the long term, it aims to be included in a dedicated automated design flow to generate power management units from system-level up to the layout. This will enable the company to design chips faster, in the face of systemic complexity and increased industry demands.

Autores da comunidade :

• 

  D

  Duarte Miguel de Aguiar Pinto e Morais Marques

  ist196523

  Afiliações e fontes

  IST

  Instituto Superior Técnico

  IST > INESC-MN

  Instituto de Engenharia de Sistemas e Computadores - Microssistemas e Nanotecnologias

Orientadores desta instituição:

• 

  M

  Marcelino Bicho dos Santos

  ist13261

• 

  R

  Ricardo Miguel Ferreira Martins

  ist156593

electrical-engineering-electronic-engineering-information-engineering - Engenharia Eletrotécnica, Eletrónica e Informática

eng - Inglês

Instituto Superior Técnico