Measuring Instrument Data Backup for Fast Configuration Recovery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Oscilloscopes require a time-consuming configuration phase and may lose configuration data when turned off, leading to inefficiencies in measurement setup and data management.
Innovation Solution
A measuring device with a data memory and interface for storing and transferring device data, including parameter and measurement data, using volatile and non-volatile memory options, encryption, and network connectivity for centralized data storage and retrieval.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If configuration data is stored in volatile memory for quick access, then device operation speed is improved, but data is lost when power is turned off
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the data storage system into two segments: volatile memory (RAM) for fast access during operation and non-volatile memory (ROM/flash) for persistent storage. The control unit manages data segmentation by copying configuration data between these memory types as needed, allowing the system to enjoy both speed and data retention benefits.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary action by automatically saving configuration data to non-volatile memory before power loss occurs. The control unit monitors data changes and proactively transfers critical configuration information to persistent storage, ensuring data is preserved before the volatile memory loses its contents.
2Measurement precision
If manual configuration is performed for each measurement task, then measurement precision is improved, but time consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements copying by allowing users to save configuration data as reusable templates in non-volatile memory. These configuration copies can be automatically loaded for similar measurement tasks, eliminating the need for manual reconfiguration while maintaining measurement precision. The system copies proven working configurations and applies them to new measurement sessions.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit provides self-service functionality by automatically selecting and loading appropriate configuration data from non-volatile memory based on the measurement task type. This automation reduces manual intervention while ensuring precise configuration, as the system serves itself by retrieving pre-saved optimal settings.
3Reliability
If configuration data is automatically saved to external storage, then data security is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the data storage functionality into the existing device structure by integrating non-volatile memory and control logic within the oscilloscope itself. This combination eliminates the need for separate external storage systems and complex data management infrastructure, achieving data security through self-contained storage while minimizing added complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit acts as an intermediary that manages data transfer between volatile and non-volatile memory, as well as between the device and external interfaces. This intermediary layer simplifies complexity by centralizing data management logic in one component, coordinating all storage and retrieval operations without requiring complex distributed management systems.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention provides a measuring device (1, 11) for measuring signals (2, 12), the measuring device (1, 11) comprising a data memory (4, 14) configured to store device data (5, 15) for the measuring device (1, 11), and a data interface (6, 16) connected to the data memory (4, 14) and configured to read the device data (5, 15) from the data memory (4, 14) and output at least a part of the read device data (5, 15) to an external memory device (7, 17) in a storage mode and to read device data (5, 15) from the external memory device (7, 17) and store the read device data (5, 15) in the data memory (4, 14) in a recovery mode. The present invention further provides a corresponding method for such a measuring device (1, 11).