Image-Forming Apparatus With Network-Aware Automatic Shutdown
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image forming apparatuses waste power when not in use, especially when not connected to a network and not operated remotely, due to continuous power supply despite being unused.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus includes a power control unit for switching between power states and a determination unit to detect network connectivity, initiating a timer for automatic shutdown when disconnected, reducing power consumption by forcibly shutting off power supply when the timer expires.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If the image forming apparatus continues power supply in the ON state when not used and not connected to a network, then the apparatus can be used immediately when needed, but power consumption is wasted
Solution Approach 1:
The determination unit checks network connectivity status in advance before deciding to shut off power. By preliminarily determining whether the apparatus is connected to a network or being operated remotely, the system can proactively transition to a low-power state without waiting for actual usage, thus reducing power consumption while maintaining readiness when truly needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The power state of the apparatus is made dynamic rather than static. The power control unit continuously monitors usage status and network connectivity, automatically transitioning between ON state and low-power state based on real-time conditions. This dynamic adjustment resolves the contradiction by adapting power consumption levels to actual operational needs.
2Use of energy by moving object
If the apparatus automatically shuts off power when not in use, then power consumption is reduced, but the apparatus cannot be used immediately when needed
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary determination of network connectivity and usage status before shutting off power. This preliminary action ensures that power is only shut off when truly unnecessary, preventing situations where the apparatus would need to be immediately operational. By checking conditions in advance, the system avoids premature shutdowns that would cause operational delays.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the apparatus remains in a connected state to the network, then remote operation is enabled, but power consumption increases even when not used
Solution Approach 1:
The network connectivity state and power state are dynamically linked. The determination unit monitors both network connection status and remote operation activity, and the power control unit adjusts power supply accordingly. When the apparatus is connected but not actively operated remotely, the system can transition to lower power states while maintaining network connectivity, thus preserving adaptability while reducing power consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
Different functional units are managed with different power levels based on their actual usage. The network interface can remain in a low-power listening state while other high-consumption units are shut off when not in use. This localized quality adjustment allows the apparatus to maintain remote operation capability through the network interface while minimizing overall power consumption of unused components.
Data Source
AI summary
An information processing apparatus capable of reducing power consumption in accordance with a use state. The information processing apparatus is connectable to a network and takes a first power state in which electric power is supplied and a second power state in which power consumption is lower than that in the first power state. A power control unit enables a switching control between the first and second power states. A determination unit determines whether a current state is a connected state to the network or a disconnected state. The determination unit determines the current state during switching from the first power state to the second power state by the power control unit or after completion of the switching. The power control unit starts a timer in determining the disconnected state, and enables a shutoff control to forcibly shut off power supply of the apparatus when the timer expires.