PoE Multichannel Audio Amplifier Using Combined Ethernet Power
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multichannel audio amplifiers in commercial settings require costly high-voltage mains circuits, leading to high installation costs and reduced sound quality with lower voltage alternatives, and lack standardization in power and data transmission.
Innovation Solution
A power-over-Ethernet (PoE) powered multichannel streaming audio amplifier that utilizes dual Ethernet ports to combine power from standard Ethernet cables, employing special power electronics to increase power capacity and support high-resolution audio, with integrated microprocessor subsystems for data processing and amplification, and standardized data transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If high-voltage mains circuits are used for multichannel audio amplifiers, then power capacity and sound quality are improved, but installation cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical/electrical high-voltage mains power delivery system with a PoE-based power delivery system that uses standardized Ethernet infrastructure. This substitution eliminates the need for dedicated high-voltage electrical circuits, licensed electricians, and complex safety inspections while maintaining sufficient power capacity for multichannel audio amplification.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables a single standardized Ethernet cable to perform multiple functions simultaneously: delivering power to the audio amplifier, transmitting high-resolution audio data streams, and providing network connectivity. This multi-functionality consolidates what were previously separate infrastructure requirements into a single universal platform.
2Device complexity
If lower voltage power supplies are used, then installation cost decreases, but sound quality and power capacity deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple Ethernet cables connected to the audio amplifier and combines their power delivery capabilities through power combination circuitry. This allows the system to aggregate power from multiple lower-voltage PoE sources to achieve the total power capacity needed for high-quality multichannel audio amplification, thereby maintaining sound quality while using only low-voltage installation infrastructure.
3Device complexity
If proprietary low-voltage cabling is used, then installation cost decreases, but system adaptability and standardization are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent leverages the universality of standardized Ethernet infrastructure (IEEE 802.3 PoE standards) to deliver both power and high-resolution audio data streams through commonly available network cables and equipment. This eliminates proprietary cabling requirements and enables the audio system to integrate with existing standardized network infrastructure, greatly enhancing adaptability and versatility.
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
Provides efficient, high-power audio amplification with standard Ethernet cables, reducing installation costs and maintaining sound quality while enabling access to popular music services, and allowing for standardized, cost-effective installation and operation.
Implementation Method 1
Power supply circuitry connected to the Ethernet ports is configured to combine and manage the power received at the Ethernet ports
Data Source
AI summary
A power-over-Ethernet (PoE) powered multichannel streaming audio amplifier includes a plurality of Ethernet ports each configured to be coupled to an Ethernet cable and capable of receiving power and audio data transmitted over the Ethernet cables. Power supply circuitry connected to the Ethernet ports is configured to combine and manage the power received at the Ethernet ports. A microprocessor subsystem powered by the power supply circuitry is configured to receive and process the audio data to generate output audio signals. A digital audio amplifier powered by the power supply circuitry amplifies the output audio signals received from the microprocessor system. A plurality of audio outputs connected to the digital audio amplifier are each configured to be connected to a different one of a plurality of speaker devices to transmit the audio output signals amplified by the digital audio amplifier to the plurality of speaker devices.