Temperature sensor anomaly detection method and image forming apparatus

Abstract

This application proposes a method for detecting temperature sensor anomalies and an image forming apparatus, relating to the field of imaging technology. The method for detecting temperature sensor anomalies includes: first, after a first temperature value detected by a first temperature sensor reaches a target threshold range, a control unit acquires a second temperature value detected by a second temperature sensor. Then, based on the relationship between the second temperature value and preset first and second thresholds, the control unit determines the abnormal sensor from the two temperature sensors. This technical solution is simple to implement, has a high detection rate, and can directly identify the abnormal sensor from two temperature sensors, thus improving the safety of the fuser operation.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This application relates to the field of imaging technology, and in particular to a method for detecting anomalies in a temperature sensor and an image forming apparatus. [Background Technology]

[0002] Printers, copiers, and other image forming devices all contain fusers, which include heaters to fix printing media such as toner onto paper through heating, thus completing the image formation. To ensure safety during the heating process, the fuser is also equipped with a temperature sensor to detect the heating temperature of the heater. However, when the temperature sensor malfunctions, overheating cannot be detected in a timely and effective manner, potentially leading to safety accidents. Therefore, it is necessary to provide an effective method for detecting sensor malfunctions. [Summary of the Invention]

[0003] This application provides a method for detecting abnormal temperature sensors and an image forming apparatus, which can be used to accurately detect abnormalities in temperature sensors in a fuser and identify specific abnormal sensors.

[0004] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a method for detecting abnormal temperature sensors, applied to a control unit of an image forming apparatus, the control unit being connected to a fuser, the fuser including a heating unit; the method includes: acquiring a first temperature value detected by a first temperature sensor, the first temperature sensor being located at the middle of the heating unit; acquiring a second temperature value detected by a second temperature sensor, the second sensor being located at the end of the heating unit, when the first temperature value reaches a target threshold range; the target threshold range being determined based on a threshold value for the fuser to switch from a first operating state to a second operating state; comparing the second temperature value with the first threshold and the second threshold respectively; and determining an abnormal sensor from the first temperature sensor and the second temperature sensor based on the comparison result.

[0005] In one possible implementation, before acquiring the first temperature value detected by the first temperature sensor, the method further includes: determining that the fuser is in a first working state, the first working state being a preheating state.

[0006] In one possible implementation, when the first temperature value reaches the target threshold range, the method further includes: controlling the fuser to switch to a second working state, the second working state being a standby state.

[0007] In one possible implementation, determining an abnormal sensor from the first temperature sensor and the second temperature sensor based on the comparison result includes: determining whether the first temperature sensor is an abnormal sensor based on the comparison result of the second temperature value and the first threshold; and determining whether the second temperature sensor is an abnormal sensor based on the comparison result of the second temperature value and the second threshold.

[0008] In one possible implementation, determining whether the first temperature sensor is an abnormal sensor based on the comparison result between the second temperature value and the first threshold includes: determining the first temperature sensor as an abnormal sensor when the second temperature value is greater than the first threshold; determining whether the second temperature sensor is an abnormal sensor based on the comparison result between the second temperature value and the second threshold includes: determining the second temperature sensor as an abnormal sensor when the second temperature value is less than the second threshold.

[0009] In one possible implementation, determining the first temperature sensor as an abnormal sensor when the second temperature value is greater than the first threshold includes: timing the duration for which the second temperature value is greater than the first threshold; and determining the first temperature sensor as an abnormal sensor when the timing duration exceeds a duration threshold. Similarly, determining the second temperature sensor as an abnormal sensor when the second temperature value is less than the second threshold includes: timing the duration for which the second temperature value is less than the second threshold; and determining the second temperature sensor as an abnormal sensor when the timing duration exceeds the duration threshold.

[0010] In one possible implementation, determining the first temperature sensor as an abnormal sensor when the second temperature value is greater than the first threshold includes: counting the number of times the second temperature value is greater than the first threshold; and determining the first temperature sensor as an abnormal sensor when the count value exceeds a threshold. Similarly, determining the second temperature sensor as an abnormal sensor when the second temperature value is less than the second threshold includes: counting the number of times the second temperature value is less than the second threshold; and determining the second temperature sensor as an abnormal sensor when the count value exceeds the threshold.

[0011] In one possible implementation, the value of the first threshold is located between a first normal temperature and a first abnormal temperature; the first normal temperature is the temperature value detected by the second temperature sensor after the first temperature value reaches the target threshold range when the first temperature sensor is in normal condition; the first abnormal temperature is the temperature value detected by the second temperature sensor after the first temperature value reaches the target threshold range when the first temperature sensor is in abnormal condition; the value of the first threshold is positively correlated with the degree of deviation between the first temperature sensor and the heating unit; the value of the first threshold is positively correlated with the external input voltage and the power of the heating unit.

[0012] In one possible implementation, the value of the second threshold is located between the second normal temperature value and the second abnormal temperature value; the second normal temperature value is the temperature value detected by the second temperature sensor under normal conditions after the first temperature value reaches the target threshold range; the second abnormal temperature value is the temperature value detected by the second temperature sensor under abnormal conditions after the first temperature value reaches the target threshold range under normal conditions; the value of the second threshold is negatively correlated with the degree of deviation between the second temperature sensor and the heating unit; the value of the second threshold is positively correlated with the external input voltage and the power of the heating unit.

[0013] In one possible implementation, after identifying the abnormal sensor from the first temperature sensor and the second temperature sensor based on the comparison results, the method further includes: controlling the heating unit to stop heating and generating an abnormal prompt message.

[0014] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide an image forming apparatus, including: a control unit and a fuser connected to the control unit; the fuser includes a heating unit, a first temperature sensor is disposed in the middle of the heating unit, and a second temperature sensor is disposed at the end of the heating unit; the control unit is capable of executing the method as described in the first aspect.

[0015] Thirdly, embodiments of this application provide an electronic device, including: at least one processor; and at least one memory communicatively connected to the processor, wherein: the memory stores program instructions executable by the processor, and the processor can execute the method as described in the first aspect by invoking the program instructions.

[0016] Fourthly, embodiments of this application provide a computer-readable storage medium storing computer instructions that cause the computer to perform the method described in the first aspect.

[0017] In the above technical solution, firstly, after the first temperature value detected by the first temperature sensor reaches the target threshold range, the control unit acquires the second temperature value detected by the second temperature sensor. Then, based on the relationship between the second temperature value and the preset first and second thresholds, the control unit identifies the abnormal sensor from the two temperature sensors. This technical solution is simple to implement, has a high detection rate, and can directly identify the abnormal sensor from the two temperature sensors, thus improving the safety of the fuser operation. [Attached Image Description]

[0018] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, the drawings used in the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0019] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an image forming apparatus provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0020] Figure 2 A flowchart of a temperature sensor anomaly detection method provided in this application embodiment;

[0021] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of a temperature change curve provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0022] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a scenario where a temperature sensor deviates from a heating unit, as provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0023] Figure 5 This is another schematic diagram of temperature change curves provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0024] Figure 6 This is another schematic diagram of temperature change curves provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0025] Figure 7 A flowchart of another temperature sensor anomaly detection method provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0026] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an electronic device provided in an embodiment of this application.

Detailed Implementation Methods

[0027] To better understand the technical solution of this application, the embodiments of this application will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0028] It should be understood that the described embodiments are merely some, not all, of the embodiments in this application. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments in this application without inventive effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0029] The terminology used in the embodiments of this application is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of this application. The singular forms “a,” “the,” and “the” used in the embodiments of this application and the appended claims are also intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0030] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an image forming apparatus provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 1 As shown, the image forming apparatus provided in this application may include a control unit 11 and a fuser 12 connected to the control unit 11. As the name suggests, the fuser 12 is a component in the image forming apparatus used for "fixing". Specifically, as... Figure 1 As shown, the fuser 12 includes a heating unit 121, which can be heated based on the control unit 11. When the heating temperature reaches the target value, the heating medium such as toner can be fixed on the paper to achieve imaging.

[0031] To enhance safety during the fixing process, a temperature sensor can be installed on the heating unit 121 to detect its heating temperature, enabling timely detection and reporting of overheating and preventing accidents. Figure 1 As shown in the embodiments of this application, the temperature sensor may include a first temperature sensor 122 and a second temperature sensor 123, wherein the first temperature sensor 122 may be disposed in the middle of the heating unit 121, and the second temperature sensor 123 may be disposed at the end of the heating unit 121. The temperature sensor anomaly detection method provided in the embodiments of this application can be used for... Figure 1 The system detects abnormalities in the temperature sensors and accurately identifies which of the first and second temperature sensors is faulty, thus alerting the user and facilitating rapid repairs to prevent further temperature increases in the fuser unit that could lead to safety incidents.

[0032] The image forming apparatus provided in this application may be, for example, an inkjet printer, a laser printer, a light-emitting diode (LED) printer, a copier, or a multifunction printer, as well as a multi-function peripheral (MFP) that performs the above functions in a single device. This application does not impose any limitations on this.

[0033] The following is based on Figure 1 Taking the image forming apparatus shown as an example, the temperature sensor anomaly detection method provided in this application will be described. Specifically, the temperature sensor anomaly detection method provided in this application can be executed in the aforementioned control unit.

[0034] Figure 2 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for detecting anomalies in a temperature sensor, as provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 2 As shown, the temperature sensor anomaly detection method may include:

[0035] Step 101: Obtain the first temperature value detected by the first temperature sensor.

[0036] In this embodiment, when the control unit determines that the fuser is in a first working state, it can initiate a temperature detection process to acquire a first temperature value detected by a first temperature sensor according to a set cycle. The first working state refers to a preheating state, during which the heating unit will continuously heat the components.

[0037] Specifically, the control unit can acquire the first temperature value in the following ways: First, the first temperature sensor generates a voltage signal related to the temperature of the heating unit. Then, the voltage signal is output to the analog-to-digital converter (ADC), which performs analog-to-digital conversion on the voltage signal to obtain the first temperature value. Finally, the ADC sends the obtained first temperature value to the control unit.

[0038] Step 102: If the first temperature value reaches the target threshold range, acquire the second temperature value detected by the second temperature sensor.

[0039] After acquiring the first temperature value each time, the control unit can evaluate it to determine whether the preheating temperature of the heating unit has reached the target threshold range. The target threshold range can be determined based on the threshold value at which the fuser switches from the first operating state to the second operating state. For example, the target threshold range can be a range of values ​​with the median of the threshold value, and the size of the range can be flexibly determined according to actual needs. Alternatively, the target threshold range can also be a range of values ​​defined by the threshold value and a larger value, and the value of the larger value can be flexibly determined according to actual needs.

[0040] Once the first temperature value is determined to have reached the target threshold range, the control unit can switch the fixing unit to a second operating state. The second operating state is a standby state, in which the heating unit first stops heating. Subsequently, under the influence of residual heat, the temperature of the heating unit will continue to rise; this phenomenon is called temperature overshoot. Further, after reaching its peak, the temperature will drop back to the target temperature of the standby stage. At this time, the control unit can control the heating unit to continue heating or stop, thereby maintaining the temperature of the heating unit at the target temperature of the standby stage. The target temperature of the standby stage is lower than the aforementioned target threshold range. On the other hand, the control unit can also acquire a second temperature value detected by a second temperature sensor.

[0041] Step 103: Compare the second temperature value with the first threshold and the second threshold respectively.

[0042] Step 104: Based on the comparison results, identify the abnormal sensor from the first temperature sensor and the second temperature sensor.

[0043] In this embodiment, the control unit can determine the abnormal sensor from the first temperature sensor and the second temperature sensor based on the relationship between the second temperature value and the first threshold and the second threshold.

[0044] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of a temperature change curve provided for an embodiment of this application. Figure 3 As shown, temperature change curve 31 is the curve of the change of the first temperature value detected by the first temperature sensor under normal conditions, temperature change curve 32 is the curve of the change of the first temperature value detected by the first temperature sensor under abnormal conditions, temperature change curve 33 is the curve of the change of the second temperature value detected by the second temperature sensor under normal conditions, and temperature change curve 34 is the curve of the change of the second temperature value detected by the second temperature sensor under abnormal conditions.

[0045] Depend on Figure 3 It can be seen that in real-world scenarios, during the preheating phase, regardless of whether the first temperature sensor is malfunctioning, the first temperature value it detects will reach the target threshold range T. t Then it enters the standby phase. However, after entering the standby phase, the second temperature value detected by the second temperature sensor will vary significantly depending on whether the first temperature sensor is malfunctioning. Specifically, for example... Figure 3 As shown, when the first temperature sensor is functioning normally, the first temperature value reaches the target threshold range T. tSubsequently, since the second temperature sensor is located at the end of the heating unit, the second temperature value detected by the second temperature sensor will be slightly lower than the first temperature value detected by the first temperature sensor. In the event of a malfunction of the first temperature sensor, the first temperature value reaches the target threshold range T. t Subsequently, at this point, the actual temperature of the heating unit is already higher than the first temperature value. Therefore, the second temperature value detected by the second temperature sensor will be higher than the first threshold. The first threshold value is located between the first normal temperature and the first abnormal temperature value. The first normal temperature is the temperature value detected by the second temperature sensor after the first temperature value reaches the target threshold range under normal conditions of the first temperature sensor. The first abnormal temperature value is the temperature value detected by the second temperature sensor after the first temperature value reaches the target threshold range under abnormal conditions of the first temperature sensor. The value of the first threshold can be determined according to the target threshold range. For example, it can be greater than the maximum value of the target threshold range, or less than the minimum value of the target threshold range, or equal to any value within the target threshold range. It can be determined based on experience. The value of the first threshold is positively correlated with the temperature overshoot value of the first temperature sensor under normal conditions and with the degree of deviation between the first temperature sensor and the heating unit. Furthermore, the value of the first threshold is also positively correlated with the external input voltage and the power of the heating unit. When the first temperature sensor is offset from the heating unit (fixing roller) by the same distance, the greater the external input voltage or the power of the heating unit, the higher the temperature overshoot value of the heating unit, the greater the temperature detected by the second temperature sensor, and the larger the value that the first threshold can be set to.

[0046] based on Figure 3 The temperature change curve shown in this embodiment allows for the determination of whether the first temperature sensor is malfunctioning based on the comparison between the second temperature value and the first threshold.

[0047] In one possible implementation, if the second temperature value is greater than the first threshold, the first temperature sensor can be determined to be an abnormal sensor.

[0048] In another possible implementation, to prevent sharp noise from affecting the hardware's signal acquisition, a duration threshold t0 can be set. If the second temperature value is greater than the first threshold, the duration for which the second temperature value exceeds the first threshold can be timed. If the timed duration exceeds the duration threshold t0, the first temperature sensor can be determined to be an abnormal sensor.

[0049] In another possible implementation, to prevent sharp noise from affecting the hardware's signal acquisition, a count threshold N0 can be set. When the second temperature value is greater than the first threshold, the number of times the second temperature value exceeds the first threshold can be counted. If the count value exceeds the count threshold N0, the first temperature sensor can be determined to be an abnormal sensor.

[0050] In this embodiment, the fault type of the first temperature sensor may be deviation from the heating unit. Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a scenario where a sensor deviates from the heating unit, as provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 4 As shown, a first temperature sensor 122 and a second temperature sensor 123 can be disposed on the heating unit. Under normal conditions, the detection element 13 of the temperature sensor is disposed in close contact with the heating unit. When a misalignment occurs between the temperature sensor and the heating unit, the detection element 13 of the temperature sensor moves away from the heating unit along the cross-sectional direction of the heating unit. According to... Figure 4 It is clear that, under the same heating temperature, the greater the deviation of the temperature sensor from the heating unit, the lower the actual temperature detected by the temperature sensor.

[0051] Figure 5 This is another schematic diagram of temperature change curves provided for an embodiment of this application. (See diagram below.) Figure 5 As shown, temperature change curve 41 is the curve of the change of the first temperature value detected by the first temperature sensor under normal conditions, temperature change curve 42 is the curve of the change of the second temperature value detected by the second temperature sensor under normal conditions, and temperature change curve 43 is the curve of the change of the second temperature value detected by the second temperature sensor under abnormal conditions.

[0052] based on Figure 5 As shown in the temperature change curve, in a real-world scenario, during the preheating phase, assuming the first temperature sensor is functioning normally, when the first temperature value detected by the first temperature sensor reaches the target threshold range T... t Subsequently, if the second temperature sensor functions correctly, then, since the second temperature sensor is located at the end of the heating unit, the second temperature value it detects will be slightly lower than the first temperature value, but greater than the second threshold T. t -T1. If the second temperature sensor malfunctions, the second temperature value detected by the second temperature sensor will be less than the second threshold T. t -T1.

[0053] Wherein, the second threshold T t The value of -T1 is negatively correlated with the degree of deviation of the second temperature sensor. The greater the distance between the second temperature sensor and the heating unit (fixing roller), the lower the temperature detected by the second temperature sensor when heated to the same temperature, and the lower the second threshold T1 becomes. t The smaller the value that -T1 can be set to, the more likely it is to be determined empirically. Furthermore, the second threshold T... tThe value of -T1 is also positively correlated with the external input voltage and the power of the heating unit. When the second temperature sensor is equidistant from the heating unit (fixing roller), the greater the external input voltage or the greater the heating unit power, the higher the temperature overshoot of the heating unit, and the higher the temperature detected by the second temperature sensor, thus affecting the second threshold T. t The larger the value that can be set for T1, the smaller the value that can be set for T1.

[0054] based on Figure 5 The temperature change curve shown in this embodiment allows for the determination of whether the second temperature sensor is malfunctioning based on the comparison between the second temperature value and the second threshold. In one possible implementation, if the second temperature value is less than the second threshold, the second temperature sensor can be determined to be malfunctioning.

[0055] In another possible implementation, to prevent sharp noise from affecting the hardware's signal acquisition, a duration threshold t0 can be set. If the second temperature value is less than the second threshold, the duration for which the second temperature value is less than the second threshold can be timed. If the timed duration exceeds the duration threshold t0, the second temperature sensor can be determined to be an abnormal sensor.

[0056] In another possible implementation, to prevent sharp noise from affecting the hardware's signal acquisition, a count threshold N0 can be set. When the second temperature value is less than the second threshold, the number of times the second temperature value is less than the second threshold can be counted. If the count value exceeds the count threshold N0, the second temperature sensor can be determined to be an abnormal sensor.

[0057] In this embodiment, the fault type of the second temperature sensor can be deviation from the heating unit or circuit disconnection. Circuit disconnection can include a broken wire, missing connection, or damage to the data board of the second temperature sensor.

[0058] Furthermore, in another embodiment of this application, if it is determined that the second temperature sensor is abnormal, the specific fault type of the second temperature sensor can be determined.

[0059] Specifically, in real-world scenarios, such as Figure 6 As shown, when the second temperature sensor is deviated from the heating unit, the second temperature value 431 detected by the second temperature sensor will be less than the aforementioned second threshold. When the second temperature sensor circuit is disconnected, the second temperature value 432 detected by the second temperature sensor will be less than the third threshold T. t -T2, the third threshold is less than the second threshold.

[0060] Therefore, in this embodiment, if the second temperature sensor is determined to be faulty, the second temperature value can be further compared with a third threshold. If the second temperature value is determined to be greater than the third threshold, the fault type of the second temperature sensor can be determined to be deviation from the heating unit. If the second temperature value is determined to be less than the third threshold, the fault type of the second temperature sensor can be determined to be circuit disconnection.

[0061] The above technical solution can accurately detect sensor anomalies and distinguish specific faulty sensors from multiple sensors to determine the specific fault type. Furthermore, this solution only needs to be executed at a specific stage of the fuser operation, simplifying the scenario and greatly reducing the risk of false alarms.

[0062] Figure 7 A flowchart illustrating a temperature sensor anomaly detection method according to another embodiment of this application. Figure 7 As shown, the temperature sensor anomaly detection method provided in this application embodiment may include:

[0063] Step 201: The control unit detects that the fuser is in a preheating state.

[0064] Step 202: The control unit acquires the first temperature value detected by the first temperature sensor.

[0065] Step 203: The control unit determines whether the first temperature value has reached the target threshold range. If yes, proceed to step 204; otherwise, continue to step 202.

[0066] In this embodiment, after the control unit detects that the fuser is in a preheating state, it can acquire a first temperature value detected by the first sensor. The specific acquisition method can be found in the aforementioned embodiment. Then, the control unit can determine whether the first temperature value has reached the target threshold range. If so, it can continue to execute step 204. Otherwise, the control unit will repeat step 202 until the first temperature value reaches the target threshold range.

[0067] Step 204: The control unit acquires the second temperature value detected by the second temperature sensor.

[0068] Step 2051: The control unit determines whether the second temperature value is greater than the first threshold. If it is, proceed to step 2061; otherwise, continue to proceed to step 2051.

[0069] Step 2052: The control unit determines whether the second temperature value is less than the second threshold. If so, proceed to step 2062; otherwise, continue to proceed to step 2052.

[0070] In this embodiment, after the control unit obtains the second temperature value detected by the second temperature sensor, it can, on the one hand, execute step 2051 to determine whether the second temperature value is greater than a preset first threshold. If it is greater than the first threshold, it can further execute step 2061 to detect the duration for which the second temperature value is greater than the first threshold. If the duration is determined to be greater than a preset duration threshold, the first temperature sensor is determined to be faulty. Alternatively, in another implementation, step 2061 can be to detect the number of times the second temperature value is greater than the first threshold. If the number of times is determined to be greater than a preset number threshold, the first temperature sensor is determined to be faulty.

[0071] On the other hand, step 2052 can be executed to determine whether the second temperature value is less than a preset second threshold. If it is less than the second threshold, step 2062 can be further executed to detect the duration for which the second temperature value is less than the second threshold. If the duration is determined to be greater than a preset duration threshold, the second temperature sensor can be determined to be faulty. Alternatively, in another implementation, step 2062 can be to detect the number of times the second temperature value is less than the second threshold. If the number of times is determined to be greater than a preset number threshold, the second temperature sensor can be determined to be faulty.

[0072] In one possible implementation, steps 2051 and 2052 can be executed in parallel; or, in another implementation, the two steps can be executed sequentially. This application embodiment does not restrict the execution order of steps 2051 and 2052.

[0073] Step 2061: The control unit determines whether the duration or number of consecutive times the second temperature value is greater than the first threshold exceeds a preset threshold. If the preset threshold is exceeded, proceed to step 2071; otherwise, proceed to step 208.

[0074] Step 2062: The control unit determines whether the duration or number of consecutive times the second temperature value is less than the second threshold exceeds a preset threshold. If the preset threshold is exceeded, proceed to step 2072; otherwise, proceed to step 208.

[0075] Step 2071: The control unit determines that the first temperature sensor is malfunctioning.

[0076] Step 2072: The control unit determines that the second temperature sensor is malfunctioning.

[0077] Step 208: The control unit confirms that the fuser is functioning normally.

[0078] In this embodiment, if either the first or second temperature sensor is determined to be faulty, the control unit stops heating the heating unit to prevent safety accidents caused by overheating. Simultaneously, the control unit can generate an error message to alert the user of the current fuser malfunction and to identify the faulty temperature sensor, facilitating quick fault location and troubleshooting by maintenance personnel. The error message can be displayed, for example, on the panel of the image forming apparatus. Conversely, if both the first and second temperature sensors are normal, the control unit determines that the fuser is functioning correctly. In this case, the image forming apparatus can perform imaging operations normally.

[0079] The above technical solution allows for anomaly detection of temperature sensors after the fuser enters the preheating stage, improving detection accuracy and identifying faulty sensors from multiple temperature sensors for easier maintenance.

[0080] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an electronic device provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 8 As shown, the electronic device may include at least one processor; and at least one memory communicatively connected to the processor, wherein the memory stores program instructions executable by the processor, and the processor can execute the temperature sensor anomaly detection method provided in the embodiments of this application by calling the program instructions.

[0081] The aforementioned electronic device can be any imaging device such as a printer or copier, or it can be a PC. This embodiment does not limit the specific form of the aforementioned electronic device.

[0082] Figure 8 A block diagram of an exemplary electronic device suitable for implementing embodiments of the present application is shown. Figure 8 The electronic device shown is merely an example and should not impose any limitations on the functionality and scope of use of the embodiments of this application.

[0083] like Figure 8 As shown, the electronic device is represented in the form of a general-purpose computing device. The components of the electronic device may include, but are not limited to: one or more processors 410, memory 430, and communication bus 440 connecting different system components (including memory 430 and processor 410).

[0084] Communication bus 440 represents one or more of several bus architectures, including a memory bus or memory controller, a peripheral bus, a graphics acceleration port, a processor, or a local bus using any of the various bus architectures. For example, these architectures include, but are not limited to, Industry Standard Architecture (ISA) buses, Micro Channel Architecture (MAC) buses, Enhanced ISA buses, Video Electronics Standards Association (VESA) local buses, and Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) buses.

[0085] Electronic devices typically include a variety of computer-readable media. These media can be any available media that can be accessed by the electronic device, including volatile and non-volatile media, and removable and non-removable media.

[0086] Memory 430 may include computer system readable media in the form of volatile memory, such as random access memory (RAM) and / or cache memory. The electronic device may further include other removable / non-removable, volatile / non-volatile computer system storage media. Although Figure 8 Not shown, a disk drive for reading and writing to a removable non-volatile disk (e.g., a "floppy disk") and an optical disc drive for reading and writing to a removable non-volatile optical disc (e.g., a compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), a digital video disc read-only memory (DVD-ROM), or other optical media). In these cases, each drive can be connected to the communication bus 440 via one or more data media interfaces. The memory 430 may include at least one program product having a set (e.g., at least one) of program modules configured to perform the functions of the embodiments of this application.

[0087] A program / utility having a set (at least one) of program modules can be stored in memory 430. Such program modules include—but are not limited to—an operating system, one or more application programs, other program modules, and program data. Each or some combination of these examples may include an implementation of a network environment. The program modules typically perform the functions and / or methods described in the embodiments of this application.

[0088] The electronic device can also communicate with one or more external devices (such as a keyboard, pointing device, display, etc.), and with one or more devices that enable a user to interact with the electronic device, and / or with any device that enables the electronic device to communicate with one or more other computing devices (such as a network card, modem, etc.). This communication can be performed through communication interface 420. Furthermore, the electronic device can also communicate through a network adapter ( Figure 8 (Not shown) communicates with one or more networks (e.g., Local Area Network (LAN), Wide Area Network (WAN), and / or public networks, such as the Internet). The aforementioned network adapter can communicate with other modules of the electronic device via communication bus 440. It should be understood that, although... Figure 8 Not shown, other hardware and / or software modules can be used in conjunction with electronic devices, including but not limited to: microcode, device drivers, redundant processing units, external disk drive arrays, Redundant Arrays of Independent Drives (RAID) systems, tape drives, and data backup storage systems.

[0089] The processor 410 executes various functional applications and data processing by running programs stored in the memory 430, such as implementing the temperature sensor anomaly detection method provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0090] This application also provides a computer-readable storage medium storing computer instructions that cause the computer to execute the temperature sensor anomaly detection method provided in this application.

[0091] The aforementioned computer-readable storage medium may be any combination of one or more computer-readable media. A computer-readable medium may be a computer-readable signal medium or a computer-readable storage medium. A computer-readable storage medium may be, for example,—but not limited to—an electrical, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor system, apparatus, or device, or any combination thereof. More specific examples of computer-readable storage media (a non-exhaustive list) include: an electrical connection having one or more wires, a portable computer disk, a hard disk, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), or flash memory, optical fiber, portable compact disk read-only memory (CD-ROM), optical storage device, magnetic storage device, or any suitable combination thereof. In this document, a computer-readable storage medium may be any tangible medium containing or storing a program that may be used by or in connection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device.

[0092] Computer-readable signal media may include data signals propagated in baseband or as part of a carrier wave, carrying computer-readable program code. Such propagated data signals may take various forms, including—but not limited to—electromagnetic signals, optical signals, or any suitable combination thereof. Computer-readable signal media may also be any computer-readable medium other than computer-readable storage media, capable of transmitting, propagating, or transmitting programs for use by or in connection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device.

[0093] The program code contained on the computer-readable medium may be transmitted using any suitable medium, including—but not limited to—wireless, wire, optical fiber, RFID, etc., or any suitable combination thereof.

[0094] Computer program code for performing the operations of this application can be written in one or more programming languages ​​or a combination thereof, including object-oriented programming languages ​​such as Java, Smalltalk, and C++, and conventional procedural programming languages ​​such as C or similar languages. The program code can be executed entirely on the user's computer, partially on the user's computer, as a standalone software package, partially on the user's computer and partially on a remote computer, or entirely on a remote computer or server. In cases involving remote computers, the remote computer can be connected to the user's computer via any type of network—including a Local Area Network (LAN) or a Wide Area Network (WAN), or it can be connected to an external computer (e.g., via the Internet using an Internet service provider).

[0095] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., refer to specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described in connection with that embodiment or example, which are included in at least one embodiment or example of this application. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples. Moreover, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments or examples described in this specification, as well as the features of different embodiments or examples.

[0096] Any process or method description in the flowchart or otherwise herein can be understood as representing a module, segment, or portion of code comprising one or more executable instructions for implementing custom logic functions or processes, and the scope of the preferred embodiments of this application includes additional implementations in which functions may be performed not in the order shown or discussed, including substantially simultaneously or in reverse order depending on the functions involved, as should be understood by those skilled in the art to which embodiments of this application pertain.

[0097] In the several embodiments provided in this application, it should be understood that the disclosed systems, apparatuses, and methods can be implemented in other ways. For example, the apparatus embodiments described above are merely illustrative; for instance, the division of units is only a logical functional division, and in actual implementation, there may be other division methods. For example, multiple units or components may be combined or integrated into another system, or some features may be ignored or not executed. Furthermore, the coupling or direct coupling or communication connection shown or discussed may be through some interfaces; the indirect coupling or communication connection between apparatuses or units may be electrical, mechanical, or other forms.

[0098] Furthermore, the functional units in the various embodiments of this application can be integrated into one processing unit, or each unit can exist physically separately, or two or more units can be integrated into one unit. The integrated unit can be implemented in hardware or in a combination of hardware and software functional units.

[0099] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this application and is not intended to limit this application. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application.

Claims

1. A temperature sensor abnormality detection method characterized by comprising: A control unit applied to an image forming device, the control unit being connected to a fuser, the fuser comprising a heating unit; the method comprising: obtaining a first temperature value detected by a first temperature sensor, the first temperature sensor being located at a middle part of the heating unit; in a case where the first temperature value reaches a target threshold range, obtaining a second temperature value detected by a second temperature sensor, the second temperature sensor being located at an end part of the heating unit; the target threshold range being determined according to a threshold value at which the fuser is switched from a first working state to a second working state; respectively comparing the second temperature value with a first threshold value and a second threshold value; determining an abnormal sensor from the first temperature sensor and the second temperature sensor according to a comparison result.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein, Before obtaining the first temperature value detected by the first temperature sensor, the method further comprises: determining that the fuser is in the first working state, the first working state being a preheating state.

3. The method of claim 2, wherein, in a case where the first temperature value reaches the target threshold range, the method further comprises: controlling the fuser to switch to the second working state, the second working state being a standby state.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein, determining an abnormal sensor from the first temperature sensor and the second temperature sensor according to a comparison result, comprising: determining whether the first temperature sensor is an abnormal sensor according to a comparison result of the second temperature value and the first threshold value; determining whether the second temperature sensor is an abnormal sensor according to a comparison result of the second temperature value and the second threshold value.

5. The method of claim 4, wherein, determining whether the first temperature sensor is an abnormal sensor according to a comparison result of the second temperature value and the first threshold value, comprising: in a case where the second temperature value is greater than the first threshold value, determining that the first temperature sensor is an abnormal sensor; determining whether the second temperature sensor is an abnormal sensor according to a comparison result of the second temperature value and the second threshold value, comprising: in a case where the second temperature value is less than the second threshold value, determining that the second temperature sensor is an abnormal sensor.

6. The method of claim 5, wherein, in a case where the second temperature value is greater than the first threshold value, determining that the first temperature sensor is an abnormal sensor, comprising: in a case where the second temperature value is greater than the first threshold value, timing a time length during which the second temperature value is greater than the first threshold value; detecting that the timing time length exceeds a time length threshold value, and determining that the first temperature sensor is an abnormal sensor; in a case where the second temperature value is less than the second threshold value, determining that the second temperature sensor is an abnormal sensor, comprising: in a case where the second temperature value is less than the second threshold value, timing a time length during which the second temperature value is less than the second threshold value; detecting that the timing time length exceeds the time length threshold value, and determining that the second temperature sensor is an abnormal sensor.

7. The method of claim 5, wherein, in a case where the second temperature value is greater than the first threshold value, determining that the first temperature sensor is an abnormal sensor, comprising: in a case where the second temperature value is greater than the first threshold value, counting a number of times during which the second temperature value is greater than the first threshold value; detecting that the count value exceeds a number threshold, and determining that the first temperature sensor is an abnormal sensor; in a case where the second temperature value is less than the second threshold value, determining that the second temperature sensor is an abnormal sensor, comprising: in a case where the second temperature value is less than the second threshold value, counting a number of times that the second temperature value is less than the second threshold value; detecting that the count value exceeds the number threshold, and determining that the second temperature sensor is an abnormal sensor.

8. The method of claim 1, wherein, the first threshold value is between a first normal temperature value and a first abnormal temperature value; the first normal temperature value is a temperature value detected by the second temperature sensor after the first temperature value reaches the target threshold range in a normal state of the first temperature sensor; the first abnormal temperature value is a temperature value detected by the second temperature sensor after the first temperature value reaches the target threshold range in an abnormal state of the first temperature sensor; the first threshold value is positively correlated with a deviation between the first temperature sensor and the heating unit; the first threshold value is positively correlated with an external input voltage and a power of the heating unit.

9. The method of claim 1, wherein, the second threshold value is between a second normal temperature value and a second abnormal temperature value; the second normal temperature value is a temperature value detected by the second temperature sensor in a normal state of the first temperature sensor after the first temperature value reaches the target threshold range; the second abnormal temperature value is a temperature value detected by the second temperature sensor in an abnormal state of the first temperature sensor after the first temperature value reaches the target threshold range; the second threshold value is negatively correlated with a deviation between the second temperature sensor and the heating unit; the second threshold value is positively correlated with an external input voltage and a power of the heating unit.

10. The method of claim 1, wherein, after determining the abnormal sensor from the first temperature sensor and the second temperature sensor according to the comparison result, the method further comprises: controlling the heating unit to stop heating, and generating an abnormal prompt information.

11. An image forming apparatus characterized by comprising: comprising: a control unit and a fixing device connected to the control unit; the fixing device comprises a heating unit, a first temperature sensor is arranged at a middle part of the heating unit, and a second temperature sensor is arranged at an end part of the heating unit; the control unit is capable of determining the abnormal sensor from the first temperature sensor and the second temperature sensor by executing the method according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, the computer readable storage medium stores computer instructions, and the computer instructions enable the computer to execute the method according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

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