Auto-ranging Time-domain Oscillation for Sensor Noise Immunity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing inertial sensors face challenges with high costs, limited accuracy, susceptibility to noise interference, and the need for periodic recalibration, especially when measuring parameters over wide dynamic ranges, due to their limited dynamic range and sensitivity to thermal and electromagnetic noise.
Innovation Solution
A method for improving the accuracy of time-domain apparatuses by initiating periodic oscillations, measuring time intervals between trigger events, detecting perturbations, and adjusting parameters to reduce measurement errors, allowing for self-calibration and wide dynamic range measurements without the need for multiple sensors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional force sensors are used to measure displacement of a spring-suspended proof mass, then force measurement is achieved, but measurement accuracy is reduced due to thermal and electromagnetic noise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional electrical measurement systems (capacitive, piezo-resistive, electron tunneling sensing) with a time-domain measurement system that uses a periodic square wave signal and measures the time intervals between trigger events. This substitution eliminates susceptibility to thermal and electromagnetic noise that plagues electrical sensing methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the measurement parameter from electrical voltage or current measurements to time interval measurements. By measuring the time between trigger events corresponding to oscillation crossings, the system achieves immunity to thermal and electromagnetic noise while maintaining measurement accuracy.
2Measurement precision
If conventional force sensors with limited dynamic range are used, then accurate measurement is achieved within a narrow range, but multiple sensors are required for wide dynamic range measurements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements auto-ranging by dynamically adjusting the amplitude of the periodic oscillation signal based on the measured perturbation magnitude. The system can adapt to measure both small and large force variations using the same sensor, eliminating the need for multiple sensors with different dynamic ranges.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal measurement system that can accurately measure forces across a wide dynamic range by combining time-domain measurement with auto-ranging capability. A single sensor configuration can handle both small and large perturbations, making the system versatile for various application requirements.
3Measurement precision
If conventional sensors requiring periodic recalibration are used, then initial measurement accuracy is achieved, but maintenance complexity increases over time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-calibration through the time-domain measurement method. By measuring time intervals between trigger events and using these measurements to adjust oscillation parameters, the system automatically maintains measurement accuracy without requiring external recalibration procedures or dedicated signal conditioning circuitry.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses feedback from the measured time intervals to automatically adjust the oscillation amplitude and maintain optimal measurement conditions. This closed-loop approach ensures continuous measurement accuracy without manual intervention for recalibration.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution enhances the accuracy and dynamic range of inertial sensors, reducing measurement errors and the need for recalibration, while providing a cost-effective and flexible solution for various sensing applications.
Implementation Method 1
initiating a periodic oscillation with the time-domain apparatus... measuring time intervals between trigger events during each oscillation
Data Source
AI summary
A method for increasing the accuracy of a time-domain apparatus comprising the following steps: initiating a periodic oscillation with the time-domain apparatus; measuring time intervals between trigger events during each oscillation, wherein the trigger events correspond to the oscillation passing known values; detecting a perturbation to the oscillation by monitoring changes in the time intervals between trigger events; and adjusting a parameter of the oscillation based on the perturbation such that measurement error is reduced.