Algorithm for design centering based on use of sensitivity information

A new and efficient algorithm is described for design centering with fixed component tolerances. Maximisation of the manufacturing yield is replaced by minimisation of a new performance criterion which explicitly involves circuit performance functions. Monte Carlo analysis and performance sensitivity evaluation of a tolerance region around the current nominal point provides the information for setting up a linearised version of the problem. A specially adapted version of the simplex method is used for solving the linearised problem. The resulting solution provides a new position for the nominal point with improved yield. Performance of the method is illustrated by application to a mathematical test problem and to two filter circuits. The computational cost of the proposed algorithm is shown to be small