Measurement System Probe Interface Module Remote Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing measurement systems require operators to be physically near the main measurement device to adjust operational parameters, making it difficult to configure and interact with probes, especially when they are located at a distance, leading to time-consuming setup processes.

Innovation Solution

A measurement system comprising a measurement device and at least two probe units, where the first probe unit can generate input data signals that are processed to provide control signals to the second probe unit and the measurement device, allowing remote control and simplifying the configuration and interaction between probe units.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the main measurement device is used to adjust operational parameters, then the measurement system can be controlled, but the operator must be physically near the main measurement device, increasing setup time and reducing operational flexibility

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveAbility to adjust operational parametersVSAvoidSetup time
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system divides the measurement device into separate functional modules: probe units with interface modules for local parameter adjustment and a main measurement device for data acquisition. This segmentation allows operators to adjust parameters at remote probe locations without returning to the main device, reducing setup time and improving operational flexibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Interface modules act as intermediaries between the operator and the measurement system. These modules are integrated into remote probe units and enable local parameter adjustment, serving as a mediator that eliminates the need for operators to physically access the main measurement device for parameter changes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple probe units are located at a distance from the main measurement device, then measurement flexibility is improved, but configuring and interacting with the probes becomes difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveProbe placement flexibilityVSAvoidProbe configuration ease
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The measurement system is segmented into independent probe units, each equipped with its own interface module. This allows probe units to be placed at various remote locations while maintaining local configurability, thus preserving both placement flexibility and configuration ease.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Each probe unit is self-sufficient with an integrated interface module that enables local parameter adjustment and configuration. The probe units can be configured and adjusted independently without requiring access to the main measurement device, making the system both versatile and easy to operate.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Ease of manufacture

If the measurement device is separate from the probe units, then system modularity is improved, but the operator must travel between locations to control different components

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveSystem modularityVSAvoidComponent control convenience
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system is divided into modular components: separate probe units and a main measurement device. However, each probe unit includes an integrated interface module that provides local control capabilities, resolving the contradiction between modularity and operational convenience by enabling control at the component level.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Control capability is added to a new dimension - the local probe unit level - rather than relying solely on centralized control at the main device. This dimensional addition allows operators to control probe units from the probe locations themselves, maintaining modularity while improving control convenience.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Data Source

PatentEP3540446B1Measurement system and method for operating a measurement system
Publication Date: 2021.09.29 ROHDE & SCHWARZ GMBH & CO KG
  • EP3540446B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3540446B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A measurement system (10) comprising a measurement device (16) and at least a first probe unit (12) and a second probe unit (14) is disclosed. The first probe unit (12) and the second probe unit (14) are each connected to the measurement device (16) in a signal transmitting manner. At least one of the measurement device (16) and the first probe unit (12) comprises a control unit (22). The first probe unit (12) comprises an interface module (24) being configured to generate an input data signal and to provide the input data signal to the control unit (22). The control unit (22) is configured to generate and provide a control signal at least to the second probe unit (14) based on the input data signal. Moreover, a method for operating a measurement system (10) is disclosed.