Measuring Device Control with Guided Scheduling for Reliable Setup

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Solution Overview

Problem

The use of measuring devices in research and industry requires significant user expertise and preparation time due to complex measurement processes, leading to prolonged setup and execution times.

Innovation Solution

A method and measuring device where a controller receives measurement requests, establishes a schedule of steps, and outputs it to the user, utilizing a database to support measurement preparation and execution, ensuring efficient and guided measurement processes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a user performs measurements using a complex measuring device, then measurement accuracy and reliability are improved, but preparation time and operational complexity increase significantly

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

Solution Approach 1:

The controller automatically generates a measurement schedule in advance, organizing all necessary measurement steps, parameters, and sequences before the actual measurement begins. This preliminary scheduling eliminates the need for users to manually plan and prepare measurement procedures, significantly reducing preparation time while ensuring reliable measurements through systematic planning

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The measuring device performs self-scheduling and self-guidance functions through the controller, which automatically creates measurement schedules and provides step-by-step instructions to users. The system serves itself by managing its own operational workflow without requiring extensive user expertise or manual intervention in the planning phase

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Reliability

If a user performs measurements using a complex measuring device, then measurement accuracy and reliability are improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to required expertise

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement reliabilityVSAvoidease of use
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The controller acts as an intermediary between the complex measuring device and the user. It translates complex measurement requirements into simple, step-by-step instructions that users can easily follow. The controller mediates the interaction by automatically managing the measurement schedule and guiding users through each step, maintaining measurement reliability while significantly improving ease of operation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The system provides self-guidance through the controller, which automatically generates and presents measurement schedules with clear instructions. Users don't need external expertise or extensive training because the system serves itself by providing all necessary guidance internally, making complex measurements accessible to users with varying levels of expertise

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Loss of information

If measurement steps are provided all at once to the user, then complete information is available, but user cognitive load increases and comprehension decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinformation completenessVSAvoiduser comprehension
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The controller divides the complete measurement schedule into individual, manageable steps that are presented to the user sequentially. Instead of overwhelming the user with all measurement steps at once, the system segments the information and provides only the current relevant step, ensuring complete measurement information is available while maintaining user comprehension through progressive disclosure

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS20240319691A1Method for controlling a measuring device and measuring device
Publication Date: 2024.09.26 NETZSCH GERATEBAU GMBH
  • US20240319691A1 patent drawing
  • US20240319691A1 patent drawing
  • US20240319691A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A method for controlling a measuring device includes receiving, by a controller, a request to perform a specific measurement, establishing, by the controller, a measurement schedule of the steps to be performed for the specific measurement, and outputting, by the controller, the established measurement schedule to a user of the measuring device. A measuring device is also disclosed.