A conceptual framework for designing robotic computational hardware with ASIC technology

ASIC (application-specific integrated circuit) technology has created opportunities for implementing robotic control algorithms directly in silicon. However, the sheer complexity of VLSI design represents a tremendous knowledge barrier to system designers. To lower this knowledge barrier, a concise conceptual framework is presented which allows robotics hardware designers to acquire the essential knowledge of the ASIC technology efficiently. It addresses different aspects of how design decisions are made. The global strategy is to limit the search space through methodology implemented by CAE (computer-aided engineering) and expert systems. Alternatives are recognized through a proper framing of design space. A set of techniques for evaluation of the alternatives is classified. The conceptual framework enables system designers and application engineers to acquire and apply ASIC technology in a systematic and logical manner and thus facilitates efficient application of the technology in robotic hardware designs