Printing device, printing system, and method for controlling a printing device

Abstract

A printing device (1) includes a communication interface (81) capable of communicating with a server (209), and a control section (80). The control section (80) is configured to execute a communication state monitoring process for monitoring a communication state with the server (209), a consumable judgment process, and a conversion process. The consumable judgment process is for judging whether a specific consumable (4) is included in one or more consumables (4) installed in the printing device (1), the specific consumable (4) being a consumable satisfying a prescribed condition, the prescribed condition being a condition required for conversion to a specific printing state that allows specific printing in accordance with a contract with the server (209). The conversion process is for executing conversion to the specific printing state in a case where it is judged that the communication state is communicable with the server (209), and it is judged that the specific consumable (4) is included in the one or more consumables (4).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a printing apparatus, a printing system including the printing apparatus, and a method for controlling the printing apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] Recently, flat-rate printing services, such as those disclosed in Patent Document 1, have become popular among users of printing devices. A flat-rate printing service is a service that a user can register for for each device; it is also called a subscription service. For example, in a flat-rate printing service, printing is permitted for a fixed fee up to a predetermined number of pages within a contractually agreed period. For printing exceeding the contractually agreed amount, additional charges may be incurred.

[0003] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2016-193592 Summary of the Invention

[0004] When a user subscribes to a fixed-rate printing service, various information is exchanged between the service provider's server and the user's printing device. The service provider's server needs this exchange to identify the printing device as a contract object, and the user also needs this exchange to make various settings on their printing device related to receiving the fixed-rate printing service.

[0005] In a printing system that includes the aforementioned printing device and server, the printing device should be configured at appropriate times.

[0006] In view of the above, the object of the present invention is to provide a printing apparatus, a printing system, and a method for controlling the printing apparatus, wherein the printing apparatus is capable of making settings required to perform a specific printing service (e.g., a quota printing service) at appropriate times, and the printing system is capable of allowing the printing apparatus to make the above settings.

[0007] (1) To achieve the above and other objectives, according to one aspect of the present invention, a printing apparatus is provided, configured to perform a specific print operation according to a contract with a server. The printing apparatus includes: a communication interface capable of communicating with the server; and a control unit. The control unit is configured to perform: a communication status monitoring process; a consumable determination process; and a conversion process. The communication status monitoring process is used to monitor the communication status with the server through the communication interface. The consumable determination process is used to determine whether a specific consumable is included among one or more consumables installed in the printing apparatus, the specific consumable being a consumable that meets predetermined conditions, the predetermined conditions being conditions required to convert to a specific print operation state that allows the specific print operation according to the contract. The conversion process is used to perform a conversion to the specific print operation state when: the communication status monitoring process determines that the communication state is capable of communicating with the server; and the consumable determination process determines that the specific consumable is included among the one or more consumables.

[0008] (2) Preferably, according to the printing apparatus of (1), the control unit is further configured to notify the server that the conversion to the specific printing state has been completed after the conversion process is performed.

[0009] (3) Preferably, according to the printing apparatus of (1) or (2), the specific consumable is one of the following: contract-specific consumable for use in the specific printing under the contract; and bundled consumable that is packed and shipped together with the printing apparatus.

[0010] (4) Preferably, in any one of (1) to (3) of the printing apparatus, the control unit is configured to perform the consumable determination process in response to a determination in the communication status monitoring process that communication with the server has been restored from a non-communication state.

[0011] (5) Preferably, the printing apparatus according to any one of (1) to (4) further includes a housing having an opening through which the one or more consumables can be installed for the specific printing, the control unit being further configured to perform a detection process for detecting that the one or more consumables are installed in the housing, or a user operation of installing the one or more consumables into the housing, the control unit being configured to perform the consumable determination process in response to detecting in the detection process that the one or more consumables are installed in the housing or the user operation of installing the one or more consumables into the housing.

[0012] (6) Preferably, the printing apparatus according to (5) further includes a cover for opening and closing the opening of the housing, the control unit being configured to detect that the one or more consumables are installed in the housing in response to detecting that the cover is closed.

[0013] (7) Preferably, in the printing apparatus according to any one of (1) to (6), the control unit is further configured to prohibit the execution of the specific printing in response to receiving a disallowed command from the server that prohibits the execution of the specific printing in the specific printing state.

[0014] (8) Preferably, the printing apparatus according to any one of (1) to (7) is a quota printing according to the contract.

[0015] (9) According to another aspect of the present invention, a printing system is provided, comprising: a server; and a printing apparatus capable of performing a specific print job according to a contract with the server. The printing apparatus includes: a communication interface capable of communicating with the server; and a control unit. The control unit is configured to perform: a communication status monitoring process; a consumable determination process; and a conversion process. The communication status monitoring process is used to monitor the communication status with the server via the communication interface. The consumable determination process is used to determine whether a specific consumable is included among one or more consumables installed in the printing apparatus, the specific consumable being a consumable that meets predetermined conditions, the predetermined conditions being conditions required to convert to a specific print job state that allows the specific print job according to the contract. The conversion process is used to perform a conversion to the specific print job state when: the communication status monitoring process determines that the communication state is capable of communicating with the server; and the consumable determination process determines that the specific consumable is included among the one or more consumables.

[0016] (10) According to another aspect of the invention, a method for controlling a printing device is provided. The method includes: a consumable determination step; and a conversion step. The consumable determination step is used to determine whether a specific consumable is included among one or more consumables installed in the printing device, the specific consumable being a consumable that meets predetermined conditions, the predetermined conditions being conditions required for the printing device to perform a conversion to a specific printing state that allows specific printing according to a contract with a server. The conversion step is used to perform the conversion of the printing device to the specific printing state when: the printing device is capable of communicating with the server; and the consumable determination step determines that the specific consumable is included among the one or more consumables installed in the printing device.

[0017] (11) According to another aspect of the invention, a printing apparatus is provided, configured to perform a specific print operation according to a contract with a server. The printing apparatus includes: a communication interface capable of communicating with the server; and a control unit. The control unit is configured to perform: a communication status monitoring process; a consumable determination process; and a conversion process. The communication status monitoring process is used to monitor the communication status with the server via the communication interface. The consumable determination process is used to determine whether a specific consumable is included among one or more consumables installed in the printing apparatus, the specific consumable being considered suitable for use in the specific print operation according to the contract. The conversion process is used to perform a conversion to a specific print operation state that allows the specific print operation if all predetermined conditions are met. The predetermined conditions include: (i) the communication status monitoring process determines that the communication state is capable of communicating with the server; and (ii) the consumable determination process determines that the specific consumable is included among the one or more consumables.

[0018] (12) Preferably, according to the printing apparatus of (11), the control unit is further configured to perform error monitoring processing for monitoring the occurrence of errors in the printing apparatus, and the specified condition further includes (iii) that no error is detected in the error monitoring processing.

[0019] (13) Preferably, according to the printing apparatus described in (11) or (12), the control unit is further configured to notify the server that the transition to the specific printing state has been completed after the conversion process is performed.

[0020] (14) Preferably, in the printing apparatus according to any one of (11) to (13), the specific consumable is one of the following: contract-specific consumable for use in the specific printing under the contract; and bundled consumable that is packaged and shipped together with the printing apparatus.

[0021] (15) Preferably, in the printing apparatus according to any one of (11) to (14), the control unit is configured to perform the consumable determination process in response to a determination in the communication status monitoring process that communication with the server has been restored from a non-communication state.

[0022] (16) Preferably, the printing apparatus according to any one of (11) to (15) further includes a housing having an opening through which the one or more consumables can be installed for the specific printing, the control unit being further configured to perform a detection process for detecting that the one or more consumables are installed in the housing, or a user operation of installing the one or more consumables into the housing, the control unit being configured to perform the consumable determination process in response to detecting in the detection process that the one or more consumables are installed in the housing or the user operation of installing the one or more consumables into the housing.

[0023] (17) Preferably, the printing apparatus according to (16) further includes a cover for opening and closing the opening of the housing, the control unit being configured to detect that the one or more consumables are installed in the housing in response to detecting that the cover is closed.

[0024] (18) Preferably, in the printing apparatus according to any one of (11) to (17), the control unit is further configured to prohibit the execution of the specific printing in response to receiving a disallowed command from the server that prohibits the execution of the specific printing in the specific printing state.

[0025] (19) Preferably, the printing apparatus according to any one of (11) to (18) is a quota printing according to the contract.

[0026] In the printing apparatus according to (1) and (11), the printing system according to (9), and the method according to (10), the printing apparatus is capable of performing a specific print according to the contract if: the printing apparatus is capable of communicating with the server; and at least one specific consumable is installed in the printing apparatus. With this structure, the specific print is permitted to be performed as long as the printing apparatus and the server are able to communicate with each other to exchange various information related to the specific print. That is, the "specific print" time period begins timing. With this structure, the printing apparatus is able to start the specific print at the appropriate time.

[0027] In the printing apparatus according to (2) and (13), the printing apparatus is configured to notify the server that the printing apparatus is now ready to perform a specific print job according to the contract. With this configuration, the server is able to appropriately determine the moment when billing for the printing apparatus for the specific print job begins.

[0028] In the printing apparatus according to (3) and (14), the printing apparatus is capable of performing a specific print when equipped with any of the following consumables: contract-specific consumables for the specific print; and bundled consumables that are packaged and shipped together with the printing apparatus.

[0029] In the printing apparatus according to (4) and (15), the printing apparatus is configured to perform consumable determination processing in response to the restoration of communication with the server from a non-communication state to a communication state. With this structure, when a specific consumable suitable for a specific print is installed in the printing apparatus, the printing apparatus can immediately switch to the specific print state without delay once its communication with the server is restored.

[0030] In the printing apparatus according to (5) and (16), the printing apparatus is configured to detect immediately and without delay whether the installed consumable is suitable for performing a specific print when the consumable is installed in the housing.

[0031] In the printing apparatus according to (6) and (17), the printing apparatus can determine whether the installed consumable is a specific consumable at the moment the user installs the consumable in the housing and closes the cover. With this structure, the printing apparatus can smoothly and quickly determine whether a specific consumable suitable for a specific print is installed in the housing.

[0032] In the printing device according to (7) and (18), the server can prohibit a specific print job from being performed on a printing device that has been switched to a specific print job state by issuing a disallow command to the printing device. With this structure, the service provider can suspend the use of a specific print job on a printing device for which the user has not paid the bill for that specific print job.

[0033] In the printing apparatus according to (12), the control unit is configured not to initiate a specific print job if the printing apparatus is experiencing a specified error. This configuration prevents the specific print job from starting in the printing apparatus if the printing apparatus is experiencing a software or hardware malfunction that could prevent the execution of the specific print job (e.g., a serious error in the printing apparatus's hardware). This configuration helps prevent the server from mistakenly identifying a specific print job as being initiated in a printing apparatus that is actually unable to perform the specific print job. Attached Figure Description

[0034] Figure 1 This is a block diagram showing the basic structure of the printing device 1, ink cartridge 4 and server 9 in the printing system 100 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] Figure 2 This is a sequence diagram illustrating the flow of the processes performed in the printing system 100 according to the first embodiment;

[0036] Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating a specific example of box information stored in region 821 of the printing apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment;

[0037] Figure 4This is a diagram showing a specific example of a determination table stored in region 825 of the printing apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment;

[0038] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of a step in the judgment process performed by the control unit 80 of the printing apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment;

[0039] Figure 6 This is a block diagram showing the basic structure of the printing device 1, ink cartridge 4, and server 209 included in the printing system 200 according to the second embodiment of the present invention;

[0040] Figure 7 This is a sequence diagram illustrating the flow of processes performed in the printing system 200 according to the second embodiment; and

[0041] Figure 8 It is shown in Figure 7 The flowchart shows the steps involved in the consumables judgment process during the processing. Detailed Implementation

[0042] 1. First Implementation Method

[0043] <Topic>

[0044] To use a fixed-rate printing service, the service provider (hereinafter referred to as the "Provider") sometimes requires the user to use specific consumables (such as ink cartridges) specifically designed for the fixed-rate printing service. In many cases, the Provider provides these consumables for the fixed-rate printing service free of charge or at a low price. The Provider can recoup the cost of these consumables for the fixed-rate printing service through appropriate means, such as by having the user pay for the use of the fixed-rate printing service. To implement this fixed-rate printing service, a printing system is needed that correctly identifies the user's printing device as the object of the agreement (contract) between the Provider and the user (hereinafter referred to as the "Contract Covered Device").

[0045] To correctly identify a user-side printing device as a contract-covered device on the printing system, a series of information processing steps, including contract signing (contract formalities), are required between the printing device and the provider-side server. Preferably, if the user's printing device is unable to complete the information processing related to contract formalities, the aforementioned information processing will not begin. For example, if a fixed-rate printing service consumable is used on the user-side printing device in a manner unexpected by the provider, the user's printing device may be considered unable to complete the information processing related to contract formalities. Furthermore, if a serious error occurs in the user's printing device (e.g., an error that may hinder communication between the printing device and the server, or an error that may hinder the execution of the aforementioned information processing), or if the printing device is performing other processing with a higher priority, the printing device may be considered unable to complete the information processing.

[0046] The printing apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention is designed to prevent information processing related to contract formalities for registration as a contract coverage device from being performed in the printing apparatus under undesirable conditions.

[0047] <100 Overviews of Printing Systems>

[0048] The following is for reference Figures 1 to 5 The first embodiment of the present invention will be described below.

[0049] like Figure 1 As shown, the printing system 100 according to the first embodiment includes a printing device 1, an ink cartridge 4, and a server 9.

[0050] When a contract is established between the user of printing device 1 and the service provider of the fixed-rate printing service, printing device 1 according to the first embodiment is permitted to use contract-specific consumables or replacement parts. For example, signing a contract between the user and the service provider regarding the duration and cost of using the fixed-rate printing service and the maximum number of pages that can be printed means that both parties have reached an agreement for the service provider to provide the fixed-rate printing service to the user. In other words, once the contract for the fixed-rate printing service is signed, printing device 1 according to the first embodiment can perform fixed-rate printing, that is, printing according to the contract.

[0051] In the quota printing service, the times of (1) and (2) below may differ from each other:

[0052] (1) The moment when server 9 identifies printing device 1 as a device covered by the contract;

[0053] (2) Server 9 identifies the moment when the quota printing service is started on printing device 1.

[0054] That is, in the quota printing service, server 9 may identify "printing device 1 is a device covered by the contract, but printing device 1 has not yet started using the quota printing service". In addition, "starting to use the quota printing service" only means "starting to use the service", and does not necessarily mean that quota printing has actually been performed.

[0055] Furthermore, if the fixed-rate printing service described above is a chargeable service, then time (2) can be considered the same as "the time when billing for the fixed-rate printing service begins on printing device 1". In this specification, unless otherwise stated, the fixed-rate printing service is defined as a chargeable service. Therefore, time (2) is defined as the time when billing for printing device 1 begins.

[0056] The printing device 1 can be of any type, as long as it has communication capabilities and the ability to print using consumables such as ink cartridges or toner cartridges. For example, the printing device 1 can be an inkjet printer or a laser printer. Alternatively, the printing device 1 can be an MFP (Multi-Function Printer) with other functions such as scanning and / or faxing capabilities.

[0057] In this embodiment, the printing device 1 is assumed to be an inkjet printer, configured to print on paper based on print data by jetting ink. The printing device 1 includes a housing to which one or more ink cartridges can be mounted. In this embodiment, four ink cartridges 4 corresponding to four colors—cyan (C), magenta (M), yellow (Y), and black (BK)—are used in the printing device 1. Although not shown in the figures, the printing device 1 may include a display (e.g., a liquid crystal display and / or a lamp) and input devices such as buttons. The liquid crystal display may be integrated with a touch panel for use as an input device.

[0058] Server 9 is a management device that manages or supervises one or more printing devices 1. Figure 2 In the example shown, server 9 is connected to only one printing device 2. However, server 9 can be connected to multiple printing devices 1 in a communicative state.

[0059] Server 9 is used by the service provider. Server 9 is able to communicate with printing device 1 via a communication network. Server 9 is configured to collaborate with printing device 1 via the communication network to complete a series of information processing related to contract procedures. Hereinafter, the series of information processing related to contract procedures will be referred to as "contract-related processing". When contract-related processing is completed, server 9 can identify printing device 1 as a contract-covering device, thereby printing device 1 is ultimately registered as a contract-covering device on printing system 100.

[0060] In this embodiment, in response to recognizing the printing device 1 as a contract-covered device, the server 9 determines to deliver the contract-specific consumables specified by the provider to the user. The user of the printing device 1 installs the delivered consumables into the printing device 1, enabling the printing device 1 to perform quota printing.

[0061] <Internal structure of printing unit 1, ink cartridge 4 and server 9>

[0062] Figure 1 This is a block diagram illustrating the basic structure of the printing apparatus 1, ink cartridge 4, and server 9 according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0063] —Ink Cartridge 4—

[0064] The cartridge 4 includes a cartridge memory 42. The cartridge memory 42 is a memory from which information can be read / written. The cartridge memory 42 may be, for example, a flash ROM (Read Only Memory) or an EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable ROM, registered trademark).

[0065] The cartridge memory 42 has a first region 421, a second region 422, and a third region 423 for storing information about the cartridge 4. Specifically, the first region 421 stores the cartridge ID. The second region 422 stores the cartridge type. The third region 423 stores the remaining ink level. The third region 423 may be a rewritable region. Each of the regions 421 and 423 used for storing the cartridge ID and the remaining ink level may be omitted appropriately.

[0066] The cartridge ID is, for example, a unique serial number used to identify each cartridge 4. The cartridge ID may include information indicating the color, model, manufacturer, and production batch of the corresponding cartridge 4.

[0067] The cartridge type indicates the type of ink cartridge 4. In this embodiment, the type of ink cartridge 4 can be set to at least one of the following two types: "Contract" and "Commercial". "Bundled" can also be a third option for the type of ink cartridge 4. The specific details of the "Bundled" type will be explained in more detail in the third embodiment later.

[0068] The ink cartridges of type "Contract" stored in the second area 422 are ink cartridges specifically for quota printing. Hereinafter, this type of ink cartridge is referred to as a "Contract Ink Cartridge (Contract-Specific Consumable)". As long as the Contract Ink Cartridge is installed on the printing device 1, the printing device 1 is allowed to perform quota printing. The Contract Ink Cartridge is provided by its provider to users who have entered into contracts with the provider related to the printing device 1.

[0069] The ink cartridges stored in the second area 422 that are classified as "commercial" are those that are available on the market and can be purchased from electronic retail stores or online shopping websites. Hereinafter, this type of ink cartridge will be referred to as a "commercial ink cartridge." Commercial ink cartridges can be genuine products manufactured by the manufacturer of the printing device 1, or they can be third-party products manufactured by a third party other than the manufacturer.

[0070] The remaining ink level is information indicating the amount of ink remaining in the ink cartridge 4. For example, in this embodiment, the remaining ink level stored in the third region 423 is represented by one of a plurality of values ​​corresponding to a full state to an empty state. Based on the value stored in the third region 423, the level of remaining ink can be communicated to the user, for example, in the form of text from “full” to “empty”, numerical values ​​from “100%” to “0%”, or a combination thereof.

[0071] —Printing device 1—

[0072] The printing apparatus 1 includes a control unit 80, a communication interface 81, a device memory 82, a notification unit 83, and a connection unit 101. The control unit 80, communication interface 81, and device memory 82 are housed in a casing of the printing apparatus 1 (not shown in the figure). The notification unit 83 is electrically connected to the control unit 80. The connection unit 101 is connected to the casing of the printing apparatus 1.

[0073] The control unit 80 includes, for example, an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit). The control unit 80 is electrically connected to the device memory 82 and the communication interface 81. The control unit 80 is configured to perform various operations to enable the printing device 1 to perform various types of print-related processes.

[0074] The control unit 80 may also include a processor, such as a CPU (central processing unit). In this case, the control program can be stored in the device memory 82 for performing various control operations on the printing device 1, and the processor can operate according to the control program to allow the control unit 80 to cause the printing device 1 to perform various types of processing.

[0075] The control unit 80 may also include a computer-readable storage medium storing a control program. As a storage medium, the control unit 80 may include a device memory 82, or a "non-transitory tangible medium" such as ROM (Read-Only Memory), magnetic tape, magnetic disk, card, semiconductor memory, or programmable logic circuitry. The control unit 80 may also include RAM (Random Access Memory) to deploy the control program therein. Furthermore, the control program can be provided to the control unit 80 via any transmission medium capable of transmitting the control program (e.g., a communication network or broadcast wave). One aspect of the invention can be implemented as a data signal embedded in a carrier wave, electrically transmitted to implement the control program.

[0076] When the ink cartridge 4 is installed in the housing of the printing device 1, the connecting part 101 is electrically connected to the cartridge storage 42 of the ink cartridge 4, such as Figure 1 As shown. Therefore, the control unit 80 of the printing device 1 is electrically connected to the cartridge memory 42 of the installed ink cartridge 4. By establishing communication between the control unit 80 and the cartridge memory 42 in this way, the control unit 80 can perform information reading and writing processes (including rewriting processes) on the cartridge memory 42.

[0077] Device memory 82 is a memory from which information can be read and written. Device memory 82 is, for example, flash ROM (read-only memory) or EEPROM (registered trademark). In this embodiment, device memory 82 has seven regions 821 to 827.

[0078] Area 821 stores cartridge information. The cartridge information pertains to one of the four colors of ink cartridge 4 installed on the housing of the printing device 1. Specifically, the cartridge information includes information related to each ink cartridge 4, namely, the cartridge ID, cartridge type, and remaining ink level read from the cartridge memory 42 of each ink cartridge 4. In this embodiment, the control unit 80 refers to the cartridge information to determine whether the printing device 1 should be switched to contract mode based on the installation status of the ink cartridge 4 in the printing device 1. Contract mode is one of the operating modes of the printing device 1. In contract mode, the printing device 1 is registered as a contract-covered device qualified to perform contract-based quota printing. Further details will follow. Figure 3 Detailed information on the box referenced by the control unit 80.

[0079] Area 822 stores the device ID. The device ID is identification information used to identify printing device 1. The device ID is, for example, the serial number of printing device 1.

[0080] Area 823 stores mode information. Mode information indicates the operating mode of the printing device 1. In this embodiment, the mode information includes two modes: "contract mode" and "non-contract mode". "Contract mode" indicates that the printing device 1 operates on the printing system 100 as a contract-covered device. "Non-contract mode" indicates that the printing device 1 is not designated as a contract-covered device, but simply operates as a regular printer.

[0081] When the printing device 1 is manufactured, area 823 is stored by default with a value corresponding to the non-contractual mode. Server 9 sends a request to the printing device 1 of a contracted user, including an instruction to switch to the contractual mode. Based on the request from server 9, the control unit 80 of the printing device 1 changes the value of area 823 from the value corresponding to the non-contractual mode to another value corresponding to the contractual mode. In this embodiment, the change of the value of area 823 by the control unit 80 to the value corresponding to the contractual mode is referred to as "switching to the contractual mode".

[0082] According to another embodiment, in addition to information about whether the printing device 1 is in contract mode or non-contract mode, the mode information may also include information indicating whether the printing device 1 in contract mode is in a billed state or a non-billed state. That is, in this case, region 823 may store information indicating which of the following three types of operating modes the printing device 1 is in: (1) non-contract mode, (2) non-billed state in contract mode, and (3) billed state in contract mode.

[0083] Here, "non-billing status under contract mode" means that printing device 1 is in contract mode but has not yet used the fixed-rate printing service. For example, as mentioned above, this "non-billing status under contract mode" may occur when the time when server 9 recognizes printing device 1 as a contract-covered device is different from the time when server 9 recognizes that the fixed-rate printing service has been started in printing device 1.

[0084] "Billing status under contract mode" indicates that printing device 1 is in contract mode and has started using the fixed-rate printing service on printing device 1. In the following text, "Billing status under contract mode" is also referred to as fixed-rate printing status.

[0085] Area 824 stores the communication status. The communication status is information indicating the communication status between the printing device 1 and the server 9. For example, the communication status could indicate whether the printing device 1 is online or offline. When the printing device 1 can communicate with external devices via the communication interface 81 and the communication network, the value indicating that the printing device 1 is online is stored in area 824 as the communication status. Conversely, when the printing device 1 cannot communicate with external devices due to the communication interface 81 being disconnected from the communication network, the value indicating that the printing device 1 is offline is stored in area 824 as the communication status.

[0086] Alternatively, the control unit 80 can be configured to monitor the communication status between the printing device 1 and the server 9 via the communication interface 81 according to a known communication protocol. In this case, in addition to the values ​​indicating online and offline status, the control unit 80 can also store in area 824 a value indicating the state in which the printing device 1 is unable to communicate with the server 9 due to some kind of malfunction on the server 9 side.

[0087] Area 825 stores a decision table. This decision table is a lookup table referenced by the control unit 80, used to determine whether the printing device 1 should perform a conversion to the contract mode based on possible errors in the printing device 1. (See below for further details.) Figure 4 The exemplary data structure of the judgment table is explained in more detail.

[0088] Area 826 stores the first page count. The first page count represents the cumulative number of pages printed in printing device 1.

[0089] Area 827 stores the second page count. The second page count represents the number of pages printed using the quota printing service on printing device 1. The second page count can be reset to 0 whenever printing device 1 switches from non-contract mode to contract mode. Alternatively, the second page count can represent the cumulative number of pages printed using the quota printing service on printing device 1 since the start of its use. In the following, unless otherwise specified, it is assumed that the second page count represents the cumulative number of pages printed in quota printing.

[0090] The device memory 82 may also have a region for storing the cumulative number of pages printed by the printing device 1 in non-contractual mode.

[0091] Communication interface 81 enables communication between printing device 1 and server 9 via a communication network (not shown) such as the Internet. Communication interface 81 outputs requests received from server 9 to control unit 80. Here, "request" includes various requests, instructions, and queries sent from server 9 in contract-related processing. In response, communication interface 81 sends to server 9 the result calculated and output by control unit 80 in response to the request (as a "response"). In this embodiment, returning a response via communication interface 81 can be omitted.

[0092] For example, if an instruction to change various settings in printing device 1 is sent as a "request" from server 9, control unit 80 can change various settings in printing device 1 according to the instruction. In this case, there is no need to return a notification to server 9 via communication interface 81 to inform that the settings in printing device 1 have been changed.

[0093] —Server 9—

[0094] Server 9 includes server communication unit 91, server memory 92 and server control unit 93.

[0095] The server communication unit 91 serves as a communication interface for performing communication between the server 9 and the printing device 1. The server communication unit 91 sends a "request" input from the server control unit 93 to the printing device 1. The server communication unit 91 also receives a "response" sent from the printing device 1 in response to the sent request, and outputs the response to the server control unit 93.

[0096] The server communication unit 91 can also communicate with the user terminal of the user of the printing device 1, thereby enabling information exchange between the server communication unit 91 and the user terminal in response to operations performed by the user on the user terminal. In this embodiment, the server communication unit 91 exchanges various information required for signing a contract. Specifically, the server communication unit 91 can receive a contract request message from the user terminal to request the signing of a contract. The contract request message may include a device ID for identifying the printing device 1. After the server control unit 93 performs contract-related processing in response to the contract request message, the server communication unit 91 can send a notification to the user terminal indicating that the printing device 1 is now registered as a device covered by the contract.

[0097] Server memory 92 is a storage device for storing data required for the operation of server 9. Server memory 92 has a region 921 for storing device information for each printing device 1. Device information is data that summarizes various information related to printing device 1. Device information is generated for each printing device 1. Specifically, device information may include, for example, device ID, contract mark, and the maximum number of pages that can be printed as specified in the contract. In addition, for example, device information may also include, for example, the model number and manufacturing date of printing device 1.

[0098] The device ID is the identification information required by server 9 to uniquely identify each printing device 1. The contract identifier indicates whether printing device 1 has entered contract mode, that is, whether printing device 1 has been registered as a device covered by the contract. The maximum number of pages that can be printed as stipulated in the contract refers to the maximum number of pages that can be printed in the fixed-rate printing method within the specified time period stipulated in the contract.

[0099] Server control unit 93 is a CPU that provides overall control over server 9. Server control unit 93 generates a "request" for printing device 1 at a predetermined time and outputs the generated request to server communication unit 91. In this embodiment, the "request" includes, for example, a conversion command instructing printing device 1 to perform a conversion to a contract mode. In response to receiving a contract request message from a user terminal, server control unit 93 controls server communication unit 91 to send a conversion command to the user-specified printing device 1.

[0100] Furthermore, based on the response received from the printing device 1 via the server communication unit 91, the server control unit 93 stores the device information in area 921 of the server memory 92 and updates the device information already stored therein.

[0101] More specifically, for example, when the server communication unit 91 receives a contract request message from the user terminal regarding a user's desire to subscribe to a new fixed-rate printing service for printing device 1, the server control unit 93 registers the device information of printing device 1 in area 921. At this time, the server control unit 93 sets the value indicating "incomplete" to the default value of the contract flag. The contract flag "incomplete" means that after a contract is signed between the user and the provider, the server 9 has not yet confirmed that printing device 1, which is scheduled to perform fixed-rate printing, has switched to contract mode. After confirming through communication with printing device 1 that printing device 1 has switched to contract mode, the server control unit 93 updates the value of the contract flag of printing device 1 to the value indicating "complete". Through this process, printing device 1 is registered as a contract-covered device on the printing system 100 including server 9.

[0102] <Overall Process in Printing System 100>

[0103] Figure 2 This is a sequence diagram illustrating the process flow performed in the printing system 100 according to the first embodiment.

[0104] In step S1, the user terminal (not shown in the figure) sends a contract request message to the server 9 based on the user's input. The contract request message includes a device ID that identifies the printing device 1 for which the user wishes to perform a fixed-rate printing service. The contract request message is received by the server communication unit 91 of the server 9.

[0105] In step S2, in response to receiving the contract request message, the server control unit 93 of server 9 sends a "request" to printing device 1. This request includes a conversion command instructing printing device 1 to switch to contract mode. At this time, server control unit 93 can register the received device information of printing device 1 in server memory 92.

[0106] In step S3, in response to receiving the conversion command, the control unit 80 of the printing device 1 performs a determination process to determine whether to convert to contract mode. Specifically, the determination process determines whether the printing device 1 is in a state suitable for converting to contract mode. For example, in the determination process, the decision to convert to contract mode is based on the installation status of the ink cartridge 4, which is a consumable consumed in the printing operation of the printing device 1. Here, the installation status may be, for example, whether the ink cartridge 4 is installed in the printing device 1; how much ink remains in the installed ink cartridge 4; and the type of the installed ink cartridge 4.

[0107] In step S4, the control unit 80 refers to the judgment result obtained in the judgment process of step S3. When the judgment result indicates "unsuitable" (S4: No), the control unit 80 proceeds to step S5, thereby maintaining the non-contract mode set in the printing device 1 as its operating mode, contrary to the conversion command received in step S2.

[0108] When the judgment result obtained in step S3 indicates "suitable" (S4: Yes), the control unit 80 proceeds to step S6 and switches the operation mode of the printing device 1 from non-contract mode to contract mode according to the conversion command received in step S2. Specifically, the control unit 80 changes the mode information stored in area 823 from non-contract mode to contract mode.

[0109] Then, in step S7, the printing device 1 and the server 9 can communicate with each other at an appropriate time to confirm that the conversion of the printing device 1 to the contract mode is complete. For example, the server control unit 93 can send a request to inquire whether the conversion of the printing device 1 to the contract mode was successful or failed after a predetermined time has elapsed since the conversion command was sent in step S2. In response to this request, the control unit 80 of the printing device 1 can return a response to the server 9 indicating whether the conversion was successful or failed. The above transactions can be repeated periodically until the server 9 confirms that the "conversion to the contract mode is complete" in the printing device 1.

[0110] Alternatively, the control unit 80 can proactively notify the server 9 of a successful or failed conversion without a request from the server 9. For example, after completing step S5, the control unit 80 can send a response to the server 9 to notify that the non-contractual mode has been maintained in the printing device 1, contrary to the conversion command. When the server 9 receives this response from the control unit 80, it can send a message to the user terminal to notify that the conversion to the contractual mode in the printing device 1 has failed. Alternatively, the control unit 80 can send a notification indicating that the conversion in the printing device 1 has failed to the user terminal via the communication interface 81. Furthermore, at this time, the control unit 80 can also send the reason for maintaining the non-contractual mode in the printing device 1 to the user terminal or the server 9. In addition, after completing step S5, the control unit 80 can also notify the user of the printing device 1 of the conversion failure to the contractual mode in the printing device 1 via the notification unit 83. Here, the notification via the notification unit 83 can be, for example, an error message on the display; a beep; or the illumination of a light.

[0111] On the other hand, after completing step S6, in response to server 9, control unit 80 may return a notification indicating that the operating mode has been switched from non-contract mode to contract mode according to the conversion command. Control unit 80 may also send a notification to user terminal to indicate that the conversion in printing device 1 was successful.

[0112] Then, in step S8, the server control unit 93 identifies the printing device 1 as a contract-covered device based on the information obtained by the server communication unit 91 from the printing device 1 indicating that the printing device 1 has switched to the contract mode.

[0113] After step S8, server 9 may decide to deliver a set of contract ink cartridges to the user of printing device 1, which is now newly registered as a device covered by the contract. These contract ink cartridges, which will be used for the first time in printing device 1 under the contract, are referred to as "initial contract ink cartridges".

[0114] In the printing system 100, server 9 can consist of an information management server and a delivery management server. The information management server can be used to manage customer information about users and their printing devices 1. The delivery management server can manage the delivery of contract ink cartridges based on customer information. In this variant, the information management server identifies (registers) the printing device 1 as a contract-covered device in step S8, and then instructs the delivery management server to deliver the first contract ink cartridge to the address of the user of the printing device 1. Based on the instructions from the information management server, the delivery management server performs the delivery of the first contract ink cartridge. Thus, a set of first contract ink cartridges is delivered to the user.

[0115] Data Structures

[0116] —Box Information—

[0117] Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating an example of cartridge information stored in region 821. The cartridge information in this example has a data structure consisting of a cartridge ID column, a cartridge type column, and an ink remaining column, with each row corresponding to one of the four colors of ink stored in each cartridge 4.

[0118] The control unit 80 reads the cartridge information from region 821 to obtain the installation status of each ink cartridge 4 in the printing device 1. By referring to the installation status of each ink cartridge 4 obtained in this way, the control unit 80 can determine in the judgment process of step S3 whether the printing device 1 is ready to perform the conversion to the contract mode.

[0119] exist Figure 3 In the example, the value indicating "no cartridge" is stored in each column of the cyan row. Therefore, the control unit 80 can determine that the cyan cartridge 4 is not installed in the printing unit 1. Furthermore, in Figure 3 In the example, the cartridge type column stores values ​​representing "Business," "Commercial," and "Contract" for black, magenta, and yellow, respectively. Based on these values, the control unit 80 can determine that the black and magenta cartridges 4 currently installed on the printing device 1 are business cartridges, while the yellow cartridge 4 is a contract cartridge. Furthermore, the control unit 80 can determine the remaining ink level in each of the four color cartridges 4 by referring to the ink remaining quantity column.

[0120] —Judgment Table—

[0121] Figure 4 This diagram illustrates an example of a decision table stored in region 825. As described above, the decision table is a lookup table referenced by the control unit 80, used to determine whether the printing device 1 should perform a conversion to the contract mode. Figure 4 In the example, for each error that may occur in the printing device 1, the judgment table has: a column representing the error identifier; a column representing whether the conversion is suitable or unsuitable; and a column representing the error type.

[0122] If the control unit 80 is configured to determine whether a conversion should be performed based on each error rather than on the error type, the error type column can be omitted.

[0123] The error identifier column stores names used to identify events that are identified as errors in the printing device 1. For example, the error name "Memory Full error" indicates that there is insufficient remaining memory space in the device memory 82, preventing normal operation in the control unit 80. The error name "Document Jam" indicates a paper jam error.

[0124] The "Suitable / Unsuitable for Conversion" column stores information indicating whether conversion to contract mode should occur when an error occurs in printing device 1. (See reference) Figure 4 The control unit 80 can determine, through its judgment table, that when a "memory full error" occurs, the conversion to contract mode should not be performed (is not suitable). On the other hand, when a "manuscript stuck" occurs, the control unit 80 can determine that the conversion to contract mode is allowed (suitable).

[0125] The error type column stores error types used to classify possible errors based on their nature. In this embodiment, errors that may occur in the printing device 1 (errors in the error identifier column) are classified into three types: "Type A", "Type B", and "Type C". Specifically, errors belonging to "Type A" are those that may require a power cut to eliminate. Errors belonging to "Type B" are those that may require a forced halt to the operation of the control unit 80 when an error occurs. Errors belonging to "Type C" are errors that do not belong to the above categories (i.e., errors that belong neither to Type A nor Type B).

[0126] Errors belonging to "Type A" and "Type B" may hinder contract-related processing performed between printing device 1 and server 9 during the contract formalization period. Here, the contract formalization period is the time during which printing device 1 and server 9 cooperate to perform contract-related processing. Specifically, the contract formalization period begins when printing device 1 enters contract mode (…). Figure 2 The time when S6 in the middle of the process will be used by the server 9 to identify the printing device 1 as the device covered by the contract (S6 in the middle of the process) Figure 2 The time span of S8 in the table. Therefore, in the judgment table, errors belonging to "Type A" and "Type B" are associated with information indicating that the conversion to the contract mode is "unsuitable". With this structure, as long as an error belonging to either "Type A" or "Type B" is occurring in the printing device 1, the control unit 80 can determine that the printing device 1 should not switch to the contract mode.

[0127] <Judgment and Handling>

[0128] Figure 5 This is a flowchart showing the steps in the judgment process performed by the control unit 80. Figure 5 The judgment and processing corresponds to Figure 2 Step S3 in the process. Figure 5 The series of processes shown is configured to begin in response to receiving a conversion command to a contract mode from server 9.

[0129] In step S101, the control unit 80 reads the cartridge information (such as...) from region 821 of the device memory 82. Figure 3 (As shown).

[0130] In step S102, the control unit 80 checks whether the contract ink cartridge has been installed in the printing device 1. If any one of the four color contract ink cartridges 4 is installed in the printing device 1, the control unit 80 determines that "the contract ink cartridge has been installed". That is, here, the control unit 80 confirms that the printing device 1 is not in the following unexpected abnormal situation: the printing device 1 is in non-contract mode, the initial contract ink cartridge has not yet been delivered to the printing device 1, but for some reason, the contract ink cartridge has been installed in the printing device 1.

[0131] When it is determined in step S102 that at least one of the four color contract ink cartridges is installed in the printing device 1 (S102: Yes), the control unit 80 proceeds to step S103. In step S103, the control unit 80 determines that the conversion to the contract mode should not be performed at this time, and outputs a judgment result indicating "unsuitable" conversion.

[0132] On the other hand, in step S102, if it is determined that no contract ink cartridge is installed in the printing device 1 (S102: No), the control unit 80 proceeds to step S104. In step S104, the control unit 80 obtains the error status that has occurred in the printing device 1. For example, the control unit 80 can read the identifier of the error currently occurring in the printing device 1 from an area not shown in the figure in the device memory 82.

[0133] In step S105, the control unit 80 determines whether an error is occurring in the printing device 1.

[0134] Specifically, when no error identifier is stored in the area of ​​the device memory 82 (not shown in the figure), the control unit 80 determines that no error has occurred in the printing device 1 (S105: No) and proceeds to step S108.

[0135] On the other hand, if an error identifier is stored in an area of ​​the device memory 82 that is not shown in the figure, the control unit 80 determines that an error is occurring (S105: Yes).

[0136] In step S106 and thereafter, the control unit 80 can determine whether the error currently occurring in the printing device 1 is an error that may interrupt contract-related processing performed during the contract processing period. Such an error that may interrupt contract-related processing could, for example, be an error that may stop the printing operation in the printing device 1.

[0137] Alternatively, the control unit 80 can check whether the error currently occurring in the printing device 1 is an error that satisfies any predetermined unsuitability condition. Here, the predetermined unsuitability condition can be included in definition information, which defines errors deemed unsuitable for performing the conversion to the contract mode. The definition information can be stored in the device memory 82. Figure 4The judgment table shown is an example of defined information. When it is determined that an error occurring in the printing device 1 meets any predetermined unsuitability condition, the control unit 80 can proceed to step S103.

[0138] More specifically, in this embodiment, the control unit 80 determines in step S106 whether the error currently occurring in the printing device 1 is type A, requiring a power outage to resolve. When it is determined that the error belongs to type A (S106: Yes), the control unit 80 proceeds to step S103. That is, when it is determined that the error occurring in the printing device 1 is type A, requiring a power outage to eliminate (S106: Yes), the control unit 80 determines in step S103 that the conversion to the contract mode should not be performed at this time (not suitable). On the other hand, when the error does not belong to type A (S106: No), the control unit 80 proceeds to step S107.

[0139] In step S107, the control unit 80 determines whether the error currently occurring in the printing device 1 is of type B, requiring forced termination of the control unit 80's operation during the error period. If the error is type B (S107: Yes), the control unit 80 proceeds to step S103. That is, if the error occurring in the printing device 1 is determined to be of type B, requiring forced termination of the control unit 80's operation (S107: Yes), the control unit 80 determines in step S103 that the conversion to the contract mode should not be performed (not suitable). On the other hand, if the error is not type B (S107: No), the control unit 80 proceeds to step S108.

[0140] In step S108, the control unit 80 obtains the execution status of the task currently being executed in the printing device 1.

[0141] In step S109, the control unit 80 determines whether the task currently being executed by the printing device 1 is a high-priority task.

[0142] Here, high-priority tasks can be, for example, those with higher-level control processing (…). Figure 2 The process from step S4 to S5 (if it is not) involves a task with a higher priority. Alternatively, a high-priority task could be one that has a higher priority than completing the report processing (i.e., ...). Figure 2 (In step S7) a higher priority task, through report processing, the printing device 1 communicates with the server 9 to confirm that the conversion to contract mode in the printing device 1 is complete. Specifically, for example, the high priority task could be an import process that imports ink from the ink cartridge 4 into the image forming mechanism (not shown) located in the housing of the printing device 1. Alternatively, the high priority task could be an update process that updates the program used to operate the control unit 80 in the printing device 1.

[0143] When a high-priority task is currently being executed (S109: Yes), the control unit 80 proceeds to step S103. That is, when it is determined that the printing device 1 is executing a process with a higher priority than mode control (…), the control unit 80 proceeds to step S103. Figure 2 When the task in step S4 is no to S5, the control unit 80 determines in step S103 that the conversion to the contract mode should not be performed at this time (not suitable). On the other hand, when no high-priority task is performed (S109: no), the control unit 80 proceeds to step S110.

[0144] In step S110, the control unit 80 determines that the conversion to the contract mode is now allowed and outputs a judgment result indicating that the conversion is "suitable".

[0145] <Technical Advantages of the First Embodiment>

[0146] As described above, according to the method for controlling the printing apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment, when the control unit 80 of the printing apparatus 1 receives an instruction (conversion command) to enter contract mode from the server 9, it at least refers to the cartridge information stored in region 821. When no contract cartridge is installed in the housing of the printing apparatus 1, the control unit 80 determines that it is appropriate to switch to contract mode. The control unit 80 also determines whether there are any possible interruptions to contract-related processing ( Figure 2 Errors in steps S4 to S7) are detected. When no such error is detected, the control unit 80 determines that the printing device 1 is in a suitable state to perform the conversion to the contract mode. Furthermore, the control unit 80 checks whether it is currently executing a task with a higher priority than contract-related processing. When no high-priority task is being executed, the control unit 80 determines that the printing device 1 is ready to perform the conversion to the contract mode (suitable).

[0147] With this structure, contract-related processing is not performed between the printing device 1 and the server 9 unless it is deemed appropriate to perform the contract-related processing required for registering the printing device 1 as a contract-covered device. As a result, in the printing system 100 of the first embodiment, the printing device 1 is allowed to perform the necessary settings for implementing the quota printing service at the appropriate time.

[0148] <Modifications of the First Embodiment>

[0149] For example, in the first embodiment described above, all three conditions (1) to (3) are used in the decision-making process to determine whether to perform the conversion to the contract mode:

[0150] (1) Installation status of ink cartridge 4 (steps S101 and S102);

[0151] (2) Error status (steps S104 to S107); and

[0152] (3) Execution status of high priority tasks (steps S108 and S109).

[0153] However, in the printing device 1, the control unit 80 may use only one or two of the above three conditions (1) to (3) when performing the judgment process.

[0154] In the printing system 100 of the present invention, the service provider can provide users with a variety of different types of fixed-rate printing services.

[0155] In the printing system 100 according to this variant, server 9 can determine whether a conversion to a contract mode should be performed based on a retention judgment table for each of the different types of quota printing services provided by the provider. Furthermore, when in Figure 2 In step S2, when the conversion command is sent to the printing device 1, the server 9 can also provide the printing device 1 with a judgment table corresponding to the type of quota printing service specified by the printing device 1.

[0156] In step S3, the control unit 80 of the printing device 1 can determine whether the printing device 1 is in a suitable state for conversion to the contract mode based on the judgment table provided by the server 9. Specifically, when the current state of the printing device 1 meets any condition defined in the provided judgment table, the control unit 80 determines in step S4 that the printing device 1 is currently "unsuitable" for conversion (S4: No), and in step S5, it maintains the non-contract mode in contrast to the conversion command.

[0157] More specifically, for ease of understanding, assume that printing system 100 currently offers two fixed-rate printing services, A and B. Under fixed-rate printing service A, only printing device 1 is allowed to use the printing function at a fixed cost. Under fixed-rate printing service B, in addition to the printing function, printing device 1 is also allowed to use the reading function (e.g., scanning function). When printing device 1 registers for fixed-rate printing service A, server 9 provides judgment table A to printing device 1. Here, judgment table A may record the following rules: If an error related to the reader's reading operation occurs, it is determined that printing device 1 is "suitable" for conversion. On the other hand, when an error related to the printing operation occurs, it is determined that printing device 1 is "unsuitable" for conversion. Therefore, control unit 80 can provide control over printing device 1 based on judgment table A, such that: when the current error in printing device 1 is related to the reading operation, conversion to contract mode is performed; when the current error is related to the printing operation, conversion to contract mode is not performed.

[0158] When the printing device 1 has registered a fixed-rate printing service B, the server 9 provides a judgment table B to the printing device 1. Therefore, based on the judgment table B, the control unit 80 can provide control over the printing device 1 so that when the printing device 1 is experiencing an error related to a printing or reading operation, the conversion to the contract mode is not performed.

[0159] According to the printing system 100 of this variant, the provider can flexibly set conditions that are deemed unsuitable for performing the conversion to a contractual model, based on the type of service provided by the service provider, thereby increasing the design freedom of the printing system 100.

[0160] 2. Second Implementation Method

[0161] <Topic>

[0162] In the first embodiment, the process of registering the printing device 1 as a contract-covered device is performed at an appropriate time. As described in the first embodiment, in the quota printing service, the time when the server 9 identifies the printing device 1 as a contract-covered device and the time when the server 9 identifies that the printing device 1 has started using the quota printing service may be different from each other. When the two times are different from each other, both the printing device 1 and the server 9 need to identify "started using the quota printing service" at the appropriate time.

[0163] For example, suppose the fixed-rate printing service uses a pricing structure where the service fee increases proportionally to the length of time the service is used. Under this structure, it's conceivable that if billing for the fixed-rate printing service begins at the same time that server 9 recognizes printing device 1 as a device covered by the contract, billing might begin passively even if the user hasn't actually started using (or cannot start using) the fixed-rate printing service. This mismatch would force the user to pay more than the actual usage time required, which is disadvantageous to the user. Furthermore, if the user starts using fixed-rate printing before server 9 recognizes printing device 1 as having started using it, the billing start date for fixed-rate printing on server 9 might be delayed compared to the actual start date on printing device 1, which is disadvantageous to the provider.

[0164] In view of the above, the object of the second embodiment of the present invention is to provide a printing system capable of providing quota printing services at appropriate times. For convenience, components and structures that function in the same manner as those in the first embodiment are indicated by the same reference numerals as those in the first embodiment, and their descriptions are omitted below.

[0165] <Basic Structure>

[0166] Figure 6This is a block diagram showing the basic structure of the printing device 1, ink cartridge 4, and server 209 included in the printing system 200 according to the second embodiment.

[0167] In the printing system 200 according to the second embodiment, the control unit 80 of the printing device 1 is configured to perform communication status monitoring processing for monitoring the communication status between the printing device 1 and the server 209. The communication status monitoring processing can be performed periodically as long as the power to the printing device 1 is on, regardless of whether other processing is being performed in the printing device 1. During the communication status monitoring processing, the control unit 80 identifies the communication status between the printing device 1 and the server 209 and stores information indicating the communication status as a communication status in area 824 of the device memory 82.

[0168] In the server 209 according to the second embodiment, the device information stored in region 921 of the server memory 92 includes, in addition to the device ID, contract mark, and the maximum number of pages that can be printed as specified in the contract, a start mark, a second page count, and the number of pages already printed under the quota printing.

[0169] The start flag indicates whether the fixed-rate printing service has started in printing device 1. In this embodiment, the start flag also indicates whether billing for printing device 1 has started. As an initial value, the start flag is set to a value indicating "not yet started". A start flag of "not yet started" indicates that the fixed-rate printing service has not yet started in printing device 1.

[0170] When the control unit 80 of the printing device 1 receives a notification indicating that the quota printing service has started in the printing device 1, the server control unit 93 of the server 209 changes the value of the start flag from a value indicating "not yet started" to a value indicating "started". The start flag "started" indicates that the quota printing service in the printing device 1 has started.

[0171] The second page count is the same information as the information stored in the second page count 827 of the printing device 1.

[0172] The number of pages printed under the quota printing service represents the cumulative number of pages printed using the quota printing service since the start of the quota printing service in printing device 1. If a user of printing device 1 cancels a contract and then signs a new contract, the number of pages printed under the quota printing service is counted based on the new contract, thus representing the number of pages printed using the quota printing service since the start date of the new contract.

[0173] In response to a notification from the control unit 80 of the printing device 1, the server control unit 93 of server 209 updates the values ​​of the second page count and the number of pages printed under quota printing, stored in area 921 of server memory 92. The updating of these values ​​will be described in detail later.

[0174] <Overall Process>

[0175] Figure 7 This is a sequence diagram illustrating the processing steps performed in the printing system 200. Here, Figure 7 This is shown as being completed in printing system 200. Figure 2 The process shown is the flow of processing executed in printing device 1 and server 9 after the processing is shown. That is, assuming that printing device 1 in printing system 200 has already... Figure 2 In step S6, the contract mode was entered.

[0176] Reference Figure 7 In step S20, the control unit 80 of the printing device 1 detects that a certain type of cartridge has been installed in the printing device 1 (detection process). For example, after completing... Figure 2 After step S8, the first contract ink cartridge is delivered to the user. When the user installs the received first contract ink cartridge into the printing device 1, the control unit 80 detects the installation of the first contract ink cartridge.

[0177] The hardware or software specifications of printing device 1 can be considered to determine how to properly detect whether the cartridge is installed in printing device 1.

[0178] For example, the control unit 80 can be configured such that the detection box is mounted on the housing of the printing device 1 through an opening formed in the housing of the printing device 1. With this configuration, once the box is mounted on the housing, the printing device 1 can determine without delay whether the mounted box is suitable for quota printing.

[0179] Alternatively, when contact between the installed box and the housing is detected, the control unit 80 can detect that the box is installed on the housing. This contact between the box and the housing can be detected, for example, using a sensor or by means of a mechanical mechanism.

[0180] Alternatively, the control unit 80 can determine that the box is installed in the housing upon detecting a user operation required to install the box into the housing. For example, suppose the printing device 1 includes a cover for opening and closing the housing. In this case, the control unit 80 can be configured to detect the movement of the cover, for example, using a sensor or a mechanical mechanism. When the cover is detected to be closed relative to the housing, the control unit 80 can determine that the box is installed in the housing. In this way, the printing device 1 can determine whether the installed box is of a specific type at the moment the user closes the cover (and thus closes the housing) after installing the box in the housing. Therefore, the printing device 1 can determine without delay whether the installed box is suitable for quota printing.

[0181] In step S21, the control unit 80 performs a consumable determination process. This process determines whether one or more cartridges mounted on the housing of the printing device 1 include a cartridge of a specific type. Here, a "specific type of cartridge" is a cartridge that meets the prescribed conditions for being suitable for switching to quota printing (quota printing state). Specifically, in this embodiment, a "specific type of cartridge" refers to a contract ink cartridge.

[0182] More specifically, Figure 8 The flowchart shows the process of consumable judgment processing performed by the control unit 80 in step S21.

[0183] As described above, in the second embodiment, the control unit 80 of the printing device 1 is configured to periodically perform communication status monitoring processing. In step S211, the control unit 80 determines whether the printing device 1 is able to communicate with the server 209. For example, the control unit 80 can identify the communication status between the printing device 1 and the server 209 by referring to information about the communication status stored in area 824 of the device memory 82.

[0184] When it is determined that the printing device 1 and the server 209 can communicate with each other (S211: Yes), the control unit 80 proceeds to step S212.

[0185] In step S212, the control unit 80 determines whether at least one (or more) contract ink cartridges have been installed in the printing device 1. When it is determined that at least one contract ink cartridge is installed in the printing device 1 (S212: Yes), the control unit 80 proceeds to step S213.

[0186] In step S213, the control unit 80 determines that the conditions required for switching to the quota printing state are met in the printing device 1, that is, the printing device 1 is determined to be ready to switch to quota printing.

[0187] On the other hand, in step S211, if it is determined that the printing device 1 and the server 9 cannot communicate with each other (S211: No), the control unit 80 proceeds to step S214. If it is determined in step S212 that no contract ink cartridge is installed in the printing device 1 (S212: No), the control unit 80 also proceeds to step S214.

[0188] In step S214, the control unit 80 determines that the conditions required for switching to the quota printing state are not met in the printing device 1, that is, the printing device 1 is not ready to switch to quota printing.

[0189] Return to reference Figure 7 The flowchart shows that in step S22, the control unit 80 performs appropriate processing based on the result of the consumable judgment processing performed in step S21.

[0190] Specifically, in step S22, when it is determined that the specified conditions required for switching to the quota printing state are met in the printing device 1 (S22: Yes), the control unit 80 proceeds to step S23. On the other hand, when it is determined that the specified conditions required for switching to the quota printing state are not met in the printing device 1 (S22: No), the control unit 80 waits for step S20 to be executed again.

[0191] In step S23, the control unit 80 performs a conversion process to switch the printing device 1 to the quota printing state. Once the conversion is complete, the control unit 80 sends a notification (conversion notification) to the server 209 indicating that the printing device 1 has completed the conversion to the quota printing state. In this way, the printing device 1 can notify the server 209 that it is ready to start using the quota printing service.

[0192] There is no particular restriction on when to send the conversion notification to the server 209, as long as the sending is completed before the quota printing is actually performed in the printing device 1 (step S26). For example, if the control unit 80 is designed to communicate with the server 209 periodically, the control unit 80 can send the conversion notification to the server 209 immediately after executing step S22 when communicating with the server 209.

[0193] In step S24, server 209 begins billing for the fixed-rate printing service of printing device 1. Specifically, in response to receiving a conversion notification from printing device 1, server control unit 93 of server 209 updates the device information of printing device 1. More specifically, server control unit 93 searches for the device information of printing device 1 in the sent conversion notification in server memory 92, and changes the value of the start flag included in the device information to a value indicating "started". Then, server 209 proceeds to step S25.

[0194] In step S25, the server control unit 93 of server 209 stores the number of pages printed at the start of billing. More specifically, the conversion notification sent from printing device 1 includes a second page count value stored in area 827 of device memory 82 of printing device 1. Server control unit 93 stores the second page count value included in the sent conversion notification as the second page count value of device information for printing device 1 that sent the conversion notification. Therefore, the second page count value as of the date when printing device 1 starts the fixed-rate printing service (i.e., the start date of billing for the fixed-rate printing service) is stored in server memory 92 of server 209 as device information for printing device 1 (the device covered by the contract).

[0195] On the other hand, after sending the conversion notification in step S23, the control unit 80 of the printing device 1 proceeds to step S26.

[0196] In step S26, the printing device 1 performs quota printing. For example, after sending the conversion notification to the server 209 in step S23, the printing device 1 performs quota printing based on user input or in response to a print command sent from an external device (e.g., a personal computer) connected to the printing device 1 via wired or wireless means. After performing quota printing, the control unit 80 updates the value of the second page count stored in area 827 of the device memory 82, and then notifies the server 209 of the updated second page count value. The server 209 receives the updated value of the second page count.

[0197] In step S27, the server control unit 93 of the server 209 obtains a value by subtracting the second page count value, which is currently stored as device information in area 921, from the second page count value received from the printing device 1, and then stores the obtained value as the number of pages printed under quota printing in the device information of the printing device 1. Furthermore, the server control unit 93 updates the second page count value currently stored in the device information of the printing device 1 using the received second page count value (the latest value).

[0198] Then, the second page count value is sent from the printing device 1 to the server 209 at a predetermined time. Therefore, whenever an updated value is sent from the printing device 1 and received by the server 209, the server control unit 93 of the server 209 calculates the difference between the latest received second page count value and the previously received second page count value (the second page count value stored in the device information), and uses this difference as the number of pages printed under the quota printing service. Thus, the server 209 is able to know the number of pages printed under the quota printing service.

[0199] <Technical Advantages of the Second Embodiment>

[0200] According to the above processing, when communication is established between printing device 1 and server 209, and one or more contract ink cartridges are installed in printing device 1, printing device 1 is allowed to perform quota printing. Therefore, quota printing is available to printing device 1 when printing device 1 and server 209 can exchange various information about quota printing. That is, the timing of the "quota" period for the quota printing service begins. In this way, printing device 1 can start using the quota printing service at the appropriate time.

[0201] Furthermore, according to the above processing, after performing the conversion process in step S23, the printing device 1 sends a conversion notification to the server 209, thereby notifying the server 209 that the conversion to the fixed-rate printing state has been completed. Through this structure, the printing device 1 can notify the server 209 that it will use the fixed-rate printing service. The conversion notification from the control unit 80 of the printing device 1 allows the server 209 to appropriately determine when to start billing for fixed-rate printing used on the printing device 1.

[0202] <Modifications of the Second Embodiment>

[0203] In the second embodiment, the execution of step S20 triggers the execution of the consumable determination process in step S21. However, the timing at which the control unit 80 executes the consumable determination process is not limited to the example described above.

[0204] For example, the control unit 80 can be configured to determine when to perform the consumables determination process based on the communication status of the printing device 1 monitored in the communication status monitoring process. More specifically, the control unit 80 can perform the consumables determination process when it is determined that communication between the printing device 1 and the server 209 has been restored from a non-communication state. In this way, the restoration of communication between the printing device 1 and the server 209 from a non-communication state can trigger the execution of the consumables determination process. With this structure, when the appropriate consumables are installed on the printing device 1, the printing device 1 can enter the quota printing state without delay upon restoration of the communicable state with the server 209.

[0205] Furthermore, in the second embodiment, the control unit 80 can be configured to prohibit quota printing in the printing device 1 when it receives a disallowance command from the server control unit 93 of the server 209, prohibiting the application of quota printing services in the printing device 1. With this configuration, even in the printing device 1 already in quota printing mode, quota printing can be prohibited by the disallowance command from the server 209. This configuration allows the service provider to stop providing quota printing services if users of the printing device 1 covered by the quota printing service do not pay for quota printing.

[0206] Furthermore, in the second embodiment, the control unit 80 can perform error monitoring processing to monitor for the occurrence of errors in the printing device 1. In this case, there is no particular limitation on the timing of performing the error monitoring processing. For example, similar to communication status monitoring processing, error monitoring processing can be performed periodically whenever the power to the printing device 1 is turned on. Alternatively, error monitoring processing can be performed in a random order along with steps S211 and S212 in the consumables determination processing. That is, error monitoring processing can be performed before steps S211 and S212, between steps S211 and S212, and after steps S211 and S212.

[0207] If the error monitoring process detects a specific error in the printing device 1, the control unit 80 can determine that the printing device 1 is not suitable for switching to the quota printing state (the printing device 1 does not meet the conditions for suitable switching). In other words, the control unit 80 can determine not to execute the switch. Figure 7 The conversion process in step S23.

[0208] With this structure, the printing device 1 is configured not to initiate the quota printing service in the event of a specified error. Therefore, the quota printing service is configured not to initiate if the printing device 1 is experiencing some physical or software-related error that may prevent the execution of quota printing (e.g., when a serious error occurs in the hardware of the printing device 1). This structure prevents the quota printing service from being initiated in the printing device 1 when the user cannot actually use the printing device 1 to perform printing.

[0209] 3. Third Implementation Method

[0210] The third embodiment of the present invention will now be described. For convenience, components and structures that function in the same manner as those in the first and second embodiments will be designated using the same reference numerals as those in the first and second embodiments, and their descriptions will be omitted below.

[0211] In the third embodiment, the control unit 80 can be configured to include a third cartridge type, "bundled," as the cartridge type for the ink cartridge 4, in addition to the two types described above: "commercial" and "contract." In this third type of cartridge 4, "bundled" is stored as the cartridge type in the second area 422 of the cartridge memory 42. This cartridge type stored in the second area 422 indicates that the "bundled" cartridge 4 is a cartridge packaged and shipped with a brand-new printing device 1 purchased by the user. Hereinafter, this type of "bundled" cartridge will be referred to as a bundled cartridge (bundled consumables).

[0212] According to the agreement for the fixed-rate printing service, the bundled cartridges can be regarded as commercial cartridges or contract cartridges.

[0213] When the cartridge is installed on a printing device 1 operating in non-contractual mode, the installed cartridge can be considered a commercial cartridge. That is, when the cartridge is installed on a printing device 1 operating in non-contractual mode, the printing device 1 can perform normal printing using the installed cartridge.

[0214] As an example, when the bundled box is installed in the printing unit 1, the control unit 80 can respond to receiving a conversion command from the server 9, in Figure 2 In step S3, the following judgment and processing are performed.

[0215] Specifically, in the judgment processing according to the third embodiment, refer to Figure 5 When it is determined in step S102 that no contract ink cartridge is installed in the printing device 1, but at least one bundler is installed in the printing device 1 (S102: Yes), the control unit 80 determines in S3 that the printing device 1 is "suitable" for conversion (S103). Then, in response to this affirmative determination, the control unit 80 performs mode control processing ( Figure 2 Step S4 to S6) involves switching to contract mode. Once the printing device 1 enters contract mode, the control unit 80 can process the installed bundle in the same way as the contract ink cartridge. That is, the control unit 80 can use the installed bundle to perform quota printing (or perform other printing) just like it would with the contract ink cartridge. Figure 2 (The process after step S7 in the middle).

[0216] On the other hand, when the bundled box is installed in the printing device 1 operating in contract mode, the installed bundled box can be considered the same as the contract ink cartridge. That is, not only the contract ink cartridge, but also the bundled box can be considered a "specific type of box" suitable for switching to quota printing mode.

[0217] Therefore, in Figure 8 In the consumables determination process, when it is determined in step S212 that at least one contract ink cartridge and / or at least one bundle box is installed in the printing device 1 (S212: Yes), the control unit 80 determines in step S213 that the printing device 1 is in a state suitable for switching to quota printing.

[0218] Server 9 does not need to deliver the first contract ink cartridge to the printer 1, which has already entered contract mode and is equipped with a bundle box.

[0219] In the above embodiments, quota printing is an example of a specific type of printing according to the present invention that the printing device can perform based on a contract with a service provider's server. However, the specific printing of the present invention is not limited to the quota printing described above. For example, specific printing may include: printing charged based on the number of pages printed (payment per page); and printing a maximum of a specific number of pages based on prepayment. Furthermore, the present invention can also be applied to services that deliver consumables (e.g., cartridges) from a service provider to the printing device under a contract.

[0220] <Examples implemented by software>

[0221] The control blocks of the printing device 1 and the server 9 can be implemented through logic circuits (hardware) formed by integrated circuits (IC chips) or through software.

[0222] When the control block is implemented in software, each of the printing device 1 and the server 9 includes a computer that executes instructions of a program, which is software, to implement the corresponding function. For example, the computer includes at least one processor and a computer-readable storage medium storing the program. In the computer, the processor reads the program from the storage medium and executes the program to achieve the objectives of the invention. The computer can use, for example, a CPU as the processor. As the storage medium, the computer can use, for example, a ROM (Read-Only Memory), magnetic tape, disk, card, semiconductor memory, or a programmable logic circuit, etc., a "non-transitory tangible medium". The computer may also include RAM (Random Access Memory) to deploy the program therein. The program can be provided to the computer via any transmission medium capable of transmitting the program (e.g., a communication network or broadcast wave). One aspect of the invention can be implemented in the form of data signals embedded in a carrier wave and electrically transmitted to implement the control program.

[0223] Although detailed descriptions have been provided with reference to embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that various modifications and variations can be made without departing from the scope of the invention. Furthermore, different techniques from each embodiment can be appropriately combined.

[0224] <Note>

[0225] Printing device 1 is an example of a printing device. Server 209 is an example of a server. Quota printing is an example of specific printing based on a contract between the printing device and the server. Communication interface 81 is an example of a communication interface. Control unit 80 is an example of a control unit for the printing device. Figure 8 The routine in step S211 is an example of communication status monitoring processing performed by the control unit of the printing device. Figure 8 The routine in step S212 is an example of a consumable judgment process executed by the control unit of the printing device. Figure 7The routines in steps S22 and S23 are an example of a conversion process performed by the control unit of the printing device. Figure 7 The routine in step S20 is an example of a detection process performed by the control unit of the printing device. Figure 5 The routine in step S104 is an example of error monitoring processing performed by the control unit of the printing device. Ink cartridge 4 is an example of a specific consumable. Housing 11 is an example of a housing, and opening 12 is an example of an opening in the housing. Cover 14 is an example of a cover. Printing system 200 is an example of a printing system.

[0226] [Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures]

[0227] 1: Printing device

[0228] 4: Ink cartridge

[0229] 9, 209: Server

[0230] 42: Box memory

[0231] 80: Control Department

[0232] 81: Communication Interface

[0233] 82: Device memory

[0234] 91: Server Communication Department

[0235] 92: Server Storage

[0236] 93: Server Control Department

[0237] 100, 200: Printing system

[0238] 101: Connecting part

Claims

1. A printing apparatus configured to perform a specific printing according to a contract with a server, the printing apparatus comprising: A communication interface that enables communication with the server; as well as The control unit is configured to execute: Communication status monitoring processing is used to monitor the communication status with the server through the communication interface; Consumable determination processing is used to determine whether one or more consumables installed in the printing device include a specific consumable, which is a consumable that meets specified conditions, which are conditions required to transition to a specific printing state that allows the specific printing according to the contract; as well as A conversion process is used to perform a conversion to the specific printing state under the following conditions: In the communication status monitoring process, it is determined that the communication status is such that communication with the server is possible; and In the consumable determination process, it is determined that the specific consumable is included among the one or more consumables. The printing device also includes a housing having an opening through which one or more consumables can be mounted for the specific printing. The control unit is further configured to perform a detection process for detecting whether the one or more consumables are installed in the housing, or a user operation that installs the one or more consumables into the housing. The control unit is configured to perform the consumable determination process in response to a user operation that detects or installs one or more consumables into the housing during the detection process.

2. The printing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The control unit is also configured to notify the server that the transition to the specific printing state is complete after the conversion process is executed.

3. The printing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The specific consumable is one of the following consumables: Contract-specific consumables specifically designed for use in the specific printing process described in the contract; and Bundled consumables are packaged and shipped together with the printing device.

4. The printing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The control unit is configured to perform the consumable determination process in response to a determination in the communication status monitoring process that communication with the server has resumed from a non-communication state.

5. The printing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a cover for opening and closing the opening of the housing. The control unit is configured to detect that one or more consumables are installed in the housing in response to detecting that the cover is closed.

6. The printing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The control unit is also configured to prohibit the execution of the specific print job in response to receiving a disallowed command from the server that prohibits the execution of the specific print job in the specific print job state.

7. The printing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The specific printing specified in the contract is a fixed-rate printing.

8. A printing system, comprising: server; as well as A printing device capable of performing specific printing according to a contract with the server, the printing device comprising: A communication interface, capable of communicating with the server; and The control unit is configured to execute: Communication status monitoring processing is used to monitor the communication status with the server through the communication interface; Consumable determination processing is used to determine whether one or more consumables installed in the printing device include a specific consumable, said specific consumable being a consumable that meets specified conditions, said specified conditions being conditions required to transition to a specific printing state that allows the specific printing according to the contract; and A conversion process is used to perform a conversion to the specific printing state under the following conditions: In the communication status monitoring process, it is determined that the communication status is such that communication with the server is possible; and In the consumable determination process, it is determined that the specific consumable is included among the one or more consumables. The printing device also includes a housing having an opening through which one or more consumables can be mounted for the specific printing. The control unit is further configured to perform a detection process for detecting whether the one or more consumables are installed in the housing, or a user operation that installs the one or more consumables into the housing. The control unit is configured to perform the consumable determination process in response to a user operation that detects or installs one or more consumables into the housing during the detection process.

9. A method for controlling a printing device, the method comprising: The consumables determination step is used to determine whether a specific consumable is included among one or more consumables installed in the printing device. The specific consumable is a consumable that meets specified conditions, which are conditions required for the printing device to perform a transition to a specific printing state that allows a specific print according to a contract with the server. as well as A transition step is used to perform the transition of the printing device to the specific printing state under the following conditions: The printing device is capable of communicating with the server; and In the consumable determination step, it is determined that the specific consumable is included among the one or more consumables installed in the printing device. The printing device includes a housing having an opening through which one or more consumables can be mounted for the specific printing. The method further includes a detection step for detecting whether the one or more consumables are installed in the housing, or whether a user operation involves installing the one or more consumables into the housing. The consumable determination step is performed in response to the user operation that detects or installs one or more consumables into the housing during the detection step.

10. A printing apparatus configured to perform a specific printing according to a contract with a server, the printing apparatus comprising: A communication interface that enables communication with the server; as well as The control unit is configured to execute: Communication status monitoring processing is used to monitor the communication status with the server through the communication interface; Consumable determination processing is used to determine whether one or more consumables installed in the printing device include a specific consumable, which is a consumable deemed suitable for use in the specific print under the contract; as well as A conversion process is used to perform a conversion to a specific printing state that allows the specific printing if all specified conditions are met, including: (i) The communication status is determined to be able to communicate with the server during the communication status monitoring process; as well as (ii) In the consumable determination process, it is determined that the specific consumable is included among the one or more consumables. The printing device also includes a housing having an opening through which one or more consumables can be mounted for the specific printing. The control unit is further configured to perform a detection process for detecting whether the one or more consumables are installed in the housing, or a user operation that installs the one or more consumables into the housing. The control unit is configured to perform the consumable determination process in response to a user operation that detects or installs one or more consumables into the housing during the detection process.

11. The printing apparatus according to claim 10, characterized in that, The control unit is also configured to perform error monitoring processing, which is used to monitor the occurrence of errors in the printing device. The specified conditions also include (iii) that the error was not detected during the error monitoring process.

12. The printing apparatus according to claim 10 or 11, characterized in that, The control unit is also configured to notify the server that the transition to the specific printing state is complete after the conversion process is executed.

13. The printing apparatus according to claim 10, characterized in that, The specific consumable is one of the following consumables: Contract-specific consumables specifically designed for use in the specific printing process described in the contract; and Bundled consumables are packaged and shipped together with the printing device.

14. The printing apparatus according to claim 10, characterized in that, The control unit is configured to perform the consumable determination process in response to a determination in the communication status monitoring process that communication with the server has resumed from a non-communication state.

15. The printing apparatus according to claim 10, characterized in that, It also includes a cover for opening and closing the opening of the housing. The control unit is configured to detect that one or more consumables are installed in the housing in response to detecting that the cover is closed.

16. The printing apparatus according to claim 10, characterized in that, The control unit is also configured to prohibit the execution of the specific print job in response to receiving a disallowed command from the server that prohibits the execution of the specific print job in the specific print job state.

17. The printing apparatus according to claim 10, characterized in that, The specific printing specified in the contract is a fixed-rate printing.

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