FSM Trigger Event Detection with Interpolation for Fast Signals
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional digital trigger event detectors in data acquisition systems are limited in the number and type of trigger events they can detect, require complex and expensive circuitry, and are often too slow for real-time detection of fast trigger events.
Innovation Solution
A trigger event detection system that uses an interpolator to enhance time resolution and a finite state machine (FSM) to transition through predefined states based on an ordered sequence of symbols, enabling real-time and post-acquisition trigger detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If analog trigger event detection is used, then the system can detect trigger events, but the detection precision and timing accuracy are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces analog trigger detection with a digital finite state machine-based detection system. The analog detection mechanism is substituted with digital signal processing, including an interpolator that generates interpolated data points between actual sample points, and an FSM that processes these interpolated values to detect trigger events with higher precision and timing accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary interpolation of data points before trigger event detection. The interpolator generates additional data points between actual sample points, creating a more refined data set that enables more accurate determination of trigger event timing. This preliminary action of generating interpolated data points allows the FSM to detect trigger events with sub-sample precision.
2Measurement precision
If digital trigger event detection is implemented, then detection precision improves, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the trigger detection system into distinct functional modules: an interpolator module that generates interpolated data points, a symbol generator module that converts interpolated values to symbols, and an FSM module that processes symbols to detect trigger events. This segmentation allows each module to perform its specific function efficiently while maintaining overall system manageability and modularity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces interpolated data points as an intermediary between actual sample points and trigger event detection. These interpolated values serve as a bridge that enables more precise timing measurement without requiring a complete overhaul of the data acquisition system. The symbol generator acts as another intermediary, converting continuous interpolated values into discrete symbols that the FSM can process efficiently.
3Loss of time
If interpolation is applied to enhance time resolution, then timing accuracy improves, but computational requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial interpolation by generating only the necessary interpolated data points required for accurate trigger event detection, rather than interpolating all possible data points. The interpolator creates interpolated values at specific intervals or only when needed for trigger detection, reducing unnecessary computational overhead while maintaining sufficient timing accuracy for the application.
Data Source
AI summary
Trigger event detection employs a finite state machine (FSM) and interpolation of time-sampled data. A trigger event detector includes an interpolator configured to interpolate time-sampled data and to provide an interpolated sequence of data. The trigger event detector further includes an FSM that has a plurality of predefined states including a trigger event state. The FSM is configured to transition among the predefined states according to an ordered sequence of symbols corresponding to the interpolated sequence of data. A transition of the FSM into the trigger event state represents detection of a trigger event. The trigger event detection provides one or both of a real-time trigger and a post-acquisition trigger.