Integration environment to invoke CAD tools efficiently

This paper describes an integration system for VLSI design tools and their interface builder. The main advantage of this system is its unique process control mechanism. Once VLSI designers specify their tasks by using a flowchart-based graphic editor, the system could handle the design process and maintain the design data produced by each tool. In addition, the system features several interface building tools and subroutine packages that readily integrate new design tools into the system environment. The system was conceived to provide a unified interface for designers and to manage CAD tool invocation to improve design turnaround time.