{"schema_version":"1.0","canonical_url":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854360","patent":{"patent_number":"US-9854360","title":"MEMS microphone and method of operating a MEMS microphone","assignee":null,"inventors":[],"filing_date":"2014-05-07T00:00:00.000Z","publication_date":"2017-12-26T00:00:00.000Z","cpc_codes":["H04R","H04R","H04R","H04R","H04R"],"num_claims":15,"abstract":"A MEMS microphone which is able to be set to different modes of operation is proposed that requires one single pin to apply an external clock frequency to the microphone. The applied clock frequency is selected according to a desired mode of operation and the microphone detects the applied frequency and sets the mode of operation."},"analysis":{"summary":"The Mems Microphone and Method of Operating a Mems Microphone patent presents an innovative solution for MEMS microphone technology, addressing the challenges associated with traditional multi-pin interfaces. The core innovation lies in enabling different modes of operation through a single pin by applying an external clock frequency. This frequency is detected by the microphone, which then configures itself to the corresponding mode.\n\nTraditional MEMS microphones require multiple pins to control various operational modes, leading to increased complexity and cost. This technology simplifies the design by using a single pin to manage all mode selections, reducing the number of external components needed and making integration easier. The key technical approach involves an internal frequency detection circuit that identifies the applied clock frequency and adjusts the microphone's settings accordingly.\n\nThe business value of this innovation is significant. By simplifying the design and reducing the number of components, manufacturers can lower production costs and improve the overall efficiency of their audio devices. The ability to dynamically adjust the microphone's performance characteristics also opens up new possibilities for advanced audio processing algorithms. The market opportunity for this technology is vast, encompassing a wide range of applications, including smartphones, tablets, hearing aids, industrial sensors, and automotive systems. As the demand for high-quality audio capture continues to grow, this technology is well-positioned to capture a significant share of the MEMS microphone market.","layman_explanation":"1. What Problem Does This Solve?\nExisting MEMS (Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems) microphones often require multiple pins to control their different operating modes, such as adjusting sensitivity or power consumption. This complexity increases the cost and size of the microphone system, making it harder to integrate into devices like smartphones and hearing aids. The Mems Microphone and Method of Operating a Mems Microphone patent addresses this problem by simplifying the control mechanism.\n\n2. How Does It Work?\nInstead of using multiple pins, this invention uses only one pin. The microphone's operating mode is selected by applying an external clock signal with a specific frequency to this single pin. Think of it like Morse code, where different patterns of short and long signals represent different letters. In this case, different clock frequencies tell the microphone which mode to operate in. The microphone has an internal circuit that detects the frequency of the clock signal and automatically configures itself to the corresponding mode. This eliminates the need for extra pins and external components.\n\n3. Why Does This Matter?\nThis innovation makes MEMS microphones simpler, smaller, and more cost-effective. This is especially important for devices like smartphones and hearing aids, where space is limited and cost is a major factor. By reducing the number of pins and external components, manufacturers can create smaller and more efficient audio systems. The technology also allows for more flexible control of the microphone's operating modes, enabling it to adapt to different environments and applications.\n\n4. What's Next?\nThe Mems Microphone and Method of Operating a Mems Microphone patent could lead to the development of more advanced and versatile audio devices. Future applications could include integrating this technology with noise cancellation or voice recognition systems to create even more sophisticated audio experiences. As the demand for high-quality audio capture continues to grow, this innovation is well-positioned to become a key enabler for a wide range of applications. The reduced complexity and cost also make it attractive for mass-market adoption.","technical_analysis":"The Mems Microphone and Method of Operating a Mems Microphone patent introduces a novel approach to controlling MEMS microphone operation. Instead of using multiple pins for different modes, it employs a single pin and an external clock frequency. This significantly simplifies the hardware interface and reduces the component count.\n\nThe technical architecture involves an internal frequency detection circuit that identifies the applied clock frequency. This circuit can be implemented using various techniques, such as a phase-locked loop (PLL) or a frequency-to-voltage converter. The output of the frequency detection circuit is then used to control the internal bias currents and signal processing circuits of the microphone, thereby adjusting its operational characteristics.\n\nImplementation details would involve careful design of the frequency detection circuit to ensure accurate and reliable mode selection. The algorithm for frequency detection would need to be optimized for low power consumption and fast response time. Integration patterns would involve connecting the single pin to a microcontroller or other control device that can generate the required clock frequencies. Performance characteristics would depend on the accuracy of the frequency detection circuit and the stability of the clock frequency. Code-level implications would involve writing firmware to control the clock frequency and manage the different modes of operation.","business_analysis":"The Mems Microphone and Method of Operating a Mems Microphone patent presents a significant business opportunity within the MEMS microphone market. The market opportunity size is substantial, driven by the increasing demand for high-quality audio capture in a wide range of applications, including smartphones, tablets, hearing aids, and automotive systems.\n\nThe competitive advantages of this technology include its simplified design, reduced component count, and greater flexibility in mode selection. These advantages translate into lower production costs, improved efficiency, and enhanced performance for audio devices. The revenue potential is significant, driven by the potential for increased market share and higher profit margins. Business models could include licensing the technology to MEMS microphone manufacturers or integrating it into proprietary audio devices.\n\nStrategic positioning would involve targeting manufacturers of high-end audio devices who are looking for a competitive edge. ROI projections would depend on the licensing fees or profit margins achieved, but the potential for a high return on investment is strong. This technology provides a cost-effective and high-performance solution for audio capture, making it an attractive investment for companies in the audio device market.","faqs":null,"topics":["MEMS microphone","single pin microphone","audio capture","clock frequency","mode selection"],"tech_cluster":null},"seo":{"title":"Single-Pin MEMS Microphone - Patent US-9854360","description":"Discover the Mems Microphone and Method of Operating a Mems Microphone patent: a single-pin MEMS microphone for simpler audio capture. Full analysis & claims.","keywords":["MEMS microphone","single pin microphone","audio capture","clock frequency","mode selection","patent","patent US-9854360"]},"attribution":{"source":"Patentable","source_url":"https://patentable.app","canonical_url":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854360","license":"CC-BY-4.0-like","license_terms":"AI-generated analysis on this page (summary, layman_explanation, technical_analysis, business_analysis, faqs) may be reused with attribution and a visible link back to the canonical URL above. Patent abstracts, claims, and bibliographic data are USPTO public domain.","required_link":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854360","citation_suggestion":"Patentable. \"MEMS microphone and method of operating a MEMS microphone\" (US-9854360). https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854360","copyright_holder":"Nomic Interactive Technology LLC"},"links":{"html":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854360","json":"https://patentable.app/api/llm-context/US-9854360","site":"https://patentable.app","llms_txt":"https://patentable.app/llms.txt"},"generated_at":"2026-05-31T18:34:43.352Z"}