18599332. IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS simplified abstract (CANON KABUSHIKI KAISHA)
Contents
IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS
Organization Name
Inventor(s)
TOSHINORI Kimura of Ibaraki (JP)
IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS - A simplified explanation of the abstract
This abstract first appeared for US patent application 18599332 titled 'IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS
Simplified Explanation: The image forming apparatus described in the patent application can switch between a standby state and a sleep state to conserve energy. It maintains a heating rotating member at different temperatures depending on the state to optimize performance and energy consumption.
- The apparatus can shift to a standby state where the heating rotating member is kept at a first temperature when not in use.
- It can also transition to a sleep state where the heater is turned off to save energy during periods of inactivity.
- Before a predetermined time elapses in the sleep state, the heater is turned on to maintain the heating rotating member at a second temperature, which is equal to or less than the first temperature.
Key Features and Innovation:
- Energy-efficient operation by adjusting the temperature of the heating rotating member based on the operational state.
- Automatic switching between standby and sleep states to optimize energy consumption.
- Preheating functionality to ensure quick readiness for operation when transitioning from sleep mode.
Potential Applications: The technology can be applied in various image forming devices such as printers, copiers, and scanners to improve energy efficiency and performance.
Problems Solved: The patent addresses the need for energy-saving features in image forming apparatus to reduce power consumption and operational costs.
Benefits:
- Energy savings through intelligent temperature control.
- Improved efficiency and performance of image forming devices.
- Extended lifespan of heating components due to optimized temperature management.
Commercial Applications: The technology can be utilized in office equipment, commercial printing services, and other industries that rely on image forming devices to reduce energy costs and enhance productivity.
Questions about the Technology: 1. How does the patent application propose to optimize energy consumption in image forming devices? 2. What are the potential benefits of maintaining the heating rotating member at different temperatures based on the operational state?
Original Abstract Submitted
Disclosed is an image forming apparatus which is capable of shifting to a standby state in which a heating rotating member is maintained at a first temperature during non-image forming, and to a sleep state in which a heater is turned off during non-image forming. The image forming apparatus turns on the heater before a predetermined time period elapses from when the image forming apparatus shifts to the sleep state such that the heating rotating member is maintained at a second temperature, which is equal to or less than the first temperature when the predetermined time period elapses from when the image forming apparatus shifts to the sleep state.
