Waveform Data Classification via Neural Network Automation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Manual methods for characterizing data in test and measurement systems, especially through implicit factors, are burdensome and inefficient, as they require extensive user intervention and development of complex algorithms to categorize and classify waveform data effectively.

Innovation Solution

Implementing a system that allows both explicit and implicit data categorization using machine-learning algorithms, where users can label data, and the system uses neural networks to infer patterns, reducing the burden on developers by automatically classifying waveform data and providing metadata for future reference.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Extent of automation

If manual methods are used to characterize data by implicit factors, then data categorization can be achieved, but the process becomes burdensome and inefficient requiring extensive user intervention

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata categorization automationVSAvoiduser intervention burden
Core Design Contradiction:
Extent of automationVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs self-service by automatically categorizing waveform data using machine-learning algorithms without requiring user intervention. The neural network autonomously analyzes implicit factors in the data and assigns categories, eliminating the need for users to manually develop characterization methods

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

Manual mechanical methods for data characterization are replaced with electronic machine-learning algorithms. The system substitutes human-operated classification processes with automated neural network processing that analyzes data patterns and categorizes waveforms based on learned implicit factors

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Ease of manufacture

If manual methods are used to develop algorithms for data categorization, then data can be classified, but the development process is burdensome and complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvealgorithm development easeVSAvoidalgorithm complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The machine-learning system performs self-service by automatically developing and refining categorization algorithms through training on labeled data. The neural network autonomously learns implicit factors and classification rules without requiring developers to manually program complex algorithms

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the approach from fixed manual algorithms to adaptive machine-learning models. By adjusting training parameters and using iterative optimization, the system automatically develops classification algorithms that adapt to different data types without increasing apparent complexity for users

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Measurement precision

If explicit categorization methods are used, then data can be labeled, but implicit pattern recognition requires extensive manual algorithm development

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata classification accuracyVSAvoidalgorithm development complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Manual algorithm development for implicit pattern recognition is replaced with automated machine-learning processes. The neural network substitutes human developers in analyzing implicit factors and learning classification patterns, achieving high accuracy without manual algorithm complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses feedback from labeled data to continuously improve classification accuracy. Users provide explicit labels that serve as training feedback, allowing the neural network to learn and refine its implicit pattern recognition capabilities iteratively, improving precision without increasing development complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS11181552B2Categorization of acquired data based on explicit and implicit means
Publication Date: 2021.11.23 TEKTRONIX INC
  • US11181552B2 patent drawing
  • US11181552B2 patent drawing
  • US11181552B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method of classifying waveform data includes receiving input waveform data at a test and measurement system, accessing a repository of reference waveform data and corresponding classes, analyzing the input waveform data and the reference waveform data to designate a class of the input waveform data, and using the class designation to provide information to a user. A test and measurement system has a user interface, at least one input port, a communications port, a processor, the processor configured to execute instructions causing the processor to: receive input waveform data through at least one of the input port or the user interface; access a repository of reference waveform data; analyze the input waveform data using the reference waveform data; designate a class of the input waveform data; and use the class to provide information to the user about the input waveform.