PoE Multichannel Audio Amplifier Using Combined Ethernet Power
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multichannel streaming audio amplifiers for commercial settings require costly dedicated mains-voltage electrical supplies, leading to high installation costs and reduced sound quality when using lower-voltage alternatives.
Innovation Solution
A power-over-Ethernet (PoE) powered multichannel streaming audio amplifier that utilizes dual PoE network connectors to combine power from each connector, providing sufficient power for commercial audio amplifiers while using standardized low-voltage Ethernet cables.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If dedicated mains-voltage electrical supplies are used for multichannel audio amplifiers, then sufficient power is provided, but installation costs increase due to licensed electrician services
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the voltage parameter from high-voltage mains power to low-voltage PoE power, and changes the power delivery mechanism from dedicated electrical circuits to standardized Ethernet infrastructure, thereby reducing installation complexity and cost while maintaining sufficient power delivery capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the Ethernet cable serve multiple functions: data transmission for music services and power delivery for the audio amplifier, eliminating the need for separate power wiring and reducing installation requirements to existing network infrastructure
2Ease of manufacture
If lower-voltage power supplies are used to reduce installation costs, then electrician services are eliminated, but sound quality deteriorates due to insufficient power
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple PoE power inputs into a single combined power supply that delivers sufficient total power to the amplifier, allowing the use of low-voltage standardized cables while maintaining the power levels needed for high-quality audio output
3Ease of manufacture
If proprietary low-voltage power cabling is used, then installation cost is reduced, but system adaptability decreases due to vendor lock-in
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses standardized PoE Ethernet cables and connectors that are universally compatible with existing network infrastructure and equipment, allowing system designers to procure cables from any vendor and integrate with existing network switches, thereby maintaining high system adaptability while reducing installation costs
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 eliminates the need for high-cost licensed electrician services and reduces installation challenges by using standardized Ethernet cables capable of carrying high-speed music service data, while maintaining sound quality by providing sufficient power.
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.