Embedded Instrumentation Sampling for Event-Triggered Bandwidth Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional instrumentation systems face inefficiencies due to fixed sampling rate configurations, which lead to unnecessary high bandwidth demands on communication networks, as sensors with varying importance require different sampling rates based on operational states.
Innovation Solution
A signal sharing component, such as a demultiplexor, generates multiple copies of an incoming signal, with one copy processed by a low sampling rate A/D converter for continuous transmission and another copy by a high sampling rate A/D converter, whose transmission is controlled by a comparator based on signal thresholds to conserve bandwidth.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a high sampling rate A/D converter is used for all sensors, then measurement precision is improved, but bandwidth consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the signal processing path by creating multiple copies of the input signal that are processed differently. One copy goes to a high sampling rate A/D converter while another goes to a low sampling rate A/D converter, allowing selective use of high bandwidth only when necessary
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the sampling rate based on signal conditions. The comparator detects when the input signal exceeds a threshold, and only then does the high sampling rate A/D converter become active, making the system adaptive rather than static
2Quantity of substance
If a low sampling rate A/D converter is used for all sensors, then bandwidth consumption is reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary filtering using the low sampling rate A/D converter for all signals. Only when the comparator detects a threshold exceedance does it switch to the high sampling rate converter, preparing the system to handle critical events without continuously consuming high bandwidth
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates multiple copies of the input signal to be processed by different A/D converters simultaneously. This allows the system to have both a low sampling rate copy (for normal operation) and a high sampling rate copy (for critical events) available at the same time
3Measurement precision
If multiple A/D converters are used simultaneously, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple A/D converters are used but not continuously. The system makes them multi-functional by having them share the same input signal source and using the same comparator logic to control when each converter is active, reducing overall system complexity despite having multiple converters
Data Source
AI summary
The various technologies presented herein relate to generating copies of an incoming signal, wherein each copy of the signal can undergo different processing to facilitate control of bandwidth demands during communication of one or more signals relating to the incoming signal. A signal sharing component can be utilized to share copies of the incoming signal between a plurality of circuits/components which can include a first A/D converter, a second A/D converter, and a comparator component. The first A/D converter can operate at a low sampling rate and accordingly generates, and continuously transmits, a signal having a low bandwidth requirement. The second A/D converter can operate at a high sampling rate and hence generates a signal having a high bandwidth requirement. Transmission of a signal from the second A/D converter can be controlled by a signaling event (e.g., a signal pulse) being determined to have occurred by the comparator component.