AI Loopback Test System for Signal Source Validation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing test systems for electronic devices require manual and time-consuming loopback tests, necessitating extensive user knowledge to ensure correct functionality of signal processing and generating devices.

Innovation Solution

A test system incorporating a processing module with a signal source, loopback circuitry, and an artificial intelligence module that automatically performs loopback tests by analyzing input signals compared to output signals, allowing for fully automated testing without expert knowledge, using machine learning techniques and artificial neural networks to identify potential errors in signal sources and electronic components.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If manual loopback tests are performed by hand, then testing can be conducted with basic equipment, but testing time increases and expert knowledge is required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of operationVSAvoidtesting time
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The test system performs self-testing by automatically generating test signals, routing them through the device under test via loopback circuitry, and analyzing the results without requiring external expert operators. The artificial intelligence module autonomously determines test parameters and evaluates outcomes, enabling the system to test itself.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The artificial intelligence module dynamically adjusts test signal parameters such as frequency, amplitude, and modulation characteristics based on the specific device being tested and detected anomaly patterns. This adaptive parameter adjustment optimizes test effectiveness while reducing the need for expert knowledge.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Device complexity

If manual loopback tests are performed by hand, then testing can be conducted with simple setup, but extensive user knowledge about sub-systems is required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice complexityVSAvoidease of operation
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The artificial intelligence module serves as an intermediary between the test signal generation and analysis processes. It automatically determines appropriate test parameters, routes signals through appropriate loopback paths, and interprets results, thereby shielding the user from complex technical knowledge requirements while maintaining systematic testing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The system incorporates feedback loops where the artificial intelligence module continuously monitors test results and adjusts subsequent test parameters accordingly. This automated feedback mechanism replaces the need for expert human judgment in interpreting test outcomes and determining next testing steps.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Productivity

If automated testing with artificial intelligence is implemented, then testing speed increases and expert knowledge is not required, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveproductivityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The artificial intelligence module is designed to handle multiple test types and device configurations through a single unified platform. It can adapt to different signal processing devices, generate appropriate test signals, and analyze various failure modes, thereby justifying its complexity through multi-functional capability that replaces multiple specialized testing systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The artificial intelligence module is pre-trained with extensive knowledge about signal processing device architectures, common failure modes, and optimal test parameters. This preliminary preparation of test strategies and parameter sets enables rapid automated testing without requiring the module to learn during operation, thus managing complexity through advance preparation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

4Reliability

If loopback circuitry transmits signals through multiple paths, then comprehensive testing is achieved, but signal routing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovereliabilityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The loopback circuitry is segmented into distinct functional paths, each dedicated to testing specific device components or signal processing stages. This segmentation allows the artificial intelligence module to selectively activate only the necessary test paths for each testing scenario, reducing the effective complexity while maintaining comprehensive testing coverage through systematic path selection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS11456827B2Test system, electronic device and loopback testing method
Publication Date: 2022.09.27 ROHDE & SCHWARZ GMBH & CO KG
  • US11456827B2 patent drawing
  • US11456827B2 patent drawing
  • US11456827B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A test system for performing loopback tests is described. The test system includes a processing circuitry and loopback circuitry. The processing circuitry (e.g., module) includes a signal source, an artificial intelligence module, an output port, and an input port, wherein the output port is connected to the input port by the loopback circuitry. The signal source is configured to generate an output signal. The processing module is configured to output the output signal via the output port. The loopback circuitry is configured to at least one of transmit the output signal to the input port directly and transmit the output signal to the input port via at least one further electronic component, thereby obtaining at least one input signal. The input port is configured to receive the at least one input signal. The input port further is configured to forward the at least one input signal to the artificial intelligence module. The artificial intelligence module is configured to automatically perform a loopback test of at least one of the signal source and the further electronic component based on the at least one input signal. Further, an electronic device and a loopback testing method is described.