Parallel Trigger Model for Test Instruments
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current test and measurement instruments perform trigger processes sequentially, leading to inefficiencies and prolonged testing times due to the inability to trigger multiple functional components in parallel.
Innovation Solution
A test and measurement instrument equipped with a parallel trigger model that allows multiple functions to be performed simultaneously by coordinating operations through a processor, enabling independent or synchronized execution of functions, thereby increasing efficiency and reducing testing time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If sequential triggering is used to coordinate multiple functional components, then device complexity is reduced and ease of operation is maintained, but productivity decreases and loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The trigger model is segmented into multiple independent trigger processes (first trigger process, second trigger process, etc.), each capable of controlling different functional components simultaneously. This segmentation allows parallel execution of triggering operations without increasing overall system complexity, as each segment operates independently but coordinates through the shared bus.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-dimensional sequential trigger model to a multi-dimensional parallel trigger model by introducing multiple trigger processes that can execute simultaneously. This dimensional change enables time-parallelism where multiple functions are triggered across different time dimensions rather than strictly sequentially.
2Loss of time
If sequential triggering is used for multiple functions, then ease of operation is maintained, but loss of time increases due to waiting for each function to complete
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple trigger processes are preliminarily configured and prepared in advance, allowing them to execute simultaneously when triggered. The first trigger process can initiate a switching operation while the second trigger process simultaneously initiates a measurement operation, eliminating the need to wait for one function to complete before starting the next.
Solution Approach 2:
The parallel trigger model ensures continuous useful action by allowing multiple functional components to be triggered and executed simultaneously rather than sequentially. This continuity eliminates idle waiting time between operations, as the system maintains active triggering across multiple functions at the same time.
3Productivity
If parallel triggering is implemented to perform multiple functions simultaneously, then productivity increases and loss of time decreases, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The trigger model is designed with universal multi-functionality, where a single parallel trigger framework can simultaneously control multiple different functional components (switching, measurement, data logging, etc.). This universal approach avoids the need for separate dedicated trigger mechanisms for each function, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity while enabling parallel operation of diverse components.
4Productivity
If parallel triggering is used to coordinate multiple functional components, then productivity increases, but device complexity increases due to coordination requirements
Solution Approach 1:
A shared bus acts as an intermediary mechanism that coordinates communication between multiple trigger processes and functional components. This intermediary allows parallel triggering operations to exchange information and synchronize their execution without requiring complex direct point-to-point coordination between each trigger process and component, thereby managing complexity through a centralized communication interface.
Data Source
AI summary
A test and measurement instrument for performing multiple operations, including a port to receive a signal from a device under test; and a processor. The processor configured to, based on a parallel trigger model, execute a first process associated with first functionality of the test and measurement instrument, and execute a second process on the signal from the device under test, the second process associated with second functionality of the test and measurement instrument. The second process commencing prior to completion of the first process.