Image Forming Apparatus Power Mode Transition via Network Packet Filtering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current image forming apparatuses face challenges in reducing power consumption during power saving modes without compromising functionality, particularly in transitioning between normal and power saving modes based on network packet types.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus employs a power supply system with two modes, a determination part that rewrites filter information to identify specific network packets, and a control system that transitions between modes based on packet matching, allowing the image forming part to conserve power by stopping operations in the power saving mode.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the image forming apparatus operates in normal mode, then it can process all network packets and maintain full functionality, but power consumption is high
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus dynamically switches between normal mode and power saving mode based on the type of network packet received. The control part determines whether to transition to power saving mode by evaluating if the received packet is a control packet or data packet, enabling adaptive power management that balances functionality and energy consumption
Solution Approach 2:
The network packet handling is segmented into different processing paths: control packets trigger mode transitions while data packets maintain current operation state. This segmentation allows the system to separate critical functionality (receiving control commands) from non-critical operations (image forming), enabling selective power management
2Use of energy by moving object
If the image forming apparatus transitions to power saving mode, then power consumption is reduced, but the ability to respond to all network packets is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The control part acts as an intermediary that receives all network packets and filters them based on packet type. It determines whether the apparatus should remain in normal mode or transition to power saving mode, mediating between the network interface and the image forming part to ensure appropriate responsiveness while saving power
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus performs preliminary classification of network packets before full processing. By examining packet headers and determining packet types (control vs. data) early in the reception process, the system can make informed decisions about mode transitions before committing significant processing resources
3Adaptability or versatility
If the apparatus frequently switches between modes, then it can respond to varying network conditions, but operational stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The control part implements feedback mechanisms by monitoring received packets and adjusting operational mode accordingly. The system continuously evaluates network traffic patterns and makes mode transitions based on accumulated information about packet types, preventing premature or unnecessary mode switches while maintaining adaptability to genuine changes in operational requirements
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes a power supply part that supplies electronic power in two different power modes (first and second modes), a communication part that includes a transmitting and receiving part that receives a network packet in the both modes, and a determination part that stores filter information and determines whether or not the network packet matches one of filter settings, a determination control part that performs a rewrite operation to repeatedly rewrite the filter information while running in the second mode, a power supply control part that transits the power mode of the power supply part from the second mode to the first mode based on a determination result of the determination part, a packet transmitting and receiving part that receives the network packet supplied from the transmitting and receiving part in the first mode and stops an operation of itself in the second mode, and an image forming part stops an operation of itself in the second mode.