Variable-Gain Analog Computer for Faster Input Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Analog computers with high gain elements experience significant transient states when adapting to changes in inputs, leading to delays in obtaining new solutions, which can be time-consuming and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
The method involves reducing the gain of gain elements to a level insufficient for signal propagation, allowing for input changes without immediate solution degradation, and then increasing gain to propagate signals effectively when new inputs are applied, thereby reducing the time required to reach a new solution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If high gain elements are used in analog computers, then signal propagation and solution accuracy are improved, but transient state duration increases causing delays when adapting to input changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the gain of operational amplifiers variable rather than fixed. The gain is dynamically adjusted between a first level (sufficient for signal propagation) and a second level (insufficient for signal propagation) based on operational needs. This allows the system to switch between high-accuracy mode and fast-response mode, resolving the contradiction between solution accuracy and transient state duration.
2Speed
If gain is reduced to shorten transient state, then response speed is improved, but signal propagation capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses dynamic gain adjustment where the operational amplifiers switch between two discrete gain levels. At the first level, gain is sufficient for reliable signal propagation and accurate solution computation. At the second level, gain is reduced to minimize transient state duration and improve response speed. This dynamic switching resolves the contradiction by adapting gain to operational requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the gain parameter of operational amplifiers between two distinct values. The first gain value enables proper signal propagation and solution accuracy, while the second reduced gain value minimizes transient effects and accelerates response to input changes. This parameter change strategy directly addresses the contradiction between response speed and signal propagation capability.
Data Source
AI summary
Improved performance of analog computers is obtained by utilizing a deliberate reduction in gain of the gain elements present in the analog computer. While a prior output of the circuit (if any) is present, the gain of the gain elements is reduced to a level that is low enough that the input signal cannot propagate through the circuit. The input signal is then changed to a new value, or set of values, while the gain of the gain elements remains reduced. Finally, the gain of the gain elements is increased to a level that is high enough to allow the input signal to propagate through the circuit, resulting in an output that is a solution to the problem represented by the analog computer.