Dynamic Channel Allocation in Measuring Instruments
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional vector network analyzers require complex cabling and subsequent calculations due to fixed assignment of measurement channels, limiting flexibility in connecting measurement objects.
Innovation Solution
A measuring device with a control unit that dynamically assigns connections to measurement channels, accompanied by display devices providing real-time information on channel allocation and calibration status, facilitating intuitive and flexible operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fixed assignment of measurement channels to connections is used, then device structure is simple, but flexibility in connecting measurement objects is reduced and complex cabling is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic assignment of measurement channels to connections through software control. The control device can reassign channels to connections based on the measurement task, allowing the same physical connection to serve different measurement functions. This eliminates the need for complex cabling configurations while maintaining measurement flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
Each connection is designed to be multi-functional, capable of being assigned to different measurement channels depending on the task requirements. The control device enables a single connection to serve multiple measurement purposes by dynamically switching channel assignments, reducing the need for dedicated cabling for each measurement type.
2Ease of operation
If fixed assignment of measurement channels is used, then channel allocation is simple, but operational effort and complexity increase for users
Solution Approach 1:
The control device automatically manages channel assignment based on the selected measurement task. When a user selects a measurement task, the system automatically assigns appropriate channels to connections without requiring manual configuration. This self-service approach reduces operational effort and eliminates time-consuming manual channel assignment.
Solution Approach 2:
The system pre-configures channel assignments based on selected measurement tasks. Before the user needs to perform a measurement, the control device has already assigned the appropriate channels to connections based on the task requirements, eliminating the need for users to manually configure channels and reducing operational time.
3Ease of operation
If display devices are placed close to connections, then assignment clarity is improved, but device manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines display devices with the connection interfaces, integrating the display function directly into the connection area. This merging of display and connection functions provides clear visual feedback about channel assignments close to the connection points while using space-efficient integrated design that manages manufacturing complexity.
Data Source
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AI summary
A measuring instrument comprises a control device, at least two terminals (6, 7, 8, 9), at least two measuring channels, and at least two display devices (10a, 11a, 12a, 13a). The control device allocates terminals (6, 7, 8, 9) to the measuring channels and internally connects the measuring channels at least in a logical manner to said terminals (6, 7, 8, 9), a display device (10a, 11a, 12a, 13a) being associated with each terminal (6, 7, 8, 9). The display devices (10a, 11a, 12a, 13a) associated with the terminals (6, 7, 8, 9) display information that relates to the current allocation and/or utilization of the terminals (6, 7, 8, 9).