UPS-Powered Image Forming Apparatus Function Selection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Image forming apparatuses face challenges in using all functions when powered by an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) due to limited energy capacity, leading to potential system shutdown during printing.
Innovation Solution
An electric energy amount determination part and a function selection part are integrated to assess the maximum energy supply of the UPS and selectively enable functions based on this assessment, optimizing energy usage to prevent system overload.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the image forming apparatus uses all functions with UPS power supply, then the printing function can be maintained, but the UPS system may be overloaded and stopped due to exceeding maximum electric energy capacity
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus dynamically adjusts the set of available functions based on the detected UPS energy capacity. The control unit determines which functions can be operated within the energy constraints, allowing the system to adapt its functionality in real-time rather than using a fixed set of functions. This resolves the contradiction by making the function set dynamic rather than static.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameter of available functions based on the UPS energy capacity parameter. When energy capacity is limited, the control unit modifies which functions are accessible, effectively changing the operational parameters of the apparatus to match the energy constraints while maintaining critical functions.
2Duration of action of stationary object
If the image forming apparatus limits available functions to conserve UPS energy, then the UPS system can supply power for longer, but the printing function becomes impossible to carry out
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically determines the available function set based on real-time UPS energy capacity detection. This allows the apparatus to maintain printing functionality when energy is sufficient while automatically limiting non-essential functions when energy is constrained, thus extending UPS duration without completely sacrificing printing capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit implements partial action by selectively enabling only those functions that can be supported within the UPS energy constraints. Rather than disabling all non-critical functions, the system performs a partial set of functions that balances printing needs with energy conservation, achieving both extended duration and maintained adaptability.
3Loss of energy
If the image forming apparatus provides detailed function selection based on energy capacity, then energy usage is optimized, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit automatically detects the UPS energy capacity and autonomously determines the appropriate function set without requiring user input or manual configuration. The system serves itself by self-adjusting its operational parameters based on detected energy constraints, thereby optimizing energy usage while avoiding the complexity of manual control interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by continuously monitoring the UPS energy capacity and using this information to adjust the available function set. The control unit receives feedback about energy availability and automatically modifies operational parameters, creating a closed-loop control system that optimizes energy efficiency without requiring complex external control mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
A processing apparatus that an uninterruptible power supply system supplies power to and carries out a process. The processing apparatus includes an electric energy amount determination part that determines, based on a charged amount of electric energy in the uninterruptible power supply system, an amount of maximum electric energy that the uninterruptible power supply system can supply; and a function selection part that selects, depending on the amount of maximum electric energy, functions that can be used for carrying out the process.