Control System Proximate Remote Restore Timing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing control systems for devices like multifunction printers (MFPs) experience prolonged restore wait times for users, especially when restoration is initiated from a remote location, leading to increased user dissatisfaction and power consumption.
Innovation Solution
A control system that differentiates between restore instructions from proximate and remote locations, altering the timing of restoration processes to prioritize immediate power-up for essential functions when a user is nearby, thereby reducing wait times and optimizing power usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If the control unit restores from energy-saving mode using a uniform timing for all restore instructions, then the restoration process is simple to manage, but the user wait time is prolonged especially for remote restore instructions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments restore instructions into two categories: proximate restore instructions (from users nearby the device) and remote restore instructions (from users away from the device). The restorer identifies the restore cause and applies different restoration timings based on this segmentation. For proximate restores, the control unit restores immediately, while for remote restores, it delays restoration until necessary, thereby reducing user wait time for proximate users without unnecessarily increasing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic restoration timing by making the restoration process adaptable based on the restore cause. The restorer dynamically adjusts the restoration timing: immediate restoration for proximate instructions and delayed restoration for remote instructions. This dynamic approach optimizes user wait time while managing power consumption efficiently, avoiding the need for a fixed uniform timing approach.
2Loss of time
If the control unit restores all functions immediately upon receiving a restore instruction, then user wait time is minimized, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by restoring only the necessary functions based on the restore cause rather than all functions uniformly. For remote restore instructions, the system delays restoration and activates only essential functions when needed. This partial restoration approach reduces power consumption compared to immediate full restoration, while still meeting user needs by restoring critical functions promptly.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the timing parameter of restoration based on the restore cause. By adjusting when restoration occurs (immediate for proximate, delayed for remote) and what gets restored (full vs. essential functions), the system optimizes the balance between user wait time and power consumption. This parameter adjustment allows flexible control over the restoration process to match actual user needs.
3Use of energy by moving object
If the control unit maintains energy-saving mode for extended periods, then power consumption is minimized, but user satisfaction decreases due to longer wait times
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses feedback by having the restorer identify the restore cause (proximate or remote instruction) and use this information to adjust restoration behavior. This feedback mechanism allows the system to respond appropriately to different user scenarios: providing immediate restoration for proximate users to maintain satisfaction, while delaying restoration for remote users to conserve power. The feedback loop ensures user satisfaction is maintained when needed without unnecessary power consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic restoration timing that adapts to user proximity and restore cause. The system transitions between energy-saving mode and active restoration based on real-time conditions. For proximate restore instructions, the system dynamically activates immediate restoration to maintain user satisfaction. For remote instructions, it maintains energy-saving mode longer, dynamically adjusting power consumption based on actual user needs rather than following a fixed schedule.
Data Source
AI summary
A control system includes: a controller that controls a control unit of a control device, the control unit controlling multiple function units; and a restorer that is capable of receiving a first instruction for restoration from an energy-saving mode from a user who is in a proximate location near the controller, and a second instruction for the restoration from a user who is in a location further away than the proximate location, the restorer altering a timing for restoration of the control unit between a case where there the first instruction is received and a case where the second instruction is received.