Self-Configuring Probe Interface Boards for Flexible CMM Signal Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coordinate measurement machines (CMMs) and inspection systems face challenges in efficiently and economically configuring signal processing and control systems for interchangeable measuring probes and sensors, as current systems require complex and costly intermediate circuits that are not compatible with future probes and sensors with different data formats and power requirements.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of self-configuring measurement probe interface circuit boards (SC-MPICs) that automatically determine their position within a hierarchy and match compatible measurement probes, eliminating the need for a separate master probe identification and multiplexing circuit, allowing for flexible and future-proof compatibility with various probes and sensors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If an intermediate circuit is used to decode and match identification data from probes and interface circuits, then proper interface configuration can be achieved, but the system becomes more complex and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The interface circuit automatically performs probe identification and configuration without requiring a separate intermediate circuit. The interface circuit itself contains the capability to decode probe identification data and self-configure the appropriate signal processing parameters, making the system self-servicing and eliminating the need for complex external matching circuits.
Solution Approach 2:
The interface circuit is designed to handle multiple probe types and identification methods universally. It can detect both analog resistance values and digital identification data, and automatically adapt its configuration accordingly, making a single interface circuit capable of serving multiple functions that previously required separate specialized circuits.
2Ease of operation
If an intermediate circuit is implemented for probe identification and multiplexing, then proper signal routing is achieved, but additional space, wiring and fabrication expense are required
Solution Approach 1:
The functions of probe identification, signal routing, and interface configuration are merged into the interface circuit itself. By combining these previously separate functions into a single integrated circuit, the patent eliminates the need for additional intermediate circuits, reducing space requirements, wiring complexity, and fabrication costs while maintaining full signal routing capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the identification and configuration functions from the intermediate circuit and places them directly in the interface circuit. This extraction eliminates the need for the intermediate circuit entirely, removing the associated space, wiring, and fabrication expenses while preserving the essential signal routing functionality.
3Reliability
If a fixed intermediate circuit is designed for current probe types, then current identification needs are met, but compatibility with future probes with different data formats is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The interface circuit employs dynamic identification and configuration methods that can adapt to different probe types. Instead of being fixed for current probe types, the circuit can detect various identification methods (analog resistance, digital data formats) and dynamically adjust its operation accordingly, ensuring both current reliability and future compatibility with evolving probe technologies.
Solution Approach 2:
The interface circuit is designed to detect and respond to changes in probe identification parameters. It can identify different probe types by detecting their unique electrical characteristics and data formats, then change its own operating parameters accordingly. This parameter adaptability ensures the system remains reliable with current probes while being compatible with future probe variations.
Data Source
AI summary
A set of respective self-configuring probe interface circuit boards (SC-MPIC's) are disclosed for use with a measurement system comprising host electronics and respective interchangeable measurement probes. Member SC-MPICs each comprises: a local circuit (LS) for probe identification, signal processing and inter-board signal control; and higher-direction and lower-direction connectors “pointing” toward and away from the measurement probe, respectively. Member SC-MPICs establish a processing hierarchy by generating lower board present signals on their higher-direction connector, higher board present signals on their lower-direction connector, and determining whether they are the highest and/or lowest SC-MPIC based on receiving those signals from adjacent SC-MPICs. They can independently perform probe identification matching operations using probe identification data from compatible and incompatible probes, and the highest SC-MPIC does this first. Member SC-MPICs advantageously pass through or isolate signals from other members in the set depending on the hierarchy, various received signals, and internal processing.