Information processing apparatus, information processing method, and consumable

Abstract

This application provides an information processing apparatus, an information processing method, and consumables. According to the solution provided in this application, the information processing apparatus can detect the power supply voltage of the image forming apparatus and determine the response to a request received from the image forming apparatus based on the power supply voltage, thus solving the problem that consumables or the information processing apparatus cannot properly respond to an unsatisfactory power supply voltage.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This application relates to the field of image forming technology, and more specifically to an information processing apparatus, an information processing method, and consumables. [Background Technology]

[0002] With the development of printing and imaging technology, image forming devices such as printers, copiers, fax machines, and word processors have been widely used. These image forming devices all contain replaceable items (imaging cartridges) that hold imaging materials (such as ink or toner), which are easily replaced by the user. These consumables typically include information processing devices, such as consumable chips.

[0003] Information processing devices are typically powered by image forming devices. In the prior art, there are adverse factors that affect the power supply voltage from the image forming device to the information processing device, such as poor contact and wear of power supply contacts. Furthermore, consumables or the information processing device itself are often unable to properly address the problem of the image forming device supplying an unsatisfactory power supply voltage to the information processing device. [Summary of the Invention]

[0004] In view of this, this application provides an information processing apparatus, an information processing method, and consumables to solve the problem that consumables or information processing apparatus cannot properly cope with the unsatisfactory power supply voltage from the image forming apparatus to the information processing apparatus.

[0005] The first aspect of this application provides an information processing apparatus that communicates with an image forming apparatus, comprising:

[0006] The image forming apparatus supplies power to the information processing apparatus through the power supply contact;

[0007] A receiving unit is configured to receive a request sent by the image forming apparatus;

[0008] A voltage detection unit is used to detect the power supply voltage of the image forming apparatus to the information processing apparatus.

[0009] The determining unit is used to determine the response to the request based on the power supply voltage.

[0010] A second aspect of this application also provides an information processing method applied to an information processing apparatus, the information processing apparatus communicating with an image forming apparatus, the information processing apparatus including a power supply contact, the image forming apparatus supplying power to the information processing apparatus through the power supply contact, comprising:

[0011] Receive the request sent by the image forming apparatus;

[0012] Detect the power supply voltage of the image forming apparatus to the information processing apparatus;

[0013] Based on the power supply voltage, determine the response to the request.

[0014] A third aspect of this application also provides a consumable, comprising:

[0015] case;

[0016] A developer container, located within the housing, is used to contain the developer; and

[0017] The information processing apparatus according to any one of the first aspects.

[0018] In optional or preferred embodiments, the consumables further include:

[0019] A developer delivery element for delivering the developer.

[0020] In optional or preferred embodiments, the consumables further include:

[0021] Photosensitive drum;

[0022] A charging roller is used to charge the photosensitive drum.

[0023] A fourth aspect of this application also provides a consumable, comprising:

[0024] Photosensitive drum;

[0025] A charging roller for charging the photosensitive drum; and

[0026] The information processing apparatus according to any one of the first aspects.

[0027] According to the solution provided in this application, the information processing device can detect the power supply voltage of the image forming device, and based on the power supply voltage, determine the response to the request received from the image forming device, thereby solving the problem that consumables or the information processing device cannot properly respond to an unsatisfactory power supply voltage. [Attached Image Description]

[0028] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention, the drawings used in the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0029] Figure 1 A structural block diagram of an image forming system provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0030] Figure 2This is a schematic diagram of another image forming system provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0031] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of another image forming system provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0032] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an image forming apparatus provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0033] Figure 5 A flowchart illustrating an information processing method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0034] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a consumable provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0035] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of another consumable provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0036] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of another consumable provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0037] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of another consumable provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0038] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of another consumable provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0039] Figure 11 This is a structural block diagram of an image forming apparatus provided in an embodiment of this application.

Detailed Implementation Methods

[0040] 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.

[0041] 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.

[0042] Unless otherwise specifically stated, the relative arrangement, numerical expressions, and values ​​of the components and steps described in these embodiments do not limit the scope of this application.

[0043] 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,” “foreword,” 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.

[0044] It should be understood that the term "and / or" used in this article is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, or B existing alone. Additionally, the character " / " in this article generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "or" relationship.

[0045] See Figure 1 This is a structural block diagram of an image forming system provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 1 As shown, the image forming system includes an image forming apparatus and consumables. The image forming apparatus is the part of the image forming system that performs the image forming operation, and the consumables are replaceable parts of the image forming system. For example, when the image forming apparatus is an inkjet printer, laser printer, 3D printer, label printer, or dot matrix printer, the corresponding consumables are ink cartridges, toner cartridges, drum units, toner cartridges, ribbon cartridges, etc.

[0046] One feasible approach is to use a separate structure for the consumables, comprising a drum cartridge and a developing cartridge that are detachable from each other. The drum cartridge includes a photosensitive drum and a charging roller, while the developing cartridge includes a developer container, a developing roller, and a developer delivery element. Another feasible approach is to use a single, integrated structure for the consumables, such as including a developer container, a developing roller, a developer delivery element, a photosensitive drum, and a charging roller.

[0047] Furthermore, the consumable may also consist only of a housing and a developer container. It should be noted that the consumable may also be the aforementioned developer cartridge or drum cartridge. The aforementioned developer container is used to hold a developer such as toner, and the developer delivery element is a component such as a toner feed roller or a toner feed screw used for stirring and / or conveying the toner. Of course, the aforementioned developer cartridge may also consist only of the aforementioned developer container, and this is not limited here. Furthermore, the aforementioned developer cartridge may also consist only of the aforementioned developer container and developer delivery element, and this is not limited here.

[0048] In one possible implementation, the consumable may also include a toner cartridge and / or an imaging assembly. The toner cartridge is used to deliver toner to the imaging assembly when the toner in the imaging assembly is insufficient, so that the image forming apparatus can form an image based on the toner delivered by the imaging assembly. When the consumable is a toner cartridge, it may only include a housing and a developer container, or it may include a housing, a developer container, and a developer delivery element; this application does not limit this. When the consumable is an imaging assembly, it may include a housing, a developer container, a developer delivery unit, a charging roller, a photosensitive drum, etc. A developer transfer channel is provided between the developer container and the imaging assembly; this application embodiment does not limit this.

[0049] It should be noted that the consumables mentioned in the embodiments of this application can also be other easily damaged components, parts, or units (such as paper boxes) in the image forming apparatus that need to be replaced, which also belong to the technical solutions corresponding to the consumables protected in this application.

[0050] To facilitate consumable management, the consumables are used in conjunction with a consumable chip, which is an electronic device with storage capabilities. The consumable chip may also include other components such as a chip control unit (e.g., a microcontroller unit, MCU). In one embodiment, the consumable chip can be installed on the consumable; this can be done before or after the consumable leaves the factory. In another embodiment, the consumable chip does not need to be installed on the consumable but is fixed to the image forming apparatus using mounting hardware or adhesive. When the image forming apparatus uses the consumable, the contact points of the consumable chip make electrical contact with the corresponding contact terminals of the image forming apparatus, thereby establishing an electrical connection between the consumable chip and the image forming apparatus. When the image forming apparatus is not using the consumable (the consumable is not in operation), the contact points of the consumable chip may or may not make contact with the corresponding contact terminals of the image forming apparatus. For example, when the consumable is installed in the image forming apparatus but not used, or when the consumable is removed from the image forming apparatus. It should be noted that when the consumables are of the aforementioned split structure, including the drum cartridge and the developing cartridge which are detachable from each other, the drum cartridge and the developing cartridge are usually equipped with consumable chips respectively.

[0051] When consumables are installed on an image forming apparatus, the consumable chip communicates with the image forming apparatus. This communication connection can be via contacts, antennas, or coils, and this application embodiment does not limit this. It should be noted that the consumable chip stores information including raw data, which is information related to the image forming system. For example, the raw data can include at least one of the following categories: 1) Imaging control related parameters, such as printing engine control parameter information, specifically high-pressure control parameters, fixing temperature parameters, paper feed speed control parameters, etc. When the image forming apparatus is a color printer, it also includes color calibration parameter information or calibration patterns; 2) Consumable related parameters, such as various proportional factors for calculating toner consumption; or basic attribute information of the consumables, which specifically may include the consumable model, serial number, and capacity life. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can also design the consumable chip to store other types of raw data according to actual needs, and this application embodiment does not limit this.

[0052] In some possible implementations, the information processing device described in this application embodiment is a consumable chip or a consumable chip set. When the consumable chip is electrically connected to the image forming apparatus, the consumable chip can communicate with the image forming apparatus and provide information related to the consumable to the image forming apparatus, enabling the image forming apparatus to obtain basic information about the consumable, such as the manufacturer, type, color, capacity, and usage of the recording material (toner, ink). Additionally, during the image forming operation, the image forming apparatus can also write updated information about the consumable (e.g., developer usage) into the consumable chip. In one embodiment, the consumable chip includes a substrate and multiple contact points disposed on the substrate. Each contact point is used to electrically connect with multiple contact terminals disposed on the image forming apparatus, thereby realizing communication between the image forming apparatus and the consumable chip. The multiple contact points may include a power contact VCC, a ground contact GND, a data line contact SDA, and a clock line contact SCL. In another embodiment, the consumable chip in this application may further include an adapter board in addition to the substrate, wherein the adapter board is electrically connected to the substrate, and at least a portion of the aforementioned plurality of contact points may be disposed on the adapter board. Specifically, see [link to specific details]. Figure 2 The second communication interface 111 of the consumable chip 110 can be electrically connected to the first communication interface 104 of the image forming apparatus 100, thereby electrically connecting to the processor 101 of the image forming apparatus 100 through the first communication interface 104. In one embodiment, the first communication interface 104 and the second communication interface 111 can be I2C interfaces respectively. The second power supply interface 112 of the consumable chip 110 can be electrically connected to the first power supply interface 105 of the image forming apparatus 100, thereby allowing the image forming apparatus 100 to supply power to the consumable chip 110 through the first power supply interface 105 and the second power supply interface 112. In one embodiment, the information processing apparatus described in this application includes a first consumable chip and a second consumable chip. In some embodiments, see [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 3 The first consumable chip 110 (the first consumable chip is...) Figure 2The image forming apparatus 100 and the first consumable chip 110 are connected in communication. When the image forming apparatus 100 communicates with the first consumable chip 110, the image forming apparatus 100 acts as the master and sends instructions to the first consumable chip 110, and the first consumable chip 110 acts as the slave and responds to the instructions sent by the master. When the first consumable chip 110 and the second consumable chip 120 communicate, the first consumable chip 110 acts as the master and sends instructions to the second consumable chip 120, and the second consumable chip 120 acts as the slave and responds to the instructions sent by the first consumable chip 110. The instructions sent by the first consumable chip 110 to the second consumable chip 120 can be generated by the first consumable chip 110 or forwarded by the first consumable chip 110 from the image forming apparatus 100. In this case, the first consumable chip 110 determines which device should process the instructions sent by the image forming apparatus 100. If it determines that the instructions should be processed by the second consumable chip 120, it forwards the instructions to the second consumable chip 120. The third communication interface 113 of the first consumable chip 110 can be electrically connected to the fourth communication interface 121 of the second consumable chip 120. In one embodiment, the third communication interface 113 and the fourth communication interface 121 can be wired communication interfaces, preferably I2C interfaces, or optical, infrared, or other suitable information transmission path interfaces. In some embodiments, a switch controlled by the first consumable chip is provided in the communication link between the first consumable chip, the second consumable chip, and the image forming apparatus. When the first consumable chip determines that communication between the first consumable chip and the image forming apparatus is required at the current stage, it connects the communication link between the first consumable chip and the image forming apparatus through the switch, or keeps the communication link between the first consumable chip and the image forming apparatus connected. When the first consumable chip determines that communication between the second consumable chip and the image forming apparatus is required at the current stage, it connects the communication link between the second consumable chip and the image forming apparatus through the switch. When the first consumable chip determines that communication between the second consumable chip and the image forming apparatus is not required at the current stage, it disconnects the communication link between the second consumable chip and the image forming apparatus through the switch. The information processing device described in this application embodiment may include a chipset, which includes a first consumable chip 110 and a second consumable chip 120.

[0053] In some possible implementations, the information processing device described in this application includes the aforementioned consumable chip or consumable chip set, and an auxiliary circuit module. The consumable chip is connected to the auxiliary circuit module, specifically through a wired communication interface, or through an optical, infrared, or other suitable information transmission path interface. The auxiliary circuit module is used to implement some or additional functions of the consumable chip. The auxiliary circuit can respond to the indication of the consumable chip, or be enabled by signals other than instructions from the consumable chip, to provide corresponding data information or waveform information to the consumable chip or the main device. The auxiliary circuit module may include logic units such as AND gates, OR gates, NOT gates, and flip-flops, and may also include circuit units of devices such as FPGAs, MCUs, and DSPs. Those skilled in the art can design the auxiliary circuit module according to actual needs. The embodiments of this application do not limit the composition and specific functions of the auxiliary circuit module.

[0054] It should be noted that when the image forming apparatus can accommodate multiple consumables, each consumable is equipped with an information processing device, or some consumables are equipped with information processing devices. That is, the relationship between consumables and information processing devices can be one-to-one. For example, the image forming apparatus can accommodate six consumables, and each of these six consumables is equipped with an information processing device. The relationship between consumables and information processing devices can also be one-to-many. For example, the image forming apparatus can accommodate six consumables, and one of these consumables is equipped with an information processing device. This information processing device processes the information between the six consumables and the image forming apparatus. For example, the information processing device stores the information corresponding to the six consumables; it provides the information corresponding to the six consumables to the image forming apparatus; or it receives the information corresponding to the six consumables sent by the image forming apparatus.

[0055] Furthermore, the image forming apparatus includes an image forming control unit and an image forming unit, wherein the image forming control unit is used to control the entire image forming apparatus, and the image forming unit is used to form an image on the fed paper based on image data under the control of the image forming control unit.

[0056] The image forming control unit can be a System on Chip (SoC). An SoC is a miniature system composed of multiple system components, configured to control the imaging processing operations of the image forming apparatus. This includes processes such as linear correction, noise reduction, bad pixel removal, and detail enhancement of image data to improve the quality of the output image. The image forming control unit also performs data transmission and reception, command transmission and reception, and engine control-related processing operations for printing images. For example, it transmits and receives data, print engine control commands, and status information via interface units (including but not limited to USB ports, wired network ports, wireless network ports, or other interfaces).

[0057] See Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an image forming apparatus provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 4 As shown, the image forming unit of the image forming apparatus may include: a developer container 11, a developing component 12, a developer delivery element 13, a photosensitive component 14, a transfer component 15, and a fixing assembly 5, etc. The paper to be printed moves in the paper feeding direction, and after passing through the toner feeding operation of the developer delivery element 13 and the developing operation of the developing component 12, it reaches the clamping area between the photosensitive component 14 and the transfer component 15 for transfer, and then passes through the fixing assembly 5 for fixing to complete the image forming operation. The developer container 11 is used to hold the developer, which can be a toner, carbon powder, or other materials. The developing component 12 includes a developing roller, etc. The developer delivery element 13 includes a toner feeding roller, etc. The photosensitive component 14 includes a photosensitive drum (OPC, Organic PhotoConductor) and a charging roller, etc., wherein the charging roller is used to charge the photosensitive drum.

[0058] Typically, image forming apparatuses have at least one consumable removably mounted, to Figure 4 Taking the image forming apparatus shown as an example, the image forming apparatus is detachably equipped with four consumables (respectively...). Figure 2 The consumables 1, 2, 3 and 4 shown are used to provide the image forming apparatus with four colors of developer: black (K), cyan (C), magenta (M) and yellow (Y). Of course, in other embodiments, the number of consumables installed in the image forming apparatus can be increased or decreased, for example, to 5 or 6 or even more or less, etc. This application does not limit this.

[0059] Information processing devices are typically powered by image forming devices. In the prior art, there are adverse factors that affect the power supply voltage from the image forming device to the information processing device, such as poor contact and wear of power supply contacts. Consumables or the information processing device are often unable to properly address the problem of the image forming device supplying the information processing device with an unsatisfactory power supply voltage, which may lead to problems such as shortened lifespan of the information processing device and inability of the information processing device to respond properly to the instructions of the image forming device.

[0060] Therefore, embodiments of this application provide an information processing apparatus, an information processing method, and consumables, which can solve the problem that consumables or information processing apparatus cannot properly cope with the unsatisfactory power supply voltage from the image forming apparatus to the information processing apparatus.

[0061] Please see Figure 5The following is a flowchart illustrating an information processing method according to an embodiment of this application. The information processing method is applied to an information processing apparatus that communicates with an image forming apparatus, and includes the following execution steps:

[0062] S501: Receive a request sent by the image forming apparatus.

[0063] The image forming apparatus sends a request, causing the information processing apparatus to receive the request. Specifically, the information processing apparatus receives the request sent by the image forming apparatus, either directly or indirectly through a device such as a relay. That is, the relay first receives the request sent by the image forming apparatus, and then the information processing apparatus obtains the request sent by the image forming apparatus from the relay.

[0064] S502: Detect the power supply voltage of the image forming apparatus to the information processing apparatus.

[0065] Specifically, the information processing device may include a voltage detection unit, which may include a comparator to detect whether the supply voltage is within a specific range. The voltage detection unit may also include an ADC sampler to detect changes in the supply voltage in real time.

[0066] S503: Based on the power supply voltage, determine the response to the request received from the image forming apparatus.

[0067] Based on different power supply voltage conditions, the information processing device can determine whether to respond to the request sent by the image forming apparatus, and also determine the method of responding to the request sent by the image forming apparatus.

[0068] Furthermore, the image forming apparatus also detects the current power supply voltage of the information processing device. Based on the detected current power supply voltage, it determines whether the response of the information processing device to the request sent by the image forming apparatus is correct. If it is determined that the response of the information processing device is incorrect, the image forming apparatus may report an error and prohibit or restrict the use of the consumables corresponding to the information processing device.

[0069] It should be noted that the order of steps S501 and S502 is not limited, and those skilled in the art can determine the order of S501 and S502 according to their needs.

[0070] In an optional implementation, S501 specifically refers to S5011: receiving a voltage compensation value acquisition request sent by the image forming apparatus, that is, the request in S501 is specifically a voltage compensation value acquisition request, then S503 specifically refers to:

[0071] S5031: Determine the current range of the power supply voltage.

[0072] When the power supply voltage is lower than the first preset threshold, jump to S5032. When the power supply voltage is between the first preset threshold and the second preset threshold, that is, when the current power supply voltage is greater than or equal to the first preset threshold and less than or equal to the second preset threshold, jump to S5033. When the power supply voltage is higher than the second preset threshold, jump to S5034.

[0073] It should be noted that the first preset threshold is less than the second preset threshold. Optionally, the range between the first and second preset thresholds can be the ideal operating voltage range of the information processing device. Assuming the first preset threshold is 3.0 volts and the second preset threshold is 3.6 volts, then the closed range between 3.0 volts and 3.6 volts is the ideal operating voltage range of the information processing device.

[0074] S5032: Determine to feed back a first compensation value to the image forming apparatus, wherein the first compensation value is the difference obtained by subtracting the current power supply voltage value from the first preset threshold.

[0075] Understandably, when the current supply voltage is lower than the minimum value of the ideal operating voltage range, the supply voltage needs to be compensated to ensure that the information processing device can function normally. For example, if the current supply voltage is 2.9 volts, then the first compensation value is determined to be the minimum ideal operating voltage of 3.0 volts minus 2.9 volts, which is 0.1 volts.

[0076] S5033: Determine to feed back a compensation value of 0 to the image forming apparatus.

[0077] It is understandable that when the current power supply voltage is within the ideal operating voltage range, the image forming apparatus does not need to compensate for the power supply voltage of the information processing apparatus.

[0078] S5034: Determine to feed back a second compensation value to the image forming apparatus. The second compensation value is the difference obtained by subtracting the current power supply voltage value from the second preset threshold.

[0079] Understandably, when the current supply voltage exceeds the maximum value of the ideal operating voltage range, the supply voltage needs to be reduced to ensure that the information processing device is not damaged. For example, if the current supply voltage is 3.8 volts, then the second compensation value is determined to be the highest ideal operating voltage of 3.6 volts minus 3.8 volts, which is -0.2 volts.

[0080] Furthermore, the image forming apparatus also detects the current power supply voltage of the information processing device. Based on the detected current power supply voltage, it determines whether the information processing device correctly responds to the voltage compensation value acquisition request according to the current power supply voltage. When it is determined that the information processing device fails to correctly respond to the voltage compensation value acquisition request according to the current power supply voltage, the image forming apparatus may report an error and prohibit or restrict the use of the corresponding consumables of the information processing device. For example, when the measured current power supply voltage is 2.8 volts and the minimum ideal operating voltage is 3.0 volts, if the information processing device sends 0.2 volts to the image forming apparatus, it is determined that the information processing device and the corresponding consumables are valid, and the image forming apparatus does not report an error. If the information processing device does not respond to the voltage compensation value acquisition request or the compensation value sent is not 0.2 volts, the image forming apparatus reports an error.

[0081] In an optional implementation, S501 specifically refers to S5012: receiving a first information processing request sent by the image forming apparatus, i.e., the request in S501 is specifically a first information processing request, then S503 specifically refers to:

[0082] S5035: Determine the current supply voltage range.

[0083] When the power supply voltage is in the first preset range, jump to S5036; when the power supply voltage is in the second preset range, jump to S5037.

[0084] S5036: Determine not to respond to the first information processing request.

[0085] S5037: Determine to respond to the first information processing request.

[0086] It should be noted that the first preset interval and the second preset interval should not intersect. Preferably, the second preset interval is the preset ideal operating voltage range of the information processing device. More preferably, the first preset interval is a voltage value range other than the second preset interval. When the current power supply voltage from the image forming apparatus to the information processing device is not within the preset ideal operating voltage range of the information processing device, in order to avoid malfunction of the information processing device, the information processing device may not respond to the first information processing request sent by the image forming apparatus, thus avoiding incorrect processing of the first information processing request or damage to the information processing device.

[0087] Furthermore, the image forming apparatus also detects the current power supply voltage of the information processing device. Based on the detected current power supply voltage, it determines whether the information processing device responds correctly or not to the first information processing request according to the current power supply voltage. If it is determined that the response of the information processing device is incorrect, the image forming apparatus may report an error and prohibit or restrict the use of the consumables corresponding to the information processing device. For example, if the information processing device responds to the first information processing request when the current power supply voltage value is within a first preset range, the image forming apparatus reports an error. If the information processing device does not respond to the first information processing request within a preset time, the image forming apparatus may determine that the information processing device or the corresponding consumables are valid and does not need to report an error.

[0088] In an optional implementation, S501 specifically refers to S5013: receiving a second information processing request sent by the image forming apparatus, that is, the request in S501 is specifically a second information processing request.

[0089] In this embodiment, the second information processing request can be any one of an authentication request, a data acquisition request, or a data processing request. Specifically, the authentication request requests the information processing device to authenticate the consumable's identity. Based on the authentication request and preset response rules, the information processing device sends authentication information back to the image forming device. The image forming device then determines the legitimacy of the consumable's identity based on the authentication information. The data acquisition request requests the information processing device to send back specific data, such as consumable attribute information like the consumable's serial number, model, and version, or variable parameters like the remaining developer level, number of printed pages, and number of times the information processing device has been powered on. These variable parameters change with the consumable's usage. The data processing request requests the information processing device to perform specific data processing and send back the processed results. Further, the data processing request may include data to be processed.

[0090] S503 specifically includes:

[0091] S5038: Determine the current range of the power supply voltage.

[0092] When the power supply voltage is in the third preset range, proceed to S5039; when the power supply voltage is in the fourth preset range, proceed to S5030. The third and fourth preset ranges do not intersect.

[0093] S5039: Determine to respond to the second information processing request in a first manner.

[0094] S5030: Determine to respond to the second information processing request in a second manner.

[0095] The information processing device responds to the second information processing request in different ways depending on the power supply voltage range. Furthermore, the image forming apparatus also detects the current power supply voltage of the information processing device. Based on the detected current power supply voltage, it determines whether the information processing device is responding to the second information processing request correctly according to the current power supply voltage. If it is determined that the information processing device has failed to respond to the second information processing request correctly according to the current power supply voltage, the image forming apparatus may report an error and prohibit or restrict the use of consumables corresponding to the information processing device.

[0096] For example, when the second information processing request is an authentication request, the information processing device sends different authentication information to the image forming device in S5039 and S5030 respectively. Furthermore, the image forming device also detects the current power supply voltage of the information processing device. Based on the detected current power supply voltage, it determines whether the information processing device responds correctly to the second information processing request according to the current power supply voltage. When it is determined that the information processing device fails to respond correctly to the second information processing request according to the current power supply voltage, the image forming device may report an error and prohibit or restrict the use of consumables corresponding to the information processing device. For example, according to the preset response rules, when the current power supply voltage value is in the third preset range, the information processing device needs to send authentication information A to the image forming device based on the second information processing request. When the current power supply voltage value is in the fourth preset range, the information processing device needs to send authentication information B to the image forming device based on the second information processing request. If the current power supply voltage is in the third preset range, the information processing device fails to provide authentication information A to the image forming device based on the second information processing request, and the image forming device reports an error. If the current power supply voltage is in the fourth preset range, the information processing device fails to provide authentication information B to the image forming device based on the second information processing request, and the image forming device reports an error.

[0097] For example, when the second information processing request is a data acquisition request, the information processing device feeds back specific data to the image forming device in different ways in S6039 and S6030. Furthermore, the image forming device also detects the current power supply voltage of the information processing device. Based on the detected current power supply voltage, it determines whether the information processing device correctly responds to the second information processing request according to the current power supply voltage. When it is determined that the information processing device fails to correctly respond to the second information processing request according to the current power supply voltage, the image forming device may report an error and prohibit or restrict the use of consumables corresponding to the information processing device. For example, according to the preset response rules, when the current power supply voltage value is in the third preset range, the information processing device needs to feed back specific data to the image forming device in the form of a data frame on the communication data line based on the second information processing request. When the current power supply voltage value is in the fourth preset range, the information processing device needs to feed back specific data to the image forming device in the form of a level or pulse on the clock line based on the feedback of the second information processing request. If the current power supply voltage is in the third preset range, and the information processing device fails to feed back specific data to the image forming device in the form of data frames on the communication data line, the image forming device will report an error. If the current power supply voltage is in the fourth preset range, and the information processing device fails to feed back specific data to the image forming device in the form of levels or pulses on the clock line, the image forming device will report an error.

[0098] For example, when the second information processing request is a data processing request, the information processing device feeds back different types of data processing results to the image forming device in S5039 and S5030 respectively. Furthermore, the image forming device also detects the current power supply voltage of the information processing device. Based on the detected current power supply voltage, it determines whether the information processing device responds to the second information processing request correctly according to the current power supply voltage. When it is determined that the information processing device fails to respond to the second information processing request correctly according to the current power supply voltage, the image forming device may report an error and prohibit or restrict the use of consumables corresponding to the information processing device. For example, according to the preset response rules, when the current power supply voltage value is in the third preset range, the information processing device needs to feed back the processing result of type C to the image forming device based on the second information processing request. When the current power supply voltage value is in the fourth preset range, the information processing device needs to feed back the processing result of type D to the image forming device based on the second information processing request. If the current power supply voltage is in the third preset range, the information processing device fails to feed back the C-type processing result to the image forming device, and the image forming device reports an error. If the current power supply voltage is in the fourth preset range, the information processing device fails to feed back the D-type processing result to the image forming device, and the image forming device reports an error.

[0099] This application embodiment also provides an information processing apparatus, including:

[0100] The image forming apparatus supplies power to the information processing apparatus through the power supply contact;

[0101] A receiving unit is configured to receive a request sent by the image forming apparatus;

[0102] A voltage detection unit is used to detect the power supply voltage of the image forming apparatus to the information processing apparatus.

[0103] The determining unit is configured to determine, based on the power supply voltage, the response to the request received from the image forming apparatus.

[0104] In one possible implementation, the receiving unit is specifically configured to receive a voltage compensation value acquisition request sent by the image forming apparatus;

[0105] The determining unit is specifically configured to, when the power supply voltage is lower than a first preset threshold, determine to feed back a first compensation value to the image forming apparatus, wherein the first compensation value is the difference between the first preset threshold and the current power supply voltage value, and / or, when the power supply voltage is higher than a second preset threshold, determine to feed back a second compensation value to the image forming apparatus, wherein the second compensation value is the difference between the second preset threshold and the current power supply voltage value, wherein the first preset threshold is less than the second preset threshold.

[0106] In one possible implementation, the receiving unit is specifically configured to receive a first information processing request sent by the image forming apparatus;

[0107] The determining unit is specifically configured to determine not to respond to the first information processing request when the current power supply voltage value is in a first preset range, and to respond to the first information processing request when the current power supply voltage value is in a second preset range, wherein the first preset range and the second preset range do not intersect, and the first preset range is the preset ideal operating voltage range of the information processing device.

[0108] In one possible implementation, the receiving unit is specifically configured to receive a second information processing request sent by the image forming apparatus;

[0109] The determining unit is specifically configured to determine, when the power supply voltage is in a third preset range, to respond to the second information processing request in a first manner, and when the power supply voltage is in a fourth preset range, to respond to the second information processing request in a second manner, wherein the third preset range and the fourth preset range do not intersect.

[0110] Specifically, in the embodiments of this application, the aforementioned receiving unit, voltage detection unit, and determining unit can be implemented in software or in hardware, and the embodiments of this application do not limit this.

[0111] For example, the aforementioned voltage detection unit is implemented in hardware, such as including an input unit, a logic comparison circuit, and an output unit. The logic comparison circuit can be composed of logic units such as AND gates, OR gates, NOT gates, and flip-flops.

[0112] The aforementioned receiving unit, voltage detection unit, and determining unit can be circuit units including devices such as FPGA, MCU, and DSP. The transmitting unit can also implement its function by building a specific waveform generator circuit. The receiving unit, voltage detection unit, and determining unit can also implement their corresponding functions by building a digital logic calculator. This application does not further limit the specific implementation form of each unit.

[0113] In one possible implementation, at least one of the receiving unit, voltage detection unit, and determining unit can be an external module electrically connected to the consumable chip, meaning that the aforementioned consumable includes the consumable chip and an external module electrically connected to the consumable chip.

[0114] In one possible implementation, the aforementioned receiving unit, voltage detection unit, and determining unit are not other units of an external module electrically connected to the consumable chip, but are directly included in the consumable chip.

[0115] In one possible implementation, the aforementioned receiving unit, voltage detection unit, and determining unit are included in the first control unit of the consumable chip.

[0116] In one possible implementation, some of the aforementioned receiving unit, voltage detection unit, and determining unit are disposed in the consumable chip, while the remaining units are disposed in a first chip that communicates with the consumable chip. Preferably, the receiving unit is disposed in the consumable chip, and the voltage detection unit and determining unit are disposed in the first chip that communicates with the consumable chip. In some embodiments, the communication interface between the consumable chip and the first chip is a wired communication interface, preferably an I2C interface. In some embodiments, a switch controlled by the consumable chip is provided in the communication link between the consumable chip, the first chip, and the image forming apparatus. When the consumable chip determines that communication between the first chip and the image forming apparatus is required at the current stage, it connects the communication link between the first chip and the image forming apparatus through the switch, or keeps the communication link between the first chip and the image forming apparatus connected. When the consumable chip determines that communication between the first chip and the image forming apparatus is required at the current stage, it connects the communication link between the first chip and the image forming apparatus through the switch. When the consumable chip determines that communication between the first chip and the image forming apparatus is not required at the current stage, it disconnects the communication link between the first chip and the image forming apparatus through the switch.

[0117] It should be noted that, since there is a corresponding relationship between consumable chips and consumables, each unit of the information processing device can be set on the consumable chip, or be an external module electrically connected to the consumable chip, or be set in the first chip that communicates with the consumable chip.

[0118] Corresponding to the above embodiments, this application also provides a consumable.

[0119] This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a consumable provided in an embodiment of this application. The consumable includes a housing; a developer container located inside the housing for containing developer; and the information processing device described in the foregoing embodiments.

[0120] Furthermore, the consumable also includes a developer delivery element for delivering developer.

[0121] Furthermore, the consumable also includes a photosensitive drum and a charging roller for charging the photosensitive drum.

[0122] In one possible implementation, the consumable also includes a photosensitive drum; a charging roller for charging the photosensitive drum; and the aforementioned information processing device described in the above embodiments.

[0123] It should be noted that the specific details of the information processing device can be found in the description of the above embodiments, and will not be repeated here for the sake of brevity.

[0124] See Figure 11 This is a structural block diagram of an image forming apparatus provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 11As shown, the image forming apparatus includes a controller configured to perform some or all of the methods performed by the image forming apparatus in the above method embodiments.

[0125] It should be noted that the specific content involved in the embodiments of this application can be found in the description of the above method embodiments, and will not be repeated here for the sake of brevity.

[0126] Corresponding to the above embodiments, this application also provides a consumable.

[0127] See Figure 6 This is a structural schematic diagram of a consumable provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 6 As shown, the consumable includes a housing; a developer container located inside the housing for containing developer; and the information processing device described in the above embodiments.

[0128] See Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of another consumable provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 7 As shown, this consumable is in Figure 6 The illustrated embodiment also includes a developer delivery element for delivering developer.

[0129] See Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of another consumable provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 8 As shown, this consumable is in Figure 7 The embodiment shown also includes a photosensitive drum and a charging roller for charging the photosensitive drum.

[0130] See Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of another consumable provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 9 As shown, the consumable includes a photosensitive drum; a charging roller for charging the photosensitive drum; and the information processing device described in the above embodiments.

[0131] It should be pointed out that, Figures 6-9 The specific details of the information processing device in the illustrated embodiment can be found in the description of the above embodiment, and will not be repeated here for the sake of brevity.

[0132] Corresponding to the above embodiments, this application also provides an image forming system, which includes the consumables and image forming apparatus described in the above embodiments, wherein the image forming apparatus and the consumable chip are communicatively connected.

[0133] It should be noted that the specific content involved in the embodiments of this application can be found in the description of the above embodiments, and will not be repeated here for the sake of brevity.

[0134] Corresponding to the above embodiments, this application also provides a computer-readable storage medium, wherein the computer-readable storage medium may store a program, wherein when the program runs, it can control the device where the computer-readable storage medium is located to execute some or all of the steps in the above method embodiments. Specifically, the computer-readable storage medium may be a magnetic disk, an optical disk, read-only memory (ROM), or random access memory (RAM), etc.

[0135] Corresponding to the above embodiments, this application also provides a computer program product containing executable instructions that, when executed on a computer, cause the computer to perform some or all of the steps in the above method embodiments.

[0136] In this application embodiment, "at least one" refers to one or more, and "more than one" refers to two or more. "And / or" describes the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent the existence of A alone, the simultaneous existence of A and B, or the existence of B alone. A and B can be singular or plural. The character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects are in an "or" relationship. "At least one of the following" and similar expressions refer to any combination of these items, including any combination of single or plural items. For example, at least one of a, b, and c can represent: a, b, c, ab, ac, bc, or abc, where a, b, and c can be single or multiple.

[0137] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the units and algorithm steps described in the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented using electronic hardware, computer software, or a combination of electronic hardware and software. Whether these functions are implemented in hardware or software depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of this application.

[0138] Those skilled in the art will understand that, for the sake of convenience and brevity, the specific working processes of the systems, devices, and units described above can be referred to the corresponding processes in the foregoing method embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0139] In the several embodiments provided in this application, any function, if implemented as a software functional unit and sold or used as an independent product, can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of this application, in essence, or the part that contributes to the prior art, or a part of the technical solution, can be embodied in the form of a software product. This computer software product is stored in a storage medium and includes several instructions to cause a computer device (which may be a personal computer, server, or network device, etc.) to execute all or part of the steps of the methods described in the various embodiments of this application. The aforementioned storage medium includes various media capable of storing program code, such as USB flash drives, portable hard drives, read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic disks, or optical disks.

[0140] The foregoing description is merely a specific embodiment of this application. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in this application should be included within the protection scope of this application. The protection scope of this application shall be determined by the protection scope of the foregoing claims.

Claims

1. An information processing apparatus, wherein the information processing apparatus communicates with an image forming apparatus, characterized in that, include: The image forming apparatus supplies power to the information processing apparatus through the power supply contact; A receiving unit is configured to receive a request sent by the image forming apparatus; A voltage detection unit is used to detect the current power supply voltage value of the image forming apparatus to the information processing apparatus; The determining unit is used to determine the response status to the request based on the range in which the current power supply voltage value is located; When the request is a second information processing request, the determining unit is further configured to: When the second information processing request is an authentication request and the current power supply voltage value is within a third preset range, it is determined that authentication information A is fed back to the image forming device based on the second information processing request. When the second information processing request is an authentication request and the current power supply voltage value is in the fourth preset range, it is determined that authentication information B is fed back to the image forming device based on the second information processing request. When the second information processing request is a data acquisition request and the current power supply voltage value is within the third preset range, it is determined that data will be fed back to the image forming device in the form of data frames on the communication data line based on the second information processing request. When the second information processing request is a data acquisition request and the current power supply voltage value is within the fourth preset range, it is determined that data is fed back to the image forming device on the clock line in the form of a level or pulse based on the second information processing request. When the second information processing request is a data processing request and the current power supply voltage value is within the third preset range, it is determined that the C-type processing result will be fed back to the image forming device based on the second information processing request. When the second information processing request is a data processing request and the current power supply voltage value is within the fourth preset range, it is determined that the D-type processing result will be fed back to the image forming device based on the second information processing request. The third preset interval does not intersect with the fourth preset interval.

2. The information processing device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The request is for obtaining voltage compensation values; The determining unit is specifically configured to, when the current power supply voltage value is lower than a first preset threshold, determine to feed back a first compensation value to the image forming apparatus, wherein the first compensation value is the difference obtained by subtracting the current power supply voltage value from the first preset threshold, and / or, specifically configured to, when the current power supply voltage value is higher than a second preset threshold, determine to feed back a second compensation value to the image forming apparatus, wherein the second compensation value is the difference obtained by subtracting the current power supply voltage value from the second preset threshold, wherein the first preset threshold is less than the second preset threshold.

3. The information processing device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The request is a first information processing request; The determining unit is specifically configured to determine not to respond to the first information processing request when the current power supply voltage value is in a first preset range, and to determine to respond to the first information processing request when the current power supply voltage value is in a second preset range, wherein the first preset range and the second preset range do not intersect, and the first preset range is the preset ideal operating voltage range of the information processing device.

4. An information processing method applied to an information processing apparatus, the information processing apparatus communicating with an image forming apparatus, the information processing apparatus including a power supply contact, the image forming apparatus supplying power to the information processing apparatus through the power supply contact, characterized in that... The method includes: Receive the request sent by the image forming apparatus; Detect the current power supply voltage value of the image forming apparatus to the information processing apparatus; Based on the range of the current power supply voltage value, determine the response to the request; Wherein, when the request is a second information processing request, determining the response to the request based on the range of the current power supply voltage value includes: When the second information processing request is an authentication request and the current power supply voltage value is within a third preset range, authentication information A is fed back to the image forming device based on the second information processing request. When the second information processing request is an authentication request, and the current power supply voltage value is in the fourth preset range, authentication information B is fed back to the image forming device based on the second information processing request. When the second information processing request is a data acquisition request and the current power supply voltage value is in the third preset range, data is fed back to the image forming device in the form of data frames on the communication data line based on the second information processing request. When the second information processing request is a data acquisition request, and the current power supply voltage value is in the fourth preset range, data is fed back to the image forming device on the clock line in the form of a level or pulse based on the second information processing request. When the second information processing request is a data processing request and the current power supply voltage value is in the third preset range, the C-type processing result is fed back to the image forming device based on the second information processing request. When the second information processing request is a data processing request and the current power supply voltage value is in the fourth preset range, the D-type processing result is fed back to the image forming device based on the second information processing request. The third preset interval does not intersect with the fourth preset interval.

5. The information processing method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The request is for obtaining voltage compensation values; The step of determining the response to the request based on the range of the current power supply voltage value includes: when the current power supply voltage value is lower than a first preset threshold, determining to feed back a first compensation value to the image forming apparatus, wherein the first compensation value is the difference between the first preset threshold and the current power supply voltage value; and / or, when the current power supply voltage value is higher than a second preset threshold, determining to feed back a second compensation value to the image forming apparatus, wherein the second compensation value is the difference between the second preset threshold and the current power supply voltage value, wherein the first preset threshold is less than the second preset threshold.

6. The information processing method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The request is a first information processing request; The step of determining the response to the request based on the range of the current power supply voltage value includes: when the current power supply voltage value is in a first preset range, determining not to respond to the first information processing request; when the current power supply voltage value is in a second preset range, determining to respond to the first information processing request, wherein the first preset range and the second preset range do not intersect, and the first preset range is the preset ideal operating voltage range of the information processing device.

7. A consumable, characterized in that, include: case; A developer container, located inside the housing, is used to contain the developer; as well as The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1-3.

8. The consumable according to claim 7, characterized in that, The consumables also include: A developer delivery element for delivering the developer.

9. The consumable according to claim 8, characterized in that, The consumables also include: Photosensitive drum; A charging roller is used to charge the photosensitive drum.

10. A consumable, characterized in that, The consumables include: Photosensitive drum; A charging roller for charging the photosensitive drum; and The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1-3.

Images