The VLSI design automation assistant: A synthesis expert

This paper describes an approach to very-large-scale-integration (VLSI) design synthesis that uses knowledge-based expert systems to proceed from an algorithmic description of a VLSI system to a list of technology-dependent registers, operators, data paths, and control signals. It outlines how the Design Automation Assistant (DAA) uses large amounts of expert knowledge to design an architecture with little backtracking. This paper takes a retrospective look at that codified knowledge base, examining what has been learned about VLSI design. Finally, the paper gives an overview of our current work in using bottom-up design information in the synthesis of integrated circuits.