Modular RF Measurement System Using Segmented Digital-Analog Interfaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing measurement systems for radio-frequency signals require multiple test devices, leading to high costs and space requirements due to the need for separate equipment for different test scenarios and communication properties, making them inefficient and costly to adapt.
Innovation Solution
A modular measurement system comprising a connection device for digital processing and a radio-frequency device for analogue circuits, connected via digital interfaces without additional cables, allowing for flexible configuration and adaptation to various test scenarios by replacing only the radio-frequency device while maintaining a single connection device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple separate test devices are used for different test scenarios and communication properties, then measurement precision and reliability are improved, but device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connection device is designed with universal functionality to work with multiple different radio frequency devices across various test scenarios and communication properties. The processing unit can generate different digital output signals for different test types, and the device can measure different radio frequency measurement signals, making a single device replace multiple specialized devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement system is divided into two functional segments: a universal connection device with processing unit that handles digital signal generation and measurement, and separate radio frequency devices that handle specific frequency operations. This segmentation allows the connection device to remain simple while radio frequency devices can be specialized for specific tasks.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate test devices are used for different test scenarios, then adaptability to various communication properties is improved, but costs and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connection device serves as a universal platform that can adapt to multiple different radio frequency devices and test scenarios. The processing unit generates appropriate digital output signals for different communication properties and test types, enabling one device to replace multiple specialized devices and reducing the total quantity of equipment needed.
3Ease of operation
If separate test devices are used for each test scenario, then ease of operation for specific tests is improved, but productivity and efficiency decrease due to device switching
Solution Approach 1:
The connection device provides ease of operation for multiple test scenarios through its universal design. The processing unit automatically generates appropriate digital output signals for different test types, and operators only need to connect different radio frequency devices to the same universal connection device, eliminating the need to switch between multiple devices and improving productivity.
4Quantity of substance
If a single connection device is used for multiple applications, then costs and space requirements are reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments functionality between a universal connection device and specialized radio frequency devices. The connection device's processing unit handles complex digital signal generation and measurement tasks, while radio frequency devices handle frequency-specific operations. This segmentation allows the connection device to be relatively simple in structure while achieving high versatility through software/firmware control in the processing unit.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a modular and flexible measurement of radio-frequency signals. For this purpose, the measurement system is separated into a connection device performing digital operations and a radio-frequency signals comprising analogue circuits. The connection device and the radio-frequency device are coupled with each other by appropriate interfaces for exchanging signals, in particular digital signals between the communication device and the radio-frequency device.