Capacitor-Based Power Saving Mode for Image Forming Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image forming apparatuses face limitations in power consumption reduction due to the need for continuous commercial power supply in power saving modes, such as standby and sleep modes, which restricts the efficiency of power source usage.
Innovation Solution
An image forming apparatus that converts AC voltage from a commercial power source into DC voltage using a rectifying circuit and an electric storage device, with a relay between the commercial power source and the rectifying circuit, allowing the electric storage device to charge and discharge, and a residual potential monitoring circuit to control the relay, thereby cutting off commercial power supply during power saving modes and using stored charge for operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If the image forming apparatus operates in power saving modes (standby or sleep mode), then power consumption is reduced, but the apparatus cannot perform printing operations immediately without shifting modes
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus performs preliminary actions by pre-charging the electric storage device (capacitor) during power saving modes. The monitoring circuit detects when sufficient charge is stored to support a printing operation, allowing the system to transition directly to print mode without mode shifting. This preliminary energy storage enables immediate printing while maintaining power saving benefits.
2Productivity
If the apparatus continuously maintains heating state for rapid toner transfer, then printing speed is improved, but power consumption increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of continuous heating, the system uses periodic action by charging the electric storage device in intervals during power saving modes. The monitoring circuit triggers power supply to the heater only when sufficient energy is available in the storage device, enabling rapid printing without continuous power consumption. This periodic energy delivery maintains printing capability while reducing overall power usage.
3Loss of energy
If the apparatus shifts between standby and sleep modes, then power source efficiency is improved, but the complexity of power management increases
Solution Approach 1:
The monitoring circuit provides feedback by continuously detecting the charge level of the electric storage device and comparing it against threshold values. This feedback mechanism automatically controls the relay switch to connect or disconnect the power supply based on real-time energy availability, eliminating the need for complex software-based mode management while maintaining power source efficiency.
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 significantly reduces power consumption by cutting off commercial power during power saving modes and using stored energy, enhancing power source efficiency and extending the retention time of the electric storage device, thus minimizing the number of charging cycles.
Implementation Method 1
converts AC voltage from a commercial power source into DC voltage through a rectifying circuit
Implementation Method 2
an electric storage device, capable of charging and discharging
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided an image forming apparatus including: a load device which performs a copy function, a scan function, a print function and the like; and a power saving mode such as a standby mode and a sleep mode. When the image forming apparatus is in the power saving mode, electric charge charged in an electric storage device such as an electrolytic capacitor which is a low voltage power source is used to execute the power saving mode. When an electric potential of the electric storage device is lower than a predetermined threshold, the electric storage device is charged by a commercial power source.