Sub ASIC Blink Control for LED Exposing Unit Noise Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
As the resolution of image forming apparatuses increases, the number of LED elements in the exposing unit grows, leading to an increase in the volume of data sent to the exposing unit and a higher number of signal lines, which can result in noise issues due to longer distances between the processing component and the exposing unit.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a second processing component (sub ASIC) connected to the first processing component (main ASIC) through a first signal line, which receives data to perform blink control of the exposing unit, reducing the need for direct communication between the main ASIC and the exposing unit by using fewer signal lines.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the number of LED elements in the exposing unit is increased to improve resolution, then the image quality is improved, but the number of signal lines connecting the processing component to the exposing unit increases, leading to noise issues
Solution Approach 1:
A sub-ASIC is introduced as an intermediary component between the main-ASIC and the LED exposing unit. The sub-ASIC receives image data from the main-ASIC and generates control signals for the LED elements, thereby reducing the number of signal lines required for direct connection while maintaining control functionality and reducing noise interference.
Solution Approach 2:
The control function for the LED exposing unit is segmented into two parts: the main-ASIC handles high-level image data processing, while the sub-ASIC handles low-level LED control signal generation. This segmentation allows the system to manage high-resolution images with many LED elements without requiring a proportional increase in signal lines from the main-ASIC.
2Measurement precision
If the number of LED elements is increased to achieve higher resolution, then the image quality improves, but the volume of data sent to the exposing unit increases, requiring more signal lines
Solution Approach 1:
The sub-ASIC serves as an intermediary that receives compressed or processed image data from the main-ASIC and expands it into the detailed control signals needed for each LED element. This intermediary architecture allows high-resolution imaging without a linear increase in the number of signal lines from the main processor.
Solution Approach 2:
The data processing function is segmented between the main-ASIC (image data reception and initial processing) and the sub-ASIC (LED control signal generation). This segmentation enables the system to handle large volumes of image data for high resolution while keeping the main signal line connection relatively simple.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the distance between the processing component and the exposing unit is increased for layout purposes, then the device layout flexibility is improved, but noise in the signal lines increases
Solution Approach 1:
By placing the sub-ASIC closer to the LED exposing unit and using it as an intermediary, the system can tolerate longer signal lines from the main-ASIC without excessive noise accumulation. The sub-ASIC's proximity to the LEDs reduces the critical high-frequency signal line length, while the main-ASIC can be positioned more flexibly in the device layout.
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes an exposing unit and a first processing component. The first processing component is configured to generate a first data and a second data. The first data causes the exposing unit to blink in accordance with image data. The second data sets a blink mode of the exposing unit. The image forming apparatus also includes a second processing component connected to the first processing component through a first signal line. The second processing component is configured to receive the first data and the second data from the first processing component and perform blink control of the exposing unit based on the first data and the second data. The exposing unit is connected to the second processing component through a second signal line. The image forming apparatus thus can remedy a defect in data communication to the exposing units.


