Configurable Amplifier Module for Load-Adaptive Output Switching

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional dual-end output operational amplifiers cannot adjust outputs based on load variations, leading to unnecessary power consumption when one output is not used.

Innovation Solution

A configurable amplifier module with a first and second amplifier, resistors, a detecting unit, and a control unit that allows the module to switch between dual-end and single-end output configurations, enabling power-saving by turning off the second amplifier when not needed and adjusting resistance values for increased amplification.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a dual-end output operational amplifier is used to provide both outputs, then the output versatility is improved, but the power consumption increases when one output is not used

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoutput versatilityVSAvoidpower consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic configuration switching between dual-end and single-end output modes based on load detection. The control unit dynamically adjusts the connection state of the second amplifier and associated resistors, enabling the system to adapt its structure in real-time according to actual usage requirements, thereby reducing power consumption when full dual-end output capability is not needed

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The amplifier module is designed with multi-functionality to operate in both dual-end output mode and single-end output mode. By incorporating switching mechanisms controlled by the control unit, the same hardware structure can serve different functional requirements, providing versatility while avoiding unnecessary power consumption in specific operating conditions

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

2Use of energy by moving object

If the second amplifier is turned off to save power, then the power consumption is reduced, but the amplification factor decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower consumptionVSAvoidamplification factor
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSPower

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the resistance values of the first and second resistors when operating in single-end output mode to compensate for the reduced amplification factor. By adjusting these resistance parameters, the system maintains the required amplification performance even when the second amplifier is turned off, thus achieving both power savings and performance requirements

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Power

If the resistance values of the first and second resistors are adjusted to increase amplification, then the amplification factor is improved, but the circuit complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveamplification factorVSAvoidcircuit complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses dynamic switching of resistor connections controlled by the control unit to achieve different amplification factors. Instead of having multiple fixed resistor configurations, the system dynamically reconfigures the existing resistors based on the operating mode, thereby achieving variable amplification without significantly increasing circuit complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS10944364B2Configurable amplifier module
Publication Date: 2021.03.09 SILICON INTEGRATED SYSTEMS CORP
  • US10944364B2 patent drawing
  • US10944364B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A configurable amplifier module is disclosed. The configurable amplifier module includes a first amplifier having a non-inverting input, an inverting input, and a first output; a second amplifier having a non-inverting input, an inverting input, and a second output; a first resistor; a second resistor; a third resistor; a detecting unit connected to the second output of the second amplifier and configured to detect whether a current flows through the detecting unit; and a control unit connected to the second resistor and the detecting unit and configured to control the second resistor to be connected to the third resistor or a direct current signal.