Measurement Instrument Configuration for Transferable Test Routines
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The process of switching between different measurement instruments for testing electronic devices is cumbersome due to the need for manual adaptation of settings and the inability to reuse previous instrument configurations, requiring significant expertise and time.
Innovation Solution
A configuration method for measurement instruments that automatically adapts test routines based on the instrument's hardware and software configuration, allowing seamless transfer between instruments by comparing and modifying test sequences to ensure compatibility and performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual adaptation of measurement instrument settings is performed when switching instruments, then test compatibility is maintained, but time consumption and expertise requirements increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a digital footprint (copy) of the measurement instrument's configuration including hardware details, software version, and capability parameters. This footprint is stored and reused when switching instruments, eliminating manual reconfiguration and reducing time consumption while maintaining test compatibility through automated comparison and adaptation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary configuration analysis by comparing the test routine requirements with the new instrument's footprint before actual testing begins. This pre-comparison and pre-adaptation process prepares the instrument in advance, avoiding time-consuming manual adjustments during the testing phase.
2Manufacturing precision
If manual configuration adaptation is performed when switching measurement instruments, then test routines remain accurate to instrument capabilities, but the complexity of the switching process increases
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement instrument automatically performs self-characterization by storing its own footprint data including hardware configuration, software version, and capability parameters. When switching instruments, the system automatically retrieves and compares this footprint data with test routine requirements, enabling self-service configuration adaptation without requiring external expert intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements a feedback mechanism where the comparison between test routine requirements and instrument footprint automatically identifies mismatches and triggers adaptive adjustments. This closed-loop feedback process ensures configuration accuracy by continuously verifying compatibility and making necessary modifications based on the instrument's actual capabilities.
3Productivity
If test routines are customized for specific measurement instruments, then optimal performance is achieved, but the ability to transfer routines between instruments is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal footprint data structure that captures the essential characteristics of different measurement instruments in a standardized format. This universal representation enables test routines to be transferred across multiple instrument types while maintaining optimal performance, as the system automatically adapts the routines based on the target instrument's footprint rather than requiring instrument-specific customization.
Solution Approach 2:
The system maintains test performance by dynamically adjusting parameters based on the target instrument's footprint characteristics. When a test routine is transferred to a different instrument, the system compares the original parameters with the new instrument's capabilities and modifies them accordingly, ensuring optimal performance is achieved for each specific instrument while preserving routine transferability.
Data Source
AI summary
A configuration method of configuring a measurement instrument is described. The measurement instrument comprises at least one measurement port being connectable to at least one device under test. The measurement instrument further comprises a control circuit and a measurement circuit. The control circuit is connected to the measurement circuit. The measurement circuit is connected to the at least one measurement port. The configuration method comprises the steps of: comparing a loaded test routine with configuration data stored in the measurement instrument, determining whether the test routine is performable by the measurement instrument based on the comparison of the test routine with the configuration data; and adapting the loaded test routine based on the configuration data.