Switching State Measurement via Parallel Resistor Current Encoding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Measurement systems face issues with voltage amplitude reduction and increased error rates due to line length and line-dependent voltage amplitude reduction, affecting the interpretation and transmission of binary voltage signals.
Innovation Solution
A measuring system that converts binary switching signals into a multi-level output signal using electrical resistors connected in parallel, generating a sum measurement signal with a unique current strength that can be assigned to specific switching states, allowing for efficient detection and conversion of discrete switching signals into standardized signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If binary voltage signals are transmitted over long lines, then the transmission distance is extended, but voltage amplitude reduction occurs and error rate increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces voltage-based binary signals with current-based signals. Current signals are used instead of voltage signals because current is less susceptible to amplitude reduction over long transmission lines. The binary switching signals are converted from voltage levels to current levels, which maintains signal integrity over longer distances without requiring frequent boosting or regeneration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter used for signal transmission from voltage to current. By converting the binary switching signals from voltage-based to current-based representation, the system achieves better transmission characteristics over long lines, as current signals maintain their amplitude better than voltage signals over extended distances.
2Loss of information
If multiple binary switching signals are transmitted separately, then each signal can be individually monitored, but the system complexity and number of transmission lines increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple binary switching signals into a single multi-level output signal using a multiplexer. The multiplexer consolidates several input signals onto one transmission line, reducing the number of required transmission lines while maintaining the ability to distinguish and interpret each individual signal state through the multi-level nature of the output signal.
Solution Approach 2:
The multiplexer performs multiple functions: it combines multiple binary signals, converts them to a multi-level signal format, and transmits them over a single line. This universal component handles signal conditioning, multiplexing, and transmission optimization in one device, reducing overall system complexity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system reduces error rates and enhances signal interpretation by providing a unique current strength for each switching state, enabling efficient detection and conversion of multiple binary signals into a single sum measurement signal, suitable for applications like valve position, rotation direction, and flow rate monitoring.
Implementation Method 1
a first electrical resistor, which is connected downstream of the first signal input and at which a first measurement signal with a first current strength can be tapped on the basis of the first binary switching signal
Implementation Method 2
The second electrical resistor has a resistance value that is different from a resistance value of the first electrical resistor, and wherein the second electrical resistor is connected in parallel to the first electrical resistor
Data Source
AI summary
A measuring system for detecting switching states including a signal converter having signal inputs to each of which an associated binary switching signal representing a switching state can be applied. Electrical resistors, at which an associated measurement signal can be tapped on the basis of the associated binary switching signal, is connected downstream of each of the signal inputs, wherein the electrical resistors have resistance values, which differ from each other, and wherein the electrical resistors are connected in parallel to each other. The signal converter also has a signal output, which is connected downstream of the electrical resistors in order to provide a sum measurement signal at the signal output with a sum current strength, which sum measurement signal is formed from the sum of the measurement signals, and wherein the sum measurement signal has a current strength which can be uniquely assigned to a current strength reference value.