a server, a non-transitory computer-readable recording medium storing computer-readable instructions for the server, and a printer

Abstract

A server configured to perform communication with a printer may include: a first delivery processing execution unit for performing a first delivery process to deliver a new first consumable to a user of the printer, provided that a first predetermined condition is met; and an initialization instruction sending unit for sending an initialization instruction to the printer upon execution of the first delivery process, wherein the initialization instruction is a command instructing the printer to initialize first counting information, wherein the first counting information is stored in the printer and relates to the usage amount of the first consumable.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure discloses techniques relating to servers configured to perform delivery processing for delivering consumables for printers. Background Technology

[0002] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2006-195241 describes a system including a central management device and a multifunction device. In this system, a replacement worksheet is used. The replacement worksheet includes checkboxes for various parts that need to be replaced in the printer. An operator checks the checkboxes corresponding to the parts to be replaced, and the multifunction device reads the replacement worksheet. The multifunction device determines whether each checkbox is selected and sends information indicating the determination result to the central management device. Based on this information, the central management device sends a signal to the printer to reset the counters corresponding to the replaced parts. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The disclosure herein discloses a technique for initializing and storing counting information related to the usage of printer consumables in the printer using a novel method different from the techniques described above.

[0004] This document discloses a server configured to perform communication with a printer. The server may include: a first delivery processing execution unit configured to perform a first delivery process for delivering a new first consumable to a user of the printer, provided that a first predetermined condition is met; and an initialization instruction sending unit configured to send an initialization instruction to the printer upon execution of the first delivery process, wherein the initialization instruction is a command instructing the printer to initialize first counting information, wherein the first counting information is stored in the printer and relates to the usage amount of the first consumable.

[0005] According to the above configuration, when performing the first delivery process for delivering a new first consumable, the server sends an initialization instruction to the printer. As a result, the first count information stored in the printer is initialized. As described above, the server can use a novel method to initialize the first count information stored in the printer.

[0006] The server may further include: a first counting information receiving unit for receiving first counting information stored in the printer from the printer; and a determining unit for determining that a first predetermined condition is met when the first counting information is received from the printer and the amount of first consumables used as indicated by the first counting information is equal to or greater than a first threshold.

[0007] After the first delivery process has been performed, the first counting information receiving unit can receive the first counting information from the printer again. If the usage of the first consumable indicated by the re-received first counting information is equal to or greater than the second threshold, the initialization instruction sending unit can send an initialization instruction to the printer. If the second threshold is greater than the first threshold, and if the usage of the first consumable indicated by the re-received first counting information is less than the second threshold, the initialization instruction may not be sent to the printer.

[0008] The server may further include: an acquisition unit, which is configured to acquire status information indicating the delivery status of a new first consumable after the first delivery process has been performed, wherein, if the first delivery process has been performed and the status information indicates a predetermined status, the initialization instruction sending unit may send an initialization instruction to the printer, and if the first delivery process has been performed and the status information does not indicate a predetermined status, the initialization instruction may not be sent to the printer.

[0009] The scheduled status could be the completion of delivery of the new first consumable.

[0010] The printer may also store second counting information related to the usage of a second consumable different from the first consumable, and the server may further include: a second delivery processing execution unit, which is configured to execute a second delivery process for delivering a new second consumable to the printer when a second predetermined condition is met, wherein, in response to executing the second delivery process, an instruction for initializing the second counting information stored in the printer may not be sent to the printer, the new first consumable may be a consumable that, when attached to the printer, does not cause the printer to automatically initialize the first counting information, and the new second consumable may be a consumable that, when attached to the printer, causes the printer to automatically initialize the second counting information.

[0011] The server may further include: a second counting information receiving unit for receiving second counting information stored in the printer from the printer; and a second determining unit for determining that a second predetermined condition is met when the second counting information is received from the printer and the amount of second consumables used as indicated by the second counting information is equal to or greater than a third threshold.

[0012] This document discloses a printer configured to perform communication with a server. The printer may include: a memory storing first count information relating to the usage of a first consumable for the printer; an initialization instruction receiving unit configured to receive an initialization instruction from a server in the event of a first delivery process performed by the server, instructing the initialization instruction to initialize the first count information, wherein the server performs a first delivery process for delivering a new first consumable to the printer if a first predetermined condition is met; and a first initialization unit configured to initialize the first count information in the memory upon receiving an initialization instruction from the server.

[0013] According to the above configuration, when the server performs the first delivery process for delivering a new first consumable, the printer receives an initialization instruction from the server. As a result, the printer initializes the first counting information stored in the printer. As described above, the printer can use a novel method to initialize the first counting information stored in the printer.

[0014] The printer may further include: a first counting information sending unit, which is used to send first counting information in memory to a server, wherein, in the server, a first predetermined condition is determined to be met when the first counting information is received from the printer and the amount of first consumables used as indicated by the first counting information is equal to or greater than a first threshold.

[0015] The printer may further include: a display unit; a first display control unit, the first display control unit being configured to cause the display unit to display first notification information indicating that the first consumable needs to be replaced, wherein the fourth threshold is greater than the first threshold, when the usage of the first consumable indicated by first count information in the memory changes from less than a fourth threshold to equal to or greater than the fourth threshold; and a display termination unit, the display termination unit being configured to terminate the display of the first notification information when the first count information in the memory is initialized and the first notification information is displayed on the display unit.

[0016] The printer may further include: a second display control unit, which is configured to cause the display unit to display second notification information indicating that the replacement time of the first consumable is approaching when the usage of the first consumable, as indicated by the first count information in the memory, changes from less than a first threshold to equal to or greater than the first threshold. The second notification information may also indicate that the replacement time of the first consumable is approaching when the usage of the first consumable, as indicated by the first count information in the memory, changes from less than a fourth threshold to equal to or greater than the fourth threshold, and the second notification information is displayed on the display unit. In this case, the first display control unit may cause the display unit to display the first notification information instead of the second notification information.

[0017] The printer may further include: a receiving unit for receiving an initialization operation to initialize the first count information; and a second initialization unit for initializing the first count information in memory before receiving an initialization instruction from the server and after receiving an initialization operation after attaching a new first consumable to the printer.

[0018] The memory may further store second count information related to the usage of a second consumable, which is different from the first consumable of the printer, and in the server, upon meeting a second predetermined condition, execute a second delivery process for delivering a new second consumable to the printer. The printer may further include a third initialization unit, which is configured to automatically initialize the second count information in the memory when a new second consumable is attached to the printer, without receiving an instruction to initialize the second count information in the memory. The new first consumable may be a consumable whose attachment to the printer does not cause the automatic initialization of the first count information.

[0019] The printer may further include: a second counting information sending unit for sending second counting information in memory to a server, wherein the server determines that a second predetermined condition is met when it receives the second counting information from the printer and the amount of a second consumable used as indicated by the second counting information is equal to or greater than a third threshold.

[0020] The computer program for implementing the aforementioned server, the computer-readable storage medium storing the computer program, and the method executed by the aforementioned server are also novel and useful. Similarly, the computer program for implementing the aforementioned printer, the computer-readable storage medium storing the computer program, and the method executed by the aforementioned printer are also novel and useful. Furthermore, the system including the aforementioned server and the aforementioned printer is also novel and useful. Attached Figure Description

[0021] Figure 1 The structure of the communication system is shown;

[0022] Figure 2 A flowchart of the printer monitoring process is shown;

[0023] Figure 3 A flowchart of the printer's display control process is shown;

[0024] Figure 4 A flowchart illustrating the management server's processes is shown;

[0025] Figure 5 A sequence diagram showing the delivery of the photosensitive drum is provided;

[0026] Figure 6 The sequence diagram is shown after the photosensitive drum has been delivered;

[0027] Figure 7 The sequence diagrams show case A (no initialization) and case B (initialization).

[0028] Figure 8 A sequence diagram showing the delivery of toner cartridges is provided; and

[0029] Figure 9 The sequence diagram is shown after the toner cartridges have been delivered. Detailed Implementation

[0030] (Construction of Communication System 2:) Figure 1 )

[0031] like Figure 1 As shown, the communication system 2 is equipped with multiple printers 10 and 50, a management server 100, and a delivery server 200. The printers 10 and 50 and the servers 100 and 200 can communicate with each other via the Internet 4.

[0032] Specifically, a so-called always-connected Extensible Message and Presence Protocol (XMPP) connection is established between each of the printers 10 and 50 and the management server 100. Therefore, the management server 100 can send signals to the printers 10 and 50, bypassing the firewall of the local area network to which each of the printers 10 and 50 belongs, without receiving signals from the printers themselves.

[0033] (The structure of printers 10 and 50)

[0034] Each of printers 10 and 50 is a peripheral device configured to perform printing functions. Printer ID 10 is "XXX", and printer ID 50 is "YYY". The printer IDs are identification information used to identify the printer. Since printers 10 and 50 have similar structures, only the structure of printer 10 will be described below, and the description of the structure of printer 50 will be omitted. Printer 10 is provided with a display unit 12, a network interface 14, a print execution unit 20, and a controller 30.

[0035] Display unit 12 is a display for showing various types of information. Display unit 12 also serves as an operation panel (i.e., operation unit) configured to accept instructions from the user. The operation unit can be provided as a separate unit from display unit 12. Network interface 14 is connected to the Internet via a local area network.

[0036] The print execution unit 20 is a printing mechanism configured to perform printing according to a laser scheme. The print execution unit 20 is provided with a photosensitive drum 22 and a toner cartridge 24. The photosensitive drum 22 is configured to be exposed by a laser and contain toner, and is detachably attached to the housing (not shown) of the printer 10. The toner cartridge 24 is configured to store toner and is detachably attached to the housing of the printer 10. When the amount of sheet printed using the photosensitive drum 22 is equal to or greater than a threshold, a new photosensitive drum needs to be attached as a replacement for the photosensitive drum 22. Furthermore, when the remaining amount of toner in the toner cartridge 24 is equal to or less than a threshold, a new toner cartridge needs to be attached as a replacement for the toner cartridge 24. That is, the photosensitive drum and the toner cartridge are consumables of the printer 10. In the following, the photosensitive drum and the toner cartridge will be referred to as "drum" and "CTG (cartridge)" respectively, in a simplified manner.

[0037] The controller 30 includes a CPU 32 and a memory 34. The CPU 32 is configured to perform various processes according to a program 36 stored in the memory 34. The memory 34 consists of volatile memory, non-volatile memory, etc. In addition to the program 36, the memory 34 also stores the number of printed sheets (in... Figure 1 (The example shows 1500 images) and the remaining toner (in...) Figure 1 (70% in the example). The number of sheets printed is information indicating the amount of sheet printed using drum 22, and is counted each time a print is performed. Hereinafter, this number of sheets printed will be referred to as the "drum print count". Typically, the drum print count is initialized each time drum 22 is replaced (i.e., the count is set to 0). The toner remaining amount is information indicating the amount of toner remaining in CTG 24 as a percentage, and is decremented each time a print is performed.

[0038] (The structure of management server 100)

[0039] Management server 100 is configured to perform delivery processing when the time comes to replace consumables (e.g., drum 22, CTG 24) for printers (e.g., 10, 50). Specifically, management server 100 is configured to command the delivery of new consumables to delivery server 200. Management server 100 is installed on the Internet by the seller of printers 10, 50. In a variant, management server 100 may be installed by an entity other than the seller. Management server 100 is provided with network interface 114 and controller 130.

[0040] Network interface 114 is connected to the Internet. Controller 130 includes CPU 132 and memory 134. CPU 132 is configured to perform various processes according to program 136 stored in memory 134. Memory 134 consists of volatile memory, non-volatile memory, etc. In addition to program 136, memory 134 also stores management table 140. Management table 140 is a table in which customer information, printer ID, drum order information, and CTG order information are stored in a mutually related manner.

[0041] Customer information includes details such as the printer owner's name and address. As mentioned above, the printer ID is identification information used to identify the printer. Drum order information includes an order flag and an order ID. CTG order information also includes an order flag and an order ID. The order flag is set to either ON or OFF, with ON indicating the state between when an order for a new consumable (e.g., drum, CTG) is requested from the delivery server 200 and when the delivery of that consumable is completed, and OFF indicating a state other than the aforementioned state. The order ID is information used to identify the order for the new consumable and is generated by the delivery server 200.

[0042] (Construction of delivery server 200)

[0043] Delivery server 200 is configured to deliver consumables (e.g., drum 22, CTG 24) for printers (e.g., 10, 50) to the printer user upon request from management server 100. Specifically, when order information including information indicating the user's address, name, etc., and information indicating the type of consumable is received from management server 100, delivery server 200 instructs a worker to deliver the consumable. Delivery server 200 is installed on the Internet by an entity other than the seller of printers 10, 50. In a variant, delivery server 200 may be installed by the seller.

[0044] (Monitoring and processing of printer 10:) Figure 2 )

[0045] Next, we will refer to Figure 2 This describes the monitoring processing performed by the CPU 32 of printer 10. Similar to printer 10, printer 50 also performs... Figure 2 The processing (and) Figure 3 (Processing). All communication performed by printer 10 is performed via network interface 14. Therefore, for the sake of explanation, the phrase "via network interface 14" will be omitted. CPU 32 performs monitoring processing of S10, S20, S30 and S40 in parallel.

[0046] In S10, CPU 32 monitors for the arrival of a scheduled time. The scheduled time can be, for example, a certain time of day. If it is determined that the scheduled time has arrived (yes in S10), CPU 32 proceeds to S12.

[0047] In S12, CPU 32 sends printer information to management server 100. This printer information includes the printer ID "XXX", the number of prints on the drum in memory 34, and the remaining toner in memory 34. When S12 completes, CPU 32 returns to the monitoring and processing in S10.

[0048] In S20, CPU 32 monitors the receipt of initialization instructions from management server 100. The initialization instruction is a command instructing the initialization of the number of drum prints in memory 34. Upon determining that an initialization instruction has been received from management server 100 (yes in S20), CPU 32 proceeds to S22.

[0049] In S22, CPU 32 initializes the number of drum prints in memory 34 (i.e., sets the count value to 0). When S22 completes, CPU 32 returns to monitoring processing in S10, etc.

[0050] In S30, the CPU 32 monitors the acceptance of the initialization operation for the number of drum prints. If, in response to the user having operated the operation panel of the display unit 12 and receiving a signal from the operation panel indicating that an initialization operation has been performed, the CPU 32 determines that the initialization operation is accepted (yes in S30) and proceeds to S32.

[0051] In S32, similar to S22, CPU 32 initializes the number of drum prints in memory 34. When S32 completes, CPU 32 returns to monitoring and processing in S10.

[0052] In S40, CPU 32 monitors the replacement of CTG. Upon receiving a signal from the print execution unit 20 indicating that CTG has been replaced, CPU 32 determines that CTG has been replaced (yes in S40) and proceeds to S42.

[0053] In step S42, CPU 32 initializes the remaining toner level in memory 34 (i.e., resets the count value to 100%). When S42 completes, CPU 32 returns to the monitoring process in step S10, etc. As described above, when a new CTG has been attached, printer 10 can automatically initialize the remaining toner level. That is, the CTG is a consumable that is attached to printer 10 to enable printer 10 to automatically initialize the remaining toner level.

[0054] On the other hand, Figure 2There is no process for monitoring drum replacement and initializing the drum print count. Therefore, even if a new drum has been attached, the printer 10 will not automatically initialize the drum print count. That is, the drum is a consumable item whose attachment to the printer 10 does not cause the printer 10 to automatically initialize the drum print count. Therefore, for example, there is no need to set up a sensor for detecting drum replacement, thereby reducing the manufacturing cost of the printer 10.

[0055] (Printer 10 display control processing:) Figure 3 )

[0056] Next, we will refer to Figure 3 The display control process executed by the CPU 32 of the printer 10 is described. In this process, the CPU 32 executes the process of displaying errors related to drum replacement (hereinafter referred to as "drum error") (S100 to S142) and the process of displaying errors related to CTG replacement (hereinafter referred to as "CTG error") (S150 to S192).

[0057] In S100, CPU 32 determines whether a drum error is currently displayed on display unit 12. Here, drum errors include drum consumption errors and drum replacement errors. A drum consumption error is an error display that includes a message indicating that the drum's replacement time is approaching. A drum replacement error is an error display that includes a message indicating that the drum needs to be replaced. If it is determined that either a drum consumption error or a drum replacement error is displayed (yes in S100), CPU 32 proceeds to S120; if it is determined that neither a drum consumption error nor a drum replacement error is displayed (no in S100), CPU 32 proceeds to S110.

[0058] In S110, CPU 32 determines whether the number of drum prints in memory 34 is not less than a preset threshold Dth1 (e.g., 18,000 sheets). If it is determined that the number of drum prints is equal to or greater than the threshold Dth1 (yes in S110), CPU 32 proceeds to S112; if it is determined that the number of drum prints is less than the threshold Dth1 (no in S110), CPU 32 proceeds to S150.

[0059] In S112, the CPU 32 instructs the display unit 12 to display a drum consumption error by indicating that the display unit 12 should display such an error. When S112 is complete, the CPU 32 proceeds to S150.

[0060] In S120, CPU 32 determines whether a drum consumption error is currently displayed on display unit 12. If a drum consumption error is determined (yes in S120), CPU 32 proceeds to S130; if a drum replacement error is determined (no in S120), CPU 32 proceeds to S140.

[0061] In S130, CPU 32 determines whether the number of drum prints in memory 34 is not less than a preset threshold Dth2 (e.g., 20,000 sheets). Here, threshold Dth2 (e.g., 20,000 sheets) is greater than threshold Dth1 (e.g., 18,000 sheets). If it is determined that the number of drum prints is equal to or greater than threshold Dth2 (yes in S130), CPU 32 proceeds to S132; if it is determined that the number of drum prints is less than threshold Dth2 (no in S130), CPU 32 proceeds to S140.

[0062] In S132, the CPU 32 instructs the display unit 12 to display a drum replacement error instead of a drum consumption error. When S132 is complete, the CPU 32 proceeds to S150.

[0063] In S140, CPU 32 determines whether the number of drum prints in memory 34 is less than the threshold Dth1. That is, CPU 32 determines whether the number of drum prints has changed from being equal to or greater than the threshold Dth1 to being less than the threshold Dth1. This change is due to... Figure 2 This is caused by initializing the drum print count in S22 or S32. If it is determined that the drum print count is less than the threshold Dth1 (yes in S140), CPU 32 proceeds to S142; if it is determined that the drum print count is equal to or greater than the threshold Dth1 (no in S140), CPU 32 proceeds to S150.

[0064] In S142, the CPU 32 terminates the display drum error (i.e., drum consumption error or drum replacement error) by instructing the display unit 12 to terminate the display drum error. When S142 is completed, the CPU 32 proceeds to S150.

[0065] In S150, CPU 32 determines whether a CTG error is currently displayed on display unit 12. Here, CTG errors include CTG consumption errors and CTG replacement errors. A CTG consumption error is an error display including a message that the CTG replacement time is approaching. A CTG replacement error is an error display including a message that the CTG needs to be replaced. If it is determined that either a CTG consumption error or a CTG replacement error will be displayed (S150 is no), CPU 32 proceeds to S160; if it is determined that neither a CTG consumption error nor a CTG replacement error will be displayed (S150 is yes), CPU 32 proceeds to S170.

[0066] In S160, CPU 32 determines whether the remaining amount of toner in memory 34 is not greater than a preset threshold Tth1 (e.g., 10%). Here, determining whether the remaining amount of toner is not greater than the threshold Tth1 is equivalent to determining whether the amount of toner used is not less than (100-Tth1)%. This is similar to the determination in S180, which will be described later. If it is determined that the remaining amount of toner is equal to or less than the threshold Tth1, that is, if it is determined that the amount of toner used is equal to or greater than (100-Tth1)% (yes in S160), CPU 32 proceeds to S162, and if it is determined that the remaining amount of toner is greater than the threshold Tth1 (no in S160), CPU 32 returns to S100.

[0067] In S162, CPU 32 instructs display unit 12 to display a CTG consumption error by indicating that display unit 12 should display the error. When S162 completes, CPU 32 returns to S100.

[0068] In S170, CPU 32 determines whether a CTG consumption error is currently displayed on display unit 12. If it is determined that a CTG consumption error is displayed (yes in S170), CPU 32 proceeds to S180; if it is determined that a CTG replacement error is displayed (no in S170), CPU 32 proceeds to S190.

[0069] In S180, CPU 32 determines whether the remaining amount of toner in memory 34 is not greater than a preset threshold Tth2 (e.g., 0%). Here, threshold Tth2 (e.g., 0%) is less than threshold Tth1 (e.g., 10%). If it is determined that the remaining amount of toner is equal to or less than threshold Tth2, that is, if it is determined that the amount of toner used is equal to or greater than (100-Tth2)% (yes in S180), CPU 32 proceeds to S182; if it is determined that the remaining amount of toner is greater than threshold Tth2 (no in S180), CPU 32 proceeds to S190.

[0070] In S182, CPU 32 instructs display unit 12 to display a CTG replacement error instead of a CTG consumption error by instructing display unit 12 to display a CTG replacement error. When S182 completes, CPU 32 returns to S100.

[0071] In S190, CPU 32 determines whether the remaining toner in memory 34 is greater than threshold Tth1. That is, CPU 32 determines whether the remaining toner has changed from being equal to or less than threshold Tth1 to being greater than threshold Tth1. This change is due to... Figure 2This is caused by initializing the remaining toner amount in S42. If it is determined that the remaining toner amount is greater than the threshold Tth1 (yes in S190), CPU 32 proceeds to S192; if it is determined that the remaining toner amount is equal to or less than the threshold Tth1 (no in S190), CPU 32 returns to S100.

[0072] In S192, CPU 32 terminates the display of CTG errors (i.e., CTG consumption errors or CTG replacement errors) by instructing display unit 12 to terminate the display of CTG errors. When S192 is completed, CPU 32 returns to S100.

[0073] (Management server 100 processing:) Figure 4 )

[0074] Next, we will refer to Figure 4 This describes the processing performed by the CPU 132 of the management server 100. All communication performed by the management server 100 is carried out via network interface 114. Therefore, for the sake of describing the communication, the phrase "via network interface 114" will be omitted.

[0075] In S200, CPU 132 monitors the reception of printer information from printers (e.g., 10, 50). Upon receiving printer information, CPU 132 determines "yes" in S200 and proceeds to S210. The printer information includes the printer ID of the sending printer, the number of drum prints, and the remaining toner. Hereinafter, the printer information received in S200, the printer ID included in that information, and the sending printer will be referred to as "target printer information," "target printer ID," and "target printer," respectively.

[0076] In S210, CPU 132 determines and manages table 140 (see...). Figure 1 The CPU 132 checks whether the order flag (hereinafter referred to as the "drum order flag") associated with the drum order information of the target printer ID in the target printer ID is OFF. If it is determined that the drum order flag is OFF (yes in S210), the CPU 132 proceeds to S220, and if it is determined that the drum order flag is ON (no in S210), the CPU 132 proceeds to S230.

[0077] In S220, CPU 132 determines whether the drum print count in the target printer information is not less than a threshold Dth1. Here, threshold Dth1 is related to... Figure 3The threshold Dth1 used in S110 is the same. If it is determined that the number of drum prints is equal to or greater than the threshold Dth1 (yes in S220), CPU 132 proceeds to S222, and if it is determined that the number of drum prints is less than the threshold Dth1 (no in S220), CPU 132 proceeds to S250.

[0078] In S222, CPU 132 sends order information indicating drum delivery to delivery server 200. This order information includes customer information associated with the target printer ID in management table 140 and drum information (e.g., drum model). Therefore, delivery of the new drum to the address indicated by the customer information is arranged by delivery server 200. CPU 132 receives an order ID from delivery server 200 in response to sending the order information.

[0079] In S224, CPU 132 updates management table 140. Specifically, CPU 132 changes the drum order flag from OFF to ON, and further stores the order ID received in S222 as an order ID of the drum order information associated with the target printer ID. When S224 is complete, CPU 132 proceeds to S250.

[0080] In S230, CPU 132 determines whether the drum print count included in the target printer information is less than the threshold Dth1. That is, CPU 132 determines whether the drum print count has changed from being equal to or greater than the threshold Dth1 (yes in S220) to being less than the threshold Dth1. The determination of "yes" in S230 is due to... Figure 2 S12 is executed after S22 or S32. If it is determined that the number of drum prints is less than the threshold Dth1 (yes in S230), CPU 132 proceeds to S232, and if it is determined that the number of drum prints is equal to or greater than the threshold Dth1 (no in S230), CPU 132 proceeds to S240.

[0081] In S232, CPU 132 updates management table 140. Specifically, CPU 132 changes the drum order flag from ON to OFF and further deletes the order ID of the drum order information associated with the target printer ID. When S232 is complete, CPU 132 proceeds to S250.

[0082] In S240, CPU 132 acquires delivery status information. Specifically, CPU 132 first identifies the order ID included in the drum order information associated with the target printer ID from management table 140. Then, CPU 132 sends a status request including the identified order ID to delivery server 200. In response, CPU 132 receives delivery status information from delivery server 200 indicating the delivery status of the drum identified by the order ID. This delivery status information indicates either "processing" or "delivery completed," where "processing" means the order for drum delivery has been accepted but delivery has not yet been completed, and "delivery completed" means the drum delivery has been completed.

[0083] In S242, CPU 132 determines whether the delivery status information received in S240 indicates "delivery completed". If it is determined that the delivery status information indicates "delivery completed" (yes in S242), CPU 132 proceeds to S244; if it is determined that the delivery status information indicates "processing" (no in S242), CPU 132 proceeds to S250.

[0084] In S244, CPU 132 determines whether the number of drum prints included in the target printer information is not less than the product obtained by multiplying 1.1 by a threshold Dth2. The threshold Dth2 used here is related to... Figure 3 The threshold Dth2 used in S130 is the same. If it is determined that the number of drum prints is equal to or greater than the above product (yes in S244), CPU 132 proceeds to S246, and if it is determined that the number of drum prints is less than the above product (no in S244), CPU 132 proceeds to S250.

[0085] In S246, CPU 132 sends an initialization command to the target printer indicating the initial drum print count. As a result, the drum print count is initialized by the target printer (see...). Figure 2 (S22). When S246 is completed, CPU 132 proceeds to S232.

[0086] In S250, CPU 132 determines and manages table 140 (see...). Figure 1 The CPU 132 checks whether the order flag (hereinafter referred to as "CTG order flag") associated with the CTG order information of the target printer ID in the target printer ID is OFF. If it is determined that the CTG order flag is OFF (yes in S250), the CPU 132 proceeds to S260, and if it is determined that the CTG order flag is ON (no in S250), the CPU 132 proceeds to S270.

[0087] In S260, CPU 132 determines whether the remaining toner level in the target printer information is not greater than a threshold Tth1. The threshold Tth1 used here is related to... Figure 3 The threshold Tth1 used in S160 is the same. If it is determined that the remaining amount of toner is equal to or less than the threshold Tth1 (yes in S260), CPU 132 proceeds to S262, and if it is determined that the remaining amount of toner is greater than the threshold Tth1 (no in S260), CPU 132 returns to S200.

[0088] In S262, CPU 132 sends order information indicating the delivery of the CTG to delivery server 200. This order information includes customer information associated with the target printer ID in management table 140 and CTG information (e.g., the CTG model). Therefore, delivery of the new CTG to the address indicated by the customer information is arranged by delivery server 200. CPU 132 receives an order ID from delivery server 200 in response to sending the order information.

[0089] In S264, CPU 132 updates management table 140. Specifically, CPU 132 changes the CTG order flag from OFF to ON, and further stores the order ID received in S262 as the order ID of the CTG order information associated with the target printer ID. When S264 completes, CPU 132 returns to S200.

[0090] In S270, CPU 132 determines whether the remaining toner amount included in the target printer information is greater than the threshold Tth1. That is, CPU 132 determines whether the remaining toner amount has changed from being equal to or less than the threshold Tth1 (yes in S260) to being greater than the threshold Tth1. The determination of "yes" in S270 is due to... Figure 2 S42 is followed by S12. If it is determined that the remaining amount of toner is greater than the threshold Tth1 (yes in S270), CPU 132 proceeds to S272; if it is determined that the remaining amount of toner is equal to or less than the threshold Tth1 (no in S270), CPU 132 returns to S200.

[0091] In S272, CPU 132 updates management table 140. Specifically, CPU 132 changes the CTG order flag from ON to OFF and further deletes the order ID of the CTG order information associated with the target printer ID. When S272 completes, CPU 132 returns to S200.

[0092] (Specific cases:) Figure 5 )

[0093] Next, we will refer to Figure 5 Describe a specific situation achieved through the processing of Figures 2 to 4 . In the initial state of Figure 5 , each of the drum order flag and the CTG order flag associated with the printer ID "XXX" in the management table 140 of the management server 100 is OFF.

[0094] In T100, the printer 10 sends printer information to the management server 100 ( Figure 2 Yes in S10 and S12 of ). The printer information includes the printer ID "XXX", the drum print quantity M1, and the toner remaining quantity N1.

[0095] When receiving the printer information from the printer 10 in T100 ( Figure 4 Yes in S200 of ), the management server 100 determines in T102 that the drum print quantity M1 is less than the threshold Dth1 (Yes in S210, No in S220), and determines that the toner remaining quantity N1 is greater than the threshold Tth1 (Yes in S250, No in S260). In this case, the management server 100 does not perform further processing (after determining No in S260, returns to S200).

[0096] After that, the printer 10 performs printing in T110. As a result, the drum print quantity becomes M2 (M2 > M1), and the toner remaining quantity becomes N2 (N2 < N1). Then, in T112, the printer 10 determines that the drum print quantity M2 is equal to or greater than the threshold Dth1 (No in S100, Figure 3 Yes in S110 of ). In this case, the printer 10 displays a drum consumption error on the display unit 12 in T114 (S112). Therefore, the user can confirm that the drum does not need to be replaced immediately, but he / she needs to replace the drum as soon as possible. The toner remaining quantity N2 remains greater than the threshold Tth1 (No in S150, No in S160).

[0097] After that, the printer 10 sends printer information to the management server 100 in T120 ( Figure 2 Yes in S10 and S12 of ). The printer information includes the printer ID "XXX", the drum print quantity M2, and the toner remaining quantity N2.

[0098] When receiving the printer information from the printer 10 in T120 ( Figure 4When the condition is true in S200, the management server 100 determines in T122 that the drum printing quantity M2 is equal to or greater than the threshold Dth1 (true in S210 and true in S220). In this case, the management server 100 sends order information including customer information CI1 and photosensitive drum information to the delivery server 200 in T130 (S222). As described above, when the drum printing quantity M2 is equal to or greater than the threshold Dth1, that is, when the drum replacement time is approaching, the management server 100 can perform the process for delivering a new drum.

[0099] When order information is received from management server 100 in T130, delivery server 200 arranges delivery of the drum and generates order ID "1234". Then, in T132, delivery server 200 stores order ID "1234" and delivery status information "processing" in association with each other. Then, in T134, delivery server 200 sends order ID "1234" to management server 100.

[0100] When in T134 ( Figure 4 When the order ID "1234" is received from the delivery server 200 in S222, the management server 100 updates the management table 140 in T140 (S224). Specifically, the order flag is changed from OFF to ON and the order ID "1234" is stored.

[0101] ( Figure 5 Continuing: Figure 6 )

[0102] Next, we will refer to Figure 6 describe Figure 5 The process continues. In T200, printer 10 sends printer information to management server 100 (…). Figure 2 (Yes in S10 and S12). This printer information is related to... Figure 5 The printer information is the same in the T120.

[0103] When printer information is received from printer 10 in T200 ( Figure 4 When the S200 is ON, the management server 100 determines that the drum order flag is ON (see S200). Figure 5 In T140 (S210, no), and in T202, determine that the drum printing quantity M2 is equal to or greater than the threshold Dth1 (S230, no). In this case, the management server 100 sends a status request including the order ID "1234" to the delivery server 200 in T210 (S240).

[0104] When receiving a status request from the management server 100 in T210, the delivery server 200 sends the delivery status information "In Process" associated with the order ID "1234" included in the status request (see Figure 5 at T132 of

[0105] to the management server 100 in T212. Figure 4 When receiving the delivery status information "In Process" from the delivery server 200 in T212 (

[0106] at S240 of Figure 5 ), the management server 100 determines that the delivery status information is not "Delivery Completed", so it does not perform further processing (returns to S200 after determining No in S242). That is, in this case, the initialization instruction is not sent to the printer 10. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the initialization of the drum print count in the printer 10 before the delivery of the new drum is completed (i.e., before attaching the new drum to the printer 10).

[0107] Thereafter, in T220, the delivery server 200 obtains delivery completion information. The delivery completion information indicates that the delivery of the new drum according to the Figure 3 order information in T130 of

[0108] has been completed. In this case, the delivery server 200 stores the order ID "1234" and the delivery status information "Delivery Completed" in association with each other in T222.

[0109] Thereafter, the printer 10 performs printing in T230. As a result, the drum print count becomes M3 (M3 > M2), and the toner remaining amount becomes N3 (N3 < N2). Then, in T232, the printer 10 determines that the drum print count M3 is equal to or greater than the threshold Dth3 ( Figure 2 Yes in S130 of

[0110] ). In this case, the printer 10 displays a drum replacement error instead of a drum consumption error on the display unit 12 in T234 (S132). Therefore, the user can confirm that the drum should be replaced immediately. The toner remaining amount N3 remains greater than the threshold Tth1 (No in S150, No in S160).

[0111] Figure 4

[0112] Figure 6 Figure 7

[0113] Figure 7 Figure 6 Figure 3 Figure 6

[0114] Figure 2

[0115] Figure 6

[0116] Figure 2 Figure 3

[0117] Figure 4

[0118] Figure 6 Figure 2 Figure 3

[0119] Figure 2

[0120] Figure 4

[0121] Figure 7 Figure 8

[0122] Figure 8 Figure 7 Figure 3

[0123] Figure 2 In addition to using the drum print quantity M3, the processing of T242 and T250 executed by the management server 100 is similar to the processing of T202 and T210. When receiving a status request from the management server 100 in T250, the delivery server 200 sends the delivery status information "Delivery completed" (see T222) associated with the order ID "1234" included in the status request to the management server 100 in T252.

[0111] When receiving the delivery status information "Delivery completed" from the delivery server 200 in T252 ( Figure 4 of S240), the management server 100 determines that the delivery status information is "Delivery completed" (Yes in S242). However, the management server 100 determines that the drum print quantity M3 is less than the product obtained by multiplying 1.1 by the threshold Dth2, and thus does not perform further processing (returns to S200 after determining No in S244). That is, in this case, the initialization instruction is not sent to the printer 10. In the present embodiment, since the drum may not be immediately replaced in the printer 10 even when the drum print quantity M3 is equal to or greater than the threshold Dth2, the initialization instruction is not sent to the printer 10 when the drum print quantity M3 is less than the above product. As described above, when a new drum may not have been attached to the printer 10, it is possible to prevent the initialization of the drum print quantity in the printer 10.

[0112] ( Figure 6 Continuation of: Figure 7 )

[0113] Next, reference will be made to Figure 7 Describe Figure 6 the continuation of. In T300, the printer 10 performs printing. As a result, the drum print quantity becomes M4 (M4 > M3), and the toner remaining quantity becomes N4 (N4 < N3). Then, in T302, the printer 10 determines whether the drum print quantity M4 is equal to or greater than the threshold Dth2 ( Figure 3 No in S120, No in S140). In this case, although the drum has been replaced (see Figure 6 of T236), the printer 10 continues to display a drum replacement error. Hereinafter, case A where the user does not perform an initialization operation on the printer 10 and case B where the user performs an initialization operation on the printer 10 will be described in sequence.

[0114] In case A, the printer 10 sends printer information to the management server 100 in T320 ( Figure 2 Yes in S10, S12). This printer information includes the printer ID "XXX", the drum print quantity M4, and the toner remaining quantity N4.

[0115] In addition to using drum printing quantity M4, the management server 100 performs T322 to T332 processing and... Figure 6 The processing in T242 to T252 is similar. Management server 100 determines the delivery status information to be "delivery complete" (yes in S242), and in T334 determines that the drum print count M4 is equal to or greater than the aforementioned product (yes in S244). In this case, management server 100 sends an initialization command to printer 10 using an XMPP connection in T340 (S246). As described above, when the delivery of a new drum has been completed and the new drum is highly likely to be attached to printer 10 (i.e., when the drum print count M4 is equal to or greater than the aforementioned product), management server 100 can initialize the drum print count stored in printer 10.

[0116] When the initialization command is received from the management server 100 in the T340 ( Figure 2 When the value in S20 is true, printer 10 initializes the drum print count in T342 (S22). Specifically, the drum print count becomes M5 (M5 = 0). Then, printer 10 determines that the drum print count M5 is less than the threshold Dth1. Figure 3 In S140 (if yes), and in T344 (S142), the display of the drum replacement error is terminated. As described above, this prevents the drum replacement error from continuing to be displayed even though the drum has been replaced.

[0117] When an initialization command is sent to printer 10 in T340, management server 100 in T350 ( Figure 4 Update management table 140 in S232 (after S246).

[0118] In scenario B, the user has replaced the drum (see...). Figure 6 After T236), printer 10 is initialized in T360. In this case, printer 10 initializes the drum print count in T362. Figure 2 In S30 and S32, the drum print count becomes M5 (M5 = 0). As described above, if the printer 10 receives an initialization operation from the user before receiving an initialization instruction from the server 100, the printer 10 can appropriately initialize the drum print count. Then, the printer 10 determines that the drum print count M5 is less than the threshold Dth1. Figure 3 (In S140, it is), and the display of drum replacement error is terminated in T364 (S142).

[0119] Subsequently, printer 10 sends printer information to management server 100 in T370. Figure 2 (S10 and S12 are correct). The printer information includes the printer ID "XXX", the number of drum prints M5 (i.e., 0) and the remaining toner N4.

[0120] When printer information is received from printer 10 in T370 ( Figure 4 When the condition is true in S200, the management server 100 determines in T372 that the drum print count M5 is less than the threshold Dth1 (true in S230). In this case, the management server 100 updates the management table 140 in T380 (S232 after the condition is true in S230).

[0121] ( Figure 7 Continuing: Figure 8 )

[0122] Next, we will refer to Figure 8 describe Figure 7 The process continues. In T400, printer 10 performs printing. As a result, the number of drum prints becomes M6 (M6≈0), and the remaining toner becomes N6 (N6<N4). Then, in T402, printer 10 determines that the remaining toner N6 is equal to or less than the threshold Tth1. Figure 3 (No in S150, Yes in S160). In this case, printer 10 displays a CTG consumption error on display unit 12 in T404 (S162). Therefore, the user can confirm that it is not necessary to replace the CTG immediately, but he / she needs to replace the CTG as soon as possible. The drum print count M6 remains less than the threshold Dth1 (No in S100, No in S110).

[0123] Then, in T410, printer 10 sends printer information to management server 100. Figure 2 (S10 and S12 are correct). The printer information includes the printer ID "XXX", the number of drum prints M6, and the remaining toner N6.

[0124] When printer information is received from printer 10 in T410 ( Figure 4 When the toner remaining amount N6 is equal to or less than the threshold Tth1 in S200 (Yes in both S250 and S260), the management server 100 determines in T412 that the remaining amount N6 is equal to or less than the threshold Tth1. In this case, the management server 100 sends order information including customer information CI1 and CTG information to the delivery server 200 in T420 (S262). As described above, when the remaining amount N6 is equal to or less than the threshold Tth1 (i.e., when the CTG replacement time is approaching), the management server 100 can perform processing for delivering a new CTG.

[0125] In addition to arranging the delivery of the new CTG, generating order ID "2345", and updating CTG order information, the processing of T422 to T430 is also... Figure 5is similar to T132 to T140. In addition, except for the completion of the delivery of the new CTG, the processing of T440 and T442 is similar to Figure 6 that of T220 and T222.

[0126] ( Figure 8 (Continuation of Figure 9 )

[0127] Next, reference will be made to Figure 9 to describe Figure 8 the continuation of. In T500, the printer 10 performs printing. As a result, the drum print count becomes M7 (M7 > M6), and the toner remaining amount becomes N7 (N7 < N6). Then, in T502, the printer 10 determines that the toner remaining amount N7 is equal to or less than the threshold Tth2 ( Figure 3 yes in S170 of

[0128] yes in S180). In this case, the printer 10 displays a CTG replacement error on the display unit 12 in T504 (S182). Thus, the user can confirm that the CTG should be replaced immediately. The drum print count M7 remains less than the threshold Dth1 (no in S100, no in S110). Figure 2 In T506, the user detaches the old CTG from the printer 10 and attaches the new CTG to the printer 10. In this case, the printer 10 initializes the toner remaining amount in T510 ( Figure 3 yes in S40, S42 of

[0129] ). Specifically, the toner remaining amount becomes N8 (N8 = 100%). Then, the printer 10 determines that the toner remaining amount N8 is greater than the threshold Tth1 ( Figure 2 yes in S190 of

[0130] and terminates the display of the CTG replacement error in T512 (S192). Figure 4 Thereafter, the printer 10 sends printer information to the management server 100 in T520 (

[0131] (Effect of this embodiment)

[0132] According to this embodiment, in performing the process for delivering a new drum ( Figure 5 In the case of T130), the management server 100 will send an initialization command to the printer 10. Figure 7 (T340). As a result, the drum print count stored in printer 10 is initialized (T342). As described above, management server 100 can initialize the drum print count stored in printer 10 using a novel method. Therefore, problems caused by uninitialized drum print count stored in printer 10 can be prevented. These problems include, for example, drum replacement errors continuing to appear on printer 10, and delivery being determined based on drum print count (i.e., ...). Figure 4 The determination in S220 cannot be properly executed, etc.

[0133] (Correspondence)

[0134] Management server 100 and printer 10 are examples of "server" and "printer," respectively. Drum and CTG are examples of "first consumable" and "second consumable," respectively. Drum print count and toner remaining amount are examples of "first count information" and "second count information," respectively. Figure 4 The determination of "yes" in S200 and S220 is an example of "satisfying the first predetermined condition". Figure 4 The determination of "yes" in S200 and S260 is an example of "satisfying the second predetermined condition". Figure 4 Sending order information in S222 and S262 are examples of "first delivery processing" and "second delivery processing," respectively. Thresholds Dth1 and Dth2 are examples of "first threshold" and "fourth threshold," respectively. The product obtained by multiplying 1.1 by threshold Dth2 is an example of "second threshold." (100 - toner remaining amount)% and (100 - Tth1)% are examples of "second consumable usage" and "third threshold," respectively. Delivery status information and "delivery completed" are examples of "status information" and "scheduled status," respectively. Drum consumption error and drum replacement error are examples of "first notification information" and "second notification information," respectively.

[0135] Figure 4 S200 is an example of a "first counting information receiving unit" and a "second counting information receiving unit". S220, S222, S260 and S262 are examples of a "first determining unit", a "first delivery processing execution unit", a "second determining unit", and a "second delivery processing execution unit", respectively. S240 and S246 are examples of an "acquisition unit" and an "initialization instruction sending unit", respectively.

[0136] Figure 2S12 is an example of a "first counting information sending unit" and a "second counting information sending unit". S20 and S22 are examples of an "initialization instruction receiving unit" and a "first initialization unit", respectively. S30, S32 and S42 are examples of a "receiving unit", a "second initialization unit" and a "third initialization unit", respectively. Figure 3 S112, S132 and S142 are examples of "second display control unit", "first display control unit" and "display termination unit", respectively.

[0137] (Variation 1) The management server 100 can be implemented by multiple separate servers. For example, the management server 100 may include: a first server configured to perform the processes of S200 to S232; a second server configured to perform... Figure 4 The processing of S200 to S246 is related to drum management. Generally speaking, a "server configured to perform communication with the printer" can be constructed by one or more servers.

[0138] (Variation 2) The management server 100 can also be used as a delivery server 200. In this case, Figure 4 In S222 and S262, the management server 100 schedules the delivery of consumables instead of sending order information (i.e., instructing staff to do so) and generates an order ID. Furthermore, in S240, the management server 100 can store delivery status information in memory 134 and retrieve the delivery status information from memory. In this variant, scheduling the delivery of consumables is an example of a "first (or second) delivery process." Furthermore, retrieving delivery status information from memory 134 is an example of a "retrieval unit."

[0139] (Variation 3) The "first consumable" is not limited to the photosensitive drum, but can be a fixing unit configured to fix the toner transferred from the photosensitive drum to the printing medium onto the printing medium, or a transport unit configured to transport the printing medium (e.g., a sheet feeder, a belt unit), etc. In particular, when the "first consumable" is a transport unit, the "printer" may not be a laser printer, but may be an inkjet printer. Furthermore, the "second consumable" may not be a toner cartridge, but may be a photosensitive drum, a fixing unit, a transport unit, an ink cartridge, etc.

[0140] (Variation 4) "First (or second) counting information" can be information corresponding to the type of consumable, and for example, it can be the number of sheets that can be printed using the consumable, the rotation speed of the photosensitive drum, the number of times the printing media is fed, the time elapsed since the consumable was attached, the amount of toner used, the amount of ink remaining, the amount of ink used, etc.

[0141] (Variation 5) Printer 10 may not send the drum print count or toner remaining quantity to management server 100. In this case, printer 10 may send drum order information requesting drum delivery to management server 100 when the drum print count is equal to or greater than threshold Dth1, and may send CTG order information requesting CTG delivery when the toner remaining quantity is equal to or less than threshold Tth1. Upon receiving order information from printer 10, management server 100 sends the order information to delivery server 200. Furthermore, upon receiving drum order information from printer 10, management server 100 sends an initialization command to printer 10. In this variant, receiving drum order information from printer 10 and receiving CTG order information from printer 10 are examples of "first predetermined condition" and "second predetermined condition," respectively. Furthermore, in this variant, the "first counting information receiving unit," "first determining unit," "second counting information receiving unit," and "second determining unit" may be omitted.

[0142] (Variation 6) can be omitted Figure 4 S244. Generally, when performing the first delivery process, the "initialization instruction sending unit" may include sending an initialization instruction to the printer even if the amount of the first consumable used is less than a second threshold.

[0143] (Variation 7) can be omitted. Figure 4 S240 and S242. In this variant, the "acquisition unit" can be omitted. Generally, when performing the first delivery process, the "initialization instruction sending unit" may include sending an initialization instruction to the printer even if the delivery state is not a predetermined state.

[0144] (Variation 8) The delivery status information is not limited to two values, "processing" and "delivery completed", and may include three values, "order accepted", "delivery in progress" and "delivery completed". In addition, the delivery status information may not include "delivery completed", and may include, for example, two values, "order accepted" and "delivery in progress".

[0145] (Variant 9) in Figure 2 In step S12, printer 10 can send printer information, excluding the remaining toner quantity, to management server 100. Furthermore, steps S40 and S42 can be omitted. In this case, they can also be omitted. Figure 4 S250 to S272. In this variant, the "second delivery processing execution unit", "second counting information receiving unit" and "second determining unit" can be omitted. Furthermore, the "third initialization unit" and "second counting information sending unit" can be omitted.

[0146] (Variation 10) Printer 10 may not have two thresholds Dth1 or Dth2 for the drum, and may, for example, not perform... Figure 3 S120 to S132. In this variant, the drum consumption error is an example of "first notification information". Furthermore, "second display control unit" can be omitted.

[0147] (Variation 11) Printer 10 may not display a drum consumption error or drum replacement error. In this case, the user can confirm that the drum should be replaced when a new drum is delivered. In this variant, the "first display control unit" and "second display control unit" can be omitted.

[0148] (Variation 12) can be omitted. Figure 2 S30 and S32. In this variant, the "accepting unit" and the "third initialization unit" can be omitted.

[0149] (Variation 13) In the above embodiments, Figures 2 to 9 The processing is implemented by executing program 36 (i.e., software) on the CPU 32 of printer 10 and executing program 136 on the CPU 132 of management server 100. Alternatively, at least one of the processes can be implemented by hardware (such as logic circuits).

Claims

1. A server configured to perform communication with a printer, characterized by, The server includes: a first delivery processing execution unit configured to execute, in a case where a first predetermined condition is satisfied, first delivery processing for delivering a new first consumable to a user of the printer, the new first consumable being a consumable whose attachment to the printer does not cause the printer to automatically initialize first count information; and an initialization instruction transmission unit configured to transmit, in a case where the first delivery processing is executed, an initialization instruction to the printer, wherein the initialization instruction is a command instructing the printer to initialize the first count information, wherein the first count information is stored in the printer and relates to an amount of use of a first consumable.

2. The server of claim 1, wherein, Further includes: a first count information reception unit configured to receive, from the printer, the first count information stored in the printer; and a first determination unit configured to determine that the first predetermined condition is satisfied in a case where the first count information is received from the printer and an amount of use of the first consumable indicated by the first count information is equal to or greater than a first threshold value. Wherein, 3. The server of claim 2, wherein, the first count information reception unit re-receives the first count information from the printer after the first delivery processing has been executed, the initialization instruction transmission unit transmits the initialization instruction to the printer in a case where the first delivery processing has been executed and an amount of use of the first consumable indicated by the re-received first count information is equal to or greater than a second threshold value, the second threshold value being greater than the first threshold value, and the initialization instruction is not transmitted to the printer in a case where the first delivery processing has been executed and an amount of use of the first consumable indicated by the re-received first count information is less than the second threshold value. Further includes:

4. The server of claim 1, wherein, an acquisition unit configured to acquire, after the first delivery processing has been executed, state information indicating a delivery state of the new first consumable, wherein the initialization instruction transmission unit transmits the initialization instruction to the printer in a case where the first delivery processing has been executed and the state information indicates a predetermined state, and the initialization instruction is not transmitted to the printer in a case where the first delivery processing has been executed and the state information does not indicate the predetermined state. Wherein, 5. The server of claim 4, wherein, the predetermined state is completion of delivery of the new first consumable. Wherein, 6. The server of claim 1, wherein, the printer further stores second count information relating to an amount of use of a second consumable different from the first consumable, and the server further includes: a second delivery processing execution unit configured to execute, in a case where a second predetermined condition is satisfied, second delivery processing for delivering a new second consumable to the user of the printer, wherein, in response to the execution of the second delivery processing, no instruction for initializing the second count information stored in the printer is transmitted to the printer, ​ The new second consumable is a consumable whose attachment to the printer does not cause the printer to automatically initialize the second count information.

7. The server of claim 6, wherein, Further comprising: a second count information receiving unit configured to receive, from the printer, the second count information stored in the printer; and a second determination unit configured to determine that the second predetermined condition is satisfied in a case where the second count information is received from the printer and the amount of use of the second consumable indicated by the second count information is equal to or greater than a third threshold value.

8. A non-transitory computer-readable recording medium storing computer-readable instructions for a server configured to perform communication with a printer, characterized by, wherein, the computer readable instructions, when executed by the processor of the server, cause the server to: in a case where a first predetermined condition is satisfied, execute a first delivery process for delivering a new first consumable to a user of the printer, the new first consumable being a consumable whose attachment to the printer does not cause the printer to automatically initialize first count information; and in a case where the first delivery process is executed, send initialization instructions to the printer, wherein the initialization instructions are commands instructing the printer to initialize the first count information, wherein the first count information is stored in the printer and relates to the amount of use of a first consumable.

9. A printer configured to perform communication with a server, characterized by The printer comprises: a memory storing first count information relating to the amount of use of a first consumable of the printer; an initialization instruction receiving unit configured to receive, from the server, initialization instructions instructing initialization of the first count information in a case where a first delivery process is executed by the server, wherein, in the server, the first delivery process for delivering a new first consumable to a user of the printer is executed in a case where a first predetermined condition is satisfied, the new first consumable being a consumable whose attachment to the printer does not cause the printer to automatically initialize the first count information; and a first initialization unit configured to initialize the first count information in the memory in a case where the initialization instructions are received from the server.

10. The printer of claim 9, wherein, Further comprising: a first count information sending unit configured to send the first count information in the memory to the server, wherein, in the server, it is determined that the first predetermined condition is satisfied in a case where the first count information is received from the printer and the amount of use of the first consumable indicated by the first count information is equal to or greater than a first threshold value.

11. The printer of claim 10, wherein, Further comprising: a display unit; a first display control unit configured to cause the display unit to display first notification information indicating that the first consumable is to be replaced in a case where the amount of use of the first consumable indicated by the first count information in the memory changes from being less than a fourth threshold value to being equal to or greater than the fourth threshold value, the fourth threshold value being greater than the first threshold value; and a display termination unit operable to terminate display of the first notification information when the first count information in the memory is initialized while the first notification information is displayed on the display unit.

12. The printer of claim 11, wherein, further comprising: a second display control unit operable to cause the display unit to display second notification information indicating that a replacement timing of the first consumable is approaching when the amount of use of the first consumable indicated by the first count information in the memory changes from less than the first threshold value to equal to or greater than the first threshold value, wherein the first display control unit causes the display unit to display the first notification information instead of the second notification information when the amount of use of the first consumable indicated by the first count information in the memory changes from less than the fourth threshold value to equal to or greater than the fourth threshold value while the second notification information is displayed on the display unit.

13. The printer of claim 9, wherein, further comprising: an accepting unit operable to accept an initialization operation to initialize the first count information; and a second initialization unit operable to initialize the first count information in the memory when the initialization operation is accepted after the new first consumable is attached to the printer and before the initialization instruction is received from the server.

14. The printer of claim 9, wherein, wherein the memory further stores second count information regarding an amount of use of a second consumable that is different from the first consumable of the printer, and in the server, a second delivery process for delivering a new second consumable to the user of the printer is executed when a second predetermined condition is satisfied, wherein the printer further comprises: a third initialization unit operable to automatically initialize the second count information in the memory when the new second consumable is attached to the printer without receiving an instruction to initialize the second count information in the memory.

15. The printer of claim 14, wherein, further comprising: a second count information sending unit operable to send the second count information in the memory to the server, wherein in the server, it is determined that the second predetermined condition is satisfied when the second count information is received from the printer and the amount of use of the second consumable indicated by the second count information is equal to or greater than a third threshold value.

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