FLAIR-a knowledge-based approach to integrated circuit floorplanning

Abstract

FLAIR solves the floorplanning problem in two steps, namely, topology planning and geometry planning. It provides different design styles, performs explicit planning of wiring areas, and is based on flexible block realizations. Both floorplanning steps can be realized by expert systems based on blackboard architectures. Practical results have been obtained from the topology planning stage showing that artificial-intelligence-based procedures can provide more appropriate solutions to complicated floorplanning tasks than conventional floorplanning approaches. The architecture of the FLAIR system is described in detail.<>