Dual Processor Power Management for Image Forming Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electric devices, such as image forming apparatuses, consume excessive power due to the need for multiple processors for network processing, interface control, and mechanical operations, leading to increased power consumption even in idle states.
Innovation Solution
An electric device is designed with a first processor for external information processing in normal mode and a second processor with lower power consumption for internal operations, which restricts and terminates power to unnecessary circuits in power save mode, allowing the first processor to remain off during idle periods while continuing to process external information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple processors are provided for network processing, interface control, and mechanical operations, then the device can perform all required functions, but power consumption increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into two distinct processor units: a first processor dedicated to network processing and a second processor dedicated to image processing. This segmentation allows each processor to be optimized for its specific function and enables independent power management, where the higher-power first processor can be turned off during idle periods while the lower-power second processor remains active
Solution Approach 2:
The power consumption of the first processor is made dynamic through a restriction process that can terminate its power supply during idle states. The system transitions between different power states based on operational needs, allowing the first processor to be activated only when network processing is required
2Use of energy by moving object
If the first processor is turned off to reduce power consumption, then energy efficiency improves, but the device cannot process external information
Solution Approach 1:
The second processor acts as an intermediary that maintains the device's operational capability even when the first processor is powered down. It can independently process external information and control device operations, ensuring continuous operability while enabling the first processor to enter low-power states
3Adaptability or versatility
If a processor specifically for external interface control is provided, then network processing capability is improved, but device complexity and power consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The first processor is designed to combine multiple functions: it handles both network processing and external interface control. This merging of functions into a single dedicated processor reduces overall device complexity compared to providing separate processors for each function, while still maintaining full network processing capability
Data Source
AI summary
An electric device is capable of operating in a normal operation mode and a power save operation mode. The electric device includes a first processor for processing information input externally in the normal operation mode, and a second processor for processing an internal operation of the electric device in the normal operation mode. The second processor consumes power smaller than that of the first processor. In the electric device, power of the first processor is restricted through a restriction process in the power save operation mode. Further, in the power save operation mode, the second processor restricts the internal operation and processes the information input externally. When the second processor detects the information input externally, power of the first processor is released through a restriction releasing process.