A server, a printer and a computer readable recording medium store computer readable instruction medium for the server and the printer

Abstract

The server can include a remaining amount information receiving unit configured to receive, from a printer in which the first ink cartridge is installed, remaining amount information about a remaining amount of ink in the first ink cartridge, and a first sending unit configured to send, in a case where the remaining amount of ink in the first ink cartridge indicated by the remaining amount information is equal to or less than a first remaining amount threshold value, specific information to an external device. The specific information is used to change a state of the printer from a state in which use of a print process using a second ink cartridge to be installed is limited to a state in which the print process using the second ink cartridge is allowed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to techniques for limiting the use of cartridges installed in printers to perform printing processes. Background Technology

[0002] U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0104200 describes an image forming apparatus. When a new toner cartridge is installed to replace the currently installed toner cartridge when there is no remaining toner, the image forming apparatus writes identification information into the new toner cartridge and stores the identification information. When a new toner cartridge is installed in the position of the currently installed toner cartridge while some toner remains (i.e., the identification information of that toner cartridge is stored), the image forming apparatus determines that the identification information of the new toner cartridge does not match the stored identification information and prohibits the use of the new toner cartridge to form an image. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This article provides a different method for limiting the execution of printing processes using a new ink cartridge, which is different from an ink cartridge that still has a relatively large amount of ink remaining.

[0004] The server disclosed herein may include: a remaining quantity information receiving unit configured to receive remaining quantity information from a printer equipped with a first ink cartridge, relating to the remaining quantity of ink in the first ink cartridge, wherein the printer is configured to perform printing processing using the ink cartridge; and a first sending unit configured to send specific information to an external device when the remaining quantity information is received from the printer and the remaining quantity of ink in the first ink cartridge, as indicated by the remaining quantity information, is equal to or less than a remaining quantity threshold, wherein, when the printer acquires the specific information in response to the specific information being sent to the external device, the specific information is used to change the printer's state from a state restricting printing processing using a second ink cartridge to be installed instead of the first ink cartridge to a state allowing printing processing using the second ink cartridge.

[0005] Based on the above configuration, the server will not send specific information to the external device unless the remaining amount of ink in the printer's first ink cartridge becomes equal to or less than a first remaining amount threshold. Therefore, even when a relatively large amount of ink remains in the first ink cartridge, the server can restrict the use of a second ink cartridge (different from the first ink cartridge) for printing. This prevents the first ink cartridge from being replaced by the second ink cartridge and the printing process from being performed using the second ink cartridge, despite a relatively large amount of ink remaining in the first cartridge.

[0006] The server may further include an output unit configured to output transport instruction data for transporting a second color cartridge when remaining quantity information is received from the printer and the remaining quantity of colorant in the first color cartridge, as indicated by the remaining quantity information, meets a predetermined condition. When remaining quantity information is received from the printer and the remaining quantity of colorant in the first color cartridge, as indicated by the remaining quantity information, is equal to or less than a first remaining quantity threshold, a first sending unit is configured to send specific information to an external device. This specific information is code information obtained by using cartridge identification information used to identify the second color cartridge to be transported.

[0007] The remaining quantity information receiving unit is configured to repeatedly receive remaining quantity information related to the remaining quantity of pigment in the first pigment cartridge from a printer equipped with the first pigment cartridge. If the first remaining quantity information is received from the printer and the remaining quantity of pigment in the first pigment cartridge, as indicated by the first remaining quantity information, meets a predetermined condition, the first sending unit is configured not to send code information. If, after receiving the first remaining quantity information, the first sending unit receives second remaining quantity information from the printer and the remaining quantity of pigment in the first pigment cartridge, as indicated by the second remaining quantity information, is equal to or less than a first remaining quantity threshold, the first sending unit is configured to send code information.

[0008] The server may further include: a generation unit configured to generate code information by using box identification information when receiving remaining quantity information from the printer and the remaining quantity of pigment in a first pigment box, represented by the remaining quantity, is equal to or less than a first remaining quantity threshold. A first sending unit is configured to send the generated code information to an external device.

[0009] The code information may include box identification information.

[0010] A predetermined condition is met when the remaining amount of pigment in the first pigment box, as indicated by the remaining amount information, is equal to or less than a second remaining amount threshold that is greater than a first remaining amount threshold.

[0011] The server may further include a memory and a storage control unit configured to store in the memory the remaining amount of pigment in the first pigment cartridge, as indicated by the latest remaining amount information received from the printer. A predetermined condition is met when the difference between the remaining amount of pigment in the first pigment cartridge, as indicated by the remaining amount information, and the remaining amount in the memory is equal to or greater than a predetermined value.

[0012] The server may further include a second sending unit configured to send specific information to an external device before receiving a sending instruction from the printer indicating that the remaining amount of pigment in the first pigment cartridge is equal to or less than a first remaining amount threshold.

[0013] An external device can be a printer.

[0014] Additionally, the printer disclosed herein may include: a print execution unit on which a pigment cartridge is mounted; a print control unit configured to cause the print execution unit to perform print processing using the pigment cartridge; a remaining quantity information sending unit configured to send remaining quantity information related to the remaining quantity of pigment in the first pigment cartridge to a server when the first pigment cartridge is mounted on the print execution unit; and a specific information acquisition unit configured to acquire specific information, wherein the specific information is sent from the server to an external device when the remaining quantity of pigment in the first pigment cartridge, as indicated by the remaining quantity information already sent to the server, is equal to or less than a first remaining quantity threshold. The print control unit is configured to: restrict print processing to use a second pigment cartridge to be installed instead of the first pigment cartridge before acquiring the specific information; and allow print processing to use the second pigment cartridge upon acquiring the specific information.

[0015] According to the above configuration, the printer does not receive specific information unless the remaining amount of ink in the first ink cartridge becomes equal to or less than a first remaining amount threshold. Therefore, when a relatively large amount of ink remains in the first ink cartridge, the printer can restrict printing processes to use a second ink cartridge different from the first ink cartridge. This prevents the first ink cartridge from being replaced by the second ink cartridge and the printing process from being performed using the second ink cartridge, even though a relatively large amount of ink remains in the first ink cartridge.

[0016] The printer may further include: a memory configured to store first code information obtained by using first cartridge identification information for identifying a first ink cartridge. Specific information is second code information obtained by using second cartridge identification information for identifying a second ink cartridge. The printer further includes: a storage control unit configured to store the second code information in the memory upon acquisition; and an identification information acquisition unit configured to acquire cartridge identification information from a print execution unit for identifying an ink cartridge currently mounted on the print execution unit. The print control unit is configured to: restrict printing using the second ink cartridge if the second cartridge identification information is obtained from the print execution unit before the second code information is acquired; and allow printing using the second ink cartridge if the second cartridge identification information is obtained from the print execution unit after the second code information has been acquired.

[0017] The printer may further include a display unit and a display control unit, the display control unit being configured to display a program screen when the remaining amount of pigment in the first pigment cartridge is equal to or less than a first remaining amount threshold, and the remaining amount information cannot be sent to the server. The program screen represents a program that causes the server to send specific information.

[0018] The external device can be a printer. The specific information acquisition unit is configured to retrieve specific information from the server.

[0019] The computer program and the computer-readable medium storing the computer-readable instructions for the server are also novel and useful. The computer program and the computer-readable medium storing the computer-readable instructions for the printer are also novel and useful. The methods implemented by the server and the methods implemented by the printer are also novel and useful. Furthermore, the communication system including the aforementioned server and printer is also novel and useful. Attached Figure Description

[0020] Figure 1 A configuration diagram of the communication system is shown;

[0021] Figure 2 A sequence diagram of the process for registering a printer in a service-providing server is shown;

[0022] Figure 3 It shows from Figure 2 Continuing sequence diagram;

[0023] Figure 4 The flowchart of the process executed by the service provider server is shown;

[0024] Figure 5 This is the sequence diagram for case A;

[0025] Figure 6 It shows from Figure 5 Continuing sequence diagram;

[0026] Figure 7 This is the sequence diagram for case B;

[0027] Figure 8 This is the sequence diagram for case C; and

[0028] Figure 9 The sequence diagram for case D is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0029] (Configuration of Communication System 2;) Figure 1 )

[0030] like Figure 1As shown, communication system 2 includes a service providing server (hereinafter referred to as "SP server") 10, a delivery server 50, a printer 100, and a terminal 200. Printer 100 and terminal 200 are connected to the same local area network (LAN) 4. LAN 4 can be a wired LAN or a wireless LAN. LAN 4 is connected to the Internet 6. SP server 10 and delivery server 50 are provided on the Internet 6. Devices belonging to LAN 4 (e.g., printer 100) can communicate with SP server 10 via LAN 4 and the Internet 6.

[0031] (Printer 100 configuration)

[0032] Printer 100 is a peripheral device configured to perform printing functions (i.e., a peripheral device of terminal 200, etc.). A serial number SN is identification information used to identify the printer and is assigned to printer 100. The serial number SN is one of the unique strings assigned to each printer when manufacturing multiple printers. Printer 100 includes a communication interface 112, an operation unit 114, a display unit 116, a print execution unit 118, and a controller 130. In the following text, the interface will be referred to as "I / F".

[0033] Communication I / F 112 is an I / F for connecting to LAN 4. Operation unit 114 includes multiple keys. Users can input various commands to printer 100 via operation unit 114. Display unit 116 is a display configured to show various information. Display unit 116 can be used as a so-called touchscreen (i.e., operation unit).

[0034] The print execution unit 118 includes a print mechanism based on either an inkjet or laser printing scheme. A cartridge (hereinafter referred to as "CTG") 122 containing pigments (e.g., ink, toner, etc.) is mounted on the print execution unit 118. The print execution unit 118 is configured to perform print processing using the pigments in the CTG 122. In this embodiment, one of a single-purpose CTG and a general-purpose CTG is installed on the print execution unit 118. The single-purpose CTG is used to receive uniform rate print services provided by the SP server 10. The general-purpose CTG is a commercially available general-purpose CTG. When a general-purpose CTG is installed, uniform rate print services cannot be received.

[0035] The print execution unit 118 includes a reader 119. The reader 119 is configured to read the CTG ID stored in the CTG 122 when the CTG 122 is mounted on the print execution unit 118. Figure 1 (In the example, it is "123"). CTG ID is the identification information used to identify CTG.

[0036] The controller 130 includes a CPU 132 and a memory 134. The CPU 132 is configured to perform various processes according to a program 136 stored in the memory 134. The memory 134 consists of volatile memory, non-volatile memory, etc. The memory 134 also stores a print license flag 138.

[0037] The print permission flag 138 represents one of two values: "ON" (allowing printing using a single-purpose CTG installed on printer 100) and "OFF" (restricting printing using a single-purpose CTG installed on printer 100). In this embodiment, "restricting printing" means prohibiting printing using a single-purpose CTG.

[0038] (Configuration of Terminal 200)

[0039] Terminal 200 is a terminal device, such as a fixed PC, a laptop PC, a portable terminal (e.g., a smartphone), etc.

[0040] (Configuration of SP Server 10)

[0041] SP server 10 is installed on the Internet 6 by the vendor of printer 100. In one variant, SP server 10 may be installed by a different business entity than the vendor. SP server 10 is configured to provide a uniform rate printing service to 100 printers. A uniform rate printing service is a service that allows printing at a fixed rate on a preset quantity (e.g., 200 sheets) of printing media at a predetermined rate for each scheduled period (e.g., monthly). Furthermore, SP server 10 manages the remaining amount of ink in the single-purpose CTG installed on the printers. When the remaining amount meets predetermined conditions, SP server 10 requests delivery server 50 to deliver a new single-purpose CTG.

[0042] SP server 10 includes a communication I / F 12 and a controller 30. The communication I / F 12 is connected to the Internet 6. The controller 30 includes a CPU 32 and a memory 34. The CPU 32 is configured to perform various process processing according to a program 36 stored in the memory 34. The memory 34 consists of volatile memory, non-volatile memory, etc. The memory 34 also stores a user table 38 and a device table 40.

[0043] Register one or more user information entries in user table 38. Each user information entry includes a username (e.g., UN) for identifying the user and a password (e.g., P) for authenticating the user. Each user information entry may be associated with a Personal Identification Number (PIN) code. The PIN code is used when registering printer-related information on SP server 10.

[0044] One or more pieces of information related to one or more printers are registered in Device Table 40. Specifically, the username, serial number, access token, in-use CTG ID, remaining quantity information, and subsequent CTG IDs are stored in association with each other.

[0045] An access token is authentication information used to establish an Extensible Messaging and Presence Protocol (XMPP) connection between SP server 10 and printer 100. This connection is a so-called always-on connection between SP server 10 and printer 100. For example, when an XMPP connection is established between SP server 10 and printer 100, SP server 10 on Internet 6 can send information to printer 100 outside the LAN 4 firewall without receiving requests from printer 100 within LAN 4.

[0046] The CTG ID in use is the CTG ID (e.g., "123") that allows the printer to use a single-purpose CTG during the printing process (hereinafter referred to as "CTG in use"). The remaining amount information indicates the amount of ink remaining in the CTG in use. The remaining amount information includes the previous remaining amount and the current remaining amount. The next CTG ID is the CTG ID used to identify the new single-purpose CTG to be installed when the ink in the CTG in use runs out.

[0047] (Configuration of delivery server 50)

[0048] Delivery server 50 may be installed on the Internet 6 by the supplier of printer 100 or a different business entity. Delivery server 50 is configured to deliver single-purpose CTGs in response to requests from SP server 10. Delivery servers 50 store usernames and delivery destination information (e.g., addresses) in association with each other.

[0049] (Printer registration processing;) Figure 2 )

[0050] Next, we will refer to Figure 2This describes the process for registering information related to printer 100 in SP server 10. In the sequence diagrams to be described, the processes executed by CPU 32 and CPU 132 of SP server 10 and printer 100 will be described as actions of SP server 10 and printer 100, rather than describing CPU 32 and CPU 132 as the actions, for ease of understanding. Figure 2 In its initial state, the username UN and password P are already stored in the user table 38 of SP server 10. Furthermore, in Figure 2 In its initial state, the printer license flag 138 of printer 100 indicates OFF.

[0051] When terminal 200 receives the Uniform Resource Locator (URL) of the specified SP server 10 from the user and enters the username UN and password P, terminal 200 sends a login request including the username UN and password P to SP server 10 in T10.

[0052] When a login request is received from terminal 200 via communication I / F 12 in T10, SP server 10 authenticates the username UN and password P included in the login request. In the current case, the combination of username UN and password P has already been registered in user table 38, so SP server 10 determines that authentication is successful in T12. In this case, SP server 10 generates a PIN code "zzz" in T14 and stores the PIN code "zzz" in user table 38 in association with the username UN and password P. Then, in T16, SP server 10 sends the PIN code "zzz" to terminal 200 via communication I / F 12. Every communication performed by SP server 10 below is performed via communication I / F 12. The phrase "via communication I / F 12" will be omitted below.

[0053] In T16, when the PIN code "zzz" is received from the SP server 10, the terminal 200 displays the PIN code "zzz" in T18. Therefore, the user can confirm the PIN code "zzz".

[0054] When printer 100 accepts the PIN code "zzz" from the user in T30, printer 100 sends a printer registration request to SP server 10 via communication I / F 112 in T32. The printer registration request is a command to SP server 10 to register printer 100's serial number, including the PIN code "zzz" and the serial number SN. Every communication performed by printer 100 below is performed via communication I / F 112. Therefore, the phrase "via communication I / F 112" will be omitted in the following text.

[0055] When a printer registration request from printer 100 is received in T32, the PIN code "zzz" included in the printer registration request performs authentication. In the current case, the PIN code "zzz" has already been stored in user table 38, so SP server 10 determines that authentication is successful in T34. In this case, SP server 10 specifies the username UN associated with the PIN code "zzz" in user table 38. Then, in T36, SP server 10 generates access token AT1 and stores the specified username UN, the serial number SN included in the printer registration request, and the access token AT1 generated in device table 40 in association with each other. SP server 10 then sends access token AT1 to printer 100 in T38.

[0056] When access token AT1 is received from SP server 10 in T38, access token AT1 is sent to SP server 10, and an XMPP connection is established with SP server 10 in T40.

[0057] Subsequently, SP server 10 uses the XMPP connection established in T40 to send a subscription request to printer 100 in T50. The subscription request is a command requesting printer 100 to repeatedly send a notification at a predetermined time (e.g., at a predetermined time of day), the notification including remaining quantity information indicating the amount of ink remaining in the single-purpose CTG. Hereinafter, this notification will be referred to as a "periodic notification." The subscription request is a further command requesting printer 100 to send a notification indicating that the remaining quantity of ink in the single-purpose CTG has reached 0%, without waiting for the aforementioned predetermined time to arrive, when the remaining quantity of ink in the single-purpose CTG is 0%. Hereinafter, this notification will be referred to as a "zero notification." Here, "0% remaining quantity of ink in the single-purpose CTG" means that printer 100 is unable to print using the ink in the single-purpose CTG because the remaining quantity of ink in the single-purpose CTG has decreased. That is, "0% remaining quantity of ink in the single-purpose CTG" includes a state where a small amount of ink remains in the single-purpose CTG. In one variant, printer 100 may determine that "the remaining amount of ink in the single-purpose CTG is 0%" after the remaining amount of ink in the single-purpose CTG reaches a predetermined remaining amount (e.g., 20%), and then perform printing processing on a predetermined number of print media (e.g., 100 sheets) in printer 100.

[0058] When a subscription request is received from SP server 10 in T50, printer 100 sends a periodic notification to SP server 10 in T52 whenever the aforementioned scheduled time arrives. The periodic notification includes printer 100's serial number (SN) and CTG information. When a single-purpose CTG is not installed on printer 100, the CTG information includes information indicating "not installed" (see [link to documentation]). Figure 2 (T52). When a single-purpose CTG is installed on printer 100, the CTG information includes the CTG ID of the single-purpose CTG and information indicating the remaining amount of pigment in the single-purpose CTG.

[0059] After receiving the periodic notification from printer 100 in T52, SP server 10 updates device table 40 in T54. Specifically, SP server 10 specifies the serial number SN included in the periodic notification received in T52 in device table 40. Then, SP server 10 stores the CTG information contained in the periodic notification in association with the specified serial number SN in device table 40. Figure 2 In the T52 example, the CTG information includes information indicating "not installed". In this case, the SP server 10 stores the "not installed" information as the CTG ID in use. Although not shown in the figure, when a periodic notification is received from the printer 100, the SP server 10 sends a response signal to the printer 100 indicating that the periodic notification has been received normally.

[0060] ( Figure 2 The continuation; Figure 3 )

[0061] When SP server 10 is Figure 2 When the T54 stores the "not installed" information as the CTG ID in use, the SP server 10 sends... Figure 3 The delivery server 50 in T60 sends a delivery request, which includes the username UN.

[0062] When a delivery request is received from SP server 10 in T60, delivery server 50 executes a process to deliver a new single-purpose CTG to the user identified by the username UN included in the delivery request in T62. Specifically, delivery server 50 first specifies the delivery destination information associated with the username UN included in the delivery request. Then, delivery server 50 delivers the new single-purpose CTG with the specified delivery destination information as its destination. In the example of T62, a single-purpose CTG identified by CTG ID "123" is attached. Then, in T70, delivery server 50 sends delivery information, including the CTG ID "123" of the single-purpose CTG to be delivered and the username UN included in the delivery request, to SP server 10.

[0063] When shipping information is received from shipping server 50 in T70, SP server 10 updates device table 40 in T72. Specifically, SP server 10 first specifies the username UN included in the shipping information in device table 40. Then, SP server 10 stores the CTG ID "123" included in the shipping information in association as the next CTG ID and the specified username UN.

[0064] In T74, SP server 10 generates code "123xxx" by adding a predetermined string "xxx" to the CTG ID "123" obtained in T70. Then, in T76, SP server 10 sends the generated code "123xxx" to printer 100. This code is information used to change the state of printer 100, from a state that restricts printing processing using the single-purpose CTG identified by the CTG ID "123" included in the code "123xxx" (i.e., print license flag 138 indicates OFF) to a state that allows printing processing using the single-purpose CTG (i.e., print license flag 138 indicates ON).

[0065] When printer 100 receives the code "123xxx" from SP server 10 in T76, it stores the code "123xxx" in memory 134 in T78. At this time, printer 100 determines whether the CTG ID obtained from the code (in this case, "123") matches the CTG ID of the single-purpose CTG installed on print execution unit 118 (i.e., the CTG ID read by reader 119). If the preceding CTG ID matches the following CTG ID, printer 100 sets print license flag 138 to ON. However, if the preceding CTG ID does not match the following CTG ID, printer 100 keeps print license flag 138 OFF. In the example of T78, printer 100 cannot obtain the CTG ID from print execution unit 118 because the single-purpose CTG is not yet installed on print execution unit 118. Therefore, printer 100 determines that the preceding CTG ID does indeed not match the following CTG ID and keeps print license flag 138 OFF.

[0066] If a mismatch is found between the previous and subsequent CTG IDs, printer 100 causes display unit 116 to display notification screen SC1 in T80. Notification screen SC1 includes a message prompting the user to install a single-purpose CTG identified by the previous CTG ID "123" into print execution unit 118. Therefore, the user can confirm that a single-purpose CTG should be installed.

[0067] Next, the single-purpose CTG, transported by delivery server 50 (see T62), is delivered to the user of printer 100. Then, in T90, the single-purpose CTG is installed into print execution unit 118. In T92, printer 100 obtains CTG ID "123" from reader 119 of print execution unit 118. At this time, printer 100 determines whether the CTG ID obtained from the stored code (see T78) matches the CTG ID obtained from reader 119. In this case, printer 100 determines that the previous CTG ID matches the next CTG ID, and sets print license flag 138 to ON in T94.

[0068] Subsequently, printer 100 sends a periodic notification to SP server 10 in T96 in response to... Figure 2 The arrival of the scheduled time requested in T50. The scheduled notification includes the serial number SN, the CTG ID "123" of the single-purpose CTG currently installed on the print execution unit 118, and the remaining amount information "100%" indicating the amount of pigment remaining in the single-purpose CTG.

[0069] When a periodic notification is received from printer 100 in T96, SP server 10 updates device table 40 in T98. Specifically, SP server 10 first specifies the serial number SN included in the periodic notification in device table 40. Then, SP server 10 stores the CTG ID "123" included in the periodic notification as the CTG ID in use and stores the remaining quantity information "100%" included in the periodic notification as the current remaining quantity associated with the specified serial number SN. In addition, SP server 10 deletes the next CTG ID "123" stored associated with the serial number SN (i.e., updates the next CTG ID to empty).

[0070] As described above, when SP server 10 changes the CTG ID associated with the serial number SN from information indicating "not installed" to CTG ID "123", it determines that the printer 100 identified by the serial number SN has completed preparation for receiving uniform rate printing services. In this case, SP server 10 begins charging for the printing service in T99.

[0071] (Processing of SP server 10;) Figure 4 )

[0072] Next, we will refer to Figure 4 This describes the processing performed by CPU 32 of SP server 10. CPU 32 is started when SP server 10 is activated as a trigger. Figure 4 The processing. Perform this on the printer that has already started charging. Figure 4 The processing (see) Figure 3 (T99). In S10, CPU 32 monitors whether a notification is received from the printer (e.g., printer 100). If a periodic notification or zero notification is received from the printer, CPU 32 determines "yes" in S10 and proceeds to S12. In the following, the notification received in S10 will be referred to as the "target notification", and the printer that sent the target notification will be referred to as the "target printer". The target notification includes the serial number of the target printer (hereinafter referred to as the "target serial number"), the CTG ID of the single-purpose CTG installed on the target printer (hereinafter referred to as the "target CTG"), and remaining quantity information indicating the remaining amount of pigment in the target CTG.

[0073] In S12, CPU 32 updates device table 40. Specifically, CPU 32 first stores the current remaining quantity associated with the target sequence number as the previous remaining quantity. Then, CPU 32 stores the remaining quantity information included in the target notification as the current remaining quantity, associated with the target sequence number.

[0074] In S14, CPU 32 determines whether the current remaining amount stored in S12 does not exceed 20%. That is, CPU 32 determines whether the pigment in the target CTG will be used up in the near future. The threshold used in S14 can be less than 20% (e.g., 10%) or greater than 20% (e.g., 30%). If the current remaining amount is equal to or less than 20%, CPU 32 determines "yes" in S14 and proceeds to S20. On the other hand, if the current remaining amount is greater than 20%, CPU 32 determines "no" in S14 and proceeds to S16.

[0075] In S16, CPU 32 determines whether the difference between the remaining amount currently stored in S12 and the previously stored remaining amount in S12 is not less than 50%. That is, CPU 32 determines whether printing processing has been performed on a large amount of print media in printer 100 within a short period of time. The threshold used in S16 can be less than 50% (e.g., 40%) or greater than 50% (e.g., 60%). If the difference is equal to or greater than 50%, CPU 32 determines "yes" in S16 and proceeds to S20. If printing processing is performed at the same speed in printer 100, and the ink in the target CTG will soon be used up, it is determined to be "yes" in S16. On the other hand, if the difference is less than 50% (including the case where no previous remaining amount was stored), CPU 32 determines "no" in S16 and terminates. Figure 4 The processing.

[0076] In S20, CPU 32 determines whether a delivery request has been sent to delivery server 50. Specifically, CPU 32 determines whether the next CTG ID is stored in device table 40 in association with the target sequence number. If the next CTG ID is stored, CPU 32 determines that a delivery request has been sent ("Yes" in S20), skips the processing in S22 and S24, and proceeds to S30. On the other hand, if the next CTG ID is not stored in association with the target sequence number, CPU 32 determines that a delivery request has not been sent ("No" in S20), and proceeds to S22.

[0077] In S22, CPU 32 sends a delivery request to delivery server 50. This delivery request includes a username (hereinafter referred to as the "target username") stored in device table 40 and associated with a target serial number. Therefore, delivery server 50 delivers a single-purpose CTG, with its delivery destination information associated with the target username as the destination (see [link to details]). Figure 3 (T62). Then, the shipping information, including the target username and the CTG ID of the single-purpose CTG, is sent from the shipping server 50 to the SP server 10 (see T70).

[0078] In S24, CPU 32 receives shipping information from shipping server 50. Then, CPU 32 stores the CTG ID included in the shipping information as the next CTG ID in device table 40, associated with the target username included in the shipping information.

[0079] In S30, CPU 32 determines whether the current remaining amount stored in S12 is 0%. If the current remaining amount is 0%, CPU 32 determines "yes" in S30 and proceeds to S32. On the other hand, if the current remaining amount is greater than 0%, CPU 32 determines "no" in S30 and terminates. Figure 4 The processing.

[0080] In S32, CPU 32 generates code. Specifically, CPU 32 generates code by adding a predetermined letter string "xxx" to the next CTG ID stored in S24.

[0081] In S34, CPU 32 uses an XMPP connection to send the code generated in S32 to the target printer. Therefore, the target printer receives the code and enters a state that allows printing processing using a single-purpose CTG identified by the CTG ID included in the code (i.e., print permission flag = ON) (see [link to documentation]). Figure 3(T94). As mentioned above, since the SP server 10 sends the code directly to the target printer, the user does not need to enter the code into the target printer. Therefore, user convenience is improved. When the processing of S34 is completed, Figure 4 The processing has been terminated.

[0082] In S40, CPU 32 monitors for the receipt of a code generation instruction. Based on the printer user's instruction, the code generation instruction is entered into the SP server 10 by the printer vendor's staff. The code generation instruction includes the printer's serial number. If a code generation instruction is received, CPU 32 determines "yes" in S40 and proceeds to S32. In this case, CPU 32 generates a code in S32 by associatedly using the next CTG ID stored in the device table 40 with the serial number included in the code generation instruction. Then, in S34, CPU 32 sends the generated code to the printer identified by the serial number.

[0083] (Scenario A;) Figure 5 )

[0084] Next, the description will be made through Figure 4 The specific implementation details will be discussed first. (Refer to...) Figure 5 Describe scenario A. In scenario A, when a single-purpose CTG identified by CTG ID "123" is installed on printer 100 and the remaining amount of toner in a subsequently installed single-purpose CTG (i.e., CTG ID "123") becomes 0%, a user process for delivering a new single-purpose CTG to printer 100 is performed (see [link to documentation]). Figure 3 (T90). Figure 5 In its initial state, printer 100 has stored the code "123xxx" (see T78), and the printer license flag 138 of printer 100 indicates ON (on) (see T94). In addition, SP server 10 has stored the serial number SN of printer 100, the CTG ID in use "123", and the current remaining quantity "40%" in device table 40.

[0085] In T100, printer 100 sends a periodic notification to SP server 10. This periodic notification includes the serial number SN, CTGID "123", and remaining quantity information "30%".

[0086] When a periodic notification is received from printer 100 in T100 ( Figure 4In S10 (where S10 is "Yes"), SP server 10 updates device table 40 in T102 (S12). Specifically, SP server 10 stores the current remaining quantity ("40%" in the current case) associated with serial number SN as the previous remaining quantity, and also stores the remaining quantity information "30%" included in the periodic notification as the current remaining quantity. In this case, SP server 10 determines that the current remaining quantity "30%" stored in T102 is greater than 20% ("No" in S14), and determines that the difference "10%" between the previous remaining quantity "40%" and the current remaining quantity "30%" is less than 50% ("No" in S16). Therefore, SP server 10 does not send a delivery request to delivery server 50 and does not generate a code.

[0087] In T104, printer 100 performs the printing process. This consumes the ink in the single-purpose CTG. Subsequently, in T110, printer 100 sends a periodic notification to SP server 10. This periodic notification is identical to the one in T100, except that the remaining quantity information is "20%".

[0088] When a periodic notification is received from printer 100 in T110 ("Yes" in S10), SP server 10 updates device table 40 in T112 and stores the current remaining quantity "20%" and the previous remaining quantity "30%". In this case, SP server 10 determines that the current remaining quantity "20%" is equal to or less than 20% ("Yes" in S14). Furthermore, SP server 10 determines that a shipping request has not yet been sent to shipping server 50 ("No" in S20) because no next CTG ID associated with serial number SN is stored in device table 40. Therefore, in T114 (S22), SP server 10 sends a shipping request including username UN to shipping server 50.

[0089] The processing of T116 to T122 and Figure 3 The processing for T62 to T72 is the same, except that the CTG ID of the new single-purpose CTG to be shipped is "234". Therefore, in T122, SP server 10 stores the CTG ID "234" contained in the shipping information received in T120 as the next CTG ID (S24). Thereafter, SP server 10 determines that the current remaining quantity "20%" is not 0% ("No" in S30) and does not generate a code.

[0090] As described above, SP server 10 sends a delivery request to delivery server 50 (T114) in response to the remaining amount of ink in the single-purpose CTG installed on printer 100 becoming equal to or less than 20%, before the remaining amount becomes 0%. Here, a comparative example is considered, in which the delivery request is sent in response to the remaining amount of ink in the single-purpose CTG installed on printer 100 becoming 0%. In the comparative example, printer 100 cannot perform printing operations using the single-purpose CTG during the period from when the ink in the single-purpose CTG installed on printer 100 runs out until a new single-purpose CTG is delivered to the user. This reduces user convenience. Conversely, in this embodiment, a new single-purpose CTG can be delivered to the user before the ink in the single-purpose CTG installed on printer 100 runs out. Therefore, the period during which printer 100 cannot perform printing operations using the single-purpose CTG can be reduced. This improves user convenience.

[0091] A new single-purpose CTG (i.e., CTG ID "234") is delivered to the user of printer 100. In T124, the new single-purpose CTG (i.e., CTG ID "234") is installed in the location of the already installed single-purpose CTG (i.e., CTG ID "123"), where the remaining ink level in the already installed single-purpose CTG (i.e., CTG ID "123") is "20%". In this case, printer 100 obtains the CTG ID "234" of the newly installed single-purpose CTG in T126. Then, printer 100 determines that the CTG ID "123" obtained from the currently stored code "123xxx" does not match the CTG ID "234" obtained in T126, and sets the print license flag 138 to OFF in T128. That is, printer 100 prohibits the use of single-purpose CTG (i.e., CTG ID "234") for printing processing. Therefore, printing with a new single-purpose CTG is prohibited while a significant amount of ink (currently 20%) remains in the single-purpose CTG (i.e., CTG ID "123"). This prevents the discontinuation of single-purpose CTGs that still contain a relatively large amount of ink. The processing of T129 is related to... Figure 3 The processing for T80 is the same. Furthermore, the processing for T130 to T134 is the same. Figure 3 The processing is the same for T90 to T94.

[0092] ( Figure 5 The continuation; Figure 6 )

[0093] Figure 6 The processing of T140 and T142 and Figure 5The processing for T110 and T112 is the same. In this case, SP server 10 determines that the current remaining amount "20%" is equal to or less than 20% ("Yes" in S14). Here, since the next CTG ID "234" is stored in device table 40 associated with the serial number SN (see... Figure 5 In T122), SP server 10 determines that a delivery request has been sent to delivery server 50 (see T114) ("Yes" in S20) and does not send a delivery request to delivery server 50. Furthermore, SP server 10 determines that the current remaining quantity "20%" is not 0% ("No" in S30) and does not generate a code.

[0094] In T144, printer 100 performs the printing process. Therefore, the remaining amount of ink in the single-purpose CTG installed on printer 100 becomes 0%. In this case, in T150, printer 100 sends a zero notification to SP server 10. This zero notification includes the serial number SN, CTG ID "123", and remaining amount information "0%".

[0095] T152 processing and Figure 6 The processing is the same for T142. In this case, SP server 10 determines that the delivery request has been sent to delivery server 50 (see...). Figure 5 The SP server 10 determines that the current remaining quantity is 0% ("Yes" in S20) and generates a code "234xxx" in T154 that includes the next CTG ID "234".

[0096] Besides using code "234xxx", the processing of T160 and T162 is the same as... Figure 2 The processing for T76 and T78 is the same. In this case, printer 100 determines that the CTG ID "234" obtained from the code does not match the CTG ID "123" of the currently installed single-purpose CTG obtained in T164, and sets the print license flag 138 to OFF in T166. Then, in T168, printer 100 causes display unit 116 to display notification screen SC2. Notification screen SC2 includes a message prompting the user to install the single-purpose CTG identified by CTG ID "234".

[0097] T170 to T174 processing and Figure 3 The processing for T90 through T94 is the same, except for the single-purpose CTG used. In T180, printer 100 sends a periodic notification to SP server 10, including serial number SN, CTG ID "234", and remaining quantity information "100%".

[0098] When a periodic notification is received from printer 100 in T180 ("Yes" in S10), SP server 10 stores CTGID "234" as the CTG ID in use, deletes the previous remaining amount, stores the current remaining amount "100%", and deletes the next CTG ID "234" in T182 (S12).

[0099] As described, SP server 10 does not send the code including the new single-purpose CTG ID "234" to printer 100 unless the remaining amount of ink in the single-purpose CTG (i.e., CTG ID "123" installed on printer 100) becomes 0%. That is, unless the remaining amount of ink in the single-purpose CTG installed on printer 100 becomes 0%, printer 100 cannot obtain the code, thus preventing the use of the new single-purpose CTG for printing. This prevents the single-purpose CTG installed on printer 100 from being replaced by the new single-purpose CTG and prevents the use of the new single-purpose CTG for printing, even though the single-purpose CTG still has a considerable amount of ink remaining.

[0100] Furthermore, as mentioned above, the code "234xxx" includes the next CTG ID "234". Therefore, printer 100 can determine whether the CTG ID obtained from this code matches the CTG ID of a single-purpose CTG installed on printer 100. Therefore, printer 100 can appropriately determine whether to allow printing processing using the installed single-purpose CTG.

[0101] (Situation B;) Figure 7 )

[0102] Next, we will refer to Figure 7 Describe scenario B. Scenario B is another scenario in which a new single-purpose CTG is delivered to the user of printer 100 when the single-purpose CTG identified by CTG ID "123" is installed on printer 100 and the remaining amount of toner in the subsequently installed single-purpose CTG (i.e., CTG ID "123") becomes 0% (see [link to documentation]). Figure 3 (T90). Figure 7 initial state and Figure 5 Their initial states are the same.

[0103] Aside from the differences in the remaining amount information included in periodic notifications, Figure 7 The processing of T200 to T212 and Figure 5The processing from T100 to T112 is the same. In the current case, when executing the processing of T212, SP server 10 determines that the current remaining quantity "30%" is equal to or greater than 20% and that the difference "50%" between the previous remaining quantity "80%" and the current remaining quantity "30%" is equal to or greater than "50%" ("No" in S14, "Yes" in S16). Furthermore, SP server 10 determines based on device table 40 that a delivery request has not yet been sent to delivery server 50 ("No" in S20). In response, SP server 10 sends a delivery request to delivery server 50 in T214 (S22). The processing from T216 to T222 is the same. Figure 5 The processing for T116 to T122 is the same. Thereafter, the same processing as for T124 to T134 is performed, and further processing is performed as... Figure 6 The same process applies.

[0104] As described, before the remaining amount of ink in the single-purpose CTG installed on printer 100 reaches 0%, the SP server 10 sends a delivery request to the delivery server 50 (T214) in response to the difference between the previous remaining amount and the current remaining amount being equal to or greater than 50%. That is, when it is expected that the remaining amount of ink in the single-purpose CTG installed on printer 100 is about to reach 0%, the SP server 10 can send a delivery request to the delivery server 50. Therefore, the user of printer 100 can obtain a new single-purpose CTG before the ink in the single-purpose CTG installed on printer 100 runs out. This improves user convenience.

[0105] (Situation C;) Figure 8 )

[0106] Next, we will refer to Figure 8 Describe scenario C. In scenario C, before performing the user's process for delivering the new single-purpose CTG to printer 100, the single-purpose CTG (i.e., CTG ID "123") installed on printer 100... Figure 3 The remaining amount of pigment in T90 becomes 0%. Figure 8 initial state and Figure 5 Their initial states are the same.

[0107] Figure 8 The processing of T300 to T304 and Figure 5 The processing for T100 to T104 is the same. However, in the current case, during the printing process of T304, the remaining amount of ink in the single-purpose CTG installed on printer 100 (i.e., CTG ID "123") becomes 0%. Therefore, in T310, printer 100 sends a zero notification to SP server 10.

[0108] In T312, SP server 10 stores "0%" as the current remaining amount (S12) and determines that the current remaining amount "0%" is equal to or less than 20% ("Yes" in S14). In response, SP server 10 sends a delivery request to delivery server 50 in T314 (S22). The processing from T316 to T322 is similar to... Figure 5 The processing of T116 to T122 is the same.

[0109] SP server 10 also determines that the current remaining amount "0%" is 0% ("Yes" in S30), generates a code "234xxx" in T324 including the next CTG ID "234", and sends the code "234xxx" to printer 100 in T330. Subsequent processing is... Figure 6 The processing for T162 to T182 is the same.

[0110] As described above, if the remaining amount of ink in the single-purpose CTG installed on printer 100 becomes 0% before performing the processing for shipping the new single-purpose CTG, SP server 10 sends a shipping request to shipping server 50 (T314) and sends a code to printer 100 (T330). That is, once SP server 10 sends the shipping request to shipping server 50, it immediately sends the code to printer 100. Therefore, when the new single-purpose CTG is delivered to the user and installed on printer 100, printer 100 can immediately perform printing processing using the new single-purpose CTG. That is, user convenience is improved.

[0111] (Situation D;) Figure 9 )

[0112] Next, we will refer to Figure 9 Describe Case D. In Case D, although the remaining amount of ink in the single-purpose CTG (i.e., CTG ID "123" (see T90)) installed on printer 100 has become 0%, printer 100 cannot send a zero notification to SP server 10. Here, "printer 100 cannot send a zero notification to SP server 10" also includes the situation where printer 100 can send a zero notification to SP server 10 but SP server 10 cannot receive the zero notification (i.e., zero notification cannot be transmitted between printer 100 and SP server 10). Figure 9 state and Figure 5 Their initial states are the same.

[0113] Execution and Figure 5 T100 to T134 and Figure 6The same process applies to T140 to T144. Therefore, the remaining amount of ink in the single-purpose CTG installed on printer 100 becomes 0%, and in response, in T400, printer 100 sends a zero notification to SP server 10. However, in the current case, for example due to an error occurring in SP server 10, SP server 10 does not receive the zero notification. Although a predetermined time period has elapsed since the zero notification was sent to SP server 10, printer 100 still has not received a response signal from SP server 10, and printer 100 determines that the transmission of the zero notification has failed. In this case, in T402, printer 100 causes display unit 116 to display notification screen SC3. Notification screen SC3 includes a message indicating that the notification transmission failed and a message prompting the user of printer 100 to contact the support center established by the supplier of printer 100. Therefore, the user calls the support center and provides the serial number SN of printer 100 to the support center staff. In one variation, the support center can be contacted via a communication method other than telephone (e.g., email).

[0114] After the user contacted the support center, staff resolved the error in SP server 10, thus enabling communication between SP server 10 and printer 100. Then, in T410, the staff input a code generation instruction including the serial number SN into SP server 10. In this case, SP server 10 receives the code generation instruction ("Yes" in S40) and generates a code "234xxx" in T412, associated with the serial number SN (S32) and including the next CTG ID "234" stored in device table 40. Then, in T420, SP server 10 sends the generated code "234xxx" to printer 100 (S34). Subsequent processing follows... Figure 6 The processing for T162 to T182 is the same.

[0115] As described above, when the SP server 10 receives a code generation instruction (T410) before receiving a zero notification from the server 100, the SP server 10 generates a code (T412) and sends the code to the printer 100 (T420). Therefore, even if the SP server 10 does not receive a notification from the printer 100, the SP server 10 can still appropriately send the code to the printer 100 according to the instructions from the worker.

[0116] (Correspondence)

[0117] SP server 10 and printer 100 are examples of "server" and "printer (and external device)" respectively. A single-purpose CTG identified by CTGID "123" and a single-purpose CTG identified by CTG ID "234" are examples of "first color cartridge" and "second color cartridge" respectively. CTG ID "123" and CTG ID "234" are examples of "first cartridge identification information" and "cartridge identification information (and second cartridge identification information)" respectively. 0%, 20%, and 50% are examples of "first remaining quantity threshold," "second remaining quantity threshold," and "predetermined value" respectively. Code "123xxx" is an example of "first code information." Code "234xxx" is an example of "specific information" and "code information (and second code information)." Periodic notification and zero notification are examples of "remaining quantity information." Figure 5 Regular notifications in T110 and Figure 6 Examples of periodic notifications in T150 are "First Remaining Amount Information" and "Second Remaining Amount Information". Figure 5 The transport request in T114 is an example of "transport instruction data". Figure 9 The code generation command entered in the T410 is an example of a "send command". The notification screen SC3 is an example of a "program screen".

[0118] Figure 4 The processing in S10, S22, and S32 are examples of processes performed by the "remaining amount information receiving unit", "output unit", and "generation unit", respectively. Figure 5 T102 and T112 in Figure 6 The processing of T142 and T152 is an example of processing performed by the "Storage Control Unit" of the "Server". The processing of S34 after "Yes" in S10 and the processing of S34 after "Yes" in S40 are examples of processing performed by the "First Sending Unit" and the "Second Sending Unit", respectively.

[0119] Figure 5 T104 and Figure 6 The processing of T144 in the example is an example of processing performed by the "print control unit". Figure 5 T100 and T110 and Figure 6 The processing of T140 and T150 is an example of the processing performed by the "remaining quantity information sending unit". Figure 6 The processing of T160 in the example is an example of processing performed by a "specific information acquisition unit". Figure 6 The T162 process is an example of a process performed by the "Storage Control Unit" of the "Printer". Figure 5 T126 and T132 in the middle and Figure 6The processing of T164 and T172 is an example of the processing performed by the "Identification Information Acquisition Unit". Figure 9 The processing of T402 in this example is performed by the "Display Control Unit".

[0120] (Variant 1) in Figure 6 In T160, SP server 10 can send an email containing the code "234xxx" to terminal 200 instead of sending the code "234xxx" to printer 100. In this case, in response to the user of terminal 200 (i.e., the user of printer 100) bringing terminal 200 close to printer 100, printer 100 can obtain the code "234xxx" from terminal 200 via Near Field Communication (NFC) I / F. In another variant, printer 100 can obtain the code "234xxx" from terminal 200 via Bluetooth (registered trademark, BT) I / F. In yet another variant, the user of terminal 200 can directly input the code "234xxx" into printer 100. In each of these variants, terminal 200 is an example of an "external device". Furthermore, the sending of an email containing the code "234xxx" is an example of processing performed by a "first sending unit".

[0121] (Variant 2) Before the remaining amount of pigment in the single-purpose CTG identified by CTG ID "123" becomes 0%, Figure 5 When a new single-purpose CTG is installed in the T124, the printer 100 can set the print license flag 138 to OFF and display a restriction screen on the display unit 116. The restriction screen includes a message indicating that some ink remains in the single-purpose CTG identified by CTG ID "123," and a restriction cancellation button. In this case, upon accepting the user's operation of the restriction cancellation button, the printer 100 can set the print license flag 138 to ON. In this variant example, the printer 100 displaying the restriction screen including the restriction cancellation button is an example of "restricted print processing."

[0122] (Variation 3) When the print permission flag 138 is set to ON, the printer 100 can allow printing processes to be performed using a single-purpose CTG installed on the printer 100, with a maximum limit on the number of pages set in the uniform rate printing service (maximum number of pages). In this case, the printer 100 can store the number of print media (pages) used in the printing processes performed within a predetermined time period, and when that number of pages exceeds the maximum number of pages, the print permission flag 138 can be set to OFF. In this variant example, an example of the printer 100 allowing printing processes to be performed using a single-purpose CTG with a maximum limit on the number of pages is "Allow Print Processing".

[0123] (Variant 4) SP server 10 can be omitted Figure 4 The processing of S14 to S24 in the process. In this variant, the "output unit" can be omitted.

[0124] (Variant 5) SP server 10 and delivery server 50 can be integrated. In this case, SP server 10 can... Figure 5 T114 displays the username (UN) and destination information. By inspecting this display, staff can transport a new single-purpose CTG with the destination information as its destination (see T116), and can input the CTGID of that single-purpose CTG into the SP server 10. In this variant, the display of the username (UN) and destination information is an example of a process performed by the "output unit".

[0125] (Variation 6) The code may not include the CTG ID of the single-purpose CTG, and may, for example, be a hash value obtained by hashing the CTG ID of the single-purpose CTG. In this case, printer 100 can generate a hash value by hashing the CTG ID read by reader 119, and can determine whether the generated hash value matches the code (i.e., the hash value) received from SP server 10. Printer 100 sets print license flag 138 to ON if they match, and sets print license flag 138 to OFF if they do not match. In this variant, the hash value is an example of "code information (and specific information)". In another variant, the code may be the CTG ID of the single-purpose CTG itself. Generally, "code information" may be any information obtained by using box identification information.

[0126] (Variation 7) SP server 10 can store the number of times a delivery request for printer 100 has been sent to delivery server 50, and can generate a code by adding a predetermined string "xxx" to that number. Furthermore, printer 100 can store the number of newly installed single-purpose CTGs, and can determine whether the number obtained from the code matches the stored number of single-purpose CTGs. Printer 100 can set print license flag 138 to ON if they match, and set print license flag 138 to OFF if they do not match. In this variant, the code obtained by adding the predetermined string "xxx" to the number is an example of "specific information".

[0127] (Variant 8) In the case of receiving zero notification from a printer 100 equipped with a specific single-purpose CTG (for example, see Figure 6The T150), SP server 10 can send a pre-defined command. The pre-defined command is a command used to indicate that printer 100 will set the print license flag 138 to ON when a new single-purpose CTG is installed on printer 100 instead of a specific single-purpose CTG. In this variant, the pre-defined command is an example of "specific information". Furthermore, in this variant, the following can be omitted. Figure 4 The processing of S32. In this variant, the "generation unit" of the "server" can be omitted, and the "storage control unit" and "identification information acquisition unit" of the "printer" can also be omitted.

[0128] (Variant 9) in Figure 4 The threshold used in S14 can be "0%" instead of "20%". That is, when the remaining amount of pigment in the single-purpose CTG installed on the printer 100 becomes 0%, the SP server 10 can perform both the processing related to shipping a new single-purpose CTG and the processing of generating and sending code for the new single-purpose CTG. In this variant, the remaining amount of pigment in the first pigment cartridge being equal to or less than a first remaining amount threshold is an example of "meeting a predetermined condition".

[0129] (Variant 10) SP server 10 can be omitted. Figure 4 At least one of S14 and S16. In particular, in a variant in which S16 is omitted, the "storage control unit" of the "server" can be omitted.

[0130] (Variant 11) Figure 4 The processing in S40 can be omitted. Generally speaking, the "second transmitting unit" can be omitted.

[0131] (Variant 12) If in Figure 9 If sending a zero notification fails in T400, printer 100 may not display notification screen SC3. In this variant, the processing of T402 can be omitted. Generally, the "display control unit" can be omitted.

[0132] (Variant 13) In the above embodiment, Figures 2 to 9 The processing is implemented by software (such as programs 36, 136), however, at least one of these processes can be implemented by hardware such as logic circuits.

Claims

1. A server, characterized by comprises: a remaining amount information receiving unit configured to receive, from a printer on which a first ink cartridge is mounted, remaining amount information about a remaining amount of ink in the first ink cartridge, wherein the printer is configured to perform a print process by using the first ink cartridge in a state where the first ink cartridge is mounted to the printer, and after a second ink cartridge is mounted instead of the first ink cartridge, the printer is configured to perform the print process by using the second ink cartridge in a state where the second ink cartridge is mounted to the printer; and a first transmission unit configured to transmit, to an external device, specific information in a case where the remaining amount information is received from the printer and the remaining amount of ink in the first ink cartridge indicated by the remaining amount information is equal to or less than a first remaining amount threshold, wherein the specific information is used to change a state of the printer from a state of restricting use of the second ink cartridge to be mounted instead of the first ink cartridge to perform the print process to a state of allowing use of the second ink cartridge to perform the print process in a case where the printer acquires the specific information in response to the specific information being transmitted to the external device.

2. The server of claim 1, wherein, further comprising: an output unit configured to output, in a case where the remaining amount information is received from the printer and the remaining amount of ink in the first ink cartridge indicated by the remaining amount information satisfies a predetermined condition, shipping instruction data for shipping the second ink cartridge, wherein the first transmission unit is configured to transmit, to the external device, the specific information that is code information obtained by using cartridge identification information for identifying the second ink cartridge to be shipped in a case where the remaining amount information is received from the printer and the remaining amount of ink in the first ink cartridge indicated by the remaining amount information is equal to or less than the first remaining amount threshold.

3. The server according to claim 2, wherein the remaining amount information receiving unit is configured to repeatedly receive, from the printer on which the first ink cartridge is mounted, the remaining amount information about the remaining amount of ink in the first ink cartridge, the first transmission unit is configured to not transmit the code information in a case where first remaining amount information is received from the printer and the remaining amount of ink in the first ink cartridge indicated by the first remaining amount information satisfies the predetermined condition, and the first transmission unit is configured to transmit the code information in a case where second remaining amount information is received from the printer after the first remaining amount information has been received and the remaining amount of ink in the first ink cartridge indicated by the second remaining amount information is equal to or less than a first remaining amount threshold.

4. The server of claim 2, wherein, further comprising: generating unit configured to generate the code information by using the cartridge identification information in a case where the remaining amount of the colorant in the first colorant cartridge represented by the remaining amount information is equal to or less than the first remaining amount threshold value, and the first transmission unit is configured to transmit the generated code information to the external device. 5.The server according to claim 2, wherein the code information includes the cartridge identification information. 6.The server according to claim 2, wherein the predetermined condition is satisfied in a case where the remaining amount of the colorant in the first colorant cartridge represented by the remaining amount information is equal to or less than a second remaining amount threshold value that is larger than the first remaining amount threshold value.

7. The server of claim 2, wherein, further comprising: a storage, and a storage control unit configured to store, in the storage, the remaining amount of the colorant in the first colorant cartridge represented by the latest remaining amount information received from the printer, and the predetermined condition is satisfied in a case where a difference between the remaining amount of the colorant in the first colorant cartridge represented by the remaining amount information and the remaining amount in the storage is equal to or larger than a predetermined value.

8. The server of claim 1, wherein, further comprising: a second transmission unit configured to transmit the specific information to the external device in a case where a transmission instruction is obtained before the remaining amount information representing that the remaining amount of the colorant in the first colorant cartridge is equal to or less than the first remaining amount threshold value is received from the printer. 9.The server according to claim 1, wherein the external device is the printer.

10. A printer characterized by comprising: including: a print execution unit on which a colorant cartridge is mounted; and a print control unit configured to cause the print execution unit to execute a print process by using a first colorant cartridge in a state where the first colorant cartridge is mounted on the print execution unit, and to cause the print execution unit to execute the print process by using a second colorant cartridge in a state where the second colorant cartridge is mounted on the print execution unit after the first colorant cartridge is mounted on the print execution unit; a remaining amount information transmission unit configured to transmit, to a server, remaining amount information about a remaining amount of colorant in the first colorant cartridge in a case where the first colorant cartridge is mounted on the print execution unit; and and a specific information acquisition unit configured to acquire specific information, wherein the specific information is transmitted from the server to an external device in a case where the remaining amount of the colorant in the first colorant cartridge represented by the remaining amount information that has been transmitted to the server is equal to or less than a first remaining amount threshold value, wherein the print control unit is configured to: restricting use of the second ink cartridge to be installed instead of the first ink cartridge for the print processing before the specific information is obtained; and allowing use of the second ink cartridge for the print processing in a case where the specific information is obtained.

11. The printer of claim 10, wherein, Further comprising: a memory configured to store first code information obtained by using first cartridge identification information for identifying the first ink cartridge, wherein the specific information is second code information obtained by using second cartridge identification information for identifying the second ink cartridge, the printer further comprises: a storage control unit configured to store the second code information in the memory in a case where the second code information is obtained; and an identification information acquisition unit configured to acquire, from the print execution unit, cartridge identification information for identifying an ink cartridge currently installed on the print execution unit, and the print control unit is configured to: restrict use of the second ink cartridge for the print processing in a case where the second cartridge identification information is acquired from the print execution unit before the second code information is obtained; and allow use of the second ink cartridge for the print processing in a case where the second cartridge identification information is acquired from the print execution unit after the second code information has been obtained.

12. The printer of claim 10, wherein, Further comprising: a display unit, and a display control unit configured to cause the display unit to display a program screen indicating a program for causing the server to transmit the specific information in a case where the remaining amount information cannot be transmitted to the server in a state where the remaining amount of the ink in the first ink cartridge is equal to or less than the first remaining amount threshold.

13. The printer according to claim 10, wherein the external device is the printer, and the specific information acquisition unit is configured to acquire the specific information from the server.

14. A computer-readable recording medium storing computer-readable instructions for a server, wherein the computer-readable instructions, when executed by a processor of the server, cause the server to function as: a remaining amount information reception unit configured to receive, from a printer in which a first ink cartridge is installed, remaining amount information about a remaining amount of ink in the first ink cartridge, wherein the printer is configured to execute a print processing by using the first ink cartridge in a state where the first ink cartridge is installed in the printer, and after a second ink cartridge is installed instead of the first ink cartridge, the printer is configured to execute the print processing by using the second ink cartridge in a state where the second ink cartridge is installed in the printer; and a first transmission unit configured to transmit specific information to an external device in a case where the remaining amount of the colorant in the first colorant cartridge indicated by the remaining amount information received from the printer is equal to or less than a first remaining amount threshold, wherein the specific information is used to change a state of the printer from a state of restricting use of the second colorant cartridge to be mounted for the print processing instead of the first colorant cartridge to a state of allowing use of the second colorant cartridge for the print processing in a case where the printer acquires the specific information in response to the specific information being transmitted to the external device.

15. A computer-readable recording medium storing computer-readable instructions for a printer, characterized by the printer including: a print execution unit on which a colorant cartridge is mounted; and a processor, wherein the computer-readable instructions, when executed by the processor, cause the printer to function as: a print control unit configured to cause the print execution unit to execute print processing by using a first colorant cartridge in a state where the first colorant cartridge is mounted on the print execution unit, and after a second colorant cartridge instead of the first colorant cartridge is mounted on the print execution unit, to execute the print processing by causing the print execution unit to use the second colorant cartridge in a state where the second colorant cartridge is mounted on the print execution unit; a remaining amount information transmission unit configured to transmit, in a case where the first colorant cartridge is mounted on the print execution unit, remaining amount information about a remaining amount of colorant in the first colorant cartridge to a server; and a specific information acquisition unit configured to acquire specific information, wherein the specific information is transmitted from the server to an external device in a case where the remaining amount of the colorant in the first colorant cartridge indicated by the remaining amount information that has been transmitted to the server is equal to or less than a first remaining amount threshold, wherein the print control unit is configured to: restrict use of the second colorant cartridge to be mounted for the print processing instead of the first colorant cartridge before the specific information is acquired; and allow use of the second colorant cartridge for the print processing in a case where the specific information is acquired.

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