Audio Amplifier Configuration Using Preset Signal Paths

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Solution Overview

Problem

It is challenging for poorly skilled users to set up signal paths and parameter values in speaker processors, especially when adjusting settings for different speaker systems and modes of use.

Innovation Solution

A configuration method for audio equipment, such as a power amplifier, that includes a signal processor connected to multiple input and output devices, with a series of steps for users to select output configurations, input configurations, and amplifier modes, applying corresponding configuration data sets for signal processing.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a speaker processor with multiple adjustable components (equalizer, delay device, etc.) is provided, then optimal signal processing for various speaker systems can be achieved, but it becomes difficult for poorly-skilled users to set the signal path and parameter values

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoptimal signal processingVSAvoiduser setup difficulty
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system pre-prepares multiple configuration data sets that contain pre-optimized parameter values for equalizers, delay devices, and other signal processing components. Each configuration data set corresponds to a specific amplifier mode (e.g., full-range, subwoofer, bi-amp). When a user selects an amplifier mode, the corresponding pre-configured data set is automatically applied, eliminating the need for users to manually adjust numerous parameters while still achieving optimal signal processing for the selected speaker system type

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system provides different configuration data sets with varying parameter settings tailored to different amplifier modes and speaker system characteristics. By changing the configuration data set based on the selected amplifier mode, the system automatically adapts the signal processing parameters (equalization curves, delay times, crossover frequencies) to match the specific requirements of full-range systems, subwoofers, bi-amp configurations, or other speaker types, thus resolving the contradiction between optimization and ease of use

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple configuration data sets are prepared for different amplifier modes, then settings suitable for various speaker systems can be applied automatically, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemulti-mode supportVSAvoidconfiguration management
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The audio equipment is designed with a universal configuration system that can handle multiple amplifier modes (full-range, subwoofer, bi-amp, and other speaker system types) through a single integrated architecture. The system uses a unified interface where users simply select the amplifier mode, and the corresponding configuration data set is automatically applied. This multi-functional design allows the same device to adapt to various speaker system types without requiring separate processing paths or complex manual configuration for each mode, thus achieving high adaptability while maintaining relatively simple device structure

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS10505508B2Configuration method of audio equipment and audio equipment
Publication Date: 2019.12.10 YAMAHA CORP
  • US10505508B2 patent drawing
  • US10505508B2 patent drawing
  • US10505508B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An configuration method of audio equipment includes, a first step of preparing a plurality of configuration data sets; a second step of receiving, from a user, selection of one output configuration from among a plurality of output configurations; a third step of receiving, from the user, selection of one input configuration from among input configurations restricted by the selected one output configuration; a fourth step of selecting one amplifier mode from among a plurality of amplifier modes based on the selected one output configuration and the selected one input configuration; and a fifth step of selecting a configuration data set corresponding to the selected one amplifier mode, and applying the selected configuration data set to signal processing to be performed by the signal processor.