Abstract: Methods and apparatus for designing electronic circuits, including analog and mixed signal (AMS) circuits, based on an evolutionary optimization approach. In one exemplary embodiment, the optimization approach is implemented using a computer program running on one or more computers. The optimization program receives inputs from the designer regarding (i) optimization objectives for the design process, and (ii) the constraint mechanisms to be applied. Both constrained and unconstrained optimization formulations can be addressed by the program. Various objective function evaluation mechanisms are implemented. The program also advantageously allows for continuously encoded variables, which are particularly useful for solving AMS design problems.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for designing electronic circuits, including analog and mixed signal (AMS) circuits, based on an evolutionary optimization approach. In one exemplary embodiment, the optimization approach is implemented using a computer program running on one or more computers. The optimization program receives inputs from the designer regarding (i) optimization objectives for the design process, and (ii) the constraint mechanisms to be applied. Both constrained and unconstrained optimization formulations can be addressed by the program. Various objective function evaluation mechanisms are implemented. The program also advantageously allows for continuously encoded variables, which are particularly useful for solving AMS design problems.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for designing electronic circuits, including analog and mixed signal circuits. In one exemplary embodiment, a hierarchical design and sizing flow is used, in conjunction with one or more evaluation models (e.g., performance and feasibility models), such that results generated at one level remain valid and pertinent other levels of the hierarchy. In another aspect, hierarchical sizing is performed taking into consideration yield of the design via, e.g., a post-processing step which evaluates performance based on one or more existing performance models associated with the various levels of the hierarchy. A computer program embodying these methods, and a computer system adapted to run this program, are also disclosed.