Automated VNA Calibration Using a Connector Positioner

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional vector network analyzer calibration methods are time-consuming, expensive, and prone to errors due to manual handling of calibration components, which can introduce inaccuracies and require multiple standards and adapters, making it difficult to connect to diverse devices under test.

Innovation Solution

A fully automated calibration system using motorized and non-motorized calibration components, controlled by a connector positioner system, which connects automatically to the vector network analyzer ports, eliminating the need for manual replacement and ensuring reliable electrical connections.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Extent of automation

If manual calibration components are used, then calibration can be performed with basic equipment, but calibration time increases and operator errors occur

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveautomation of calibration component connectionVSAvoidcomplexity of calibration system

Core Design Contradiction:

Extent of automationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The calibration system performs self-calibration by automatically connecting and disconnecting calibration components without human intervention. The motorized connector positioner system enables the VNA to calibrate itself by sequentially connecting different calibration standards (open, short, load, thru) to the test ports, eliminating the need for operators to manually handle calibration components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual mechanical operations with an automated motorized connector positioner system. Instead of operators manually connecting calibration components, a motorized positioning mechanism with controlled movement executes the connections automatically based on programmed sequences, substituting human mechanical actions with automated mechanical control.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Measurement precision

If multiple standards and adapters are used, then calibration accuracy can be improved, but calibration time and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecalibration accuracyVSAvoidcalibration time

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary calibration actions by automatically connecting all necessary calibration standards (open, short, load, thru) in a predetermined sequence before actual measurements begin. The motorized connector positioner system pre-positions each calibration component at its required location, ensuring all calibration steps are completed beforehand without time loss during measurement operations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The calibration process maintains continuous useful action by seamlessly transitioning between different calibration standards without manual intervention. The motorized connector positioner system continuously moves calibration components from one test port to another in an unbroken sequence, eliminating idle time and ensuring the calibration process flows without interruption from start to finish.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #20Continuity of useful action

3Reliability

If manual connection of calibration components is performed, then flexibility in handling different standards is maintained, but connection errors and wear increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection reliabilityVSAvoidease of calibration setup

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual mechanical connection operations with an automated motorized connector positioner system that precisely controls the positioning and connection of calibration components. This substitution eliminates human error in connection torque, alignment, and contact pressure while maintaining the ability to handle various calibration standards through programmed sequences.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system incorporates feedback mechanisms to monitor and verify the connection status of calibration components. The motorized connector positioner system receives feedback on connection accuracy and adjusts positioning accordingly, ensuring reliable connections are achieved and maintained throughout the calibration process, thereby improving overall connection reliability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentEP4682552A1A method and apparatus for automatic calibration of a vector network analyser

Publication Date: 2026.01.21 ROBERT BOSCH GMBH

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AI summary

A method and system for calibration of a vector network analyser (2) of the measurement apparatus (1) wherein calibration components (10) are connected automatically by a connector positoner system (3) of the measurement apparatus (1) under control of a controller to ports of the vector network analyser (2) of the measurement apparatus (1).