This paper introduces a new methodology for evaluating and optimizing the performance of
asynchronous linear-pipelines. The Token Vector Delay Model is introduced to capture
delay variability, which can originate from data, process and/or environment. Then, closed
form equations modeling handshaking protocols are defined. These equations enable us to
construct an abstract analytical model of the pipeline. The analytical model is then solved to
compute the circuit performance in the presence of time variable delays. The tool ...