摘要 |
Performing optical proximity correction (OPC) is typically done during a critical time, wherein even small delays in finishing OPC can have significant adverse effects on product introduction and/or market exposure. In accordance with one feature of the invention, sets of repeating structures in library elements and/or layout data can be identified during a noncritical time, e.g. early in cell library development, possibly years prior to the direct application of OPC to a final layout. OPC can be performed on repeating structures during this noncritical time. Later, during the critical time (e.g. during tape out), an OPC tool can use the pre-processed structures in conjunction with a chip layout to more quickly generate a modified layout, thereby saving valuable time as a chip moves from design to production.
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