Printing system and printing apparatus

Abstract

The present invention provides a printing system and a printing apparatus capable of suppressing a reduction in printing quality. The printing apparatus includes: a printing unit that performs printing on a medium using ink stored in an ink cartridge; a remaining amount detection unit that detects the remaining amount of ink stored in the ink cartridge; a maintenance unit that performs maintenance on the printing unit; and a display unit configured to be able to perform a predetermined notification regarding replacement of the ink cartridge or replenishment of ink to a storage body. Either the printing apparatus or the server apparatus has a selection unit configured to be able to select either execution of maintenance or the predetermined notification based on the remaining amount of ink when the amount of ink used within a predetermined period is equal to or less than a reference usage amount based on information related to the amount of ink used.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a printing system and a printing apparatus that perform printing on a medium using a printing material. Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, as one type of printing apparatus, there has been known a printing apparatus that performs printing on a medium using a printing material stored in a storage body. In such a printing apparatus, there is a device that performs maintenance of a printing unit that performs printing on a medium using a printing material. Further, in such a printing apparatus, there is a device that gives a notification for replacing the storage body or replenishing the printing material when the remaining amount of the printing material stored in the storage body decreases.

[0003] In such a printing apparatus, for example, in Patent Document 1, there is a device configured to be able to communicate with a server device. And, in such a printing apparatus, there is disclosed a printing system that delivers a printing material when the usage amount of the printing material exceeds a predetermined amount within a predetermined period. Thereby, even when it is inferred that the usage amount of the printing material has increased sharply, it is possible to suppress a shortage of the printing material.

[0004] However, in such a printing apparatus, when the usage frequency of the printing material is low, there is a possibility that the printing quality may deteriorate due to adhesion and solidification of the previously used printing material in the printing unit.

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2020-77207 Summary of the Invention

[0006] A printing system for solving the above problems includes a printing device that performs printing on a medium using a printing material, and a server device that can communicate with the printing device via a network, and manages the printing materials used in the printing device. In the printing system, the printing device has: a printing unit that performs printing on a medium using the printing materials stored in a storage body; a remaining amount detection unit that detects the remaining amount of the printing materials stored in the storage body; a maintenance unit that performs maintenance on the printing unit; a notification unit that is configured to be able to perform a predetermined notification regarding replacement of the storage body or replenishment of the printing materials to the storage body. Either the printing device or the server device has a selection unit that is configured to be able to, based on information related to the usage amount of the printing materials, when the usage amount of the printing materials within a predetermined period is below a specified amount, select either the execution of the maintenance of the printing unit performed by the maintenance unit or the predetermined notification performed by the notification unit according to the remaining amount of the printing materials detected by the remaining amount detection unit.

[0007] The printing device for solving the above problems performs printing on a medium using a printing material. In the printing device, there are: a printing unit that performs printing on a medium using the printing materials stored in a storage body; a remaining amount detection unit that detects the remaining amount of the printing materials stored in the storage body; a maintenance unit that performs maintenance on the printing unit; a notification unit that is configured to be able to perform a predetermined notification regarding replacement of the storage body or replenishment of the printing materials to the storage body; a selection unit that is configured to be able to, based on information related to the usage amount of the printing materials, when the usage amount of the printing materials within a predetermined period is below a specified amount, select either the execution of the maintenance of the printing unit performed by the maintenance unit or the predetermined notification performed by the notification unit according to the remaining amount of the printing materials detected by the remaining amount detection unit. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] Figure 1 FIG. is a schematic diagram showing the printing system in the first embodiment.

[0009] Figure 2 FIG. is a perspective view showing the printing device in the first embodiment.

[0010] Figure 3 FIG. is a perspective view showing the printing device in the first embodiment.

[0011] Figure 4 FIG. is a block diagram showing the electrical structure of the printing system of the first embodiment.

[0012] Figure 5Schematic diagram of the user information database stored in the storage unit of the server device according to the first embodiment.

[0013] Figure 6 Flowchart showing the ink amount-related information sending process executed by the control unit of the printing device.

[0014] Figure 7 Flowchart showing the selection result control process executed by the control unit of the printing device.

[0015] Figure 8 Flowchart showing the ink amount-related information receiving process executed by the control unit of the server device.

[0016] Figure 9 Flowchart showing the ink amount monitoring process executed by the control unit of the server device.

[0017] Figure 10 Flowchart showing the delivery instruction monitoring process executed by the control unit of the server device.

[0018] Figure 11 Block diagram showing the electrical structure of the printing system according to the second embodiment.

[0019] Figure 12 Flowchart showing the ink amount-related information control process executed by the control unit of the printing device.

[0020] Figure 13 Flowchart showing the ink amount monitoring process executed by the control unit of the printing device.

[0021] Figure 14 Perspective view of the printing device according to the third embodiment. Detailed implementation mode

[0022] First embodiment

[0023] Hereinafter, with reference to the accompanying drawings, the printing device 11 and the printing system 10 according to the first embodiment will be described.

[0024] As Figure 1 shown, the printing system 10 includes a plurality of printing devices 11A to 11D and a server device 200. Hereinafter, there are cases where each of the plurality of printing devices 11A to 11D is represented as the printing device 11. In the present embodiment, the printing system 10 is configured to be able to manage printing materials such as ink used in the printing device 11.

[0025] The printing device 11 ejects printing materials onto a medium M such as paper, and thus uses the printing materials to perform printing on the medium M.

[0026] The server device 200 is connected to the printing device 11 via the network NT in a communicable manner. The printing device 11 may also be connected to the network NT via a host device (not shown) composed of a personal computer or the like, for example.

[0027] As Figure 2 shown, the printing device 11 includes a main body 12 in a substantially rectangular box shape. The printing device 11 includes an operation panel 13. The operation panel 13 is provided on the upper part of the front surface of the main body 12. The operation panel 13 includes an operation unit 14 and a display unit 15. The operation unit 14 is configured to be operable by a user. The display unit 15 displays various images. In the present embodiment, the display unit 15 displays, for example, message information for promoting the replacement and maintenance of the ink cartridge 24.

[0028] The printing device 11 includes a paper supply cassette 16. The paper supply cassette 16 is provided below the operation panel 13 of the main body 12. The paper supply cassette 16 is mounted in the main body 12 in a pluggable state. The paper supply cassette 16 is configured to be able to accommodate a plurality of media M such as sheets of paper. The printing device 11 performs printing on the media M fed from the paper supply cassette 16.

[0029] The printing device 11 includes a discharge port 12a. The discharge port 12a opens on the front surface of the main body 12. The discharge port 12a discharges the printed media M. The printing device 11 includes a paper discharge tray 17. The paper discharge tray 17 is slidably provided on the front surface of the main body 12. The paper discharge tray 17 holds the printed media M discharged from the discharge port 12a.

[0030] As Figure 3 shown, the printing device 11 includes a main body frame 18. The main body frame 18 is in a substantially rectangular box shape with the upper side and the front side open. The printing device 11 includes a guide shaft 19. The guide shaft 19 is spanned between the left and right side walls of the main body frame 18. The guide shaft 19 has a predetermined length.

[0031] The printing device 11 includes a printing unit 20. The printing unit 20 performs printing on the media M using ink. The printing unit 20 includes a carriage 21. The carriage 21 is configured to be able to reciprocate in the width direction X along the guide shaft 19. The printing unit 20 includes a liquid ejection head 22. The liquid ejection head 22 is provided below the carriage 21.

[0032] The printing unit 20 includes a cartridge holder 23. The cartridge holder 23 is provided at the upper part of the carriage 21. The cartridge holder 23 is configured to be able to mount a plurality of ink cartridges 24. In the present embodiment, the cartridge holder 23 is configured to be able to mount four ink cartridges 24. In the present embodiment, among the four ink cartridges 24, for example, inks of four colors, namely black (K), cyan (C), magenta (M), and yellow (Y), are respectively stored. The cartridge holder 23 is not limited to four, and may also be 1 to 3, or 5 or more. The ink cartridges 24 are not limited to four colors, and may also be 1 to 3 colors, or 5 or more colors. That is, in the present embodiment, the ink cartridge 24 is an example of a storage body that stores ink.

[0033] The liquid ejection head 22 ejects the inks supplied from the respective ink cartridges 24 from nozzles of different colors that open on its lower surface. In this way, the liquid ejection head 22 ejects the ink stored in the ink cartridge 24 mounted on the cartridge holder 23 to perform printing. In addition, the liquid ejection head 22 is communicable via a flexible flat cable FC connected to the carriage 21 and is thus connected to the control unit 110 provided in the printing apparatus 11 Figure 4 as shown. The liquid ejection head 22 is driven based on ejection control data from the control unit 110.

[0034] The printing apparatus 11 includes a support table 25. The support table 25 is provided at a lower position facing the liquid ejection head 22. The support table 25 is long. The support table 25 supports the medium M on its upper surface. The support table 25 is provided to define the interval between the liquid ejection head 22 and the medium M. The support table 25 extends in the width direction X so as to at least straddle the printing area. By spraying the ink ejected from the nozzles that open on the lower surface of the liquid ejection head 22 onto the medium M supported by the support table 25, printing of characters or images is performed.

[0035] The printing apparatus 11 includes a conveyance motor 26. The conveyance motor 26 is provided on the main body frame 18. The printing apparatus 11 includes a pair of conveyance rollers 27. The pair of conveyance rollers 27 is provided on the upstream side thereof across the support table 25 in the depth direction Y. The pair of conveyance rollers 27 conveys the medium M in the depth direction Y in a state of sandwiching the medium M by the rotational drive of the conveyance motor 26.

[0036] In this embodiment, a serial printing device 11 is employed. The serial printing device 11 includes a carriage motor 28. In the printing device 11, the carriage motor 28 is provided on the main frame 18. The carriage motor 28 is configured to be able to reciprocate the carriage 21 in the width direction X. The printing device 11 alternately executes a printing operation of ejecting ink from the nozzles of the liquid ejection head 22 onto the medium M while reciprocating the carriage 21 in the width direction X, and a conveying operation of conveying the medium M in the depth direction Y at a predetermined conveying amount. Thus, the printing device 11 prints characters or images on the medium M. In this embodiment, the width direction X in which the carriage 21 reciprocates becomes the scanning direction and the main scanning direction, and the depth direction Y in which the medium M is conveyed becomes the conveying direction and the sub-scanning direction.

[0037] The printing device 11 includes a maintenance unit 29. The maintenance unit 29 performs maintenance on the printing unit 20. In particular, in this embodiment, the maintenance unit 29 performs maintenance on the liquid ejection head 22. The maintenance unit 29 is provided directly below the initial position of the carriage 21. The initial position of the carriage 21 is the position of one end on the movement path of the carriage 21. The initial position of the carriage 21 is the position where the carriage 21 stands by when no printing is performed. In this embodiment, cleaning and wiping are performed as maintenance.

[0038] The maintenance unit 29 includes a cap 30, a wiper 31, a maintenance pump 32, and a waste liquid tank 33. The cap 30 is configured to be able to move in the vertical direction Z. When the carriage 21 is disposed at the initial position, the cap 30 is configured to be able to move upward to form a surface contact with the lower surface of the liquid ejection head 22, that is, the nozzles. The maintenance pump 32 forcibly sucks and discharges ink from the nozzles of the liquid ejection head 22. The waste liquid tank 33 is disposed below the support table 25. The waste liquid tank 33 stores the waste ink sucked and discharged from the nozzles of the liquid ejection head 22.

[0039] In this embodiment, during cleaning, by driving the maintenance pump 32 in a state where the cap 30 is in surface contact with the nozzles, ink is forcibly sucked and discharged from the nozzles of the liquid ejection head 22. In addition, during cleaning, pressure cleaning may be used instead of suction cleaning.

[0040] In addition, in this embodiment, during cleaning, by sucking a predetermined usage amount of ink from the nozzles of the liquid ejection head 22, a predetermined usage amount of ink is consumed. By performing cleaning, thickened ink, bubbles, or foreign substances that cause ejection defects are discharged from the nozzles of the liquid ejection head 22. Therefore, clogging of the nozzles can be prevented.

[0041] In the present embodiment, during cleaning, there are multiple types of cleaning with different maintenance intensities. If a specific example is given, during cleaning, there are normal cleaning and intensive cleaning. For intensive cleaning, at least one of the suction force and the suction time is different compared to normal cleaning, and the amount of ink used is larger compared to normal cleaning. In this way, in the present embodiment, during maintenance, there are normal cleaning and intensive cleaning with a larger amount of ink used compared to normal cleaning. In the present embodiment, normal cleaning is equivalent to an example of the first maintenance. In the present embodiment, intensive cleaning is equivalent to an example of the second maintenance.

[0042] The wiper 31 is formed of an elastic member such as rubber. The wiper 31 is configured to be movable in the vertical direction Z. Wiping is performed by moving the carriage 21 in the width direction X in a state where the wiper 31 is in contact with the nozzle forming surface of the liquid ejection head 22 to wipe the nozzle forming surface.

[0043] Next, with reference to Figure 4 , the electrical structure of the printing system 10 will be described. Here, a printing system 10 in which one printing apparatus 11 is connected to the server apparatus 200 in a manner capable of communicating via the network NT will be described.

[0044] The printing apparatus 11 includes: a control unit 110, a communication unit 130, an operation panel 13, a conveyance motor 26, a carriage motor 28, a printing unit 20, and a maintenance unit 29. The control unit 110 controls the printing apparatus 11. The communication unit 130, the operation panel 13, the conveyance motor 26, the carriage motor 28, the printing unit 20, and the maintenance unit 29 are electrically connected to the control unit 110.

[0045] The control unit 110 includes a CPU, an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), and a storage unit 120. The CPU controls the printing apparatus 11 by executing a control program stored in the storage unit 120. In particular, the control unit 110 implements control related to printing performed by the printing unit 20.

[0046] The storage unit 120 is composed of a RAM and a non-volatile memory, etc. Information for controlling the printing apparatus 11 by the control unit 110 is stored in the storage unit 120. In particular, a control program and reference data are stored in the storage unit 120. The control program is a program for controlling the printing apparatus 11. The reference data is data referred to for controlling the printing apparatus 11.

[0047] The communication unit 130 is connected to the server device 200 in a manner capable of communicating via the network NT. The conveyance motor 26 is an actuator that conveys the medium M according to a control signal from the control unit 110. The carriage motor 28 is an actuator that reciprocates the carriage 21 in the width direction X according to a control signal from the control unit 110. Additionally, in the case where the printing device is a line printer, the printing device may not include the carriage motor 28. The printing unit 20 ejects ink onto the medium M according to a control signal from the control unit 110.

[0048] The control unit 110 functions as a maintenance control unit 111, a display control unit 112, a counting unit 113, a remaining amount detection unit 114, an information transmission unit 115, and an information reception unit 116 by executing a control program.

[0049] The maintenance control unit 111 causes the maintenance unit 29 to perform maintenance on the printing unit 20. In the present embodiment, the maintenance control unit 111 causes the maintenance unit 29 to perform normal cleaning. In the present embodiment, the maintenance control unit 111 causes the maintenance unit 29 to perform strong cleaning. In the present embodiment, the maintenance control unit 111 causes the maintenance unit 29 to perform wiping.

[0050] Although in the present embodiment, the maintenance control unit 111 can perform maintenance according to the operation of the operation unit 14, it can also perform maintenance according to an instruction from the server device 200. In addition, when the maintenance control unit 111 causes maintenance to be performed according to the operation of the operation unit 14, the intensity of maintenance can also be selected based on nozzle detection of the liquid ejection head 22 or the like.

[0051] The display control unit 112 performs control to cause the display unit 15 to display an image. In the present embodiment, the display control unit 112 causes the display unit 15 to display message information for promoting ink cartridge replacement and maintenance. That is, in the present embodiment, the display unit 15 functions as a notification unit configured to be able to perform predetermined notification regarding ink cartridge replacement.

[0052] The counting unit 113 counts the usage amount of ink when ink is used during printing or maintenance. In the present embodiment, during the use of ink, it includes the case where ink is ejected from the liquid ejection head 22 during printing. In the present embodiment, the counting unit 113 counts the usage amount of ink used for each of various color inks based on the image data used during printing. In the present embodiment, during the use of ink, it includes the case where ink is sucked from the liquid ejection head 22 during maintenance by performing various cleanings. In the present embodiment, the counting unit 113 counts a predetermined amount corresponding to the category of maintenance performed during maintenance as the usage amount of ink.

[0053] The counting unit 113 cumulatively stores the used amount of the ink counted in the storage unit 120. Thus, the counting unit 113 can specify the used amount of the ink for each predetermined time. Although in this embodiment, the predetermined time is a time equivalent to 30 days, it is not limited thereto. For example, it is preferably 30 days or more. In this embodiment, the period from the time before the predetermined time to the current time corresponds to the predetermined period.

[0054] The remaining amount detection unit 114 detects the remaining amount of the ink stored in the ink cartridge 24. In this embodiment, the remaining amount detection unit 114 is configured to be able to access the memory element in the ink cartridge 24. The ink cartridge 24 is configured to be able to store information indicating the remaining amount of the ink in the memory element. The remaining amount detection unit 114 reads, at the time of power-on processing, information that can specify the remaining amount of the ink from the ink cartridge 24. When the ink is used, the remaining amount detection unit 114 obtains information indicating the used amount of the ink counted by the counting unit 113. When the ink is used, the remaining amount detection unit 114 reads, from the ink cartridge 24, information that can specify the remaining amount of the ink, and calculates the current remaining amount of the ink by reducing the used amount of the ink. The remaining amount detection unit 114 writes the information indicating the calculated remaining amount of the ink into the memory element of the ink cartridge 24. Thus, the remaining amount detection unit 114 can detect the remaining amount of the ink stored in the ink cartridge 24.

[0055] The information transmission unit 115 transmits various information to the server device 200. In particular, the information transmission unit 115 transmits information related to the used amount of the ink to the server device 200. In this embodiment, as the information related to the used amount of the ink, it includes the used amount of the ink used through printing and maintenance, etc., and the remaining amount of the ink stored in the ink cartridge 24.

[0056] In addition, when the remaining amount of the ink stored in the ink cartridge 24 reaches a predetermined lower limit, the information transmission unit 115 transmits a delivery request message to the server device 200. The delivery request message is a message requesting the delivery of the ink cartridge 24.

[0057] The information reception unit 116 receives various information from the server device 200. In this embodiment, among the various information received from the server device 200, there is information instructing to notify the execution of promoting the replacement or maintenance of the ink cartridge 24, and information instructing the actual execution of the maintenance. These information are information indicating the selection result based on the information related to the used amount of the ink in the server device 200.

[0058] The server device 200 includes: a control unit 210, a storage unit 220, and a communication unit 230. The control unit 210 includes a CPU. The CPU controls the server device 200 by executing a control program.

[0059] The storage unit 220 is composed of a RAM, a non-volatile memory, etc. In the storage unit 220, information for controlling the server device 200 by the control unit 210 is stored. In particular, in the storage unit 220, a control program and reference data are stored. The control program is a program for controlling the server device 200. The reference data is data that is referred to for controlling the server device 200.

[0060] The communication unit 230 is connected to other devices such as the printing device 11 so as to be able to communicate via the network NT.

[0061] By executing the control program, the control unit 210 functions as an information receiving unit 211, a selection unit 212, an information sending unit 213, a duration calculation unit 214, a usage prediction unit 215, and a delivery instruction unit 216.

[0062] The information receiving unit 211 receives information related to the ink usage amount from the printing device 11. In the present embodiment, the information receiving unit 211 is an example of a receiving unit.

[0063] The selection unit 212 is configured to be able to select either the execution of the maintenance of the printing unit 20 or a predetermined notification related to the ink usage according to the remaining amount of ink when the ink usage amount within a predetermined period in the printing device 11 is below the reference usage amount that is the reference. In particular, the selection unit 212 is configured to be able to select the execution of the maintenance of the printing unit 20 when the remaining amount of ink is equal to or more than the amount required for the execution of the maintenance of the printing unit 20. On the other hand, the selection unit 212 is configured to be able to select a predetermined notification related to the ink usage when the remaining amount of ink is less than the amount required for the execution of the maintenance of the printing unit 20.

[0064] The information sending unit 213 sends information related to the selection result selected by the selection unit 212 to the printing device 11. In the present embodiment, the information sending unit 213 is an example of a sending unit.

[0065] The duration calculation unit 214 calculates the unused time during which the state of not using ink continues in the printing device 11 based on the information related to the ink usage sent from the printing device 11.

[0066] The usage prediction unit 215 predicts the ink usage in the printing apparatus 11. In particular, in the present embodiment, the usage prediction unit 215 predicts the usage amount of the ink used in the next maintenance to be performed in the printing apparatus 11 based on the unused time calculated by the duration calculation unit 214.

[0067] The delivery instruction unit 216 instructs the delivery of the ink cartridge 24 when the delivery condition of the ink cartridge 24 is satisfied. In particular, in the present embodiment, the delivery instruction unit 216 instructs the delivery of the ink cartridge 24 when the remaining amount of the ink contained in the ink cartridge 24 mounted on the printing apparatus 11 is less than the predicted ink usage amount by the usage prediction unit 215.

[0068] In such a printing system 10, in the server device 200, a plurality of pieces of information related to the printing apparatus 11 constituting the printing system 10 are managed as Figure 5 the user information database DB shown. In particular, in the present embodiment, the user information database DB is configured to be able to manage the usage amount of the ink used in the printing apparatus 11 and the remaining amount of the ink contained in the ink cartridge 24.

[0069] In the present embodiment, the user information database DB is stored in the storage unit 220 of the server device 200. The user information database DB is an information group for managing information related to the printing apparatus 11.

[0070] As Figure 5 shown, in the user information database DB, one or more device identification information is associated with one user identification information. The user identification information is unique identification information of the user that can identify the user. The device identification information is unique identification information of the printing apparatus 11 that can identify the printing apparatus 11.

[0071] In the user information database DB, device category information, device communication information, subscription information, and delivery destination information are associated with one device identification information. The device category information is information that can identify the model of the printing apparatus 11 as the category of the printing apparatus 11. The device communication information is information for communicating with the printing apparatus 11. The subscription information is information indicating whether the subscription is valid or invalid. A subscription means a system in which a consideration for the period of using the printing system 10 is generated regardless of the ink usage amount. Therefore, the subscription is a system in which the consideration is not directly affected even when the ink usage amount increases. The delivery destination information is information indicating the location where the printing apparatus 11 is installed and is information for delivering the ink cartridge 24.

[0072] In the user information database DB, a reference usage amount for each predetermined time is associated with a device identification information. The reference usage amount for each predetermined time is a reference for the minimum usage amount of ink used per predetermined time. When the usage amount of ink per predetermined time is less than the reference usage amount, the ink attached to the nozzles of the liquid ejection head 22 changes over time, resulting in thickened ink, bubbles, or foreign substances, which in turn causes ejection defects. In such a case, in the printing apparatus 11, maintenance needs to be performed in order to suppress a decrease in printing quality. In this way, in the user information database DB, the usage amount of ink per predetermined time can be identified with respect to the reference usage amount. The reference usage amount for each predetermined time is information corresponding to the type of the printing apparatus 11.

[0073] In the user information database DB, one type or multiple types of maintenance information are associated with a device identification information. In the maintenance information, there are a category of maintenance and the usage amount of ink during maintenance. If a specific example is cited, normal cleaning and intensive cleaning exist as categories of maintenance. The usage amount of ink required for normal cleaning is associated with normal cleaning. The usage amount of ink required for intensive cleaning is associated with intensive cleaning. The usage amount of ink required for intensive cleaning is more than the usage amount of ink required for normal cleaning. The maintenance information corresponds to the type of the printing apparatus 11.

[0074] In the user information database DB, one type or multiple types of ink usage history information are associated with a device identification information. The ink usage history information is history information of the usage amount of ink used in the printing apparatus 11. The ink usage history information is information transmitted from the printing apparatus 11. Time information, ink usage amount information, and ink remaining amount information are associated with the ink usage history information. The time information is time information at which information related to the ink usage amount is generated in the printing apparatus 11. The ink usage amount information is information indicating the usage amount of ink used in the printing apparatus 11. The ink remaining amount information is information indicating the remaining amount of ink stored in the ink cartridge 24 in the printing apparatus 11. The ink remaining amount information corresponding to the latest time information can be identified as the latest ink remaining amount information of the printing apparatus 11.

[0075] In the user information database DB, the usage amount of ink per predetermined time is associated with a device identification information. The usage amount of ink per predetermined time is information generated based on the ink usage history information. Specifically, the time information (i.e., the ink usage amount information) included in the predetermined time is extracted from the ink usage history information, and the total of the extracted ink usage amount information is calculated as the usage amount of ink per predetermined time.

[0076] In the user information database DB, an unused time is associated with a device identification information. The unused time is the time when no liquid is ejected and there is no change in the ink usage amount in the printing device 11. The unused time is information generated based on the ink usage history information. Specifically, moment information indicating a change in the ink usage amount information is extracted from the ink usage history information, and the difference between the extracted moment information and the current moment is calculated as the unused time.

[0077] Here, various processes implemented in the printing device 11 and the server device 200 according to various control programs will be described.

[0078] First, with reference to Figure 6 , the ink amount-related information transmission process executed in the printing device 11 will be described. This ink amount-related information transmission process is executed by the control unit 110 of the printing device 11 at every predetermined cycle.

[0079] As Figure 6 shown, in step S11, the control unit 110 determines whether the transmission condition is satisfied. In the present embodiment, in the transmission condition, there are power-on, power-off, end of printing, end of maintenance, and replacement of the ink cartridge 24. When the control unit 110 determines that the transmission condition is not satisfied, it does not execute step S12 but ends the ink amount-related information transmission process. On the other hand, when the control unit 110 determines that the transmission condition is satisfied, it proceeds to step S12.

[0080] In step S12, the control unit 110 transmits ink amount-related information related to the ink usage amount. In the present embodiment, as the ink amount-related information, there are moment information, ink usage amount information, ink remaining amount information, and delivery request information.

[0081] Specifically, the control unit 110 obtains the current moment information from the built-in timing element. The control unit 110 reads the ink remaining amount of the ink cartridge 24 from the memory element of the ink cartridge 24 and generates the ink remaining amount information. In particular, when the ink remaining amount is such that a delivery of the ink cartridge 24 is requested, the control unit 110 generates the delivery request information. At the end of printing and at the end of maintenance, the control unit 110 generates the ink usage amount information indicating the used ink usage amount. The control unit 110 transmits the various generated information to the server device 200 via the network NT. When this process ends, the control unit 110 ends the ink amount-related information transmission process.

[0082] Next, with reference to Figure 7, the selection result control process executed in the printing device 11 will be described. This selection result control process is executed by the control unit 110 of the printing device 11 when the selection result information is received from the server device 200. In particular, this selection result control process is executed based on the selection result information selected according to the selection criteria in the server device 200. Although in this embodiment, the selection criteria will be described in detail in the Figure 9 ink amount monitoring process shown, it includes the content of whether there is a change in the ink usage amount. In addition, in this embodiment, the selection criteria includes the content of whether the unused time is above the specified time for recommending the implementation of the second maintenance. In this embodiment, the selection criteria includes the content of whether the remaining ink amount is above the ink usage amount required for various maintenance.

[0083] As Figure 7 shown, in step S21, the control unit 110 determines whether the selection result is the first maintenance based on the selection result information received from the server device 200. In this embodiment, as the first maintenance, the normal cleaning corresponds to this first maintenance. When the control unit 110 determines that the selection result is not the first maintenance, it transfers to step S23. On the other hand, when the control unit 110 determines that the selection result is the first maintenance, it transfers to step S22.

[0084] In step S22, the control unit 110 executes the first maintenance control process. In this process, the control unit 110 causes the storage unit 120 to store the information indicating the execution of the first maintenance. Thereby, the control unit 110 causes the maintenance unit 29 to execute the normal cleaning as the first maintenance at a predetermined timing. Although in this embodiment, as the predetermined timing, the power-off time corresponds to this predetermined timing, it is not limited thereto. For example, it can also be the power-on time, the end of printing, or the elapse of a predetermined time. The control unit 110 that executes such a process functions as the maintenance control unit 111. When this process ends, the control unit 110 ends the selection result control process.

[0085] In step S23, the control unit 110 determines whether the selection result is the second maintenance based on the selection result information received from the server device 200. In this embodiment, as the second maintenance, the intensive cleaning corresponds to this second maintenance. When the control unit 110 determines that the selection result is not the second maintenance, it transfers to step S25. On the other hand, when the control unit 110 determines that the selection result is the second maintenance, it transfers to step S24.

[0086] In step S24, the control unit 110 performs second maintenance control processing. In this processing, the control unit 110 causes the storage unit 120 to store information indicating the execution of the second maintenance. Thereby, the control unit 110 causes the maintenance unit 29 to perform a strong cleaning as the second maintenance at a predetermined timing. The control unit 110 that executes such processing functions as a maintenance control unit 111. When this processing ends, the control unit 110 ends the selection result control processing.

[0087] In step S25, the control unit 110 determines whether the selection result is a maintenance-related notification based on the selection result information received from the server device 200. In the present embodiment, as the maintenance-related notification, a notification that promotes the replacement or cleaning of the ink cartridge 24 corresponds to this maintenance-related notification. When the control unit 110 determines that the selection result is not a maintenance-related notification, it does not execute step S26 but ends the selection result control processing. On the other hand, when the control unit 110 determines that the selection result is a maintenance-related notification, it proceeds to step S26.

[0088] In step S26, the control unit 110 performs maintenance-related notification control processing. In this processing, the control unit 110 causes the storage unit 120 to store information indicating the execution of the maintenance-related notification. Thereby, the control unit 110 causes the display unit 15 to perform the maintenance-related notification. The control unit 110 that executes such processing functions as a display control unit 112. When this processing ends, the control unit 110 ends the selection result control processing.

[0089] In this way, in the present embodiment, the control unit 110 implements either the execution of the maintenance of the printing unit 20 or the predetermined notification realized by the display unit 15 based on the selection result information related to the selection result transmitted from the server device 200.

[0090] Next, with reference to Figure 8 , the ink amount-related information reception processing executed in the server device 200 will be described. This ink amount-related information reception processing is executed by the control unit 210 of the server device 200 in each predetermined cycle.

[0091] As Figure 8 shown, in step S101, the control unit 210 determines whether ink amount-related information has been received from the printing device 11. The control unit 210 that executes such processing functions as an information reception unit 211. When the control unit 210 determines that ink amount-related information has not been received from the printing device 11, it does not execute step S102 but ends the ink amount-related information reception processing. On the other hand, when the control unit 210 determines that ink amount-related information has been received from the printing device 11, it proceeds to step S102.

[0092] In step S102, the control unit 210 performs ink usage history processing and ends the ink amount related information receiving process. In this process, the control unit 210 stores new information in the ink usage history information of the user information database DB based on the ink amount related information received from the printing apparatus 11. In the present embodiment, when the delivery request information is received as the ink amount related information, the control unit 210 causes the storage unit 220 to store the information indicating the case with the delivery request. Thus, the control unit 210 can identify the case with the delivery request.

[0093] Next, with reference to Figure 9 , the ink amount monitoring process executed in the server apparatus 200 will be described. This ink amount monitoring process is executed by the control unit 210 of the server apparatus 200 at each predetermined cycle.

[0094] As Figure 9 shown, in step S111, the control unit 210 determines whether the monitoring condition is satisfied. Although in the present embodiment, as the monitoring condition, it is satisfied at each cycle shorter than the predetermined time, it is not limited thereto. For example, it may be satisfied when the predetermined time has elapsed. When the control unit 210 determines that the monitoring condition is not satisfied, it does not execute steps S112 to S122 but ends the ink amount monitoring process. On the other hand, when the control unit 210 determines that the monitoring condition is satisfied, it proceeds to step S112.

[0095] In step S112, the control unit 210 performs the ink usage amount calculation process for a predetermined period. In this process, the control unit 210 calculates the ink usage amount per predetermined time with reference to the ink usage history information of the user information database DB. Specifically, the control unit 210 refers to the time information of the ink usage history information of the user information database DB. The control unit 210 extracts the ink usage amount included within the predetermined time from the current time information to the time information before the predetermined time. The control unit 210 sums up the extracted ink usage amounts and calculates the ink usage amount per predetermined time. The control unit 210 causes the user information database DB to store the calculated ink usage amount per predetermined time. When this process ends, the control unit 110 proceeds to step S113.

[0096] In step S113, the control unit 210 refers to the user information database DB to determine whether the ink usage amount calculated for each predetermined time is equal to or less than the reference usage amount. When the ink usage amount for each predetermined time is not equal to or less than the reference usage amount, the control unit 210 does not execute steps S114 to S122, but ends the ink amount monitoring process. On the other hand, when the control unit 210 determines that the ink usage amount for each predetermined time is equal to or less than the reference usage amount, it proceeds to step S114. In the present embodiment, the reference usage amount for each predetermined time is an example of a specified amount.

[0097] In step S114, the control unit 210 performs an ink remaining amount identification process. In this process, the control unit 210 refers to the ink usage history information in the user information database DB to identify the ink remaining amount corresponding to the latest time information as the current ink remaining amount. When this process ends, the control unit 110 proceeds to step S115.

[0098] In step S115, the control unit 210 determines whether there is a change in the ink usage amount for each predetermined time. When the control unit 210 determines that there is no change in the ink usage amount for each predetermined time, it proceeds to step S116. On the other hand, when the control unit 210 determines that there is a change in the ink usage amount for each predetermined time, it proceeds to step S121.

[0099] In step S116, the control unit 210 refers to the user information database DB to determine whether the unused time is equal to or longer than the specified time. In the present embodiment, as the specified time, the time when it is recommended to perform a strong cleaning is specified. When the control unit 210 determines that the unused time is equal to or longer than the specified time, it proceeds to step S117. On the other hand, when the control unit 210 determines that the unused time is less than the specified time, it proceeds to step S118.

[0100] In step S117, the control unit 210 determines whether the identified ink remaining amount is equal to or more than the ink usage amount required for the second maintenance. In the present embodiment, as the second maintenance, the strong cleaning corresponds to this second maintenance. When the control unit 210 determines that the ink remaining amount is equal to or more than the ink usage amount required for the second maintenance, it proceeds to step S118. On the other hand, when the control unit 210 determines that the ink remaining amount is less than the ink usage amount required for the second maintenance, it proceeds to step S119.

[0101] In step S118, the control unit 210 performs a second maintenance selection process. In this process, the control unit 210 selects the execution of the second maintenance as the selection result and proceeds to step S122.

[0102] That is to say, the control unit 210 is configured such that when the amount of ink used within a predetermined period is equal to or less than the reference usage amount, and the remaining amount of ink is equal to or more than the amount required for the execution of the maintenance of the printing unit 20, it can select to execute the maintenance of the printing unit 20. In particular, in the present embodiment, the control unit 210 is configured such that when the unused time is equal to or more than a specified time, and the remaining amount of ink is equal to or more than the amount required for the execution of the second maintenance, it can select to execute the second maintenance.

[0103] In step S119, the control unit 210 determines whether the identified remaining amount of ink is equal to or more than the amount of ink used for the first maintenance. In the present embodiment, as the first maintenance, normal cleaning corresponds to this first maintenance. When the control unit 210 determines that the remaining amount of ink is equal to or more than the amount of ink used for the first maintenance, it proceeds to step S120. On the other hand, when the control unit 210 determines that the remaining amount of ink is less than the amount of ink used for the first maintenance, it proceeds to step S121.

[0104] In step S120, the control unit 210 executes the first maintenance selection process. In this process, the control unit 210 selects the execution of the first maintenance as the selection result and proceeds to step S122.

[0105] That is to say, the control unit 210 is configured such that when the amount of ink used within a predetermined period is equal to or less than the reference usage amount, and the remaining amount of ink is equal to or more than the amount required for the execution of the maintenance of the printing unit 20, it can select to execute the maintenance of the printing unit 20. In particular, in the present embodiment, the control unit 210 is configured such that even when the unused time is equal to or more than a specified time, and although the remaining amount of ink is equal to or more than the amount required for the execution of the first maintenance, but less than the amount required for the execution of the second maintenance, it can still select to execute the first maintenance.

[0106] In step S121, the control unit 210 executes the maintenance-related notification selection process. In this process, the control unit 210 selects the case of implementing the maintenance-related notification as the selection result and proceeds to step S122.

[0107] That is to say, the control unit 210 is configured such that when the amount of ink used within a predetermined period is equal to or less than the reference usage amount, and the remaining amount of ink is less than the amount required for the execution of the maintenance of the printing unit 20, it can select to perform a predetermined notification such as the replacement of the ink cartridge 24 and the execution of the maintenance. In particular, in the present embodiment, the control unit 210 is configured such that even when the unused time is equal to or more than a specified time, and the remaining amount of ink is less than the amount required for the execution of the second maintenance and equal to or more than the amount required for the execution of the first maintenance, it can still select to execute the first maintenance of the printing unit 20.

[0108] In this way, the control unit 210 is configured to be able to select either the execution of the maintenance of the printing unit 20 or the scheduled notification according to the remaining amount of ink when the amount of ink used within a predetermined period is equal to or less than the reference amount of ink, based on the information related to the amount of ink used. In addition, the control unit 210 selects either the execution of the maintenance of the printing unit 20 or the scheduled notification according to whether there is a change in the amount of ink used at each predetermined time. That is to say, the control unit 210 is configured to be able to select either the execution of the maintenance of the printing unit 20 or the scheduled notification according to the amount of ink used within the predetermined period when the amount of ink used within the predetermined period is equal to or less than the specified amount. In the present embodiment, the control unit 210 that performs such processing functions as the selection unit 212.

[0109] In step S122, the control unit 210 generates selection result information indicating the selected selection result, and transmits it to the printing apparatus 11 via the network NT. The control unit 210 that performs such processing functions as the information transmission unit 213. When this processing ends, the control unit 110 ends the ink amount monitoring process.

[0110] Next, refer to Figure 10 to describe the delivery management process executed in the server apparatus 200. This delivery management process is executed by the control unit 210 of the server apparatus 200 in each predetermined cycle.

[0111] As Figure 10 shown, in step S131, the control unit 210 executes the ink remaining amount identification process in the same manner as in step S114, and proceeds to step S132.

[0112] In step S132, the control unit 210 executes the unused time calculation process. In this process, the control unit 210 refers to the ink usage history information in the user information database DB to calculate the unused time during which the state of not using ink continues in the printing apparatus 11. The control unit 210 registers the calculated unused time in the user information database DB. In this way, the control unit 210 calculates the unused time during which ink is not used in the printing apparatus 11. In the present embodiment, the control unit 210 that performs such processing functions as the duration calculation unit 214. In the present embodiment, the unused time during which ink is not used is an example of the duration. When this processing ends, the control unit 110 proceeds to step S133.

[0113] In step S133, the control unit 210 performs maintenance ink usage prediction processing. In this processing, the control unit 210 refers to the unused time in the user information database DB. When the unused time is equal to or longer than a specified time, the control unit 210 predicts the ink usage required for the second maintenance as the predicted ink usage. When the unused time is less than the specified time, the control unit 210 predicts the ink usage required for the first maintenance as the predicted ink usage. In this way, the control unit 210 predicts the usage amount of the ink to be used in the maintenance to be performed next by the maintenance unit 29 based on the unused time during which the ink has not been used in the printing apparatus 11. In the present embodiment, the control unit 210 that performs such processing functions as the usage prediction unit 215. When this processing ends, the control unit 110 proceeds to step S134.

[0114] In step S134, the control unit 210 determines whether the delivery condition is satisfied. In the present embodiment, the delivery condition is satisfied when a delivery request is issued from the printing apparatus 11. In the present embodiment, as the delivery condition, referring to the user information database DB, the delivery condition is satisfied when the remaining ink amount is less than the predicted ink usage amount. When the control unit 210 determines that the delivery condition is not satisfied, it does not execute step S135 but ends the delivery management processing. On the other hand, when the control unit 210 determines that the delivery condition is satisfied, it proceeds to step S135.

[0115] In step S135, the control unit 210 performs delivery instruction processing. In this processing, the control unit 210 causes the storage unit 220 to store information indicating the case of delivering the ink cartridge 24 to the delivery destination of the printing apparatus 11 for which the delivery condition is satisfied. Thereby, it is possible to identify the case of delivering the ink cartridge 24 to the delivery destination of the printing apparatus 11 for which the delivery condition is satisfied. In the present embodiment, the control unit 210 that performs such processing functions as the delivery instruction unit 216. When this processing ends, the control unit 110 ends the delivery management processing.

[0116] The operation of the printing system 10 will be described.

[0117] In the printing apparatus 11, the usage amount of the ink used by ink ejection during printing is counted. In the printing apparatus 11, the usage amount of the ink used by ink suction during maintenance is counted. The remaining ink amount obtained by subtracting the counted usage amount is stored in the memory element of the ink cartridge 24. In this way, the usage amount of the ink and the remaining ink amount can be identified as information related to the use of the ink. And when the transmission condition is satisfied, the information related to the use of the ink is transmitted from the printing apparatus 11 to the server apparatus 200.

[0118] In the server device 200, when information related to the use of ink is received, the information related to the use of ink is registered in the user information database DB as ink usage history information. By referring to the ink usage history information in the user information database DB, it is possible to identify the ink usage amount and the remaining ink amount for each predetermined period.

[0119] In the server device 200, when the ink usage amount for each predetermined period is equal to or less than the reference usage amount, either the execution of the maintenance of the printing unit 20 or a predetermined notification related to the use of ink is selected according to the remaining ink amount. In particular, when the remaining ink amount is equal to or more than the amount required for the execution of the maintenance of the printing unit 20, the execution of the maintenance of the printing unit 20 is selected. On the other hand, when the remaining ink amount is less than the amount required for the execution of the maintenance of the printing unit 20, a predetermined notification related to the use of ink is selected. Information indicating the selected result is sent from the server device 200 to the printing device 11.

[0120] In the printing device 11, when information indicating the selected result is received, either the maintenance of the printing unit 20 or a predetermined notification related to the use of ink is executed based on the information indicating the selection result.

[0121] As described in detail above, according to the present embodiment, the following effects can be obtained.

[0122] (1) When the ink usage amount within a predetermined period is equal to or less than the reference usage amount, either the execution of the maintenance or a predetermined notification regarding the replacement of the ink cartridge 24 can be implemented. Therefore, even when the frequency of ink use is low, it is possible to suppress a decrease in print quality due to the adhesion and solidification of previously used ink on the printing unit 20 or the like.

[0123] (2) When the ink usage amount within a predetermined period is equal to or less than the reference usage amount, either the execution of the maintenance or a predetermined notification can be selected according to the remaining ink amount. Therefore, it is possible to execute processing corresponding to the remaining ink amount.

[0124] (3) When the ink usage amount within a predetermined period is equal to or less than the reference usage amount and the remaining ink amount is equal to or more than the amount required for the execution of the maintenance, the maintenance can be executed. Therefore, even when the user has no intention, it is possible to sufficiently use the ink to execute the maintenance, thereby suppressing a decrease in print quality.

[0125] (4) During maintenance, there is a first maintenance and a second maintenance with a larger ink usage amount compared to the first maintenance, enabling multiple types of maintenance with different ink usage amounts to be performed. When the ink usage amount within a predetermined period is below the reference usage amount, for the remaining ink amount, even if it is less than the amount required for the execution of the second maintenance, as long as it is above the amount required for the execution of the first maintenance, the first maintenance can be performed. Therefore, maintenance of a category corresponding to the remaining ink amount can be performed, thereby suppressing a reduction in printing quality.

[0126] (5) When the ink usage amount within a predetermined period is below the reference usage amount, in addition to the remaining ink amount, the execution of maintenance and any one of the predetermined notifications can be implemented based on the ink usage amount within the predetermined period. Therefore, even when the ink usage amount within the predetermined period is below the reference usage amount, processing corresponding to the ink usage amount can be performed.

[0127] (6) In the server device 200 connected to multiple printing devices 11 in a communicable manner, information related to the ink usage amount can be centrally managed.

[0128] (7) Based on the non - usage time during which the state of not using ink continues within a predetermined period, the ink usage amount for the maintenance to be performed next can be predicted. Therefore, before performing the next maintenance, the ink usage amount for the next maintenance can be predicted.

[0129] (8) When the remaining ink amount is less than the predicted ink usage amount, ink delivery can be instructed. Therefore, even if ink delivery is not requested by the user, ink delivery can be implemented, enabling sufficient ink to be used to perform the next maintenance, and further suppressing a reduction in printing quality.

[0130] (9) The period during which the printing quality may be reduced due to a low ink usage frequency is a period with a threshold of 30 days. Based on this situation, by adopting 30 days or more as the predetermined period, even when the ink usage frequency is low, a reduction in printing quality can be suppressed.

[0131] Second Embodiment

[0132] Hereinafter, the second embodiment will be described. Although in the first embodiment, the server device 200 is configured to include a selection unit 212, in the second embodiment, the printing device 11 may also be configured to include a selection unit. Regarding the second embodiment, the description of the same structure as the first embodiment will be omitted.

[0133] As Figure 11As shown, in the printing apparatus 11, the control unit 110 also functions as a selection unit 117. The selection unit 117 of the second embodiment has the same function as the selection unit 212 of the first embodiment. The selection unit 117 of the second embodiment performs the same selection as the selection unit 212 of the first embodiment based on the ink-related information generated in the printing apparatus 11. In this case, in the storage unit 120 of the second embodiment, information equivalent to the user information database DB of the first embodiment is stored. Although in the second embodiment, a configuration is adopted in which the server device 200 does not include the selection unit 212 and the information transmission unit 213, a configuration including at least any one of the selection unit 212 and the information transmission unit 213 may also be adopted.

[0134] Here, with reference to Figure 12 , an ink amount-related information control process executed in the printing apparatus 11 will be described. This ink amount-related information control process is executed by the control unit 110 of the printing apparatus 11 in each predetermined cycle.

[0135] As Figure 12 shown, in step S31, the control unit 110 determines whether the recording condition is satisfied. In the present embodiment, the storage condition is the same as the transmission condition of the first embodiment, and includes when the power is turned on, when the power is turned off, when printing ends, when maintenance ends, and when the ink cartridge 24 is replaced. When the control unit 110 determines that the recording condition is not satisfied, it does not execute step S32 and ends the ink amount-related information control process. On the other hand, when the control unit 110 determines that the recording condition is satisfied, it proceeds to step S32.

[0136] In step S32, the control unit 110 stores the information related to the ink usage amount in the storage unit 120. In the present embodiment, as the information related to the ink usage amount, there are time information, ink usage amount information, and ink remaining amount information. When this process ends, the control unit 110 ends the ink amount-related information control process.

[0137] Next, with reference to Figure 13 , an ink amount monitoring process executed in the printing apparatus 11 will be described. This ink amount monitoring process is executed by the control unit 110 of the printing apparatus 11 in each predetermined cycle.

[0138] As Figure 13 shown, in the second embodiment, the control unit 110 executes the same steps S111 to S121 as in the first embodiment. And in step S41, the control unit 110 replaces Figure 9 the step S122 shown in the first embodiment and executes Figure 7The selection result control process shown. Thus, similar to the case where the control unit 210 of the server device 200 functions as the selection unit 212 in the first embodiment, in the second embodiment, the control unit 110 of the printing device 11 functions as the selection unit 117.

[0139] Third Embodiment

[0140] Hereinafter, the third embodiment will be described. In the first and second embodiments, the ink cartridge containing ink is configured to be detachable. In the third embodiment, instead, it may be configured to inject the ink filled in the ink bottle into the storage body. Regarding the third embodiment, the same structures as those in the first and second embodiments will be omitted from description.

[0141] As Figure 14 shown, the printing device 51 includes a storage body unit 52. Although the storage body unit 52 includes five storage bodies 53, this is not limiting. For example, as long as it includes at least one storage body. Each storage body 53 stores different types of ink. In the present embodiment, among the types of ink, for example, there are types of ink colors such as cyan, magenta, yellow, black, or types of colorants such as pigments or dyes contained in the ink, but this is not limiting. The storage body 53 is configured to be able to replenish ink from the ink bottle 54.

[0142] In the third embodiment configured in this way, the replacement of the ink cartridge 24 in the first and second embodiments can be alternatively understood as replenishing the ink in the storage body 53. In addition, the display unit 15, which is an example of the notification unit, is configured to be able to perform a predetermined notification related to the replenishment of the ink in the storage body 53.

[0143] In addition, the above embodiments can also be changed to the following modification examples. Moreover, the content obtained by appropriately combining the above embodiments and the following modification examples can be set as a further modification example, and the content obtained by appropriately combining the following modification examples can also be set as a further modification example.

[0144] ■In the above-described embodiment, for example, based on the duration for which the usage amount of the ink within a predetermined period is equal to or less than the reference usage amount, the usage amount of the ink used in maintenance can be predicted. That is to say, the duration calculation unit 214 can also calculate the duration for which the usage amount of the ink within a predetermined period is equal to or less than the reference usage amount. The usage amount prediction unit 215 can also predict the usage amount of the ink used in the next maintenance to be performed based on the duration for which the usage amount of the ink within a predetermined period is equal to or less than the reference usage amount. In this way, based on the duration for which the usage amount of the ink within a predetermined period is equal to or less than the reference usage amount, the usage amount of the ink used in the next maintenance to be performed can be predicted. Therefore, before performing the next maintenance, the usage amount of the ink used in the next maintenance can be predicted.

[0145] ■In the above-described embodiment, for example, during printing, based on the number of scans of the carriage 21 of the printing unit 20 in the width direction X, the usage amount of the ink can be counted.

[0146] ■Although in the above-described embodiment, normal cleaning corresponds to the first maintenance and intensive cleaning corresponds to the second maintenance respectively, it is not limited thereto. For example, different types of cleaning with ink usage amounts different from normal cleaning and intensive cleaning can also correspond to the first maintenance or the second maintenance. In addition, as at least any one of the first maintenance and the second maintenance, it is not limited to cleaning. For example, flushing in which ink is ejected empty from the liquid ejection head 22 can also be adopted. That is to say, as long as multiple types of maintenance with different ink usage amounts are adopted as the first maintenance and the second maintenance.

[0147] ■Although in the above-described embodiment, the period from before the current predetermined time until the current time is set as the predetermined period, it is not limited thereto. For example, a period pre-specified in units of months or the like can also be set as the predetermined period regardless of the current time. In this case, control can also be performed in such a manner that the monitoring condition is satisfied when the predetermined period is reached.

[0148] ■In the above-described embodiment, for example, when determining the execution of maintenance, as the timing for executing the maintenance, it can also be when the power is turned on, when the power is turned off, or a time period when the printing device 11 is not in use.

[0149] ■In the above-described embodiment, for example, various functions can also be adopted for the printing device 11 with invalidated ordering information as the object.

[0150] ■ In the above-described embodiment, the ink can be arbitrarily selected as long as it is a substance that can be printed on the medium M by adhering thereto. For example, the ink is assumed to be a substance obtained by dissolving, dispersing, or mixing particles of a functional material composed of a solid such as a pigment or metal particles in a solvent, and includes various compositions such as aqueous ink, oil-based ink, colloidal ink, and thermosoluble ink.

[0151] ■ In the above-described embodiment, the printing material is not limited to a liquid, and toner or the like can also be used.

[0152] ■ In the above-described embodiment, as the medium M, for example, it can be paper, synthetic resin, metal, cloth, ceramic, rubber, or a composite thereof.

[0153] ■ In the above-described embodiment, the printing device 11 only needs to be a device that prints by ejecting a liquid onto the medium M. For example, the printing device 11 can also be a serial printer, a landscape printer, a line printer, a page printer, an offset printing device, a dyeing printing device, etc. Moreover, there is no limitation on the type such as a paper feed cassette and a rear paper feed, or the structure of the paper feed position. In addition, the printing device 11 only needs to have at least a printing function of printing on the medium M. For example, it can also be a multifunction machine that also has functions other than the printing function at the same time. Moreover, the printing device 11 is not limited to a device that prints on a two-dimensional medium, and can also be a device that prints on a medium having a three-dimensional curved surface.

[0154] Hereinafter, the technical ideas and effects grasped according to the above-described embodiment and modification examples will be described together.

[0155] A printing system, characterized in that it includes a printing device that performs printing on a medium using printing materials, and a server device that can communicate with the printing device via a network, and manages the printing materials used in the printing device. In the printing system, the printing device has: a printing unit that performs printing on a medium using the printing materials stored in a storage body; a remaining amount detection unit that detects the remaining amount of the printing materials stored in the storage body; a maintenance unit that performs maintenance on the printing unit; and a notification unit configured to be able to perform a predetermined notification regarding replacement of the storage body or replenishment of the printing materials to the storage body. Either the printing device or the server device has a selection unit configured to be able to, based on information related to the usage amount of the printing materials, when the usage amount of the printing materials within a predetermined period is below a specified amount, select either the execution of the maintenance of the printing unit by the maintenance unit or the predetermined notification by the notification unit according to the remaining amount of the printing materials detected by the remaining amount detection unit.

[0156] According to this structure, when the usage amount of the printing materials within a predetermined period is below a specified amount, either the execution of the maintenance of the printing unit or the predetermined notification regarding replacement of the storage body or replenishment of the printing materials to the storage body can be performed. Therefore, even when the usage frequency of the printing materials is low, it is possible to suppress a decrease in printing quality due to adhesion and solidification of the previously used printing materials on the printing unit, etc.

[0157] In addition, when the usage amount of the printing materials within a predetermined period is below a specified amount, either the execution of the maintenance of the printing unit or the predetermined notification regarding replacement of the storage body or replenishment of the printing materials to the storage body can be selected according to the remaining amount of the printing materials. Therefore, it is possible to perform processing corresponding to the remaining amount of the printing materials.

[0158] In the above printing system, characterized in that the selection unit is configured to be able to, when the usage amount of the printing materials within the predetermined period is below a specified amount, select the execution of the maintenance of the printing unit when the remaining amount of the printing materials detected by the remaining amount detection unit is equal to or more than the amount required for the execution of the maintenance of the printing unit.

[0159] According to this structure, when the usage amount of the printing materials within a predetermined period is below a specified amount, and the remaining amount of the printing materials is equal to or more than the amount required for the execution of the maintenance of the printing unit, the maintenance of the printing unit can be executed. Therefore, even when the user does not intend to do so, it is possible to sufficiently use the ink to execute the maintenance of the printing unit, thereby suppressing a decrease in printing quality.

[0160] In the above printing system, the following method may also be adopted, that is, in the maintenance of the printing unit, there are a first maintenance and a second maintenance with a larger amount of printing material used compared to the first maintenance. The selection unit is configured to be able to select the execution of the first maintenance when the amount of printing material used within the predetermined period is below a specified amount and the remaining amount of printing material detected by the remaining amount detection unit is not less than the amount required for the execution of the first maintenance but less than the amount required for the execution of the second maintenance.

[0161] According to this structure, in the maintenance of the printing unit, there are a first maintenance and a second maintenance with a larger amount of printing material used compared to the first maintenance, so that multiple types of maintenance with different amounts of printing material used can be executed. When the amount of printing material used within the predetermined period is below a specified amount, for the remaining amount of printing material, even if it is less than the amount required for the execution of the second maintenance, as long as it is not less than the amount required for the execution of the first maintenance, the first maintenance can also be executed. Therefore, it is possible to execute the maintenance corresponding to the remaining amount of printing material, thereby suppressing the deterioration of printing quality.

[0162] In addition, it is not limited to two types of maintenance. For example, there may also be a third maintenance, etc., which is of an intermediate intensity between the first maintenance and the second maintenance, and there are three or more types of maintenance operations.

[0163] In the above printing system, the following method may also be adopted, that is, the selection unit is configured to be able to, based on the information related to the amount of printing material used, when the amount of printing material used within the predetermined period is below a specified amount, select either the execution of the maintenance of the printing unit implemented by the maintenance unit or the predetermined notification implemented by the notification unit according to the amount of printing material used within the predetermined period.

[0164] According to this structure, when the amount of printing material used within the predetermined period is below a specified amount, in addition to the remaining amount of printing material, it is also possible to implement either the execution of the maintenance of the printing unit or the predetermined notification according to the amount of printing material used within the predetermined period. Therefore, even when the amount of printing material used within the predetermined period is below a specified amount, it is possible to execute the processing corresponding to the amount of this printing material.

[0165] In the above printing system, the following method may also be adopted, that is, the server device has: a receiving unit that receives information related to the usage amount of printing materials from the printing device; the selection unit; a transmitting unit that transmits information related to the selection result selected by the selection unit to the printing device, and the printing device has a control unit that controls either the execution of the maintenance of the printing unit performed by the maintenance unit or the predetermined notification performed by the notification unit based on the information related to the selection result transmitted from the transmitting unit.

[0166] According to this structure, in a server device connected to a plurality of printing devices in a communicable manner, information related to the usage amount of printing materials can be centrally managed.

[0167] In the above printing system, the following method may also be adopted, that is, the server device has: a duration calculation unit that calculates the duration for which the state where the usage amount of printing materials within the predetermined period is below a specified amount continues; a usage amount prediction unit that predicts the usage amount of printing materials to be used in the maintenance to be performed next by the maintenance unit based on the duration calculated by the duration calculation unit; a delivery instruction unit that instructs the delivery of printing materials, and the delivery instruction unit instructs the delivery of printing materials when the remaining amount of printing materials detected by the remaining amount detection unit is less than the usage amount of printing materials predicted by the usage amount prediction unit.

[0168] According to this structure, the usage amount of printing materials to be used in the next maintenance can be predicted based on the duration for which the state where the usage amount of printing materials within the predetermined period is below a specified amount continues. Therefore, the usage amount of ink to be used in the next maintenance can be predicted before the next maintenance is executed.

[0169] In addition, when the remaining amount of printing materials is less than the predicted usage amount of printing materials, the delivery of printing materials can be instructed. Therefore, even if the user does not request the delivery of printing materials, the delivery of printing materials can be implemented, so that sufficient printing materials can be used to perform the next maintenance, and thus the reduction of printing quality can be suppressed.

[0170] In the above printing system, the following method may also be adopted, that is, the predetermined period is a period of 30 days or more.

[0171] According to this structure, the period during which the printing quality may deteriorate due to the low usage frequency of the printing material is a period with a threshold of 30 days. In such a case, by adopting more than 30 days as the predetermined period, it is possible to suppress the deterioration of the printing quality even when the usage frequency of the printing material is low.

[0172] A printing apparatus, characterized in that it uses a printing material to perform printing on a medium, and in the printing apparatus, there are provided: a printing unit that uses the printing material stored in a storage body to perform printing on the medium; a remaining amount detection unit that detects the remaining amount of the printing material stored in the storage body; a maintenance unit that performs maintenance on the printing unit; a notification unit configured to be able to perform a predetermined notification regarding replacement of the storage body or replenishment of the printing material to the storage body; and a selection unit configured to be able to, based on information related to the usage amount of the printing material, when the usage amount of the printing material within a predetermined period is below a specified amount, select either the execution of the maintenance of the printing unit by the maintenance unit or the predetermined notification by the notification unit according to the remaining amount of the printing material detected by the remaining amount detection unit.

[0173] According to this structure, it is possible to achieve the same effect as that of the above printing system.

[0174] Symbol Explanation

[0175] DB… User information database; M… Medium; NT… Network; X… Width direction; Y… Depth direction; Z… Up and down direction; 10… Printing system; 11, 51… Printing apparatus; 13… Operation panel; 14… Operation unit; 15… Display unit; 20… Printing unit; 21… Carriage; 22… Liquid ejection head; 24… Ink cartridge; 25… Support table; 26… Conveyor motor; 27… Conveyor roller pair; 28… Carriage motor; 29… Maintenance unit; 52… Storage body unit; 53… Storage body; 110… Control unit; 111… Maintenance control unit; 112… Display control unit; 113… Counting unit; 114… Remaining amount detection unit; 115… Information sending unit; 116… Information receiving unit; 117… Selection unit; 120… Storage unit; 200… Server device; 210… Control unit; 211… Information receiving unit; 212… Selection unit; 213… Information sending unit; 214… Duration calculation unit; 215… Usage amount prediction unit; 216… Delivery instruction unit; 220… Storage unit.

Claims

1. A printing system, characterized in that, It includes a printing device that performs printing on a medium using printing materials, and a server device that can communicate with the printing device via a network, and manages the printing materials used in the printing device. In this printing system, the printing device has: a printing unit that performs printing on a medium using the printing materials stored in a storage body; a remaining amount detection unit that detects the remaining amount of the printing materials stored in the storage body; a maintenance unit that performs maintenance on the printing unit; a notification unit that is configured to be able to perform a predetermined notification regarding the replacement of the storage body or the replenishment of the printing materials to the storage body, either the printing device or the server device has a selection unit that is configured to be able to, based on information related to the usage amount of the printing materials, when the usage amount of the printing materials within a predetermined period is below a specified amount, according to the remaining amount of the printing materials detected by the remaining amount detection unit, select either the execution of the maintenance of the printing unit by the maintenance unit or the execution of the predetermined notification by the notification unit.

2. The printing system according to claim 1, wherein the selection unit is configured to be able to, when the usage amount of the printing materials within the predetermined period is below a specified amount, select the execution of the maintenance of the printing unit when the remaining amount of the printing materials detected by the remaining amount detection unit is equal to or more than the amount required for the execution of the maintenance of the printing unit.

3. The printing system according to claim 2, wherein in the maintenance of the printing unit, there is a first maintenance and a second maintenance with a larger usage amount of printing materials compared to the first maintenance, the selection unit is configured to be able to, when the usage amount of the printing materials within the predetermined period is below a specified amount, select the execution of the first maintenance when the remaining amount of the printing materials detected by the remaining amount detection unit is equal to or more than the amount required for the execution of the first maintenance but less than the amount required for the execution of the second maintenance.

4. The printing system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the selection unit is configured to be able to, based on information related to the usage amount of the printing materials, when the usage amount of the printing materials within the predetermined period is below a specified amount, according to the usage amount of the printing materials within the predetermined period, select either the execution of the maintenance of the printing unit by the maintenance unit or the execution of the predetermined notification by the notification unit.

5. The printing system according to claim 1, wherein the server device has: a receiving unit that receives information related to the usage amount of the printing materials from the printing device; the selection unit; a sending unit that sends information related to the selection result selected by the selection unit to the printing device, The printing apparatus has a control unit that controls either the execution of maintenance of the printing unit performed by the maintenance unit or the predetermined notification performed by the notification unit based on information related to a selection result transmitted from the transmission unit.

6. The printing system according to claim 1, wherein: The server device has: a duration calculation unit that calculates a duration for which a state where the usage amount of printing materials within the predetermined period is equal to or less than a specified amount continues; a usage amount prediction unit that predicts the usage amount of printing materials to be used in the maintenance to be next performed by the maintenance unit based on the duration calculated by the duration calculation unit; a delivery instruction unit that instructs delivery of printing materials; The delivery instruction unit instructs delivery of printing materials when the remaining amount of printing materials detected by the remaining amount detection unit is less than the usage amount of printing materials predicted by the usage amount prediction unit.

7. The printing system according to claim 1, wherein: The predetermined period is a period of 30 days or more.

8. A printing device, characterized in that, It performs printing on a medium using printing materials. In the printing apparatus, there are: a printing unit that performs printing on a medium using printing materials stored in a storage body; a remaining amount detection unit that detects the remaining amount of printing materials stored in the storage body; a maintenance unit that performs maintenance of the printing unit; a notification unit configured to be able to perform a predetermined notification regarding replacement of the storage body or replenishment of printing materials to the storage body; a selection unit configured to be able to select either the execution of maintenance of the printing unit performed by the maintenance unit or the predetermined notification performed by the notification unit based on the remaining amount of printing materials detected by the remaining amount detection unit when the usage amount of printing materials within the predetermined period is equal to or less than a specified amount, based on information related to the usage amount of printing materials.

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