Image Forming Apparatus Power Control for Network-Aware 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
Implement a power control system that switches between power states based on usage, including a sleep state with reduced power consumption and an automatic turn-off mechanism triggered by network disconnection, using a CPU to manage power switches and timers to conserve energy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the image forming apparatus continues power supply in the ON state when not connected to a network and not operated remotely, then the apparatus is ready for immediate use, but power consumption is wasted
Solution Approach 1:
The power state of the apparatus is made dynamic rather than static. The system automatically transitions between ON state (when network connected or remote operation active) and standby state (when network disconnected and no remote operation), allowing the power consumption to adapt to actual usage conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The system monitors network connection status and remote operation status as feedback signals. Based on this feedback, the control unit automatically adjusts the power state, creating a closed-loop control system that optimizes power consumption based on actual usage requirements
2Use of energy by moving object
If the apparatus transitions to low-power standby state to reduce power consumption, then energy waste is minimized, but the apparatus cannot be used immediately
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts power state based on network connection status. When network is connected, the apparatus remains in ON state for immediate use. When network is disconnected, it transitions to standby state to save power, creating a flexible power management strategy
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically determines when to transition between power states based on network connection status and remote operation status, without requiring manual user intervention. The control unit self-manages the power state transitions to optimize energy consumption
Data Source
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AI summary
To provide an information processing apparatus capable of reducing power consumption in accordance with a use state. An information processing apparatus (an image forming apparatus 101) includes a power control unit (CPU 340) capable of performing switching control between a first power state and a second power state, and a determination unit (CPU 340) for determining whether a current state is a connected state in which a network is connected or a disconnected state in which the network is disconnected. The determination unit determines whether the network is in the connected state or the disconnected state after switching from the first power state to the second power state is completed. The power control unit enables a shutoff control to forcibly shut off the power supply when it is determined as the disconnected state.