Multi-Control Image Processing Device Power Mode Selection

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing image processing device configuration, where only predetermined functions can be executed during power-saving mode by the sub-control unit, is not user-friendly due to limited control capabilities.

Innovation Solution

An image processing device with multiple control units, including a first and second control unit, where the second control unit sets selected functions as executable and unexecutable based on user input, allowing for mode selection between normal and power-saving modes to enhance user convenience and power efficiency.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of energy

If the main control unit is placed in a halt state during power-saving mode, then power consumption is reduced, but the control capability and user-friendly operation deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower consumptionVSAvoidcontrol capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The control unit is divided into a main control unit and a sub-control unit with different functional capabilities. The sub-control unit is designed to handle specific functions independently, allowing it to operate during power-saving mode while the main control unit remains in halt state, thus resolving the contradiction between power consumption and control capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically switches between different operational modes: in normal mode, the main control unit handles all functions; in power-saving mode, only the sub-control unit operates with limited functions. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to optimize power consumption while maintaining necessary control capabilities based on operational requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Loss of energy

If only predetermined functions are executed by the sub-control unit during power-saving mode, then power consumption is reduced, but adaptability and user convenience worsen

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower consumptionVSAvoidfunction execution flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The sub-control unit is designed with multi-functionality to handle various image processing functions independently. By equipping the sub-control unit with diverse functional capabilities, the system allows flexible function selection during power-saving mode, improving adaptability while maintaining power efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The sub-control unit is designed to autonomously execute selected functions during power-saving mode without requiring the main control unit to be active. This self-service capability allows the system to maintain operational flexibility and user convenience while the main control unit remains in low-power state.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Loss of energy

If the second control unit limits functions to those the sub-control unit can handle during power-saving mode, then power usage is optimized, but the quantity of executable functions decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower usageVSAvoidquantity of executable functions
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system changes the operational parameters of the control units based on power-saving mode requirements. The second control unit dynamically adjusts which functions are executable, allowing a subset of functions to operate during power-saving mode. This parameter adjustment resolves the contradiction by optimizing power usage while maintaining a reasonable quantity of executable functions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS8559026B2Image processing device having plurality of control units
Publication Date: 2013.10.15 BROTHER KOGYO KK
  • US8559026B2 patent drawing
  • US8559026B2 patent drawing
  • US8559026B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An image processing device includes a plurality of control units and an accepting unit. The plurality of control units are configured to execute each of a plurality of functions regarding image data, and include a first control unit and a second control unit. The accepting unit accepts a user's selection indicating a function selected by a user. When a control capability of the first control unit has decreased, the second control unit sets the selected function executable and sets the functions other than the selected function unexecutable.