Signal Generation Device with Matched Clock Paths
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Solution Overview
Problem
Synchronizing multiple signal generators for complex measurement applications is cumbersome and complex due to production variances and temperature drifts, leading to unsynchronized signals even with a common external clock source.
Innovation Solution
A signal generation device with at least two internal signal generators coupled to a common clock source, where the signal paths are matched to ensure synchronized clock signals, minimizing external synchronization needs and temperature-related interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple dedicated signal generators are used for complex measurement applications, then the functionality and versatility are improved, but the synchronization complexity and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple signal generators and a common clock source into a single integrated device. The clock source is shared among all signal generators within the device, and the housing integrates both components, eliminating the need for external synchronization and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining measurement versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the signal generation functionality into multiple independent signal generators within a unified device structure. Each signal generator can be independently configured for different measurement tasks while sharing the common clock source, allowing versatile measurements without requiring external synchronization equipment.
2Ease of operation
If a common external clock source is provided to multiple signal generators, then the ease of operation is improved, but the signal synchronization precision deteriorates due to different signal runtimes and temperature drifts
Solution Approach 1:
The clock source is merged with the signal generators within the same device housing, creating a unified system where the clock signal is generated and distributed internally. This eliminates external clock distribution issues and ensures synchronized operation across all signal generators.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements local clock distribution where each signal generator receives the clock signal through matched signal paths within the device. The signal paths are designed to have equal length and characteristic impedance, ensuring that clock signals arrive at each generator simultaneously despite different routing requirements, thereby maintaining high synchronization precision.
3Measurement precision
If signal paths are matched regarding signal runtime, then the measurement precision is improved, but the device complexity increases due to path matching requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by designing matched signal paths specifically for clock signal distribution within the device. Each signal path from the common clock source to individual signal generators is engineered with equal length and matched characteristic impedance, ensuring simultaneous clock arrival without requiring complex external synchronization equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The signal path matching is integrated into the device's internal architecture, combining the clock distribution network with the signal generator substrates. This integration reduces the need for separate external path matching components and simplifies the overall system while maintaining high precision synchronization.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides a signal generation device, comprising at least two signal generators, a clock source that is coupled to the at least two signal generators and that is configured to generate a clock signal and provide the clock signal to the at least two signal generators, wherein the signal paths between the clock source and each one of the at least two signal generators are matched at least regarding the signal runtime, and wherein the at least two signal generators are each configured to generate an output signal based on the clock signal. Further, the present disclosure provides a respective measurement device and a respective method.