Auto-Selecting Multi-Meter DUT Detection Circuit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current multi-meters require manual selection of measurement functions, leading to errors and inefficiencies, especially when testing complex circuits or high voltage signals, and existing automatic selection functions do not cover all necessary functions.
Innovation Solution
A multi-meter with a controller that automatically determines the type of device under test (DUT) through a series of checking phases, using a protection circuit, test circuits, and DUT type detectors to select the appropriate measuring range and mode, eliminating the need for manual function selection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual function selection is used, then the user can select the appropriate measuring function, but the user may select the wrong function leading to measurement errors and safety risks
Solution Approach 1:
The multi-meter automatically detects the DUT type and selects the appropriate measuring function without user intervention. The controller executes detection procedures that automatically identify whether the DUT is a resistor, capacitor, diode, or other component, and switches to the corresponding measurement mode, eliminating manual function selection and preventing wrong function selection errors
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters automatically based on detected DUT characteristics. The controller modifies measurement parameters such as resistance range, capacitance range, or diode test mode based on the detected DUT type, ensuring accurate measurement without requiring user knowledge of appropriate settings
2Extent of automation
If automatic function selection is implemented, then the measuring process is automated, but the existing automatic selection functions do not cover all necessary functions
Solution Approach 1:
The automatic detection process is divided into multiple sequential detection procedures, each targeting specific DUT types. The controller executes separate detection routines for resistors (measuring resistance value), capacitors (measuring capacitance value), diodes (detecting forward/reverse characteristics), and other components, ensuring comprehensive coverage of all common electronic components
Solution Approach 2:
The multi-meter is designed with multiple measurement functions integrated into a single device, including resistance measurement, capacitance measurement, diode testing, and other component detection capabilities. The automatic detection system universally handles all these functions by identifying DUT type and activating the appropriate measurement function
3Productivity
If the user manually determines and switches functions, then the user has control over the measurement process, but the process becomes time-consuming and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary detection of the DUT type before actual measurement begins. The controller automatically identifies the DUT characteristics and pre-configures the appropriate measurement function and parameters, so that when measurement is initiated, the correct function is already selected, eliminating the time required for manual function switching
Solution Approach 2:
The multi-meter autonomously performs the entire function selection process without user intervention. The controller continuously monitors the input terminals, automatically detects DUT type, and switches to the appropriate measurement mode, freeing the user from manual function selection and significantly improving measurement efficiency
4Reliability
If high voltage signals are tested with manual function selection, then the user can select the appropriate function, but wrong selection can cause device damage and operator harm
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary detection of voltage presence and characteristics before allowing measurement to proceed. The controller detects high voltage signals and automatically selects appropriate protective functions and measurement modes, preventing damage to the device or harm to the operator by ensuring correct function selection before measurement begins
Solution Approach 2:
The controller acts as an intermediary between the user and the measurement process. It automatically detects DUT type and intermediates the selection of appropriate measurement functions and safety parameters, protecting both the device and user from the complexity and risks associated with manual function selection in high voltage scenarios
Data Source
AI summary
A measuring device with the function of automatically determining the type of device under test (DUT) and selecting measuring function. The measuring device having a controller for sequentially providing a plurality of checking phases; a protection circuit connecting to input end and protecting the measuring device; a switch composed of a plurality of test circuits, being connected to the controller and sequentially connecting the plurality of test circuits with the output end of the protection circuit; a plurality of DUT type detectors, connecting to the switch and comparing the voltage of input end sequentially through a plurality of comparison circuits, transmitting the result of comparison to the controller for determining the type of DUT; and a measurement unit connecting to the controller, measuring the DUT according to the result of determination of the controller and displaying the result of measurement on a display.