Modular Amplifier Assembly for Dynamic Power Allocation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Modular amplifier systems have limited flexibility and efficiency due to their inability to dynamically adjust amplification power according to varying signal requirements, often leading to underutilization or overutilization of amplifier modules, and they lack a reliable and modular connection method for high-power audio signals.

Innovation Solution

A modular amplifier system with a controller that selectively connects amplifier modules based on an algorithm to optimize amplification power usage, and a device for selectively connecting audio input and output connectors using MOSFETs and relays to prevent signal contamination and leakage.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Power

If a single amplifier unit is used to amplify one signal, then the amplifier can provide sufficient amplification power for high-power signals, but the amplifier cannot efficiently handle multiple signals with varying amplification requirements

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveamplification powerVSAvoidsignal handling flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The amplifier is divided into multiple independent amplifier modules (first amplifier module, second amplifier module, etc.), each capable of independent operation. This segmentation allows the system to allocate different numbers of modules to different signals based on their specific amplification requirements, thereby resolving the contradiction between providing sufficient power for high-power signals and efficiently handling multiple signals with varying requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically allocates amplifier modules to signals based on real-time requirements. The controller can selectively connect different numbers of amplifier modules to different signals, allowing the amplification capacity to be dynamically adjusted for each signal. This dynamic allocation enables the system to optimize power distribution across multiple signals with varying amplification needs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Power

If multiple amplifier modules are allocated to a single signal requiring minimal amplification, then the signal can be amplified, but the amplifier modules operate below their optimal efficiency

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveamplification powerVSAvoidamplifier efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The system applies partial action by allocating only the necessary number of amplifier modules to each signal based on its specific requirements. Instead of always allocating all available modules to every signal, the controller selectively connects the appropriate number of modules to match the amplification needs, preventing energy waste from operating modules below their optimal efficiency while ensuring sufficient power delivery.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

3Ease of operation

If amplifier modules are permanently connected to signals, then the system is simple to operate, but the system cannot adapt to varying amplification requirements of different signals

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem operation simplicityVSAvoidamplification configuration flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements self-service through automated controller management of amplifier module allocation. The controller automatically determines the optimal number of modules to allocate to each signal based on their amplification requirements, eliminating the need for manual configuration while maintaining operational simplicity. This automated self-configuration resolves the contradiction between ease of operation and adaptability to varying requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

4Adaptability or versatility

If a modular amplifier system is designed with multiple independent modules, then the system can be configured for different amplification needs, but the system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconfiguration flexibilityVSAvoidamplifier system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The amplifier modules are designed as universal, identical units that can perform the same amplification function. This universality reduces design complexity compared to having specialized modules for different functions, while still providing configuration flexibility through the ability to connect different numbers of identical modules to different signals. The modular architecture with standardized interfaces simplifies the overall system complexity while maintaining adaptability.

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

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 system allows for flexible and efficient allocation of amplification power across multiple signals, preventing signal leakage and contamination, thereby enhancing sound quality and system reliability.

Implementation Method 1

A device is provided for selectively connecting at least one audio input connector with at least one audio output connector, comprising a number of (N×M) switches, each for controllably electrically connecting a unique combination of an input connection with an output connection

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrical Switching:

Data Source

PatentUS20230421106A1Modular Amplifier and Amplifier Assembly Comprising the Same
Publication Date: 2023.12.28 STEM TECH IXORA HLDG BV
  • US20230421106A1 patent drawing
  • US20230421106A1 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention is related to a modular amplifier comprising; an amplifier housing, said housing provided with; an amplifier power input connection, at least one amplifier signal input connection for receiving at least one input signal to be amplified, at least one amplifier signal output connection, for delivering at least one amplified signal; a plurality of amplifier modules, each module comprising: a module power connection coupled to the amplifier power input connection; a module signal input connection; a module signal output connection; amplification hardware, having an amplifying power; a controller, configured for: selectively connecting, based on an algorithm, the at least one amplifier signal input connection to one or more module signal input connections of amplifier modules, for amplifying the at least one input signal to be amplified, and connecting the module signal output connection of said one or more amplifier modules to one or more amplifier signal output connections. The invention is further related to an assembly comprising said amplifiers.