Image Forming Apparatus Optional Control Unit ID Assignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image forming apparatus systems face challenges in controlling multiple sheet feeding functions with assigned ID numbers, leading to inadequate control of individual sheet feeding functions and compatibility issues with newly added optional apparatuses, especially when upgrades are not performed on the control device of the image forming apparatus main body.
Innovation Solution
The system introduces a registration designation unit that assigns ID numbers to each optional function within the image forming apparatus, allowing for separate control of sheet feeding functions and enabling communication between the main body and optional apparatuses, even when multiple sheet feeding mechanisms are stacked, by using a communication unit that designates ID numbers to optional control units.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If one ID number is assigned to each optional apparatus, then communication control is simplified, but multiple sheet feeding functions within one apparatus cannot be separately designated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the ID number assignment from the apparatus level to the function level. Each sheet feeding function is assigned a unique ID number (1st sheet feeding function ID, 2nd sheet feeding function ID, etc.), allowing individual function control. This segmentation enables the main body to distinguish and control multiple sheet feeding functions within optional apparatuses separately, resolving the contradiction between control simplicity and function designation flexibility.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the control device of the image forming apparatus main body is upgraded to support new optional apparatus, then compatibility is improved, but manufacturing cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The optional apparatus performs self-registration by automatically transmitting its apparatus ID number and function ID numbers to the main body control device upon connection. The main body control device stores this information in a registration area without requiring manual configuration or firmware upgrades. This self-service mechanism enables new optional apparatus to be supported automatically, improving compatibility while avoiding increased control device complexity.
3Measurement precision
If separate control is implemented for each sheet feeding function, then function control precision is improved, but communication data transmission volume increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments control information by assigning unique ID numbers to each sheet feeding function, enabling precise identification and control. The communication protocol transmits only necessary function ID numbers and apparatus ID numbers, maintaining precise control while minimizing data transmission volume through efficient ID-based addressing rather than comprehensive function descriptions.
Data Source
AI summary
The main body of the image forming system includes an image forming apparatus; an optional apparatus; and a communication unit configured to perform communication between the main body of the image forming apparatus and the optional apparatus. The optional apparatus includes one optional control unit for controlling multiple optional functions, and the main body of the image forming apparatus includes a registration designation unit configured to designate registration of an ID number to the one optional control unit of the optional apparatus by the communication unit to designate registration of an ID number to the one optional control unit of the optional apparatus. The one optional control unit assigns an ID number to each of the multiple optional functions according to the designation from the main body of the image forming apparatus.