Frank Michael Hirschenberger

Title: Frank Michael Hirschenberger: Innovator in Audio Technology

Introduction

Frank Michael Hirschenberger is a notable inventor based in Farmington Hills, MI (US). He holds a total of 3 patents that showcase his contributions to audio technology. His innovative work has significantly impacted the field of AM stereo receivers and signal processing.

Latest Patents

One of Hirschenberger's latest patents is for an AM stereo receiver with reduced distortion. This invention allows for the reproduction of left and right stereo audio information from a compatible quadrature amplitude modulation (C-QUAM) broadcast using two separate modes of detection. The first mode performs true C-QUAM detection when the received signal has a high level of stereo difference information. The second mode employs a synchronous detection approximation to avoid generating an envelope signal or calculating a cosine correction factor, particularly useful when over-modulation is present in the received signal.

Another significant patent is the distortion-free chopper-based signal mixer. This invention converts an AM-modulated carrier signal to a lower carrier frequency by mixing it with a square wave local oscillator signal. A field-effect transistor chops the modulated signal according to the square wave signal, creating a chopped or sampled version of the modulated signal without passing it through a semiconductor junction. A filter then selects the desired mixing product, resulting in a distortion-free mixing of the signal using low-cost components, including a JFET switch and a square wave output from a microcontroller.

Career Highlights

Hirschenberger has had a distinguished career, working with prominent companies such as Ford Motor Company and Visteon Global Technologies, Inc. His experience in these organizations has allowed him to develop and refine his innovative ideas in audio technology.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Hirschenberger has collaborated with talented individuals, including John Elliott Whitecar and Richard Bruce Harris. These collaborations have contributed to the advancement of his inventions and the overall progress in the field.

Conclusion

Frank Michael Hirschenberger is a remarkable inventor whose work in audio technology has led to significant advancements. His patents reflect his dedication to innovation and his ability to solve complex problems in the industry.