Methods and apparatus for designing electronic circuits, including analog
and mixed signal (AMS) circuits, based on an evolutionary optimization
approach. In one exemplary embodiment, the optimization approach is
implemented using a computer program running on one or more computers.
The optimization program receives inputs from the designer regarding (i)
optimization objectives for the design process, and (ii) the constraint
mechanisms to be applied. Both constrained and unconstrained optimization
formulations can be addressed by the program. Various objective function
evaluation mechanisms are implemented. The program also advantageously
allows for continuously encoded variables, which are particularly useful
for solving AMS design problems.