Signal Generator Self-Calibration for Measurement Accuracy

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing signal generation and spectrum analyzing devices lack efficiency and accuracy in measuring device under test due to the necessity of external signals, which complicates the determination of operating characteristics.

Innovation Solution

A signal generation device and spectrum analyzing device with integrated signal generating and correction parameter measurement units, capable of providing test signals and measuring correction parameters, such as scattering parameters, to ensure measurement efficiency and accuracy, with options for applying fading and noise to simulate real-world conditions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If an external signal is applied to measure operating characteristics, then measurement can be performed, but measurement efficiency and accuracy deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement accuracyVSAvoidmeasurement complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The signal generator performs self-measurement by using its own output signal as the stimulus and measuring the reflected signal at its own output port. The correction parameter measurement unit is integrated into the signal generator housing, allowing the device to measure its own operating characteristics without requiring external measurement equipment or signals.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Productivity

If separate measurement equipment is used, then measurement can be performed, but measurement efficiency deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement efficiencyVSAvoidmeasurement accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The correction parameter measurement unit is integrated into the signal generator housing, merging the signal generation function and the measurement function into a single device. This eliminates the need for separate measurement equipment and external signals, thereby improving both measurement efficiency and accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Measurement precision

If correction parameters are not measured, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement accuracy deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecorrection parameter accuracyVSAvoiddevice structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The signal generator is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a signal source and as a measurement device. The correction parameter measurement unit enables the device to perform both signal generation and self-characterization, eliminating the need for separate measurement equipment and external signals.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS11184091B2Signal generation device, spectrum analyzing device and corresponding methods with correction parameter
Publication Date: 2021.11.23 ROHDE & SCHWARZ GMBH & CO KG
  • US11184091B2 patent drawing
  • US11184091B2 patent drawing
  • US11184091B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A signal generation device with correction parameter measurement is provided. Said signal generation device comprises a signal generating unit configured to provide at least one test signal for a device under test with the aid of a connection structure, and a correction parameter measurement unit configured to measure at least one correction parameter with respect to said connection structure. In this context, both the signal generating unit and the correction parameter measurement unit are integrated into one housing.