Image Forming Power-On Control for Faster Return From Sleep
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power saving mode techniques in image forming apparatuses do not allow for early power-on control upon detection of a return factor, leading to inefficient transition times from power saving to standby modes.
Innovation Solution
An image forming apparatus equipped with a detection unit to identify return factors and a control unit to initiate power-on control upon detection, allowing for early transition from power saving to standby modes through parallel power supply to relevant units.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If parallel return control is performed between devices, then the time to perform return control between devices is shortened, but the timing of power supply from user input to each device is the same, not allowing the return time of each device itself to be shortened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the return control process into device-level independent operations. Each device has its own detection unit and control unit that can independently detect return factors and initiate power-on control, rather than waiting for centralized coordination. This segmentation allows each device to optimize its own return time while maintaining overall system coordination.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary action by enabling each device to detect return factors and initiate power-on control independently and simultaneously, rather than waiting for sequential commands. The detection units continuously monitor for return factors, and upon detection, the control units immediately initiate power supply to relevant units, preparing each device for optimal performance before full operation is required.
2Loss of energy
If power saving mode is implemented, then power consumption is reduced, but the transition time from power saving to standby mode increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by continuously monitoring for return factors even while in power saving mode. When a return factor is detected, the control unit immediately initiates power-on control to supply power to relevant units, eliminating the need for a prolonged transition period. This allows the system to maintain deep power saving states while being ready for rapid activation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic power management where the power supply state of each unit can be independently adjusted based on detected return factors. The system dynamically transitions from power saving mode to standby mode by selectively powering on only the necessary units rather than activating the entire system, optimizing both energy efficiency and transition speed.
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes a detection unit configured to detect a return factor in the image forming apparatus, and a control unit configured to perform power-on control on the image forming apparatus in any case where the detection unit detects the return factor or where a signal indicating return is received from another image forming apparatus.