Dynamic Probe With Switching Unit For Signal Impedance Adaptation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current measurement systems require multiple probes and manual adjustments to handle dynamically changing characteristics of devices under test, leading to increased effort and error risk when probing dynamic data signals.

Innovation Solution

A dynamic probe with a switching unit that automatically adapts to changing device characteristics, using a switching circuit with amplifiers and a detection unit to select the appropriate mode for processing signals, allowing a single contact and reducing the need for manual input.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If multiple probes are used to measure different operation modes, then measurement accuracy is improved, but device complexity and measurement time increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement accuracyVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The probe is designed with a switching unit that enables a single probe to perform multiple measurement functions by dynamically changing its input impedance characteristics. The probe can switch between high-impedance mode for low-frequency signals and low-impedance mode for high-frequency signals, eliminating the need for multiple specialized probes while maintaining measurement accuracy across different operation modes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The probe incorporates a switching unit that dynamically adapts the input impedance based on the frequency characteristics of the signal being measured. The switching unit responds to detected signal characteristics and automatically switches between different impedance states, allowing the probe to optimize its performance for the current measurement conditions without manual intervention.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Measurement precision

If multiple probes are used for different operation modes, then measurement accuracy is improved, but measurement time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement accuracyVSAvoidmeasurement time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The switching unit operates continuously during the measurement process, automatically detecting signal characteristics and switching impedance modes in real-time without interrupting the measurement. This continuous adaptation allows the probe to maintain optimal measurement conditions throughout the entire measurement period, eliminating the need for sequential measurements with different probes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

Solution Approach 2:

The probe dynamically adjusts its input impedance during the measurement process based on the detected signal frequency characteristics. This dynamic adaptation occurs automatically and continuously, allowing the probe to maintain measurement accuracy across varying operation modes without requiring multiple separate measurement operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If manual switching between probes is performed, then adaptability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveadaptabilityVSAvoidease of operation
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The probe incorporates a detection unit and switching unit that automatically detect signal characteristics and switch impedance modes without user intervention. The system serves itself by continuously monitoring the input signal and autonomously adjusting its impedance characteristics to match the measurement requirements, eliminating the need for manual switching while maintaining full adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The detection unit continuously monitors the frequency characteristics of the input signal and provides feedback to the switching unit. Based on this feedback, the switching unit automatically adjusts the input impedance to the appropriate mode, creating a closed-loop system that adapts to changing measurement conditions without requiring manual input from the operator.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentEP3404425B1Dynamic probe, dynamic measurement system and method for probing a dynamic data signal
Publication Date: 2024.11.13 ROHDE & SCHWARZ GMBH & CO KG
  • EP3404425B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3404425B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4

AI summary

A dynamic probe (16) for probing a dynamic data signal comprising a switching unit (20) configured to provide at least two different input impedances, wherein the switching unit (20) is configured to select a first input impedance in a first mode and a second input impedance in a second mode, the switching unit (20) being configured to be operated dynamically based on an event in the data signal processed. Further, a dynamic measurement system (14) and a method for probing a dynamic data signal are described.