Power Control Unit for Handling Unsupported Power Modes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Image forming apparatuses face issues with power saving modes, where application programs developed using SDKs may not support new power saving modes, leading to operational troubles and mismatches between the device's power state and the application's perception, affecting normal operation.
Innovation Solution
An information processing apparatus with a power control unit and a function execution unit that inquires about power modes, returns supported modes, and notifies the power control unit for hardware recovery when an unsupported mode is encountered, ensuring normal operation even in unsupported power saving modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a new power saving mode is added to the device, then power saving capability is improved, but compatibility with existing application programs deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary layer between the power control unit and application programs. This intermediary translates power mode-related instructions from application programs into appropriate actions based on the currently active power mode, enabling existing application programs to work correctly with new power saving modes without modification.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the power control functionality into distinct components: power mode management (handled by power control unit) and application program execution (handled by function execution unit). This segmentation allows independent updates to power saving modes without requiring changes to application programs, resolving the compatibility issue.
2Reliability
If the application program is updated for each new device, then compatibility is improved, but development complexity and time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal power mode interface that works across all devices and application programs. The power control unit provides standardized power mode management functions that any application program can utilize without device-specific modifications, reducing development complexity and enabling broader compatibility.
3Reliability
If power is supplied to all parts, then operational reliability is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic power management where the power control unit adjusts power supply to different parts based on operational requirements and active power mode. This dynamic approach maintains operational reliability by supplying power only when and where needed, while reducing overall power consumption through selective power cutoff to non-essential components.
Data Source
AI summary
An information processing apparatus includes an application program; a power control unit configured to switch power modes so as to control ON/OFF of power supply to each piece of hardware; and a function execution unit configured to execute control of a specified function based on an instruction from the application program. The function execution unit is configured to inquire at the power control unit for the power modes in response to an instruction from the application program. The power control unit is configured to return a power mode to the function execution unit. The function execution unit is configured to notify the power control unit of a recovery request for powering ON the hardware that has been powered OFF in the power mode not supported.