Amplifier Circuit Variable Voltage Power Supply
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional amplifiers face inefficiencies in power consumption and heat dissipation due to fixed supply voltages, which impact battery-powered systems and cost, especially when amplifying signals with varying amplitudes.
Innovation Solution
A signal amplifying circuit with a variable voltage power supply using a charge pump circuit and switch network to generate split rail supply voltages that adjust in response to control signals, independent of the output stage's supply voltage, allowing for efficient power management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If fixed supply voltages are used in the amplifier, then the circuit structure is simple, but power efficiency deteriorates when signal amplitude varies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic supply voltage adjustment by replacing fixed voltage sources with variable voltage power supplies that track the signal amplitude. The supply voltages are modulated dynamically to match the instantaneous signal levels, transforming the static power supply system into a dynamic one that adapts to varying signal conditions, thereby improving power efficiency without excessive complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the voltage parameter of the power supply from fixed to variable. By adjusting the supply voltage magnitude according to the signal amplitude, the system optimizes power efficiency. The variable voltage power supplies modify their output parameters dynamically, allowing the amplifier to operate efficiently across different signal levels while maintaining acceptable circuit complexity
2Loss of energy
If fixed supply voltages are used in the amplifier, then the power supply circuit is simple, but power loss increases when amplifying varying amplitude signals
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply circuit is transformed from a static fixed-voltage system to a dynamic variable-voltage system. The supply voltages are continuously adjusted to track the signal amplitude, ensuring that power is delivered efficiently only when needed. This dynamic adaptation reduces power loss during low-signal conditions while maintaining adequate power delivery during high-signal conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the signal amplitude information is used to control the variable voltage power supplies. The system monitors the signal level and adjusts the supply voltages accordingly, creating a closed-loop control system that minimizes power loss by matching power delivery to actual signal requirements, thereby reducing energy waste
3Use of energy by moving object
If variable voltage power supply is implemented, then power efficiency improves, but the power supply circuit complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent accepts the necessary increase in power supply circuit complexity as a trade-off for achieving dynamic voltage adjustment. By implementing variable voltage power supplies with tracking capability, the system gains the ability to adapt to varying signal conditions, improving overall power efficiency. The complexity is concentrated in the power supply section while the main amplifier circuit remains relatively simple
Solution Approach 2:
The variable voltage power supply circuit serves multiple functions: it provides power delivery, tracks signal amplitude, and adjusts supply voltage dynamically. By consolidating these functions into a single multi-functional power supply system, the patent manages complexity more effectively than if separate circuits were used for each function, achieving good power efficiency with controlled 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 solution improves power efficiency by dynamically adjusting supply voltages to match signal amplitude changes, reducing power loss and maintaining efficiency across varying output levels, thus enhancing overall amplifier performance.
Implementation Method 1
a charge pump circuit for providing a plurality of output voltages, the charge pump circuit comprising: an supply input terminal and a common terminal for connection to an input voltage; first and second supply output terminals for outputting the plurality of output voltages
Implementation Method 2
the supply output terminals in use being connected to the common terminal via respective first and second reservoir capacitors
Data Source
AI summary
A signal amplifying circuit and associated methods and apparatuses, the circuit comprising: a signal path extending from an input terminal to an output terminal, a gain controller arranged to control the gain applied along the signal path in response to a control signal; an output stage within the signal path for generating the output signal, the output stage having a gain that is substantially independent of its supply voltage, and a variable voltage power supply comprising a charge pump for providing positive and negative output voltages, the charge pump comprising a network of switches that is operable in a number of different states and a controller for operating the switches in a sequence of the states so as to generate positive and negative output voltages together spanning a voltage approximately equal to the input voltage.