JP2003006250A - Design support system - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a design support system which is equipped with a development environment to support designing and development and an automatic execution, realizes an optimum system construction and can lead to productivity improvement in business by supporting efficiency improvement in design and development operation. SOLUTION: This system comprises at least a design tool for design specifications 140, a design tool for test specifications 150, a source code development tool 180 which functions as an editor for various programming language files and performs import and export of data between a design specification design tool and a test specification design tool, a block diagram development tool 160, which performs conversion mutually between a programming language file and a block chart, a waveform development tool 170, which performs conversion mutually between a programming language file and a waveform. Each tool adopts a tree view structure which is a hierarchization of a design asset and visually perceptible, and can visually manage design processes and visually creates and/or edits the design data.

Description

Description: BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0001] The present invention relates to a design support system.
In particular, LSI (Large ScaleInt)
Egation) The present invention relates to a design support system. 2. Description of the Related Art In fields such as LSI design,
One of the rapidly spreading design methods is knowledge management.
Management (Knowledge Management)
t). A word with a very wide interpretation,
In general, all information and wisdom within a company
IT (Information Technology)
y) to use in all aspects of management
Just in case. [0003] Knowledge management in Europe and the United States
"Visualization of knowledge" in projects and units,
Sharing knowledge on a network, systematic
And maintenance. This kind of knowledge management
The introduction of a management system allows for “knowledge” and “consulting”.
A process to make up for the lack of
It is possible to build processes. [0004] By the way, L of Japan
In the current situation of SI design and other fields, “technology” and “
They tend to stick to "Uhau". Therefore, systemization
・ Currently, standardization has not progressed. This is Japan
It is thought that there is an influence of the ethnicity of the people. Current question
When enumerated, the detailed design know-how of the individual is shared
No, FIX of specification takes time, test item
It takes time to fix the validity of the eyes and their evaluation contents,
Specifications for which past design assets are not stored in the database
Process management for creation, implementation and testing
Input resources with emphasis on management and design standards
Process where it is difficult to recognize the critical path to be performed
There is no thorough awareness of changes and their consequences.
Which had problems. In view of the above, the present inventor has proposed that
Based on the belief that "it can be expressed explicitly",
This led to the development of a design support system. Soshi
Thus, the present invention provides a development environment that supports design development and automatic implementation.
Realizing an optimal system construction with
Supports efficiency of total development work and improves business productivity
Leading above, sharing design know-how of individuals and companies,
Improves design quality and shortens development time
The design and development environment
The main purpose is to support According to the present invention, a design support system is provided.
In the support system, the design specification design tool and the test
A design design tool and various programming language files required for design.
Functions as a file editor,
Import data between tools and test specification design tools.
Source code creation tool for importing and exporting
Between the programming language file and the block diagram
A block diagram creation tool for performing the conversion and the program language
Waveform creation tool that performs mutual conversion between language files and waveforms
And each of the tools includes a design asset
Tree view structure that can be visualized by layering
The design procedure can be visually controlled and the design data
Design support characterized by its ability to be created / edited visually
A system is provided. In general, when a design procedure is described in detail, a unique name
The lyric is generated and cannot be written in a standardized form as a procedure manual
No. In this regard, by making such a problem a software,
Visually show and create detailed procedures including proper nouns /
Editing can be supported. As a specific measure,
The design support system according to the present invention is a tool for design support.
Hierarchies design resources such as design procedures and design data
Tree view structure that can be visually caught
By doing so, the design procedure can be managed visually,
Visually create and edit (add, delete, etc.) data
I can. In this way, the efficiency of design and development work
Support business and increase business productivity.
They should share and divert the design know-how of individuals and companies.
In this way, it is possible to improve the design quality and shorten the development period.
It is possible to make a significant contribution to any achievement. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [0008] FIG.
In a preferred embodiment of the design support system according to the present invention
This will be described in detail. In this specification and drawings,
For components having substantially the same functional configuration
Is omitted by duplicating the description by assigning the same reference numerals.
You. In this embodiment, one of the design support systems
As an example, an LSI design support system (hereinafter, this system
That. ) 100 will be described. First,
Refer to FIG. 1 for the general flow of LSI design.
I will explain. As shown in FIG. 1, the flow of LSI design
Are roughly classified into two systems. Steps S1 to S in FIG.
4 and the steps shown in steps S5 to S8.
This is a test process (verification process). The design process is based on the design specifications
And a circuit design process (step S1).
Step S2), a logic synthesis step (step S3), and a static
It consists of an imming analysis step (step S4). In addition,
The arrow in the figure indicates that the process flows in the direction of the arrow
Is shown. The test process (verification process) is based on test specifications.
And a waveform test process (step S5).
Step S6), the logic verification step (step S7), and the delay detection
Certificate step (step S8). Here, the logic verification
The process (step S7) is a circuit design process (step S7).
Logical simulation of the logic circuit designed by 2)
This is the step of performing the installation. In addition, the delay verification process (step
In step S8), the circuit is formed by the logic synthesis process (step S3).
Simulation of delay that occurs in circuit after being synthesized
This is the step of performing the operation. Through the above steps, LSI design
Complete (step S9). The design results are in the production department
And the LSI is mass-produced based on this. [0012] The system 100 is implemented based on the development plan.
Support system covering a wide range of LSI design
Stem. And accumulate design methods and know-how,
This leads to further improvement in design quality. This
Thus, the system 100 is capable of implementing LSI
Support design. The features of this system 100
These are listed below. [0013] The LSI design method and know-how
It is possible to store at 100. So-called knowledge
It proposes management.・ Supports each process from development planning to implementation
I do.・ Each process has a dedicated tool (dedicated editor)
You.・ Conduct DRC and create clear reports for each process
It is possible to -Automatic execution (verification) of all processes is possible.・ Unified management can be performed for each LSI development project
It is possible.・ Systematically manage files in a tree view (tree structure)
It is possible to・ Multi-window display for various usages
Is possible.・ It is a customizable system. FIG. 2 shows an LSI design according to this embodiment.
FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a configuration of a support system 100. The system 100 has the structure shown in FIG.
The project tool that forms the core of the system 100
110 and called by the project tool 110
Development plan management tools as tools to execute various functions.
Tool 120, process management tool 130, and specification creation tool
Tool (design specification design tool 140, test specification creation tool
150) and figure / waveform creation tool (block diagram creation)
Tool 160, waveform creation tool 170) and source code
Mode creation tool 180 and simulation synthesis / placement
Wiring support tool (logic simulation tool 190,
Delay simulation tool 200, logic synthesis support tool
File 210, a placement and routing support tool 220).
ing. An overview of each of the above tools is provided below.
It is. The details of each tool will be described later.
I do. (1) Project tool 110 This is a tool that forms the core of the system 100.
Tools for calling and executing tools 110-220
It is. (2) Development plan design tool 120 This is a tool for managing inquiry information and development plans. (3) Process management tool 130 Management of process progress information and progress information by charge, weekly report output, bar
John management and delivery list / receipt output, backup
It is a tool for managing history and outputting business reports. (4) Design specification design tool 140 Supports creation of design specifications, design rules for design specifications
Check, hierarchy, overview, and function item management
You. (5) Test specification design tool 150 Support for test specification creation, test bench template creation, hierarchy,
It is a tool for managing overview and test items. (6) Block diagram creation tool 160 Convert block diagram to HDL / C source, HDL / C source
It is a tool to convert the block diagram / symbol. (7) Waveform creation tool 170 Converts waveform data to various files such as HDL / C source.
To convert various text files to waveform data.
It is. (8) Source code creation tool 180 Tool support by function analysis, design of HDL / C source
This is a tool that performs rule checking. (9) Logic simulation tool 190 A tool for executing a logic simulation and analyzing the results.
It is. (10) Delay simulation tool 200 Execution of delay simulation, result analysis, version
It is a tool for managing files and files. (11) Logic synthesis support tool 210 Synthesis execution and result analysis, version, file management
Is a tool that performs (12) Place-and-route support tool 220 Executing fitting and analyzing results, version, file
It is a tool for managing files. Each of these tools 110 to 210 is
It does not function independently, as described below.
Comprehensive LSI design by functioning in conjunction with each other
It is to support. That is, as shown in FIG.
The tools 120 to 210 are the core of the system 100.
Called by the project tool 110
It is a tool that is run. In addition, in conjunction with the process management function
Control on a per-flow basis is also possible. The following describes each of the tools 110 to 210.
A detailed description will be given. (Project Tool 110) FIGS. 3 and 4
Runs the project tool 110 on the computer
It is an explanatory view showing a display screen in the case of performing. project
The tool 110 is a tool that forms the core of the system 100.
Each of the following tools 110 to 220 is a project
Called by the tool 110 and executed. FIG.
FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an execution state of each tool. project
The main features of the tool 110 are as follows. Navigate the design process. Even for beginners
LSI development can be performed according to the steps on the screen. -Automatically create the necessary environment when registering a project development environment construction project. Ma
In addition, to manage the work environment and improve the work efficiency of each person in charge
Can be. -Management of project information Development by multiple people is also possible. Information on each project,
Manages the work information of each person in charge and supports team development.
To Reduce development time by sharing information
Can be In addition, by diverting this information
Improved design quality and shorter development time for each new project
Is reduced.・ When the process automatic execution function is modified, the relevant software
Source and documents are automatically modified. In addition, Simule
Is automatically executed at night for designers
Ensure sleep time. Project during automatic correction process
Can be developed.・ Confirmation of project information The project registered with the project tool 110
You can check the list of the documents on the screen / form. Ma
Also, you can check the work status of the project on the screen.
it can. (Development Plan Design Tool 120) FIG.
When the development plan design tool 120 is executed on a computer
It is an explanatory view showing a display screen in the case. Development plan design tool
120 is an order / development plan information tool for LSI design.
Is a tool for creating inquiry records and development plans.
is there. The development plan design tool 120 is shown in FIG.
Create such an inquiry record (negotiation record). This
The following effects are obtained. -Centralized management of development project high-level information can be performed.・ Provide detailed device information for calculating the appropriate
Can be・ Lost factor analysis can be performed to increase the probability of receiving orders.・ Clearly manage customer requirements.・ Sign-off data can be managed clearly.・ Validity confirmation means and responsibility can be clearly managed.
You.・ Procurement service products can be managed from the inquiry stage.・ Security management of supplied goods can be performed. Further, the development plan design tool 120
A development plan as shown in Fig. 7 is created. This gives
The following effects are obtained.・ Detailed process control up to the report at the completion of development can be performed
You.・ Manage review plans for customers ・ Can perform verification plans that promise high quality -Clearly manage customer and development contacts.・ The development environment can be managed clearly. -Eliminates problems caused by tool version mismatch
You.・ Manage verification conditions and link with accounting department. As described above, the development plan design tool
According to 120, a clear procedure explanation using a tree view can be performed.・ Confirm customer requirements by clear procedures.・ Eliminate differences at the time of contract, maintain high quality and obtain customer satisfaction
Can be GUI (Graph) unified by this system 100
ical user interface)
You. -The contents are specialized for LSI development.・ Can be expressed in easy-to-understand words. (Process management tool 130)
130 is the project manager for the LSI design support system.
Management editor, as shown in FIG.
31, weekly report editor 132, and delivery editor 133
And the backup editor 134 and the business report creation
It consists of data 135. The management editor 131 is provided for each process and charge.
Can manage the progress status and output a progress management table. week
The report editor 132 manages the progress status of each person in charge on a weekly basis.
Thus, a weekly report as shown in FIG. 9 can be output. Delivery
Editor 133 manages the contents and version of delivered goods
And output the delivery list / receipt as shown in Fig. 10
Noh. The backup editor 134
Manage backup and history of backups,
A history table can be output. Business report editor 135
Can output a business report as shown in FIG.
You. As described above, the process management tool 13
According to No. 0: ・ Functions exclusively for LSI design managers are enhanced.・ Total support from development plan to delivery.・ Set the working folder for project members
Allows the progress of each process to be tabulated in real time.
Can be.・ Data link with each tool of project tool 110
The efficient management work by the backup function is possible.・ Equipped with an alarm function by setting milestones in the development process
It is listed.・ It is an essential tool for realizing high quality and short delivery time. (Design Specification Design Tool 140) FIG.
Implements the design specification design tool 140 on a computer.
It is explanatory drawing which shows the display screen when performing. Design specifications
The design tool 140 is a design specification document for LSI design.
The main features are as follows. -The function items of the design specification are displayed in a tree view.
Can be displayed. Macro and block hierarchy and function items
Uses a tree view that is easy to catch visually.
For this reason, the desired item can be displayed in one shot.・ Function items can be automatically inserted by adding macros / blocks
You. Tree of required items by adding macros and blocks
Is automatically generated, so there are no missing items.・ Create HDL template with hierarchical structure from terminal / hierarchy information
Noh. When the HDL template creation function is executed, the hierarchy table and the end
From the information in the child table, HDL chicks corresponding to the description of the hierarchical structure
A shape is generated. -The DRC function can avoid design standard violations and input errors.
Use the DRC function to specify signal names and check signal connection destinations
Do. Therefore, errors in HDL design should be reduced.
Can be.・ Cooperation with each tool is possible. Design Specification Design Tool
The terminal list information of file 140 is used to create test specifications for verification.
Available with the test specification design tool 150
is there. After generating the RTL template source, create the source code
Export to the HDL tool 180 and in the HDL source description
Tree display of contents is possible. Information such as clocks
Logic synthesis, a script file creation tool for logic synthesis
It can be used by the generation support tool 210.・ Multi-window display for various usages is possible
It is.・ File output and printing in project / macro units
It is possible. Output all contents including revision history to file
Or printing is possible. Each table automatically breaks
With a fixed form without worrying about the layout
Printed. (Test Specification Design Tool 150) FIG.
FIG. 14 shows a test specification design tool 150 connected to a computer.
It is explanatory drawing which shows the display screen at the time of performing above. test
The specification design tool 150 includes a test specification, a test bench,
It is a template creation tool and its main features are as follows. Use because it is a tool for creating test specifications
Cheap. In the test specification design tool 150, the test specification
We thoroughly pursued the function as a tool for creation.
That is, a test for switching and classifying circuit operation modes is performed.
Mode indicator (TM)
Test contents for each test time index (TT) for classification
Fill out the form to create a detailed test specification.
You. The hierarchical structure of the LSI in the tree view
Easy to understand. As shown in FIG.
Adopt a project tree view that can be captured
did. This makes it easy to understand the hierarchical structure of the LSI.
The test contents can be easily confirmed.
it can. That is, as shown by reference numeral 13a in FIG.
In addition, the project tree view shows the hierarchical structure of the LSI.
Structure is easy to understand. Also, as indicated by reference numeral 13b,
The terminal list for each macro is displayed. Also, with reference numeral 13c
As shown, the test item list is displayed, and the TM / TT
Therefore, it is possible to classify test procedures. [0038] A desired test bench template is created from the terminal table.
By making the desired settings in the terminal table,
As described above, the settings are reflected in the test bench template.
It is. Easy simulation by grouping
Realization As shown by reference numeral 14a in FIG.
When looping, input signal / expected value generation for each group
Since the skeleton is generated, it is possible to cope with complicated verification.
In other words, as shown in FIG.
It is reflected in multiple items of the stbench template. When working with a detailed test bench template
As shown by reference numeral 14b in FIG.
Input data and expected values according to the test bench model
A simulation can be performed immediately by simply writing data.
That is, as shown in FIG.
Is automatically generated, thereby saving unnecessary work. As described above, the test specification design tool
According to the file 150 ・ The management of each LSI macro is easy by the tree display
Can be done.・ Test specifications can be created simply by writing the test contents in the table.
Wear.・ Create a test bench template. In this way, test bench work time is significantly reduced
It is possible to do. (Block Diagram Creation Tool 160) FIGS.
FIG. 19 shows that the block diagram creation tool 160 is
It is explanatory drawing which shows the display screen at the time of performing above. Bro
The block diagram creation tool 160 is a dedicated block for LSI design.
This is a lock diagram creation tool. The main features are as follows.
You. The block diagram creation tool 160 which is easy to use because it is a block diagram creation tool
Function was thoroughly pursued. That
To make block diagrams easier and faster
Can be. As shown in FIG.
160 is CAD (Computer Aided D)
design) tool. The shape to be drawn is one
Each one can be operated as an independent item. The hierarchy is visually grasped as shown in FIG. 18 where the hierarchy is more easily understood in the tree view.
The project tree view that can be used has been adopted. This
And visually create and edit files belonging to the project
Collection is possible. Managing the wiring connection information (FIG. 19)
Since it has a function as a CAD tool that can eliminate all items, all items
Can be managed. Unconnected or inconsistent wiring
Can be easily detected. Work efficiency is improved by linking with HDL files
Import from ascending HDL file, import to HDL file
Equipped with an export function to reduce unnecessary labor and time
be able to. Therefore, more fulfilling work is possible.
You. As described above, the block diagram creation tool
According to Rule 160:-Thorough pursuit of block diagram creation efficiency.・ A CAD tool that enables operation and management of items
You.・ Equipped with a tree view that allows easy operation of hierarchy and files
It is listed. -Linkage with HDL files (import, export
G) is possible.・ It is a multi-window compatible with various uses. (Waveform Creation Tool 170) FIG.
Table when the creation tool 170 is executed on a computer
It is an explanatory view showing a display screen. Waveform creation tool is LSI
It is a waveform creation editor for design. The main features are as follows.
It is as follows. · C model, function, test in tree view
Bench can be managed systematically.・ Multi-window corresponding to various usages As shown in Fig. 20, it is possible to visually grasp the hierarchy.
The project tree view that can be used has been adopted. This
Work by visually viewing the files belonging to the project.
Can be edited and edited. The test items in the test bench
Systematic design is possible by displaying the eyes as a tree. test
Jump to the target waveform by double-clicking the item
This enables efficient work.・ Decrease simulation omission by DRC function
Can be avoided. Verify items, unoperated terminals, and undefined expected values with DRC function
By systematically detecting, simulation omission can be avoided. An operation system in the image of a text editor
It is possible to increase productivity. Undo / Red
o, search, copy, paste, delete, move, repeat
Editing operation called power. Value input by keyboard, cursor
Includes keyboard I / F productivity
Operability. Text-based signal names, data strings, waveforms
Consider use. -Pursued compatibility between waveforms and other languages. Argument
Supports input of variables and comments as well as logical values.
When inputting, not only binary and hexadecimal input but also variable input are supported.
By doing so, as shown in FIG.
Adopt a data structure that can be reused in other languages such as words. rice
Documents can be reused for documents. -Other language files (HDL, C or VC)
D file) and linkage (import, export)
Increase work efficiency. HDL, C or VCD files
Import and export functions from files
In addition, unnecessary labor and time can be reduced. That
Therefore, more fulfilling work becomes possible. (Source Code Creation Tool 180) FIG.
Uses the source code creation tool 180 on a computer
It is an explanatory view showing a display screen when it is executed. Sauceco
Code (HDL source, C source) creation tool 180
This is a text tool for LSI design.
Developers worry that customizing for launch is troublesome
To provide a comfortable editing environment for development. main
The main features are as follows. RTL source, C model, dump list
Editors that support various files necessary for LSI design
Itita. VHDL, verilog-HDL, C software
L such as source, text file, binary dump file
Effective for various files required for SI design
It is a text editor that can be edited efficiently. A project tree that can systematically manage files in a tree view and visually grasp a multi-window hierarchy corresponding to various uses.
-View was adopted. This allows you to
Files can be created and edited visually. As shown by reference numeral 22a in FIG.
Review allows systematic management. Also, code 2
Chapter 2b manages source files as shown in 2b
It is possible to Also, as shown by reference numeral 22c
In addition, various uses are possible with multi-windows. Ma
Also, as shown by reference numeral 22d, strong keyword setting
Function is possible. [0053] The function items are displayed in the edit tree view.
Function items in the source are also tree-structured in a systematic edit tree view
By displaying, systematic design is possible. Function items
Double-click to jump to the target line for efficient
Work is possible. A fixed format is available with the action function.
It can be easily described. For example, DF / F
In the case of the above description, the same clock is
Described together in one process statement. At this time,
Substitution of 0 to all DF / F by set, combination by clock
Actions such as substituting a shunt circuit into DF / F
It can be created instantly by the automatic generation of DF / F during the function. That
It has various other action functions. Avoiding design standard violations with the DRC function
It is possible. Simulator and synthesis tool with DRC function
The description conforms to the design standards that does not cause a clear error in the
Check if there is. For example, using multiple clocks
Log file to check for unintended connections when
Is output. Terminal with specification block diagram and RTL source
Check for excess or deficiency. Various other DRC machines
Has ability. Coordination with specifications (import, expo
Is possible. Design specifications for circuit design, inspection
Information that can be used from test specifications for certification
Document design tool 140 or test specification document design tool 150
It is possible to import from. In addition, RTL software
After describing the source, the design specification design tool 140 or
Export to the test specification design tool 150
The automatic generation of graphs is possible. Complex gated black
In the case of a circuit using hooks, the clock connection information is exported.
Can be transferred to a logic synthesis script file
It is possible. (Logic Simulation Tool 190) (Delay Simulation Tool 200) Logic Simulation
Application tool 190 improves the efficiency of logic simulation.
・ Tool for automation, delay simulation
The tool 200 is designed to make delay simulation more efficient and automatic.
The main features in common are the following:
It is. Version management is possible.・ Project file and design specification design tool 140
Logic / delay from the configuration file of the placement / routing tool 220
An HDL file to be simulated is automatically set.・ Test bench file / execution macro file is also
Automatic setting is possible from the setting file of the form design tool 150
Noh.・ Setting values can be changed manually.・ Automatic generation of batch files for logic simulation
It is possible.・ Logic simulation tool 190, delay simulation
Use the batch file generated from the
And a logic / delay simulation can be executed.・ Equipped with an error / warning analysis function for execution results
You. (Logic Synthesis Support Tool 210) FIGS.
24, a logic synthesis support tool 210 is installed on a computer.
It is an explanatory view showing a display screen when it is executed. Logic synthesis
The support tool 210 is used to improve the efficiency and automation of logic synthesis.
The main features are as follows. Version management is possible.・ From the project file, the target source file
Can be set automatically. -As shown by reference numeral 23a in FIG.
Design grade / clock frequency is also a design specification design tool
It is automatically set from the 140 setting files, and is set one by one
You can save time and effort. Setting values can be changed manually.
Noh.・ Automatic generation of script files / batch files for synthesis
Is possible. A script file generated from the logic synthesis tool 210
File / batch file. • As indicated by reference numeral 24a in FIG.
-Automatically extract and analyze warnings / warnings. Solution
It is possible to save the trouble of analysis. (11) Place and Route Support Tool 220 FIG. 25 and FIG.
FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing a display screen when the program is executed on a computer.
You. The placement and routing support tool 220 is effective for fitting.
It is a tool for efficiency and automation. The main features are as follows.
It is on the street. -Version control is possible. That is, the mark in FIG.
As shown in No. 25a, the fitting version
Management is available as ROM data version management.
You.・ From the project file, E
A DIF file can be automatically set.・ Logic synthesis for fitting file / setting file
It can be automatically set from the setting file of the tool 210.
The trouble of setting can be omitted. That is,
As shown by reference numeral 25b of FIG.
The list can be set automatically. Note that manual changes are also possible.
Noh.・ Automatic generation of fitting batch file
Can be.・ Script file generated from the placement and routing tool 220
File / batch file. • As indicated by reference numeral 26a in FIG.
Can be extracted automatically, saving the labor of analysis.
Can be. The present invention has been described with reference to the accompanying drawings.
A preferred embodiment of the design support system is described.
However, the present invention is not limited to such an example. Be a person skilled in the art
For example, within the scope of the technical idea described in the claims.
It is clear that various changes or modifications may be
It is obvious that the technical scope of the present invention
It is understood that it belongs to the enclosure. For example, adding the following functions
It is possible to use the design support system according to the present invention.
A system customized to the flow of the
It is also possible to provide.・ Requirement specification design support function ・ Machine resource automatic distribution function ・ Groupware, Internet, E-mail compatible machine
Noh, support functions for different platforms, education and training, qualification test functions, know-how records, homepage, FTP (File Transport)
tProtocol) site, e-mail link, UNIX (trade name), Windows (trade name)
Operating systems and personal computers
Compatible with computers, workstations, and mobile terminals. Compatible with networks on mixed platforms. Add logical operations and algorithms. Add functions such as circuit design techniques. Quantify and stabilize design capabilities.
Operate as a stem.・ All tools can be integrated and operated seamlessly.・ Server client system and WEB server system
The design support system according to the present invention
Users' ideas can be reflected in the system.
is there. As described above, according to the present invention,
Design assets can be systematically managed in a tree view.
This makes it possible to visually manage the design procedure and
Create and edit data (addition, deletion, etc.) visually
be able to. This helps improve the efficiency of design and development work.
Porting and improving business productivity, and
Will share and divert the design know-how of individuals and companies.
To improve design quality and shorten development time.
It can greatly contribute to achievement.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is a flowchart showing a general flow of LSI design. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration of an LSI design support system according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing a display screen when a project tool is executed on a computer. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing a display screen when a project tool is executed on a computer. FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing a display screen when a development plan design tool is executed on a computer. FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing an inquiry record. FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing a development plan. FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing the concept of a process management tool. FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing weekly report editor output. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing a delivery list / receipt. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing a business report. FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram showing a display screen when a design specification design tool is executed on a computer. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing a display screen when a test specification design tool is executed on a computer. FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram showing a display screen when a test specification design tool is executed on a computer. FIG. 15 is an explanatory diagram showing a template of a test bench. FIG. 16 is an explanatory diagram showing a template of a test bench. FIG. 17 is an explanatory diagram showing a display screen when a block diagram creation tool is executed on a computer. FIG. 18 is an explanatory diagram showing a display screen when a block diagram creation tool is executed on a computer. FIG. 19 is an explanatory diagram showing a display screen when a block diagram creation tool is executed on a computer. FIG. 20 is an explanatory diagram showing a display screen when a waveform creation tool is executed on a computer. FIG. 21 is an explanatory diagram showing a state where a waveform is converted into a data structure in another language. FIG. 22 is an explanatory diagram showing a display screen when a source code creation tool is executed on a computer. FIG. 23 is an explanatory diagram showing a display screen when the logic synthesis support tool is executed on a computer. FIG. 24 is an explanatory diagram showing a display screen when a logic synthesis support tool is executed on a computer. FIG. 25 is an explanatory diagram showing a display screen when the placement and routing support tool is executed on a computer. FIG. 26 is an explanatory diagram showing a display screen when the placement and routing support tool is executed on a computer. [Description of Signs] 100 LSI design support system 110 Project tool 120 Development plan management tool 130 Process management tool 140 Design specification design tool 150 Test specification creation tool 160 Block diagram creation tool 170 Waveform creation tool 180 Source code creation tool 190 Logic Simulation tool 200 Delay simulation tool 210 Logic synthesis support tool 220 Place and route support tool

Claims (1)

Claims: 1. A design support system, which functions as a design specification design tool, a test specification design tool, and an editor for various programming language files required for design.
A source code creation tool for importing and exporting data between the design specification design tool and the test specification design tool, a block diagram creation tool for mutually converting between the program language file and a block diagram, and the program At least a waveform creation tool for mutually converting between a language file and a waveform, wherein each of the tools adopts a tree view structure in which design assets can be hierarchized and visually grasped, and the design procedure can be visually performed. A design support system characterized by being able to manage and visually create / edit design data.