Configurable Counter Units for Independent Signal Sampling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing data acquisition systems face inefficiencies in measurement modes, particularly in single point and buffered modes, which hinder high-speed data transfer and synchronization in control applications, especially when dealing with high-frequency signals and limited bandwidth, and critical latency requirements.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of configurable counter units in data acquisition devices that operate in various modes (single sample, double sample, auxiliary, and default) and timing modes, allowing sampling independent of the measurement signal frequency, using a sample clock signal to synchronize operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If single point mode is used for measurements, then measurement setup time is required for each measurement, but this overhead limits the measurement rate and slows down data transfer
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the measurement process into distinct operational modes (single point mode and buffered mode), allowing the system to switch between them based on requirements. The buffered mode segments multiple measurements into a batch operation, eliminating per-measurement setup overhead and enabling high-rate data acquisition without sacrificing the ability to perform precise single measurements when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic mode switching capability where the counter can transition between single point mode and buffered mode based on real-time requirements. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to optimize for either measurement precision or measurement rate depending on the application needs, resolving the contradiction between these two parameters.
2Productivity
If buffered mode is used for time-related measurements, then measurements are performed continuously at signal frequency, but this makes data rate dependent on signal frequency and may exceed bandwidth limits
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic mode switching that allows the system to adapt between single point mode and buffered mode based on the application requirements. For control loop applications, the system can switch to single point mode to match the control loop rate, while for high-speed data acquisition, it can use buffered mode. This dynamic adaptability resolves the contradiction between data acquisition rate and control loop compatibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameter (mode of operation) of the counter based on the application requirements. By switching between single point mode and buffered mode, the system can adjust its data output rate to match either the signal frequency or the control loop rate, making it versatile for different applications without being constrained by a fixed data rate.
3Quantity of substance
If buffered mode samples every period of high-frequency signal, then data generation exceeds available bandwidth, but discarding data slows down system performance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic mode switching that allows the system to select between single point mode and buffered mode based on bandwidth requirements. When bandwidth is limited, the system can use single point mode to reduce data generation rate to match available bandwidth, avoiding the need to discard data and maintaining system performance. When bandwidth is sufficient, buffered mode can be used to maximize data acquisition.
4Measurement precision
If single point mode is used in control applications, then extra overhead is put on the processor, but this slows down the control loop
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic mode switching that allows the system to use buffered mode for control applications where time is critical. The buffered mode performs measurements continuously without per-measurement setup overhead, significantly reducing processor overhead and control loop execution time. When measurement precision is the priority and time is not critical, the system can switch to single point mode.
Data Source
AI summary
One or more counter units of a data acquisition device used to perform sampling operations. Each of the counter units is configurable to operate in a selected one of a plurality of modes. During operation, at least one of the counter units may receive a measurement signal (or input signal) acquired by the data acquisition device and also a sample clock signal. The counter unit may sample the measurement signal based on the selected operational mode and timing of the sample clock, and at a rate that is independent of the frequency of the measurement signal. Furthermore, the counter unit may sample the measurement signal based on a selected one of a plurality of timing modes associated with the sample clock signal. The counter units may take samples of the measurement signal to perform at least one of the following types of measurements: period, frequency, pulse-width, semi-period, time separation, or event counting.