Power State Shift Timer Management for Information Processing Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
In information processing apparatuses like multi-function peripherals (MFPs) and printers, the automatic shutdown function fails to activate due to frequent returns from low power consumption states to normal power states, leading to increased power consumption and failure to enter an off state, especially in environments with frequent non-proxy responsive packets.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus operates in multiple power states with a time measurement unit and power control unit to shift between states based on specific shift times and factors, ensuring the shutdown timer is not reset when returning due to specific factors, allowing the apparatus to correctly measure shutdown shift time and enter a power-off state.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the information processing apparatus returns to normal power state to respond to every packet received by the NIC, then the apparatus can respond to all packets, but the power consumption eventually becomes high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments packet handling into two paths: proxy-responsive packets are handled by the NIC in low power state, while non-proxy-responsive packets trigger a transition to normal power state. This segmentation allows the system to maintain low power consumption for routine traffic while ensuring full responsiveness when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent dynamically transitions the power state based on the type of packet received. The system adapts its power state in real-time: remaining in low power state for proxy-responsive packets and transitioning to normal power state for non-proxy-responsive packets, optimizing the balance between power consumption and response capability.
2Reliability
If the apparatus frequently returns from low power consumption state to normal power state due to non-proxy responsive packets, then the apparatus can respond to all packets, but the shutdown shift time stops being measured and automatic shutdown function fails to activate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent measures the shutdown shift time continuously from when the apparatus enters the low power consumption state, without resetting the timer even when temporarily returning to normal power state for non-proxy responsive packets. This preliminary timing action ensures the automatic shutdown function can activate after the predetermined period elapses.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the shutdown timer continues counting despite temporary power state transitions. The system monitors packet types and adjusts power state accordingly, while the shutdown timer feedback ensures the automatic shutdown function activates after the predetermined period regardless of intermediate disturbances.
3Use of energy by moving object
If the apparatus remains in low power consumption state to reduce power consumption, then power saving is achieved, but the apparatus cannot respond to non-proxy responsive packets without restoring to normal power state
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments packet types into proxy-responsive and non-proxy-responsive categories, allowing different handling strategies. Proxy-responsive packets are handled in low power state while non-proxy-responsive packets trigger appropriate responses, enabling the system to optimize power consumption based on packet type.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the power state parameter based on the packet type received. The system maintains low power consumption as the default state but dynamically adjusts to normal power state only when necessary for non-proxy responsive packets, optimizing the balance between power saving and functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
An information processing apparatus operating in a first power state, a second power state, a third power state, and fourth power state includes a power control unit configured to the third power state to the fourth power state when a first shift time is measured, and a control unit configured to, when the power control unit has shifted the power state of the information processing apparatus from the third power state to the first power state, clear the measured time and not to, when the power control unit has shifted the power state of the information processing apparatus from the third power state to the second power state, clear the measured time clear.