Multi-Instrument Signal Measurement with Shared Reference Synchronization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Synchronizing multiple measurement devices, such as oscilloscopes, is complex and requires additional synchronization hardware, leading to inefficiencies in signal measurement tasks.
Innovation Solution
A main measurement device and secondary measurement devices are synchronized using a reference signal generator, with a switchable internal signal path to couple the reference signal generator with measurement ports, and a trigger output port to synchronize trigger signals, allowing for highly synchronized measurements across devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple measurement devices are coupled together to measure more signals, then the measurement capability is improved, but the coupling and synchronization complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a reference signal as an intermediary that mediates between multiple measurement devices. This reference signal serves as a common synchronization source that simplifies the coupling between devices, eliminating the need for complex direct synchronization protocols between each device pair.
Solution Approach 2:
The reference signal output port is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a synchronization source for multiple devices and as a measurable signal source. This universal interface simplifies the system architecture by consolidating multiple functions into a single component.
2Measurement precision
If additional synchronization hardware is added to synchronize multiple measurement devices, then the synchronization accuracy is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement devices are designed to self-synchronize by utilizing the reference signal output port that is already present in the system. The devices automatically adjust their timing based on the reference signal without requiring external synchronization hardware or manual configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the synchronization function with the existing reference signal generation and distribution infrastructure. By combining the reference signal output port with the measurement functionality, the system eliminates separate synchronization hardware while maintaining accuracy.
3Adaptability or versatility
If internal signal paths are made switchable to couple reference signal generator with measurement port, then the measurement flexibility is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The internal signal path is designed to be dynamically switchable, allowing the reference signal generator to be selectively coupled with the measurement port based on operational requirements. This dynamic reconfiguration enables flexible measurement modes without requiring multiple fixed circuit designs.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present disclosure provides a main measurement device (100, 300) for simultaneously measuring signals with at least one secondary measurement device (220, 320), the main measurement device (100, 300) comprising a reference signal output port (101, 222, 301) configured to couple to the at least one secondary measurement device (220, 320), a reference signal generator (102, 223) coupled to the reference signal output port (101, 222, 301) and configured to generate a reference signal (103, 224), a measurement port (105, 225) configured to receive a signal to be measured, a trigger output port (111, 311) configured to couple to a trigger input port (231, 331) of the at least one secondary measurement device (220, 320) and to output a trigger signal, and a controllably switchable internal signal path (106, 226) configured to selectively couple the reference signal generator (102, 223) with the measurement port (105, 225). Further, the present invention discloses a respective secondary measurement device, a respective measurement system, and a respective method.