Portable Electronics Test Tool for Microcontroller Debugging
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Solution Overview
Problem
The high cost and complexity of electronics workbenches, along with challenges in portability, calibration, and diagnostics of hardware under development, hinder efficient debugging and diagnostics during development and deployment.
Innovation Solution
A compact, low-cost tool with integrated interfaces for measuring and generating electrical signals, compatible with microcontroller boards, that includes a waveform, analog, and digital circuit interface, display, and microcontroller interface, allowing for portable and efficient diagnostics and debugging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a full electronics workbench with multiple measurement and generation tools is assembled, then measurement precision and diagnostic capability are improved, but device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple measurement functions (voltage, current, frequency, duty cycle) and signal generation capabilities into a single integrated tool. The device merges the functionality of oscilloscope, multimeter, and function generator into one unit, eliminating the need for separate workbench equipment while maintaining measurement precision through unified circuit design and processing
Solution Approach 2:
The tool is designed with universal interfaces including GPIO, I2C, SPI, and analog connections that allow it to work with various microcontroller boards and electronic systems. The device can perform multiple functions including measuring electrical signals, generating waveforms, and interfacing with different communication protocols, making it a multi-functional replacement for traditional workbench equipment
2Measurement precision
If traditional workbench equipment with probes and clip leads is used, then measurement capability is maintained, but ease of operation deteriorates due to manual handling requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The device features automatic measurement and display functionality that eliminates the need for manual probe positioning and reading. The tool automatically detects signal parameters and presents results on an integrated display, allowing hands-free operation once connected to the circuit under test
Solution Approach 2:
The tool serves as an intermediary between the electronic system and the user, providing a simplified interface through its display and automated measurement capabilities. It mediates the complex task of signal analysis by handling all measurement and calculation operations internally, requiring only simple connection to the circuit
3Measurement precision
If diagnostic equipment is calibrated by external facilities, then measurement precision is maintained, but loss of time and productivity increase due to equipment downtime
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates self-calibration functionality that allows it to maintain measurement precision without external intervention. The tool can perform automated calibration routines using internal reference standards, eliminating the need to send equipment to external facilities and avoiding equipment downtime
4Measurement precision
If workbench equipment is configured for debugging, then measurement capability is optimized, but ease of operation deteriorates due to reconfiguration time required for field testing
Solution Approach 1:
The device features dynamically reconfigurable interfaces that can adapt to different measurement requirements through software control. The tool can switch between different measurement modes and interface configurations electronically without physical reconfiguration, allowing rapid adaptation between laboratory and field testing scenarios
Solution Approach 2:
The tool incorporates universal interfaces and communication protocols (GPIO, I2C, SPI, analog) that allow it to work with various microcontroller boards and electronic systems without reconfiguration. This multi-functionality enables the same device to be used both in the laboratory and in field testing environments
Data Source
AI summary
A tool is presented herein capable of performing several electrical measurements and generating several electrical outputs. The tool can be configured to perform measurements and provide outputs most commonly utilized when developing and diagnosing failures of a hardware platform based around a microcontroller. The tool can have a form factor and a header configuration compatible for mating with an external microcontroller or minicomputer developer board such as Arduino, UDOO, Raspberry Pi, TI LaunchPad, STM Nucleo, BeagleBone, etc.