Single Cable Transmission Control for Image Forming Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Image forming apparatuses require multiple cables for serial communication and power supply mode indication, leading to increased costs and size constraints due to the need for multiple sets of cable connectors and cables.
Innovation Solution
A transmission control apparatus using a single general-purpose cable for both serial communications and power supply mode indication signals, where the lengths of change periods for power supply mode transitions are preset and stored in control units, allowing the power supply mode to transition based on digital signal changes without interfering with serial communications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If two separate cables are used for serial communication and power supply mode indication, then communication reliability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines serial communication signals and power supply mode indication signals into a single cable transmission system. The control unit transmits both types of signals through the same cable connector, eliminating the need for separate cables and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining signal integrity and reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The single cable connector is designed to handle multiple functions simultaneously - both data transmission for serial communication and signal transmission for power supply mode indication. This multi-functional approach allows one cable to replace what would traditionally require two separate cables, reducing device complexity without compromising communication reliability
2Reliability
If two sets of cable connectors are used, then signal transmission reliability is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the functionality of two separate cable connectors into a single connector that handles both serial communication and power supply mode indication. This consolidation reduces the bill of materials and assembly requirements, directly lowering manufacturing cost while maintaining signal transmission reliability through proper signal separation and processing within the control unit
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple cables are used, then functional separation is improved, but apparatus size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple cable connections into a single cable infrastructure, reducing the physical space required for cable routing and connector placement. The control unit internally separates and processes different signal types, maintaining functional separation without requiring additional external cables, thus reducing apparatus size
Data Source
AI summary
A transmission control apparatus includes a first control board including a first control unit with an input/output port and a first board connector; and a second control board including a second control unit with an input/output port and a second board connector. The first control board is connected to the second control board via a general purpose cable, the general purpose cable is used for transmission of an indication signal as a digital signal controlling a power-supply mode transition and is used for serial communications. Lengths of change periods, during which a logical value of the indication signal is changed and with which transitions among three or more power-supply modes are associated, are preset and stored in the first control unit and the second control unit, respectively. The power-supply mode is transitioned to a specific mode according to the lengths of the change periods of the indication signal.