Inertial Sensor Module Inspection via Electrical Test Signals

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for inspecting modules with inertial sensors require the application of inertial forces, which can be costly and impractical due to the need for large inspection devices and precise position control, and do not allow for accurate sensitivity assessment without physical interaction.

Innovation Solution

A method using electric test signals to assess the sensitivity of inertial sensors and modules, where the module electric test signal is identical to the sensor electric test signal, allowing for comparison and inspection without the need for inertial forces, and storing sensitivity information in a non-volatile memory for later reference.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If inertial force is applied to inspect module sensitivity, then sensitivity information can be obtained, but inspection device complexity and cost increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesensitivity measurement accuracyVSAvoidinspection device complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical inertial force application system with an electrical test signal system. Instead of using complex mechanical devices to apply inertial forces to the module, the invention uses electrical signals to stimulate the inertial sensor and obtain sensitivity information electrically, thereby eliminating the need for complex mechanical inspection equipment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an electrical test signal as an intermediary to transfer information about inertial force effects to the inspection system. The test signal acts as a mediator that allows the system to indirectly measure sensitivity without directly applying physical inertial forces, simplifying the inspection device architecture.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Measurement precision

If inertial force is applied to inspect module sensitivity, then sensitivity information can be obtained, but inspection cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesensitivity measurement accuracyVSAvoidinspection cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces expensive mechanical inertial force application equipment with cost-effective electrical signal generation and measurement systems. This substitution significantly reduces the hardware requirements and operational costs of the inspection process while maintaining measurement accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates an electrical copy or representation of inertial force effects through test signals. Instead of physically applying inertial forces and measuring their direct effects, the system uses electrical signals to replicate and measure sensitivity characteristics, reducing the need for expensive physical inspection equipment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

3Measurement precision

If inertial force is applied to inspect module sensitivity, then sensitivity information can be obtained, but spatial and temporal isolation of inspection processes is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesensitivity measurement accuracyVSAvoidinspection process flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical inspection process with an electrical one, enabling the inspection to be performed independently of spatial constraints and temporal limitations. Electrical signals can be applied and measured without requiring physical access or specific environmental conditions, providing greater flexibility in inspection scheduling and location.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentUS20240118106A1Module inspection method and inertial sensor
Publication Date: 2024.04.11 PANASONIC INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT CO LTD
  • US20240118106A1 patent drawing
  • US20240118106A1 patent drawing
  • US20240118106A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A module inspection method is a method for inspecting a module in which an inertial sensor is incorporated, and the module inspection method includes: acquiring sensor sensitivity information corresponding to a predetermined inertial force of the inertial sensor; applying a module electric test signal to the inertial sensor incorporated in a module to obtain module sensitivity information corresponding to the predetermined inertial force; making a comparison between the module sensitivity information and the sensor sensitivity information; and inspecting the module with reference to a result of the comparison between the module sensitivity information and the sensor sensitivity information.