Asynchronous Bus Timing Adaptation for Submodule Authentication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image forming devices face challenges in distinguishing between genuine and non-genuine detachable submodules due to unchangeable detection timing in asynchronous serial communication, leading to potential malfunctions and difficulty in preventing the attachment of unauthorized submodules.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a detection timing changing unit and a timing update notification transmission unit in the master control unit, coupled with a notification signal detection unit and a transmission signal changing unit in the slave control unit, allows for adaptive signal detection timing changes based on predetermined rules, ensuring only authorized submodules can maintain communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If fixed detection timing is used in asynchronous serial communication, then communication simplicity is maintained, but security against unauthorized submodules is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the detection timing changeable rather than fixed. The master control unit dynamically adjusts the detection timing of signals from slave control units based on predetermined rules, creating a time-varying detection mechanism that prevents unauthorized submodules from communicating effectively while maintaining system reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of detection timing from a constant value to a variable parameter. By modifying when signals are detected according to predetermined rules, the system creates a parameter-based security mechanism that distinguishes genuine submodules (which can adapt to timing changes) from unauthorized ones, thereby improving security without requiring fundamentally new communication protocols
2Reliability
If adaptive detection timing is implemented, then security against non-genuine submodules is improved, but communication protocol complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by establishing predetermined rules for timing changes before actual communication occurs. These rules are pre-configured in the master control unit, allowing the system to automatically adjust detection timing without real-time complex decision-making, thereby improving authentication reliability while limiting the increase in control unit complexity to predefined logic
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback by having the master control unit monitor communication signals and adjust detection timing based on received information. The slave control units provide feedback through their responses, allowing the master to adaptively change detection timing, creating a feedback loop that enhances security while distributing complexity across the communication protocol
3Adaptability or versatility
If timing change notification is transmitted, then slave control units can adapt to timing changes, but additional communication overhead is introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the timing change notification with existing communication signals. Instead of introducing separate dedicated notification channels, the timing information is integrated into the normal signal exchange between master and slave control units, allowing slaves to adapt to timing changes while minimizing additional communication overhead through signal consolidation
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is an image processing apparatus to form an image on a sheet of paper, including a main body and a submodule detachably disposed on the main body. The main body includes an asynchronous serial bus and a master control unit. The submodule includes a slave control unit. An interactive asynchronous serial communication is performed between the master control unit and slave control unit. The master control unit includes a detection timing changing unit. The detection timing changing unit changes a scheduled timing to detect a second signal. The slave control unit includes a transmission signal changing unit. The transmission signal changing unit changes a state of the second signal from a first state detectable by the master control unit at a first timing to a second state detectable by the master control unit at a second timing.