Dual SRAM Power Control for Image Processing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional power saving techniques for SRAM in image forming apparatuses are inefficient, leading to increased recovery time and power consumption due to unnecessary power supply to storage areas even when data is not needed, affecting job operations.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a dual SRAM configuration with a data processing unit, a first SRAM for storing parameters, a second SRAM for temporary data storage, and a control unit that manages power supply to switch between normal and power-saving modes, allowing the SRAM to transition into RS mode for data retention and SD mode for higher power savings based on job requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by stationary object
If power supply is shut off to the SRAM storage area to save power, then power consumption is reduced, but data is deleted and recovery time is lengthened
Solution Approach 1:
The SRAM circuit is divided into a control area and a storage area, allowing independent power control. The control area can be shut off to save power while the storage area maintains power supply to preserve data, resolving the contradiction between power saving and data retention.
Solution Approach 2:
Different parts of the SRAM circuit have different power requirements. The control area consumes more power for data operations while the storage area only needs minimal power for data holding. By applying local quality control, power is supplied selectively to the storage area during idle periods to maintain data without unnecessary power consumption.
2Reliability
If power supply is continuously maintained to the SRAM storage area, then data is retained, but power consumption cannot be reduced sufficiently
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply state of the SRAM circuit is dynamically adjusted based on operational status. During idle periods, power is selectively maintained only to the storage area. When operations are needed, the control area is activated. This dynamic adjustment resolves the contradiction between data retention and power reduction.
3Use of energy by stationary object
If conventional SRAM power saving modes are used, then some power reduction is achieved, but efficient power control according to job requirements cannot be performed
Solution Approach 1:
The SRAM circuit is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a control area and a storage area. This universal design enables the circuit to adapt to different job requirements by switching between functional states, achieving efficient and adaptable power control that conventional single-function SRAMs cannot provide.
Data Source
AI summary
The information processing includes: a first SRAM configured to store a parameter for performing data processing for data input to a data processing unit configured to perform the data processing; a second SRAM configured to temporarily store data processed by the data processing unit; a data control unit configured to control an output of the data stored in the second SRAM; and a control unit configured to perform power control to supply power to a storage area in which the parameter of the first SRAM is stored, stop power supply to a control area for writing the data to the first SRAM and a storage area in which the data of the second SRAM is stored, and stop power supply to a control area for writing the data in a case where a job that uses the first SRAM and the second SRAM is not performed.