Integrated Signal Measurement for Analog and Pulse Counting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems require separate high-speed counter units and analogue units for processing pulse and analogue signals, leading to increased costs and space requirements.
Innovation Solution
A signal measurement unit that includes an input unit for electric signals, an analogue measurement unit for voltage value measurement, and a counting measurement unit for threshold-based counting, allowing selection between analogue and counter modes for signal processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate high-speed counter units and analogue units are used for processing pulse and analogue signals, then signal processing capability is improved, but cost and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the high-speed counter unit and analogue unit into a single integrated device. The counter unit and analogue unit share common resources including the CPU, memory, communication interface, and housing, allowing both pulse signal counting and analogue signal processing to be performed by one device rather than requiring separate units.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated device is designed to perform multiple functions: it can count pulse signals from encoders or other pulse sources, process analogue signals from various sensors, and provide communication interfaces. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate dedicated counter and analogue devices.
2Speed
If separate counter and analogue units are prepared, then processing speed for pulse signals is maintained, but installation space increases
Solution Approach 1:
The counter unit and analogue unit are merged into a single physical device with shared internal resources. The high-speed counting function is maintained through dedicated counting circuits within the integrated device, while the overall footprint is reduced by eliminating the need for two separate device installations.
3Reliability
If separate counter and analogue units are used, then functional reliability is improved, but system cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple signal processing functions into one device while maintaining reliability through proper internal architecture. The counter unit and analogue unit operate with dedicated processing paths within the integrated device, and shared resources like the CPU and communication interface are managed efficiently to ensure reliable operation of both functions simultaneously.
Data Source
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AI summary
In order to save on costs and space when processing analogue signals and pulse signals, a signal measurement unit (2) comprises: an input unit (21) which inputs an electrical signal from a device and selects whether to transmit the signal to an analogue measurement unit (22) or a counting measurement unit (23); the analogue measurement unit which measures voltage as an analogue value; and the counting measurement unit which counts the number of times that the voltage value has equaled or exceeded a first threshold value or the number of times that the voltage value has equaled or fallen below a second threshold value.