Logic Circuitry Package for Print Component Communication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current print apparatus systems face challenges in efficiently communicating and managing data between replaceable print components, particularly in terms of sensor information and resource management, due to limitations in communication protocols and resource constraints within these components.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a logic circuitry package that utilizes the I2C protocol to facilitate communication between master and slave ICs, enabling data exchange and sensor information management through a bus system, with features like address reconfiguration and secure microcontroller functions to enhance compatibility and reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional communication protocols are used in replaceable print components, then device complexity is reduced, but communication efficiency and data management capability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary translation layer between the simple sensor hardware and the complex I2C protocol requirements. This intermediary component translates basic sensor readings into standardized I2C communication format, enabling efficient data exchange without requiring complex processing in the replaceable cartridge itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs parameter changes by dynamically adjusting communication addresses and data formats based on the specific cartridge type and sensor configuration. This allows the system to optimize communication efficiency for different scenarios while maintaining compatibility through standardized I2C protocol parameters.
2Reliability
If resource constraints within replaceable components are accepted, then ease of manufacture is improved, but communication capability and sensor information management deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses copying by implementing software-based address reconfiguration that replicates the functionality of multiple physical address lines. This allows a single physical interface to support multiple communication addresses, improving reliability without adding complex hardware components that would difficulty manufacture.
Solution Approach 2:
The I2C protocol implementation provides multi-functionality by enabling the same communication interface to handle multiple sensors, different data types, and various communication modes within the resource-constrained cartridge environment, thereby improving reliability without increasing manufacturing complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If address reconfiguration features are implemented, then adaptability and compatibility are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic address reconfiguration that allows communication addresses to be changed at runtime based on the detected cartridge type and configuration. This dynamic adaptation enables a single hardware design to work with multiple cartridge variations, improving compatibility without requiring multiple fixed-address hardware variants.
Data Source
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Figure 4A~4B
Figure 4C~4D
AI summary
A logic circuitry package for a replaceable print apparatus component includes an interface to communicate with a print apparatus logic circuit, and a logic circuit having a communication address to communicate with the print apparatus logic circuit. The logic circuit is configured to detect, via the interface, communications that include an other communication address. The logic circuit is configured to respond, via the interface, to a command series directed to the logic circuit that include the communication address of the logic circuit, based on the detected communications.