Universal Conditioning Channel for Mixed Analog and Digital I/O
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing conditioning units require additional devices to accommodate varying channel types, leading to increased size and complexity, which affects flexibility and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A channel design incorporating a variable current source, analog-to-digital converter, digital-to-analog converter, and comparison means, allowing terminals to function as both analog and digital inputs/outputs, eliminating the need for additional devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If additional devices are added to accommodate varying channel types, then the adaptability of the conditioning unit is improved, but the device complexity and size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The channel is designed with a universal terminal structure that can function as both analog and digital inputs/outputs. The terminal includes an analog-to-digital converter and a digital-to-analog converter, allowing it to handle different signal types without requiring separate dedicated terminals for each function. This multi-functionality enables a single terminal to replace what would traditionally require multiple specialized terminals.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the analog and digital processing capabilities within a single channel structure. The analog-to-digital converter and digital-to-analog converter are integrated into the same channel, allowing bidirectional signal conversion. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate analog channels and digital channels, reducing the overall number of components required.
2Adaptability or versatility
If additional devices are added to accommodate varying channel types, then the adaptability of the conditioning unit is improved, but the size of the conditioning unit increases
Solution Approach 1:
The terminal is designed as a universal interface that can handle both analog and digital signals through integrated converters. This eliminates the need for separate physical terminals for analog and digital functions, thereby reducing the overall footprint of the conditioning unit while maintaining full functionality for both signal types.
Solution Approach 2:
By combining the analog-to-digital converter and digital-to-analog converter within a single channel structure, the invention reduces the total number of discrete components required. This consolidation directly reduces the physical space needed for the conditioning unit while preserving the ability to accommodate various channel types.
3Measurement precision
If separate analog and digital channels are used, then the measurement precision for specific signal types is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges analog and digital conversion capabilities within a single channel, using shared components such as the variable current source and terminal structure. This integration maintains measurement precision for both analog and digital signals while reducing the overall structural complexity by eliminating redundant separate channels.
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 solution enhances flexibility and compactness by optimizing terminal usage, reducing the need for additional devices and minimizing space requirements.
Implementation Method 1
The analog-to-digital converter comprises first and second connections so that an analog signal on the first connection is converted to a digital signal on the second connection
Implementation Method 2
The variable current source comprises a variable current generator intended to be supplied by the constant voltage source
Implementation Method 3
the channel further comprises a digital to analog converter including first and second connections so that a digital signal on the first connection is converted to an analog signal on the second connection
Implementation Method 4
the comparison means comprise a comparator comprising a same number of input as the number of terminal, each input being connected to a terminal, the high logic state or the low logic state being delivered on the output
Data Source
AI summary
A channel (14) for a conditioning unit is proposed. The channel includes at least a first terminal (7), a variable current source (15), and an analog-to-digital converter (16). The analog-to-digital converter (16) includes first and second connections so that an analog signal on a first connection is converted to a digital signal on the second connection. The first terminal (7) is connected to the variable current source (15) and the first connection of the analog-to-digital converter (16).