Time-Gain Amplifier Using Shift-Invariant Analog Signal Processing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Analog signal processing lacks the abstraction level of digital signal processing, leading to sensitivity to noise, power supply variations, and settling time, which limits its efficiency and speed compared to digital processing.
Innovation Solution
A time-gain amplifier is developed using a network of linear two-port elements and a control circuit to generate shift and scale invariant signals, allowing for amplification without quantizing analog properties, thereby reducing the impact of noise and settling time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If analog signal processing is used, then continuous signal representation is achieved, but sensitivity to noise and power supply variations increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces shift and scale invariant signals as an intermediary representation between traditional analog voltages and digital numbers. These invariant signals are derived from multiple analog properties (voltages, currents, charges) through mathematical transformations that eliminate sensitivity to noise and power variations. The invariant signals serve as a robust mediator that preserves continuous analog processing advantages while achieving digital-like immunity to harmful factors.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms traditional analog signal parameters (voltages, currents) into shift and scale invariant parameters through mathematical operations. By changing the parameter representation from raw analog values to invariant ratios and differences, the system maintains continuous signal processing while achieving immunity to noise and power supply variations. This parameter transformation is the core mechanism for resolving the contradiction.
2Use of energy by moving object
If analog signal processing is used, then power consumption is reduced, but processing speed is limited by settling time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary mathematical transformations to create shift and scale invariant signals before the final processing stage. By pre-computing the invariant representations from multiple analog properties, the system eliminates the need for lengthy settling periods that would otherwise be required to achieve stable, noise-immune measurements. This preliminary action accelerates processing while maintaining low power consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional analog settling mechanisms (which rely on RC time constants and active device stabilization) with mathematical transformations that compute invariant signals directly. This substitution eliminates the mechanical/time-dependent settling process while preserving the low power advantages of analog processing, thereby increasing processing speed without sacrificing energy efficiency.
3Adaptability or versatility
If digital signal processing is used, then abstraction from physical properties is achieved, but quantization of analog properties is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the analog signal representation into multiple independent analog properties (voltages, currents, charges) that are processed separately to create shift and scale invariant signals. This segmentation allows the system to achieve digital-like abstraction without quantizing any single property, as the invariant signals are derived from the collective relationship among multiple continuous properties rather than from quantized individual values.
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 approach enables faster signal processing with reduced power consumption and fewer active devices, achieving similar abstraction levels to digital signal processing while maintaining the advantages of analog signal processing.
Implementation Method 1
a capacitor having a first end connected to the second end of the switch and a second end connected to a ground; whereby the capacitor charges when the switch is in the closed position, and discharges when the switch is in the open position
Implementation Method 2
discharges when the switch is in the open position at a rate determined by a resistance of the resistor and a capacitance of the capacitor, thereby providing a voltage to the third network that diminishes with time
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus and method for processing signals in the analog domain. A signal is derived from analog circuit properties that is shift and scale invariant. Although the circuit properties are not quantized as in traditional digital signal processing, the signal is immune from effects of the properties, such as common mode noise, absolute voltage or current level, finite settling time, etc., as a digital signal would be. The shift and scale invariance allows for mathematical operations of addition, subtraction, multiplication and division of signals. By combining these operations, various circuits may be constructed, including a voltage controlled amplifier, a time gain amplifier, and an analog-to-digital converter. The circuits are constructed using almost no non-linear, active devices, and will thus use less power for a given speed than comparable digital devices, and will often be faster as there are no delay elements and no need to wait for the circuit properties to settle.