Via Minimization in channel Routing by Layout Modification

Main Results: This paper outlines anew approach to the via minimization problem, that combines the advantages, of both layout modification [ 11 and constrained via minimization (CVM) techniques [2]. The given layout is gradually transformed to a routing instance in the overlap model (c.e., horizontal and vertical wire segments may occupy the same layer), by a sequence of track interchanges, without increasing routing area. The transformation is guided by the visibility relations among nets and certain other geometric factors.