Malfunction Prediction in Image Formers via Selective Data Acquisition

The patent applies partial action by acquiring measurement data selectively rather than continuously. Specifically, measurement data is acquired only when a print job completes or when specific conditions are met, rather than every time printing is performed. This reduces the frequency of data acquisition while still providing sufficient data points for effective malfunction prediction, thereby lowering processing load while maintaining prediction accuracy.

The patent extracts only the necessary measurement data from continuous printing operations. Instead of collecting data from all pages, the system selectively acquires measurement data from specific pages (e.g., last page of each print job or pages meeting certain criteria). This extraction approach maintains data completeness for prediction purposes while significantly reducing the total data amount that needs to be stored and processed.

The patent implements periodic action by acquiring measurement data at specific intervals rather than continuously. Data acquisition is triggered by events such as completion of print jobs or specific page printing, creating a periodic sampling pattern. This approach maintains prediction timeliness by ensuring data is acquired at meaningful intervals while dramatically reducing energy consumption compared to continuous acquisition.