Image Forming Apparatus Signal Line Level Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Image forming apparatuses face delays in transitioning from power save mode to normal mode due to the need for communication functions to become operable before processing instructions can be given to the slave controller, leading to inefficiencies in warm-up operations and state notifications.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of a second signal line allows the master controller to instruct the slave controller on processing without waiting for communication functions to resume, enabling immediate recognition of processing requirements upon returning to the normal mode.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If a second signal line is provided besides the first signal line for output of the return request from the master controller to the slave controller, then the processing to be performed in the return can start without delay, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the return request signal and the processing instruction into a single signal line. The master controller outputs both the return request and the processing instruction (first or second processing) through the same signal line, eliminating the need for a separate second signal line while avoiding processing delays.
Solution Approach 2:
The single signal line is designed to serve multiple functions: it can transmit both the return request from power save mode and the subsequent processing instructions (first processing for warm-up, second processing for state notification only). This multi-functional approach replaces the need for dedicated separate signal lines for each function.
2Use of energy by moving object
If the master controller waits until communication functions become operable before providing processing instructions, then power consumption is reduced, but the processing speed decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The master controller prepares the processing instruction (determining whether first or second processing is needed) in advance and outputs it together with the return request signal. This preliminary preparation of instructions allows the slave controller to immediately execute the appropriate processing without waiting for separate communication, thus improving speed while maintaining power efficiency.
Data Source
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AI summary
In an image forming apparatus, in order to make an engine CPU (141) perform first processing after output of a return request, a main CPU (111) sets a level of a signal line (SL2), through which the return request is output, at a first level. In order to make the engine CPU (141) perform second processing, the main CPU (111) sets the level of the signal line (SL2) at a second level. The engine CPU (141) determines on the basis of the level of the signal line (SL2) after the output of the return request which processing is to perform, the first processing or the second processing.