Dual Control Unit Power Management for Information Processing Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing information processing apparatuses face challenges in reducing power consumption by effectively coordinating the active states of multiple devices, leading to inefficient power management and increased idle state duration.
Innovation Solution
An information processing apparatus with a dual control unit system that manages the active states of first and second devices, where the first device's active state determines the timing for starting processes in the second device, utilizing a notification and storage mechanism to synchronize device operations and reduce power usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If devices are controlled independently without coordination, then device operation flexibility is maintained, but power consumption increases due to extended active states
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the control of multiple devices under a coordinated system where the active state of one device (first device) determines the timing for starting processes in another device (second device). This combining of control logic allows the system to extend idle states and reduce overall power consumption while maintaining operational flexibility through the notification and storage mechanism.
2Use of energy by moving object
If the active state of the first device determines the timing for starting the second device, then power consumption is reduced, but device response time may increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by having the first control unit notify the second control unit in advance when the first device enters an active state. The second control unit stores this notification and prepares to execute the second request when notified, allowing the system to reduce power consumption by keeping devices in idle state longer while still responding timely through pre-arranged notification protocols.
3Speed
If multiple devices operate simultaneously in active state, then processing speed is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by coordinating device activation in cycles rather than simultaneously. The second device starts its process based on the active state timing of the first device, creating a staggered operational pattern. This periodic coordination allows processing to occur in an organized sequence that reduces overall power consumption while maintaining system throughput.
Data Source
AI summary
According to an embodiment, an information processing apparatus includes: a first control unit to control a first device; and a second control unit to control a second device. The first control unit includes a first request processing unit, a notification unit, and a first execution unit. The second request processing unit receives a second request including an instruction to start a process of the second device. The notification unit notifies the second control unit that the first control unit receives a first request. The second execution unit executes a second request received by the second request processing unit when the first device is in the active state, and executes the second request stored in the storage unit when the notification is received by the notification receiving unit.