On clustering for maximal regularity extraction

The authors point out that proper usage of regularity in digital systems leads to efficient as well as economical designs. This important question of regularity extraction is examined, and a general and efficient methodology for component clustering based on the concept of structural regularity is presented. While the concept of regularity can be employed to simplify many problems in the area of design automation, system- and logic-level applications are emphasized here. The authors show how identifying clusters in a circuit can simplify two important CAD problems-system-level clustering and module (layout) generation. A prototype system based on these ideas has been built, and some real-life examples are considered for testing. The results are encouraging; they demonstrate the essential role such a system could play in aiding the high-level system designer. Research is under way to explore some of the other promising applications that such a system could have