Expected outcomes
The main expected outcome of this initiative is the development of a robust chip design ecosystem in Europe. Furthermore, the consortium acting in the role of the PCT is expected to contribute to the following outcomes:
- Easy cloud-enabled access to electronic design tools (including proprietary and opensource tools), libraries of design templates, as well as training and support services, available through an inclusive design platform, accelerating chip design and reducing time-to-market for users.
- The cloud services, procured by the Chips JU, may be developed and maintained by third parties, however the PCT, in line with a Hosting Agreement, shall assume responsibility for the coordination and execution of the various related activities and services described below.
- The PCT shall oversee that the cloud service procured by the Chips JU is secure, scalable, and accessible 24/7. The service shall include the provision of a user help desk support, robust security measures, data backup and recovery, and regular maintenance and updates.
- The PCT shall continuously monitor the operation of the Design Platform and the quality of services provided to users. This includes incorporating user feedback loops and adopting corrective measures as necessary.
- The management and maintenance of a cloud-based repository for the European chip design community, populated with an extensive portfolio of open-source and proprietary ‘design assets’ to facilitate and enhance the design process for users, such as intellectual property (IP) blocks, design templates, fast adoption kits, process design kits (PDKs) from pilot lines and open foundries, open-source design tools, as well as reusable open-access design elements from previous EU-funded projects.
- A quicker and more efficient licensing process for commercial EDA tools and IP libraries, reducing burden and barriers for companies engaging in chip design, coupled with a startup support programme, that includes financing of licensing costs.
- Integration in the Design Platform of the design support services provided by specialised design service providers, known as Design Enablement Teams, that will be designated following a subsequent linked call.
- Advanced training and support services available to a wide range of users via the Design Platform complementing the work of the network of Competence Centres and/or potential future dedicated actions on design skills to support the development of design skills across the Union.
The Design Platform is expected to support the design of a wide variety of technologies, specifically but not limited to digital circuits at multiple process nodes (up to leading edge nodes); analogue; mixed-signal; power; photonics and quantum. The Design Platform shall also support back-end of line (BEOL) design and manufacturing through advanced heterogeneous systems integration and advanced packaging techniques.
