Printing Apparatus Power State Management via USB and Battery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing portable and compact printing apparatuses with internal batteries face challenges in power management, particularly when transitioning to low-power states due to lack of power supply from USB cables, which can lead to function restrictions or device shutdown.
Innovation Solution
The printing apparatus includes a memory and a processor that checks the charge level of a power storage unit and transitions to a power state with limited functions based on the charge level and the availability of power from a wired interface terminal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If the printing apparatus transitions to a low-power state to save power consumption, then power efficiency is improved, but the functions of the printing apparatus are restrained or the apparatus is shut down
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic power state management where the printing apparatus transitions between different power states (full-power state and low-power state) based on real-time conditions. The system dynamically adjusts its operational state by evaluating battery charge level and external power supply availability, allowing flexible adaptation to varying power conditions while maintaining function continuity when possible.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes operational parameters based on power availability. When external power is supplied via USB, the apparatus operates in a full-power state with all functions enabled. When operating on battery power with sufficient charge, it can transition to a low-power state with reduced functions. The system monitors battery charge level as a key parameter to determine appropriate operational mode, adjusting functionality accordingly to prevent shutdown.
2Use of energy by moving object
If the printing apparatus operates with limited functions in low-power state, then power consumption is reduced, but the useful functions that can be continued are restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts which functions are available based on power state. In full-power state (when USB power is supplied), all printing functions are available. In low-power state (when operating on battery), the system enables only essential functions that can continue operating with limited power, such as basic printing operations, while disabling power-intensive functions like wireless communication or complex processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies partial action by providing only the essential functions needed for basic printing operation in low-power state, rather than attempting to maintain all functions. This selective function availability approach allows the apparatus to maintain core usability while consuming significantly less power, accepting that advanced features are unavailable during battery operation.
3Loss of energy
If the printing apparatus transitions to low-power state based on USB power supply status, then power saving is achieved, but unintended shutdown occurs when battery charge level is low
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the control unit continuously monitors battery charge level and power supply status. Based on this feedback, the system intelligently determines when to transition to low-power state and when to remain in full-power state. The feedback loop prevents unintended shutdown by evaluating whether the battery has sufficient charge to support the transition, adjusting power state decisions in real-time based on actual battery conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary evaluation of battery charge level before transitioning to low-power state. The control unit checks whether the battery charge is sufficient to support the transition and subsequent low-power operation. This preliminary action prevents premature or unintended transitions that could lead to shutdown, ensuring that power state changes are made only when battery conditions are appropriate.
Data Source
AI summary
A printing apparatus receiving power supplied from a wired interface terminal or power from a power storage unit, the printing apparatus including a memory storing a program and a processor, that when executing the program, causes the printing apparatus to check a charge level of the power storage unit and transition to a power state in which a function is limited based on the charge level and whether the printing apparatus is in a supply state in which power is supplied from the wired interface terminal.