Dual Processor Image Forming Apparatus Synchronization
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Solution Overview
Problem
In image forming apparatuses with two sections, there is a risk of executing different image forming processes on a single sheet due to independent and cooperative commands being misinterpreted, leading to inconsistent or incomplete image formation.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus includes processors that manage image forming sections, where a cooperative command is used to synchronize both sections, and a preparation command is transmitted to ensure both sections execute the same image formation command, with completion notifications ensuring coordinated operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If two controllers independently receive image formation commands, then each controller can control its image forming section independently, but there is a risk that different image forming processes are executed on a single sheet
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a sheet determination unit as an intermediary that receives image formation commands and determines which image forming section should execute them. This mediator prevents direct independent control while maintaining the ability to route commands appropriately, ensuring both controllers operate consistently on the same sheet without conflicting processes
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the command reception and determination functions into a unified sheet determination unit that coordinates both controllers. By combining these functions rather than allowing independent parallel operation, the system ensures that only one image forming process is executed per sheet, eliminating the risk of conflicting operations while preserving independent control capabilities through proper command routing
2Reliability
If a cooperative command is transmitted to both controllers, then synchronized image formation can be achieved, but the second controller may receive the cooperative command without receiving the independent command first, causing execution inconsistency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by having the sheet determination unit determine the appropriate image forming section and prepare the command routing before transmitting to either controller. This preliminary determination ensures that the correct controller receives the command first, eliminating timing conflicts and synchronization delays while maintaining reliable coordinated execution
3Productivity
If the first controller executes an image forming process for an independent command before receiving a cooperative command, then the independent process can complete, but the second controller lacks the necessary command information to synchronize
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by having the sheet determination unit monitor command reception status and dynamically adjust command routing based on which controller has received and is executing commands. This feedback mechanism ensures that the second controller receives appropriate command information to synchronize with the first controller, preventing information loss while allowing independent processes to complete efficiently
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus including a first processor and a second processor are provided. When the two processors receive a cooperative command for forming images respectively at first and second image forming sections, the first processor transmits a preparation command for performing image formation preparation in the second image forming section to the second processor, and the second processor performs the image formation preparation in the second image forming section and transmits a completion notification to the first processor upon completion, and the first processor executes an image forming process. When the first processor receives an independent command for forming an image at the first image forming section but not at the second image forming section and subsequently receives the cooperative command, the first processor transmits the preparation command corresponding to the cooperative command to the second processor upon completion of an image forming process corresponding to the independent command.