Device Parameter Search Using Exponential Modeling

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing binary search algorithms for finding device parameters in test and measurement instruments are inefficient due to long measurement times, inaccuracies caused by assuming exact measured values, and inability to account for errors, leading to non-recoverable results.

Innovation Solution

A method involving exponential modeling based on multiple measurements to determine a device's behavior, using an exponential function to refine the model iteratively and adjust the test and measurement instrument's behavior for improved accuracy and precision.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If binary search algorithm is used to find device parameters, then measurement robustness is improved, but measurement time increases significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement robustnessVSAvoidmeasurement time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent performs preliminary measurements to gather data about the device's actual behavior before conducting the search. This preliminary characterization allows the algorithm to use a more informed search strategy that adapts to the specific device being tested, reducing the number of iterations needed compared to a generic binary search.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements feedback mechanisms where measurement results are used to update the search algorithm's understanding of the device characteristics. This feedback loop allows the system to adjust its search strategy dynamically, improving efficiency while maintaining robustness across different device types.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Device complexity

If binary search algorithm assumes exact measured values, then computational simplicity is improved, but measurement accuracy deteriorates due to unaccounted errors

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecomputation simplicityVSAvoidparameter accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent compensates for systematic measurement errors by characterizing the device's actual behavior in advance and using this information to correct subsequent measurements. This cushioning approach prevents error accumulation that would otherwise occur with the binary search's assumption of exact values.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the search algorithm's parameters based on actual device measurements rather than assuming ideal conditions. By adapting the search parameters to match the real device characteristics, the system maintains computational simplicity while improving measurement accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Measurement precision

If more measurements are taken to narrow down resolution, then parameter accuracy is improved, but measurement time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveparameter accuracyVSAvoidsearch time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a dynamic measurement strategy that adapts the number and spacing of measurements based on the device's characteristics and the current search state. This dynamic approach concentrates measurements where they provide the most information, achieving high accuracy with fewer total measurements than a static approach.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent moves beyond simple voltage sweeps by incorporating multiple measurement dimensions including different current levels, device states, and operational conditions. This multi-dimensional characterization achieves higher accuracy by capturing the device's full behavior rather than relying on numerous one-dimensional measurements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Data Source

PatentUS20250231231A1Search function with device modeling
Publication Date: 2025.07.17 KEITHLEY INSTRUMENTS LLC
  • US20250231231A1 patent drawing
  • US20250231231A1 patent drawing
  • US20250231231A1 patent drawing

AI summary

In some implementations, a method may include acquiring a first plurality of measurements for the DUT, where the test and measurement instrument is not configured with the characteristic of the DUT and the first plurality of measurements may include measurements for the characteristic. In addition, the method may include determining an exponential model of the DUT based on the first plurality of measurements, where the exponential model is representative of behavior of the DUT. The method may include acquiring a second plurality of measurements different from the first plurality of measurements, where the second plurality of measurements may include measurements for the characteristic of the DUT. Moreover, the method may include verifying the exponential model based on the second plurality of measurements. Also, the method may include adjusting the behavior of the test and measurement instrument based on the verified exponential model of the DUT.