Automated Cable Continuity Testing via Boundary Scan
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cable testing methods are inefficient for quickly and accurately verifying pin-to-pin connections for continuity and isolation, and are not adaptable to different types of cables or design changes.
Innovation Solution
A cable testing method using a boundary scan compliant device connected to a computer, where both ends of the cable are coupled to connectors, allowing the computer to send signals and monitor responses, enabling sequential testing of conductive traces for continuity and isolation, with the ability to accommodate various cable types and configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional cable testing methods are used, then cable continuity and isolation can be tested, but the testing process is slow and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous signal transmission through the cable under test, maintaining constant electrical activity to detect faults. The signal generator continuously sends signals through the cable, and the receiver continuously monitors for expected signals, eliminating interruptions and maximizing testing efficiency throughout the verification process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical testing procedures with automated electronic signal-based testing. Instead of physical continuity checks or manual isolation testing, the system uses electronic signal generation, transmission, and detection to automatically verify cable integrity, significantly reducing testing time and improving productivity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional cable testing methods are used, then basic continuity can be checked, but the testing is not adaptable to different cable types or design changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal testing system that can accommodate multiple cable types and configurations through a single platform. The signal generator and receiver system can be configured to test various cable designs, pin-to-pin connections, and isolation requirements without requiring completely different testing equipment, thereby achieving versatility while managing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic testing capabilities where the system can adapt its signal transmission and monitoring parameters based on the specific cable type being tested. The system dynamically adjusts signal characteristics, testing sequences, and monitoring parameters to match different cable designs, enabling flexible adaptation without increasing overall system complexity.
3Reliability
If comprehensive pin-to-pin connection testing is performed, then cable integrity can be fully verified, but the testing process becomes more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the comprehensive cable testing into distinct functional components: signal generation at one end, signal transmission through the cable, and signal reception and monitoring at the other end. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies the overall testing procedure while maintaining thorough verification of pin-to-pin connections and isolation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the receiver continuously monitors for expected signals and provides feedback about signal presence, absence, or distortion. This feedback loop enables automatic verification of cable integrity without requiring complex manual analysis, as the system uses the feedback information to determine test results and identify faults efficiently.
Data Source
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AI summary
A cable testing method includes a tester that includes at least one connector electrically coupled, such as by conductive traces, to a computer. Both ends of the cable are connected to the at least one connector. The computer then sends a signal to one of the conductive traces of the conductor, at one of the ends of the cable, while at the same time monitoring for a signal at the other contacts of the conductor that are in contact with conductive traces of the cable. The process of sending power while monitoring may then be repeated for other of the conductive traces of the cable, for example until substantially all of the conductive traces of the cable are tested. The process of testing multiple of the conductive traces sequentially may be performed automatically by the computer, allowing performance of the cable to be tested quickly, completely, and accurately.