Image Forming Apparatus Multi-State Power Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current image forming apparatuses face challenges in reducing power consumption beyond existing methods, necessitating further optimization of power management states to minimize energy usage.
Innovation Solution
The image forming apparatus is configured with multiple power saving states, including a second power saving state where only essential components like the communication device and control unit are activated, allowing for reduced power consumption by dynamically adjusting operational states based on communication and user instructions, thereby extending the first power saving state's energy-saving capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If the image forming apparatus operates in a first power saving state with only essential components activated, then power consumption is reduced, but the apparatus cannot respond to user instructions or perform image forming operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic power management by defining multiple power saving states (first and second power saving states) that allow the apparatus to transition between different operational modes. The control unit can dynamically switch between these states based on whether user instructions are received, enabling the system to adapt its power consumption level to current operational needs while maintaining the ability to respond to user input when necessary
2Adaptability or versatility
If the apparatus remains in a normal operational state to respond to user instructions, then functionality is maintained, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the power consumption into distinct levels by creating multiple power saving states. The first power saving state activates only essential components for minimal power consumption, while the second power saving state activates additional components for moderate power consumption. This segmentation allows the system to choose the appropriate operational level based on functional requirements, avoiding the need to maintain full operational power continuously
3Use of energy by moving object
If the apparatus transitions to a second power saving state after receiving instructions, then power consumption is reduced further, but response time to new instructions increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit performs preliminary actions by monitoring for user instructions and proactively transitioning to the second power saving state in anticipation of potential future instructions. This allows the apparatus to spend more time in the lower-power first state while still maintaining the capability to quickly transition to a more responsive state when needed, effectively preparing for future operational demands without continuously maintaining high power consumption
Data Source
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AI summary
An image forming apparatus communicates with another device and includes a processor that controls the communication. A control unit controls the apparatus to operate in one of at least a first power saving state, a second power saving state, and a normal state. In the first power saving state, the apparatus is controlled so that an image forming unit, an image reading unit, and the control unit are not activated, and a communication device is activated. In the second power saving state, the apparatus is controlled so that at least one of the image forming unit and the image reading unit are not activated, and the communication device and the control unit are activated. In the normal state, the apparatus is controlled so that at least the image forming unit, the image reading unit, the communication device, and the control unit are activated.