Voltage-Based I2C Address Configuration for Printer Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Identical authentication modules used in printers, such as toner bottles and imaging units, require unique communication addresses to function correctly, leading to increased manufacturing costs and complexity due to the need for distinct addresses.
Innovation Solution
An authentication module sets its I2C communication address based on the voltage on its power connection, allowing identical modules to operate on multiple supply items by responding to specific commands addressed to unique addresses, thereby eliminating the need for additional connections and simplifying manufacturing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If unique addresses are assigned to identical authentication modules for different supply items, then address conflicts are avoided and operational correctness is maintained, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by using voltage level as a configurable parameter to determine the I2C address of authentication modules. During manufacturing, different voltage levels applied to the power connection result in different address assignments for identical modules, enabling unique identification without physical differentiation or additional components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universality by designing identical authentication modules that can serve multiple supply items (toner bottles, imaging units, etc.) with different addresses. The same hardware design is universally applicable across different printer components, with address differentiation achieved through voltage-based configuration rather than hardware variation.
2Ease of manufacture
If voltage-based address setting is implemented, then manufacturing cost and complexity are reduced by using identical modules, but address configuration reliability must be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by setting the I2C address configuration during the manufacturing process before the module is installed in the printer. The voltage-based address assignment is performed in advance, ensuring that each module has a predetermined unique address ready for operation, eliminating the need for post-installation configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The authentication module performs self-configuration of its I2C address based on the voltage level detected during manufacturing. The module automatically determines its address without external intervention or additional programming steps, simplifying the manufacturing process while ensuring reliable address assignment.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables identical modules to be used across multiple printer components without address conflicts, reducing manufacturing expenses and simplifying the manufacturing process while maintaining operational correctness.
Implementation Method 1
an address input node coupled to the power connection through a voltage attenuator
Data Source
AI summary
A method of operating a module is disclosed. The method includes determining if a voltage between a power connection and a ground connection exceeds a predetermined threshold and if so determined then setting a module communication address to a first address, responding to a first serial communication received via the serial communication connection addressed to the module communication address, and not responding to a second serial communication received via the serial communication connection addressed to a different address than the module communication address. Other methods and devices are disclosed.