Multichannel Biosignal Apparatus with Auxiliary Processor Replacement

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing biosignal measurement technologies face challenges in maintaining continuous and reliable signal processing due to defects in main signal processors, leading to performance degradation and errors, which complicates real-time data acquisition and extends the usage period of multichannel apparatuses.

Innovation Solution

The integration of auxiliary signal processors within a single integrated circuit package allows for real-time signal processing replacement of main signal processors upon defect detection, ensuring continuous operation and optimizing performance by allocating auxiliary processors based on priority and performance levels.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If main signal processors are used for continuous signal processing, then real-time data acquisition is enabled, but defects in main signal processors lead to performance degradation and errors

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal processing reliabilityVSAvoidsignal processor configuration
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system changes the operational state of signal processors by switching between main and auxiliary processors based on detected defects. When a main signal processor shows performance degradation or errors, the system activates the corresponding auxiliary signal processor to take over the signal processing task, thereby maintaining reliable operation without requiring complex external intervention or system reconfiguration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Duration of action of stationary object

If auxiliary signal processors are integrated in a single IC package, then real-time replacement is enabled, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveusage periodVSAvoidintegrated circuit structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Duration of action of stationary objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The integrated circuit is segmented into distinct functional units: main signal processors, auxiliary signal processors, defect detection units, and switching units. Each segment performs a specific function, allowing the system to maintain complexity while enabling real-time replacement capabilities. The segmentation facilitates modular defect management and extends the operational lifespan of the device.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The auxiliary signal processors are nested within the same IC package as the main signal processors, creating a compact hierarchical structure. This nesting allows the auxiliary processors to remain in standby mode within the package, ready to replace main processors when defects are detected, thereby extending usage period without requiring separate external components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

3Productivity

If defect detection and replacement is implemented, then production yield is improved, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveproduction yieldVSAvoiddefect management system
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary defect detection on main signal processors before they fail completely. The defect detection unit continuously monitors processor performance and activates auxiliary signal processors in advance when degradation is detected. This preliminary action prevents complete system failure and improves production yield by maintaining operational capability throughout the manufacturing and usage process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs self-diagnosis and self-repair through automated defect detection and auxiliary processor activation. When a main signal processor defect is detected, the switching unit automatically activates the corresponding auxiliary processor without external intervention. This self-service capability improves productivity by reducing manual testing and repair requirements while managing system complexity through automation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS20240078159A1Multichannel apparatus for performing channel replacement and operation method of the same
Publication Date: 2024.03.07 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
  • US20240078159A1 patent drawing
  • US20240078159A1 patent drawing
  • US20240078159A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A multichannel apparatus for exchanging channels and an operating method of the multichannel apparatus are provided. The apparatus includes reception nodes configured to receive input signals of an analog domain, main signal processors configured to perform a signal processing operation on the input signals, and auxiliary signal processors configured to replace the main signal processors and perform at least a portion of the signal processing operation in response to a replacement condition being satisfied. The reception nodes, the main signal processors, and the auxiliary signal processors are implemented in a single integrated circuit (IC) package.