Dual Power Mode Scanner with Dynamic Voltage Switching

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional scanners are limited by their fixed power supply options, either relying on USB power which reduces operation speed or external power which compromises portability, necessitating a solution for flexible and convenient power management.

Innovation Solution

A dual power mode scanning apparatus featuring a detection module, switch unit, and power controller that selectively uses USB power or external power, or both, to optimize operation speed and portability by dynamically switching between voltage sources based on availability and need.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the scanner is supplied with power from USB signal, then the portability of the scanner is improved, but the operation speed of the scanner decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveportabilityVSAvoidoperation speed
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The power supply system is made dynamic by enabling automatic switching between USB power mode and external power mode based on detection of power source availability and scanner operational requirements. The system dynamically adjusts power source selection rather than being fixed to one mode, resolving the contradiction between portability and operation speed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The scanner performs self-detection of power source status and automatically selects the appropriate power mode without requiring manual intervention from the user. The detection module monitors power availability and the controller autonomously switches between USB and external power sources, allowing the system to serve itself in power management.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Productivity

If the scanner is supplied with power from external adaptor, then the operation speed of the scanner is improved, but the portability of the scanner decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperation speedVSAvoidportability
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically switches between external power mode and USB power mode based on real-time detection of power source availability and scanner operational needs. This dynamic adaptation allows the scanner to achieve high operation speed when external power is available while maintaining portability when external power is not available.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The power supply system is designed to accept multiple power sources (both USB power and external power) and automatically adapt to whichever source is available. This multi-functionality in power acceptance allows the scanner to maintain both portability and operation speed performance in different usage scenarios.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Device complexity

If the scanner uses fixed power supply mode, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability of the scanner decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower supply structureVSAvoidpower mode flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The power supply structure is made dynamic with automatic switching capability between different power modes based on detected power source availability. The detection module continuously monitors power status and the controller automatically adjusts the power mode, providing adaptability without requiring complex manual configuration or multiple fixed circuits.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The scanner autonomously manages its power supply by detecting available power sources and automatically selecting the appropriate mode. This self-service power management provides adaptability to different power sources without adding complex user interface elements or manual switching mechanisms, thus avoiding excessive device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS8345322B2Scanning apparatus having dual power mode
Publication Date: 2013.01.01 GENESYS LOGIC INC
  • US8345322B2 patent drawing
  • US8345322B2 patent drawing
  • US8345322B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A scanning apparatus having dual power mode is described. The scanning apparatus includes a detection module, a switch unit, and a power controller. The detection module detects a first voltage signal and a second voltage signal for generating a detecting signal. The switch unit receives the commands from the power controller for outputting the first voltage signal and/or the second voltage signal to the image acquiring device of the scanning apparatus. The power controller determines whether the first voltage signal is detected according to the detecting signal. While the first voltage signal is detected, the power controller controls the switch unit to output the first voltage signal and/or the second voltage signal to the image acquiring device. While the first voltage signal is not exist, the power controller controls the switch unit to output the second voltage signal to the image acquiring device.