Three-step pin assignment algorithm for building block layout

A new pin assignment algorithm is proposed which can be used in floorplanning and building block layout to minimise the total wiring length and channel area while satisfying the minimum distance constraint among pin positions on the block boundary. This algorithm can be used in floorplanning in which block shapes are iteratively modified by the channel density obtained as a result of global routing. The proposed pin assignment algorithm occurs in three steps: approximate pin assignment, global routing and detailed pin assignment. Experimental results were obtained using MCNC placement and floorplanning benchmark examples.