What is a Hyper-Convergent Design Flow?

A hyper-convergent design flow relies on a common data model that is shared by all the tools in the design flow. Using this common data model, it becomes much easier to share information between different phases of the design to implement a shift-left approach and reduce design iterations and time-to-market.

Once a common data model is used pervasively by all the tools in the flow, it is also possible to implement a unified shell in which all the tools operate. This unified shell now allows the design team to integrate flow sequences and data sharing that is specifically targeted at the unique needs of their project. This is called a customer-developed hyper-convergent design flow.

A hyper-convergent design flow facilitates the highest possible efficiency to develop advanced semiconductor devices. Without an approach like this, the time and cost to develop these chips becomes prohibitive. A hyper-convergent design flow ensures that advanced semiconductor technology can be put to use in a cost-effective and practical manner.

A hyper-convergent design flow reduces design cost and time-to-market for the end product that is using the chip being designed. These factors can have a substantial impact on the lifetime profitability of the system. This benefit accrues in two ways. First, reducing design costs increases the profit margins on the chip. And second, getting a product to market earlier potentially increases its market share and can lead to higher revenues over the life of the product.

A hyper-convergent design flow also opens the opportunity to create a unified shell in which the tools operate. This unified shell, in turn, allows the end customer to build the exact flow with front-end/back-end data sharing for their unique process. This customer-defined hyper-convergent design flow enables the highest level of efficiency and predictability for an advanced design project.