Setting up a retrieval system for design reuse - experiences and acceptance

physical (layout) subcircuits (same or different layout system e.g. RF layout) • mechanical subassemblies Within the EU funded ESPRIT project 8369 "CONSOLE", ROHDE & SCHWARZ developed a demonstration software version of a retrieval system for design reuse. • software modules Designing a system in a hierarchical way is done for two main issues: Reducing the time to market by using resources (e.g. designers) concurrently. The system stores the design classifications in a database and is connected to the EDA systems from Zuken-Redac and Viewlogic for access (read or copy) to the schematic and layout design data. This software version is part of the user requirement definition of a "subcircuit browser", which will be developed as industrial prototype within the "CONSOLE" project by Zuken-Redac. ROHDE & SCHWARZ engineers are using this software since early 1994. Reducing cost (and probably time to market) by using finished and proved "building blocks", like the mentioned hierarchical elements, which are called "functional modules" at ROHDE & SCHWARZ. ROHDE & SCHWARZ concentrated within the CONSOLE project on the area of reuse of functional modules and integrated the reuse of functional modules into its design flow, including demonstration software of a retrieval system for functional modules. The design flow for reuse is shown in figure 1. The presentation will cover the following main issues: • Objectives of the system • R&S definition of reusable designs (subcircuits, functional modules) • Brief overview on the current system functionality System-Function structured as modules, e. g. Circuit block diagram hierarchical layout hierarchical software mechanical drawing Modul description with module family up to 20 family specific attributes Search for modules v ia families and attributes Reuse of module data in other projects R&S modul managment demonstration software • Necessary in house rules for reusable designs • Definition of families for design classification (i. e. power units, amplifiers) • Introduction of "reusability" in the current design flow • Work practice and acceptance experiences