Modular Cabin Headphone Jack Using Ethernet Audio Conversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Analog headphone signals in aircraft cabins are prone to interference and noise due to electromagnetic interference, and traditional wiring methods are costly and heavy.
Innovation Solution
A digital audio converter system that receives digital audio signals over an Ethernet network, assembles packets into a digital audio signal, converts it to analog, amplifies, and splits it into stereo channels for output through a headphone jack, using processors, digital-to-analog converters, and power amplifiers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If analog headphone signals are transmitted throughout the cabin, then audio signals can be delivered to passengers, but the signals are subject to interference and noise due to electromagnetic interference
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional analog electrical signal transmission system with a digital signal transmission system over Ethernet network infrastructure. Digital signals are more resistant to electromagnetic interference and noise, allowing high-quality audio delivery without the degradation issues affecting analog signals in the aircraft cabin environment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces digital-to-analog converter modules as intermediary devices that receive digital audio signals over the network, convert them to analog signals locally, and output them through headphone jacks. This intermediary approach allows digital transmission benefits while maintaining compatibility with analog audio devices.
2Ease of manufacture
If traditional wiring is used to transmit audio signals, then audio can be delivered throughout the cabin, but the wiring is costly and has given weight
Solution Approach 1:
The patent leverages the existing Ethernet network infrastructure already installed in the aircraft cabin for other purposes (data transmission, entertainment system communication) to also carry audio signals. This multi-functional use of the network eliminates the need for separate dedicated audio wiring, reducing both cost and weight while simplifying installation.
3Reliability
If digital audio signals are transmitted over Ethernet network, then interference is reduced and wiring cost is eliminated, but conversion from digital to analog is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the audio delivery system into separate functional segments: digital signal transmission over the network, digital-to-analog conversion at local nodes, and analog output to headphones. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies the overall system architecture by placing conversion functionality only where needed (at passenger seat modules), not throughout the entire system.
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
This solution maintains signal quality, reduces interference, and eliminates the need for costly wiring by transmitting digital audio signals over a network, providing a lightweight and efficient audio distribution system for in-flight entertainment.
Implementation Method 1
the digital-to-analog converter is configured to receive the digital audio signal and convert the digital audio signal to an analog audio signal
Implementation Method 2
the power amplifier is configured to receive the analog audio signal from the digital-to-analog converter, amplify the analog audio signal, and split the analog audio signal into a stereo analog audio
Data Source
AI summary
A cabin management system is described. The cabin management system includes a housing. The housing is configured to receive one or more modules. The modules may be detached and reattached to the housing. The modules may be rearranged to achieve a desired layout of touchscreens, audio converter, and input/output ports. The modules may include a geometry which provides a flush-mounting between the housing and the modules. The flush-mounting may prevent a passenger from accessing the cavity defined by the housing. The audio converter includes a digital-to-analog converter and an audio jack. The digital-to-analog converter converts an uncompressed digital audio signal to an analog audio signal. The audio jack receives a stereo analog signal and outputs the stereo analog signal to an audio plug.