US 7,254,512 B2 · Programmable hardware element with cartridge controllers for controlling modular measurement cartridges that convey interface information

Abstract

System and method for measurement, DAQ, and control operations which uses small form-factor measurement modules or cartridges with a re-configurable carrier unit, sensors, and a computer system to provide modular, efficient, cost-effective measurement solutions. The measurement module includes measurement circuitry, e.g., signal conditioner and/or signal conversion circuitry, and interface circuitry for communicating with the carrier unit. The module communicates interface information to the carrier unit, which informs the computer system how to program or configure a functional unit on the carrier unit to implement the communicated interface, or sends the information directly to the computer system. The computer system programs the carrier unit with the interface, and the programmed carrier unit and measurement module together function as a DAQ, measurement, and/or control device. The carrier unit may receive multiple cartridges, each having a respective interface protocol, where the carrier unit is configurable to support the respective protocols sequentially and/or in parallel.

Claims25

Dependent claims

A programmable hardware element (PHE), comprising:

a first one or more portions, each configured to implement a respective interface protocol of a plurality of interface protocols for communicating with one or more cartridges;
and
a second one or more portions, coupled to the first one or more portions, and each configured to implement a cartridge controller operable to provide an interface between controlling software and a respective cartridge;
wherein each cartridge controller is operable to:
detect coupling of the respective cartridge to the PHE;
query the respective cartridge for configuration information of the respective cartridge;
determine a first respective interface protocol based on the determined configuration information;
and
establish communication with the respective cartridge via a respective portion of the first one or more portions according to the first respective interface protocol implemented by the respective portion;
and
wherein the PHE is operable to control one or more cartridges coupled to the PHE for industrial operations.

8 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Programmable hardware element with cartridge controllers for controlling modular measurement cartridges that convey interface information

Life of this patent

Programmable hardware element with cartridge controllers for controlling modular measurement cartridges that convey interface information

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims25