Want advice on Python scripting for complex layout automation in KLayout.

Haruti

Hello KLayout Community,

I am currently working on a project that involves complex layout automation & I am keen to leverage Python scripting within KLayout to streamline my workflow.
I am facing challenges & need your advice in this area= I need to automate a series of repetitive layout tasks, such as creating and modifying polygons, applying transformations and managing layers. I have occasionally seen script problems and performance bottlenecks. What are some recommended techniques for debugging and optimizing Python scripts in KLayout? Complex topological operations, like logic operations on polygons, intersection calculations & pattern generation are necessary for some of my layout duties; What libraries or functions within KLayout’s Python API are best suited for these types of operations?

This is my first post if there is any mistake please forgive me; I would greatly appreciate:) any recommendations for resources, tutorials or documentation that provide in depth guidance on Python scripting in KLayout. Are there specific examples or repositories that you have found particularly helpful?

Thank you in advance for your assistance.

Best regards,
Haruti

EugeneZelenko

Hi, Haruti!

Layout class documentation is good starting point.

sekigawa

Hi Haruti,

Besides the above link, my essential reading includes

• https://www.klayout.org/klayout-pypi/
  • https://www.klayout.org/klayout-pypi/howtoreadtheref/
  • https://www.klayout.org/klayout-pypi/overview/
  • https://www.klayout.org/klayout-pypi/examples/

which are related to The KLayout Python Module.

From version 0.29.0, a Python script using the Python module can run in the KLayout's Macro Development Tool. So, the tool is the first choice for debugging.
We can also use another integrated development environment like Visual Studio Code and PyCharm.
However, I have only used Visual Studio Code.

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I'm not sure about the complexity and performance you're up against.
Because my projects are not very complicated most of the time.
However, I have ever come across an interesting project in this forum.
Roughly speaking, the project generates and lays out about 5.6 million circles with different diameters.

Matthias

Hi @Haruti,

Optimizing performance starts with measurements, so first thing to do is to identify the bottleneck operation. You can do so by putting logger and timer statements into your code.

The optimization options depend on the bottleneck you identify. If it is one of the built-in operations, performance usually depends on the number of shapes you put into it. You can try reducing the workload for these functions or utilize the TilingProcessor to distribute a flat operation to multiple cores.

But there is no silver bullet. The solution will strongly depend on the actual problem.

Matthias