Compact Line Output Converter with Microcontroller Trigger
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing line output converters (LOCs) face challenges in achieving high performance and compact form factor while effectively managing signal strength to turn amplifiers on or off, often resulting in suboptimal performance at high and low frequencies and higher total harmonic distortion.
Innovation Solution
A high-performance adjustable compact LOC with miniaturized PERMALLOY transformers countersunk into a printed circuit board, supporting RCA output connectors and featuring a microcontroller-controlled trigger to manage amplifier activation based on signal strength, ensuring efficient signal processing and compact size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If traditional LOC designs are used, then amplifier control functionality is achieved, but device size and height are excessive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the amplifier control trigger functionality directly into the LOC device by integrating a trigger output terminal and associated circuitry within the same housing and circuit board as the line output conversion components. This merging of functions eliminates the need for separate control devices while maintaining compact dimensions of approximately 2 inches by 2 inches by 0.5 inches.
2Volume of moving object
If compact form factor is achieved, then device size is reduced, but signal processing performance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent nests the miniaturized PERMALLOY transformers directly into openings in the printed circuit board, with the transformers positioned within recesses or cavities in the PCB structure. This nesting approach allows the magnetic components to be tightly integrated within the compact housing while maintaining adequate space for proper magnetic flux paths and signal processing performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs PERMALLOY, a nickel-iron alloy with superior magnetic properties, to construct the transformers. This composite material approach provides enhanced magnetic permeability and reduced core losses, enabling high-quality signal processing at low frequencies within the constrained space of the compact device form factor.
3Adaptability or versatility
If adjustable signal strength control is implemented, then amplifier triggering is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates adjustable signal strength control through variable resistors or potentiometers that allow dynamic adjustment of the trigger threshold level. This dynamic adjustment capability enables the user to adapt the trigger sensitivity to different signal conditions and amplifier requirements, providing versatility without requiring complex digital processing or multiple fixed-threshold circuits.
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 provides superior performance at high and low frequencies with reduced total harmonic distortion, maintaining a small form factor and enabling efficient amplifier control, thus addressing the limitations of prior art LOCs.
Implementation Method 1
miniaturized PERMALLOY transformers countersunk into openings in a printed circuit board
Data Source
AI summary
A line output converter (LOC) combined with a microprocessor to sense LOC output signal strength and respond to usefully high levels by generating a trigger to turn on an amplifier that is receiving the LOC output signal. A short, first predetermined time is programmed into the microcontroller as a minimum time to sense high signal levels before activating the amplifier, in order to suppress transient signals. A longer, second predetermined time is programmed into the microcontroller as a minimum time to sense low signal levels before deactivating the amplifier. The predetermined boundary between a high and a low signal level is also programmed into the microcontroller and, as with the predetermined times, is established responsive to the characteristics of the particular LOC involved. In an embodiment, the LOC is a compact adjustable LOC located on the same PCB as the microcontroller.