PHY Reset State for USB Interface Power Savings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing energy-saving systems for image forming apparatuses, such as printers and MFPs, do not effectively implement power-saving modes when connected to external devices like PCs only when necessary, leading to inefficient energy consumption.
Innovation Solution
A data transfer apparatus with a PHY that enters a reset state and stops PLL operation when not connected to an external apparatus, incorporating a USB interface that suspends operation and enters a reset state when not in use, thereby reducing power consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If the data transfer apparatus maintains ready state for external connection, then connection responsiveness is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic state transitions for the PHY interface, switching between active state (when external apparatus is connected) and reset state (when disconnected). This dynamic adaptation allows the system to optimize between responsiveness and power consumption based on actual connection status, resolving the contradiction by making the interface state flexible rather than fixed
Solution Approach 2:
The USB interface controller automatically detects connection status and autonomously controls the PHY's operational state without requiring manual intervention. The system self-manages the transition to reset state when disconnected, enabling automatic power savings while maintaining readiness when needed, thus resolving the contradiction through autonomous adaptive behavior
2Productivity
If the PHY remains in active state, then data transfer readiness is improved, but energy waste increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs periodic connection status detection through the USB interface controller, which monitors whether an external apparatus is connected. Based on this periodic checking, the PHY is dynamically activated or reset accordingly. This periodic monitoring approach ensures the system maintains productivity when needed while avoiding continuous energy waste during disconnection periods
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameter of the PHY from a constant active state to a variable state that depends on connection status. When the USB interface detects disconnection, the PHY parameter is changed to reset state, reducing power consumption. This parameter adaptation resolves the contradiction by aligning data transfer readiness with actual connection conditions
3Measurement precision
If the USB interface continuously monitors connection status, then energy management accuracy is improved, but additional power consumption occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the connection status detection function with the existing USB data transfer operations. The USB interface controller utilizes its inherent capability to detect connection status as part of its normal operational protocol, rather than implementing a separate monitoring mechanism. This merging approach achieves accurate connection status detection without requiring additional dedicated monitoring power consumption
Data Source
AI summary
A data transfer apparatus has a plurality of data transfer interfaces, and one of the plurality of data transfer interfaces has a PHY, the PHY being made in a reset state when the data transfer interface is not used.