Image Processing Apparatus Hand Detection Power Saving
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image processing apparatuses face challenges in determining whether a user is present, especially when the temperature of documents is similar to ambient air, leading to difficulties in distinguishing between a user and a passerby, and in efficiently switching from a power saving state.
Innovation Solution
An image processing apparatus equipped with a human presence sensor that detects a human hand raised above a predetermined height, using an infrared array sensor to differentiate between a user and a passerby, and automatically switches from a power saving state upon detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If temperature-based detection is used to determine user presence, then the detection can be performed, but it becomes difficult to distinguish users from passersby when document temperature is similar to ambient air temperature
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from single-parameter temperature detection to multi-dimensional detection by adding hand position detection (vertical position above a threshold) to the temperature detection. This dimensional change allows the system to distinguish users from passersby by detecting both the temperature anomaly and the specific spatial position of the hand, thereby resolving the reliability issue when temperatures are similar.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the detection parameters from solely temperature-based to a combination of temperature and position-based parameters. By introducing a vertical position threshold parameter, the system can filter out passersby whose hands do not reach the threshold height, thereby improving both measurement precision and reliability in user identification.
2Loss of energy
If the image processing apparatus remains in power saving state for extended periods, then power consumption is reduced, but user convenience deteriorates due to delayed response when users approach
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary detection of users approaching by monitoring hand position and temperature before fully activating the apparatus. When a hand is detected above the threshold position, the system prepares to wake from power saving state, enabling a smoother and more responsive transition that balances energy savings with user convenience.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors the detection unit's output during power saving state and uses this feedback to determine when to wake. The feedback loop between the detection unit and control unit ensures the system responds appropriately to user presence while maintaining power saving benefits, thereby balancing energy loss and user convenience.
3Area of stationary object
If the detection unit monitors all areas continuously, then detection coverage is maximized, but power consumption increases during power saving state
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by focusing detection resources on the specific region above the apparatus where user hands are most likely to appear. Rather than uniformly monitoring all areas, the system concentrates detection effort on the vertically elevated region, reducing overall power consumption while maintaining effective detection coverage for the critical user interaction zone.
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
Accurately determines user intention and efficiently switches power states, reducing power consumption and improving convenience by detecting a raised hand, thereby distinguishing users from passerby and enabling earlier power state changes.
Implementation Method 1
a human presence sensor that detects a human hand
Data Source
AI summary
An image processing apparatus capable of entering a power saving state includes a detection unit configured to detect an object, a determination unit configured to determine whether there is a human hand in a position higher than a predetermined height based on a detection result of the detection unit, and a control unit configured to, if the determination unit determines that there is a human hand in the position higher than the predetermined height, make the image processing apparatus return from the power saving state.