Measuring Probe With Dual-Protocol USB-C Communication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing measuring probes face limitations in flexible data transmission due to single communication standards, leading to restricted applications and high power consumption, especially when interfacing with devices using different protocols.
Innovation Solution
A measuring probe equipped with a circuit comprising a microcontroller and multiplexer, allowing data transmission via a USB-C interface using both USB and UART communication protocols, with voltage amplitude detection to determine the protocol, reducing complexity and power consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single communication standard is provided in the measuring probe, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability to different devices is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The measuring probe is equipped with a communications interface that can operate with at least two different communication protocols (USB and UART), allowing it to universally interface with various devices such as mobile devices, PCs, and industrial interfaces without requiring different probe models
Solution Approach 2:
The measuring probe dynamically detects the communication protocol used by the connected external device and automatically configures its communications interface accordingly, switching between USB and UART protocols as needed based on real-time detection of voltage amplitudes at data contacts
2Duration of action of moving object
If high power consumption is used for communication interface, then the data transmission reliability is improved, but the battery operation time is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The measuring probe autonomously detects the communication protocol in use by analyzing voltage amplitudes at its data contacts and automatically configures its communications interface without user intervention, enabling it to optimize power consumption based on the detected protocol while maintaining reliable data transmission
3Adaptability or versatility
If a permanently installed connection line is used for data transmission, then the data transmission stability is improved, but the flexibility of data processing devices is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The measuring probe uses a permanently installed connection line that incorporates a communications interface capable of operating with multiple communication protocols (USB and UART), enabling stable wired data transmission while maintaining flexibility to interface with various devices including mobile devices and industrial equipment
Data Source
AI summary
Measuring probe, in particular for tactile measurement on a surface of objects, including a housing and a measuring head accommodated in the housing, wherein at least one communications interface is provided on the housing and communicates with a circuit arranged in the housing, the circuit including at least one microcontroller and at least one multiplexer, and at least two different communication protocols are transmittable by the circuit by way of a common communications interface.