Single Connection Unit for Image Processing Device via PCI-Express Bus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image forming apparatuses require separate development of substrates and connectors for each type of image processing, leading to increased development costs due to the need for dedicated connections between controller and image forming function units.
Innovation Solution
An image forming apparatus with a single connection unit connecting the control device and image processing device via a PCI-Express bus, utilizing a common printed circuit board and connector to facilitate multiple image processing units and control units, each connected through dedicated channels, allowing for a unified connection configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate substrates and connectors are developed for each type of image processing, then each substrate can be optimized for its specific function, but development costs increase due to the need for dedicated connections
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single substrate that can serve multiple image processing functions (scanner, printer, copier) through a unified connection structure. The substrate includes multiple connection units that can be selectively connected to different control devices, allowing one substrate to replace what would traditionally require multiple dedicated substrates and connectors for each function type.
2Reliability
If dedicated connectors are provided for each substrate type, then connection reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the connection structure into multiple independent connection units on a single substrate. Each connection unit can be selectively activated or connected to different control devices based on the specific image processing function needed. This segmentation allows the system to maintain connection reliability for each functional unit while avoiding the complexity of providing completely separate connectors for each substrate type.
Data Source
AI summary
A disclosed image forming apparatus includes an image processing device including plural image processing units; a control device configured to control the plural image processing units; and a connection unit configured to connect the image processing device to the control device. Each of the plural image processing units is connected to the control device by one of plural channels; the image processing device is connected to the control device by a first bus including the channels; and the connection unit is provided on the first bus so that the image processing device is connected to the control device by a single connection unit.