Image Forming Apparatus Activation Modes and Noise Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Image forming apparatuses, such as MFPs, produce bothersome noise during the transition from power saving to normal mode due to mechanical hardware activation, which can occur even when users are not intending to use the device immediately, leading to unnecessary sound disturbance.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus activates hardware resources in a first mode when a user enters a larger range and switches to a second activation mode with higher sound volume when the user enters a smaller, closer range, allowing for quicker operation and reduced noise disturbance when the user intends to use the device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the MFP switches from power saving mode to normal mode, then the hardware resource becomes ready for operation, but sound is produced during the preparation period which disturbs the user
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by introducing a movable curtain that changes its position based on user presence detection. The curtain moves between a first position (blocking sound) and a second position (allowing sound), dynamically adapting to user needs to resolve the contradiction between hardware readiness and sound disturbance.
Solution Approach 2:
The curtain acts as an intermediary element between the sound source (hardware resource) and the user. By positioning the curtain strategically, it mediates the sound disturbance, allowing the hardware to operate while preventing sound from reaching the user when unnecessary.
2Use of energy by stationary object
If the MFP remains in power saving mode, then power consumption is reduced, but the hardware resource cannot respond immediately when the user needs to use it
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by maintaining the hardware resource in a partially active state or pre-positioning components (like the curtain in the first position) so that when the user approaches, the system can transition to full operation quickly without complete shutdown, thus reducing preparation time while still saving power compared to full normal mode.
3Speed
If the MFP activates hardware resources immediately upon user detection, then the response time is reduced, but sound is produced unnecessarily when the user does not intend to use the device
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the curtain position based on user presence and intended usage. When a user is detected but no operation is initiated, the curtain moves to block sound. When operation is detected, the curtain moves to allow sound, thus avoiding unnecessary sound production while maintaining fast response when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from user detection and operation detection to control the curtain position and hardware activation. The feedback mechanism ensures that sound is produced only when the user both approaches and initiates an operation, preventing unnecessary sound while maintaining responsiveness.
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes a hardware resource, and a hardware processor that controls the hardware resource, wherein the hardware processor activates the hardware resource in a first activation mode in response to entry of a user into a first range, and activates the hardware resource in a second activation mode that causes production of sound at a volume level higher than a volume level of sound produced in the first activation mode in response to entry of the user into a second range that is smaller than the first range.