Modular Instrument Calibration Signal Generator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modular instruments face performance degradation when modules are interchanged or reconfigured, as factory-calibrated systems require specific configurations to maintain specified performance, limiting the flexibility and modularity of these systems.
Innovation Solution
Implementing an internal, stable calibration signal that can be generated within the first module of a series, allowing users to recalibrate the signal transformation path by measuring and storing the calibration signal's characteristics, enabling modular instruments to maintain performance even when modules or configurations change.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If factory calibration is performed on assembled modular systems, then measurement precision is improved, but adaptability deteriorates because calibration is tied to specific configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The calibration signal source is segmented from the factory calibration process and embedded within individual modules. Each module contains its own calibration signal generator, allowing calibration to be performed independently for each module rather than requiring complete system disassembly and reassembly. This segmentation enables modules to be calibrated separately and then interchangeably assembled while maintaining calibration validity.
Solution Approach 2:
Modules are equipped with self-calibration capability through embedded calibration signal generators. Each module can generate its own calibration signals and perform self-diagnosis or self-calibration operations without requiring external factory calibration equipment. This self-service approach allows users to maintain calibration accuracy while freely reconfiguring modular systems.
2Ease of operation
If modular systems are designed for easy interchangeability, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to configuration changes affecting calibrated performance
Solution Approach 1:
Calibration signals and characterization data are prepared in advance and embedded within each module during manufacturing. This preliminary action ensures that when modules are interchanged or reconfigured, the calibration information is already available and validated, eliminating the need for recalibration after assembly changes. Users can freely interchange modules while maintaining reliable, calibrated performance.
3Manufacturing precision
If factory calibration uses external calibration equipment, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional calibration infrastructure
Solution Approach 1:
The calibration signal generation capability is extracted from external factory calibration equipment and embedded directly within the modular instrument modules. This extraction eliminates the need for complex external calibration infrastructure during field operations. While factory calibration equipment remains sophisticated for initial calibration, the embedded generators simplify ongoing calibration needs and reduce the complexity of field calibration systems.
Data Source
AI summary
A user obtains a set of modules, inserts them into slots of a chassis, and interconnects the modules to form a modular instrument. A signal path extends through the modules. To support calibration of the signal path, a first of the modules (or the chassis or a calibration module) includes a calibration signal generator. A computer directs the first module to apply the calibration signal from the generator to the signal path, and measures the power (or amplitude) of the output of the signal path. The computer reads a factory-measured value A of the calibration signal amplitude from a memory of the first module (or the chassis or the calibration module). The value A and the measured output power of the signal path are used to determine a gain of the signal path. The system compensates for that gain when the signal path is used to measure live operational signals.