The system block diagram below
shows a preliminary layout of the project subsystems. The audio signal
and power for the device enter from the left. The audio signal is
processed by the Audio subsystem to filter out all frequencies but the
ones the device intends to convert into sound waves and to provide a
relative volume level control.
The Flame and Interface subsystem
controls the initial size of the corona flame and provides a method to
use the processed audio signal to alter the flame, producing sound.
The High Voltage subsystem has the
job of creating high voltage spikes that produce a corona. The magnitude
of this discharge is controlled by the Flame and Interface subsystem. A
Faraday shield will be constructed to screen out unwanted Electromagnetic
interference while letting sound waves pass through.
The Power Supply will power the
low-voltage electronics associated with the Audio control subsystem and
the Flame control subsystem, and also supply power to the high voltage
generator. This power supply should be designed to filter out any
electrical interference the high voltage generator may cause in the Audio
and Flame control subsystems. The bulk of the power consumption will be
directed at the high voltage generator and should not exceed 150
volt-amps.