# Reinforcement Learning-Based Optimization of Workload-Aware Power Delivery Networks

arXiv: https://arxiv.org/abs/2610.06148 · HTML: https://mlsanity.com/paper/2610.06148/

## Key facts

- No citing papers in the map yet (data through 14 Oct 2026).
- Builds on 1 of its 10 references that are in the map.
- First posted on arXiv 5 Oct 2026.

## Builds on (most cited first, 1 of 1)

- [Workload-Aware Early-Stage Power Delivery Network Optimization via Architectural Power Traces](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2605.17182/) (2026)

## Abstract (arXiv)

Power Delivery Networks (PDNs) are critical components of modern VLSI chips, providing stable voltage levels while satisfying electromigration (EM) and IR-drop constraints. Conventional PDN design methodologies typically rely on worst-case assumptions, often resulting in over-provisioned networks and inefficient use of resources. This paper presents a reinforcement learning-based framework for the optimization of workload-aware PDNs. The proposed methodology first generates workload-aware PDNs using architectural power traces obtained from system-level simulations. These power traces are mapped to spatial power density distributions, enabling adaptive allocation of PDN resources according to local current demand. A reinforcement learning agent then performs wire-width optimization to minimize PDN area while maintaining EM and voltage integrity constraints. Electrical and reliability metrics are obtained using SPICE-based circuit analysis and EM lifetime estimation. Experimental evaluation is performed on a dataset of workload-aware PDNs generated from 4-, 8-, and 16-core multiprocessor floorplans using PARSEC and SPLASH-2 benchmark workloads. Furthermore, the proposed Deep Q-Network (DQN)-based optimizer reduces the average normalized PDN area by 47% while satisfying all EM and IR-drop constraints. Compared to simulated annealing, the proposed approach achieves comparable optimization quality while providing approximately 26× faster optimization.
