Toner Residual Data Update in Image Forming Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image forming methods in copying machines face issues with preventing erroneous data writing and ensuring the latest toner residual amount information is stored in EEPROM, as current methods require resource locking during writing, which can lead to incomplete or outdated data due to operational constraints.
Innovation Solution
The method involves storing toner residual amount information after image formation is complete, checking for control execution and communication requests, and renewing the information only when conditions allow, ensuring accurate and timely updates without interrupting critical operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If data writing to EEPROM is executed by locking resources from start to end of writing, then erroneous data writing is prevented, but the copying machine cannot operate during writing and data may not be kept to the latest state
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing resource locking before the actual data writing operation begins. The system locks the resource, executes the writing operation, and then releases the lock. This ensures that the writing operation has exclusive access to prevent errors, while minimizing the time the system is non-operational by only locking during the critical writing moment rather than for the entire operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by making the resource locking duration adaptive and conditional. Instead of locking resources for a fixed extended period, the system dynamically locks resources only when necessary for the writing operation, releases them promptly, and checks conditions to determine when writing should occur. This dynamic approach balances reliability during writing with operational continuity.
2Productivity
If the copying machine operates continuously, then productivity is maintained, but data writing to EEPROM may occur with outdated information
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies feedback by implementing a condition-checking mechanism that monitors whether the toner residual amount has changed before initiating a write operation. The system continuously tracks toner consumption and only triggers an EEPROM write when the residual amount reaches a threshold or changes significantly. This feedback loop ensures that data is written with current information while allowing the machine to operate continuously without unnecessary interruptions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements periodic action by scheduling data writing operations at specific intervals or conditions rather than continuously. The system periodically checks the toner residual amount and performs writing operations only when predetermined conditions are met (such as when toner reaches a certain level or after a specific number of copies). This periodic approach maintains productivity while ensuring data is updated with current information at appropriate moments.
Data Source
AI summary
When copying control (copying/printing job) is finished, the main CPU checks whether the scanner control is being executed in the scanner portion. If the scanner control is not being executed, the main CPU checks whether there is any scanner control executing request. If there is no scanner control executing request, the main CPU locks a scanner control resource, reads out a count value of a toner residual amount stored in a non-volatile RAM, renews the control information of EEPROM of the toner cartridge through an interface, releases the lock of the scanner control resource and finishes the copying operation.