Dynamic CPU Frequency Control for Network Packet Processing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing image processing apparatuses face delays in responding to network packets due to fixed power-saving activation periods, which can lead to incomplete or delayed packet response processes, especially for packets requiring immediate attention.

Innovation Solution

An image processing apparatus with a main CPU and a sub CPU, where the operating frequency of the main CPU is dynamically determined based on the type of network packet received, allowing for immediate response and optimized power consumption by adjusting the activation period and frequency accordingly.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Use of energy by stationary object

If the main CPU is stopped by power saving function, then power consumption is reduced, but response time to network packets increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower consumptionVSAvoidresponse time
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by stationary objectVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by making the CPU activation period variable rather than fixed. The control unit dynamically adjusts the activation period of the main CPU based on the type of network packet received. For high-priority packets requiring immediate attention, the activation period is shortened, allowing faster response. For low-priority packets, the activation period remains longer, maintaining power savings. This dynamic adjustment resolves the contradiction between power consumption and response time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Device complexity

If the main CPU is activated with fixed activation period, then power management is simplified, but packet response completeness deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower management complexityVSAvoidpacket response completeness
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by differentiating the activation period based on the specific type of network packet. Instead of using a uniform activation period for all packets, the control unit identifies the packet type and assigns appropriate activation periods tailored to each packet's requirements. High-priority packets receive shorter activation periods for immediate processing, while low-priority packets use longer periods. This localized differentiation ensures packet response completeness without excessive complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Speed

If the main CPU operates at highest clock frequency, then packet processing speed is improved, but power consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepacket processing speedVSAvoidpower consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSUse of energy by stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by dynamically adjusting the clock frequency of the main CPU based on packet priority and activation period requirements. For high-priority packets requiring immediate attention, the CPU operates at highest clock frequency to ensure fast processing. For low-priority packets where timing is less critical, the CPU operates at lower frequencies, reducing power consumption. This parameter adjustment resolves the contradiction between processing speed and power consumption.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS11316998B2Image processing apparatus, image processing method, and recording medium for determining an operating frequency in accordance with a type of a network packet
Publication Date: 2022.04.26 RICOH CO LTD
  • US11316998B2 patent drawing
  • US11316998B2 patent drawing
  • US11316998B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An image processing apparatus includes a first processor and a second processor. The first processor has a power saving function. The second processor is configured to consume less power than the first processor during operation. When the first processor stopped by the power saving function is activated in response to reception of a network packet, the first processor determines an operating frequency of the first processor in accordance with a type of the network packet.