Dynamic Threshold Adjustment for Human Detection Sensor Power Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Image forming apparatuses often incorrectly switch between power states due to persistent objects or users with no intention of using the device, leading to inefficient power management.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a sensor to measure distance and adjust threshold values based on persistent object detection, allowing the apparatus to shift to a sleep mode and prevent unnecessary power state changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If the image forming apparatus returns from power saving state to standby state when an object is detected by the human detection sensor, then the apparatus can respond quickly when a user approaches, but the apparatus remains in standby state even when no user with intention to use exists
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary detection of object presence and maintains power saving state in advance, only transitioning to standby when detection confirms a user with intention to use is present. This prevents unnecessary power state transitions by checking conditions before acting.
Solution Approach 2:
The human detection sensor adjusts its detection parameters (sensitivity, detection range) based on the determined presence or absence of a user with intention to use. This allows the system to distinguish between objects that should trigger standby mode and those that should not, resolving the contradiction between quick response and energy saving.
2Device complexity
If the image forming apparatus uses a fixed detection threshold, then the control logic is simple, but the apparatus cannot adapt to different usage scenarios and may incorrectly switch power states
Solution Approach 1:
The detection threshold is made dynamic rather than fixed. The system changes the detection threshold based on the determined presence or absence of a user with intention to use, allowing adaptive control that improves reliability without excessive complexity. The threshold adjustment is triggered by specific detection patterns.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from the human detection sensor to continuously monitor object presence and adjust power state control accordingly. The detection results feed back into the control logic to determine whether to maintain or change power state, creating a closed-loop system that improves accuracy.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enhances power mode control by accurately distinguishing between users and non-users, reducing unnecessary power consumption and preventing the apparatus from returning to standby mode when not intended to be used.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor configured to measure a distance to an object
Data Source
AI summary
An information processing apparatus obtains a measurement value D of the distance between the object and information processing apparatus using a human detection sensor, and detects the object as a user (user detection state ST3) by comparing the measurement value D and a predetermined threshold value. The power mode of the information processing apparatus is set to a standby mode if a user has been detected, and is set to a sleep mode if a user has not been detected. If a state in which a user has been detected continues for a predetermined time, the information processing apparatus changes the sensitivity of the human detection sensor by changing the threshold value for the detection state determination such that the object detected by the human detection sensor is no longer detected as a user.