Adjustable Human Sensor for Image Forming Apparatus Power Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Image forming apparatuses with human sensors face challenges in efficiently switching between power save and normal modes, leading to prolonged return times to normal operation when a user is detected, which affects power consumption and user experience.
Innovation Solution
An image forming apparatus with a human sensor that adjusts its detection distance and illumination direction in conjunction with an adjustable illumination light, controlled by a controller to optimize power usage and user interaction, by turning on/off the illumination based on the opening/closing of paper feed cassettes and front covers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If the image forming apparatus switches to power save mode when not used for a long time, then power consumption is reduced, but the time required to return to normal operating mode is prolonged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the detection distance of the human sensor adjustable rather than fixed. The detection distance can be dynamically changed between a first distance (longer) and a second distance (shorter) based on operational conditions. This allows the system to adapt its sensor range dynamically, resolving the contradiction between power saving and quick return to normal mode by using longer detection distance only when necessary.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of detection distance to resolve the technical contradiction. By adjusting the detection distance parameter between two specific values, the system can optimize power consumption during idle periods while ensuring rapid detection and return to normal mode when users approach, thus resolving the contradiction between power saving and response time.
2Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If the detection distance of the human sensor is increased to detect users from farther away, then user detection capability is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the detection distance based on operational mode. During power save mode, the detection distance is set to the shorter second distance to reduce power consumption. When in normal operating mode or when quick return is needed, the detection distance is set to the longer first distance to improve user detection capability. This dynamic adjustment resolves the contradiction between detection capability and power consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements periodic switching between different detection distances based on operational conditions. The human sensor alternates between first and second detection distances depending on whether the apparatus is in normal mode or power save mode, creating a periodic action pattern that balances detection capability with power consumption requirements.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution reduces power consumption while ensuring a quicker return to normal operation mode when a user is detected, enhancing user experience by optimizing sensor activation and deactivation based on actual usage.
Implementation Method 1
An image forming apparatus provided with a human sensor to detect the presence or approach of a possible user
Implementation Method 2
an illumination light configured to emit light in an illumination direction
Data Source
AI summary
According to one embodiment, an image forming apparatus includes a housing, a first sensor configured to detect a user in front of the housing, an illumination light configured to emit light in an illumination direction, and an opening and closing element configured to open and close a portion of the housing. A second sensor is configured to detect the opening and the closing of the opening and closing element. An adjuster is configured to change a detection distance of the first sensor and the illumination direction in conjunction with each other by physical movement. A controller is configured to turn on the illumination light when the opening and closing element is open, and turn off the illumination light when is closed.