Oscilloscope Probe Identification Module

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing oscilloscope probes lack unique identification capabilities, limiting the oscilloscope's ability to adjust settings accurately based on the probe's specific characteristics.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating a probe identification module or an RFID tag within the connector pod of the oscilloscope probe, which allows the oscilloscope to read unique values and parameters identifying the probe type and functionality.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of information

If a fixed value resistor is used for probe identification, then the oscilloscope can identify the probe type using a look-up table, but the identification is limited to general probe types and cannot provide unique probe data

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprobe identification informationVSAvoidprobe identification capability

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of informationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the traditional resistor-based identification method with an RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) tag system. This substitution enables the oscilloscope to read unique identification data from the probe through electromagnetic fields, allowing for more comprehensive and unique probe identification beyond what fixed resistors can provide.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The RFID tag acts as an intermediary component between the probe and the oscilloscope. It stores and transmits unique identification information that bridges the gap between the physical probe and the oscilloscope's identification system, enabling the oscilloscope to recognize and adapt to specific probe characteristics.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Loss of information

If a probe identification module is incorporated in the connector pod, then unique probe data can be read by the oscilloscope, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveunique probe dataVSAvoidprobe structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of informationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The RFID tag is integrated within the existing connector pod structure of the probe. This nesting approach allows the identification module to be housed within the already-present connector housing, minimizing additional structural complexity while still providing unique probe identification capabilities.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Data Source

PatentUS12287354B2Oscilloscope probe having probe identification module

Publication Date: 2025.04.29 KEYSIGHT TECHNOLOGIES INC

AI summary

An oscilloscope probe includes: a connector pod; a probe identification module disposed in the connector pod, the probe identification module having a cross-sectional area; and a resistor disposed in the connector pod, and in-line with the probe identification module and having a substantially identical cross-sectional area as the probe identification module.