Network Communication Apparatus Auto-Shutdown Telephone Line Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Network communication apparatuses connected to a telephone line cannot execute auto-shutdown as per the ErP directive Lot 26 requirements, as the reception timing of facsimile is not predetermined, leading to inconvenience for users when the auto-shutdown shifting time period elapses without user operation.
Innovation Solution
A network communication apparatus with an auto-shutdown function that includes a CPU, ROM, and RAM, which detects the connection state of the telephone line using a MODEM and displays a warning to the user when auto-shutdown is prevented due to the telephone line connection, allowing users to set and manage the auto-shutdown timer and settings, and prompting the user to select whether to execute auto-shutdown when the line is connected.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the apparatus is connected to the telephone line to enable facsimile reception, then the facsimile reception function is available, but auto-shutdown cannot be executed even after the auto-shutdown shifting time period elapses
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the auto-shutdown function configurable rather than fixed. The control unit dynamically adjusts the auto-shutdown behavior based on user-selected modes: in the first mode, auto-shutdown is disabled when the telephone line is connected; in the second mode, auto-shutdown is enabled regardless of telephone line connection. This dynamic configurability resolves the contradiction between maintaining facsimile reception capability and enabling auto-shutdown execution.
2Reliability
If auto-shutdown is disabled when connected to the telephone line to ensure facsimile reception, then facsimile functionality is maintained, but power consumption is not reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables dynamic power management by allowing users to select between two operational modes. In the first mode, the system prioritizes facsimile reception reliability by disabling auto-shutdown when the telephone line is connected. In the second mode, the system prioritizes energy saving by enabling auto-shutdown regardless of telephone line connection status. This dynamic approach resolves the contradiction between reliability and energy consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameter of auto-shutdown execution based on user selection and system state. By allowing users to configure the auto-shutdown behavior through mode selection, the system can adjust its power consumption characteristics while maintaining facsimile reception capability when needed.
3Use of energy by stationary object
If the auto-shutdown shifting time period is set short to meet ErP directive requirements, then energy saving compliance is improved, but user convenience deteriorates when facsimile reception is needed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves this contradiction by making the auto-shutdown timing dynamic based on user preference and system configuration. Users can select the first mode to prioritize convenience (maintaining power supply when telephone line is connected) or the second mode to prioritize energy saving (enabling auto-shutdown regardless of connection status). This dynamic configurability allows users to balance energy saving compliance with their specific convenience requirements.
Data Source
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AI summary
A network communication apparatus equipped with an auto-shutdown function, which is improved in the convenience of a user concerning auto-shutdown control performed in a case where the apparatus is connected to a telephone line. The network communication apparatus includes a network port for connecting to the telephone line, and communicates with an external apparatus via the telephone line. Shutdown processing for stopping power supply to the apparatus is executed when a time period set by a user elapses without receiving a user's operation. If to cause the shutdown processing to be executed is selected by the user, and also connection of the network port to the telephone line is detected, the user is notified that the auto-shutdown cannot be executed.