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 (9) capable of providing a specific service for printing according to a contract with the printing device (1), and a control section (80) configured to control a transition of an operation mode of the printing device from a non-contract mode to a contract mode, the contract mode being a mode in which the printing device is recognized as a contract-covered device qualified to perform a specific printing according to the contract. In response to receiving a transition command for performing the transition to the contract mode from the server (9), the control section (80) is configured to perform: a judgment process for judging whether or not to perform the transition to the contract mode in the printing device; and a mode control process for, in a case where the judgment process judges not to perform the transition to the contract mode, maintaining the non-contract mode without performing the transition to the contract mode.

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 stipulated period. For printing exceeding the contractually stipulated predetermined quantity, 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, including a communication interface and a control unit. The communication interface is capable of communicating with a server, which is capable of providing specific services for printing according to a contract with the printing apparatus. The control unit is configured to control the conversion of the operating mode of the printing apparatus from a non-contractual mode to a contractual mode, wherein the non-contractual mode is a mode in which there is no contract with the server, and the contractual mode is a mode in which the printing apparatus is identified as a contract-covered apparatus qualified to perform specific printing according to the contract. In response to receiving a conversion command from the server for performing a conversion from the non-contractual mode to the contractual mode, the control unit is configured to perform: a determination process for determining whether to perform a conversion to the contractual mode in the printing apparatus; and a mode control process for maintaining the non-contractual mode and not performing a conversion to the contractual mode, contrary to the conversion command, if the determination process determines that a conversion to the contractual mode should not be performed.

[0008] (2) Preferably, the printing apparatus according to (1) further includes a housing capable of housing consumables for use in the specific printing. The control unit is also configured to determine in the determination process not to perform the conversion to the contract mode if predetermined conditions related to the consumables are met.

[0009] (3) Preferably, according to the printing apparatus of (2), the consumables include contract-specific consumables, which are consumables provided from the server for the specific printing after the conversion to the contract mode has been completed. The control unit is configured to determine in the determination process not to perform the conversion to the contract mode if it is determined that at least one contract-specific consumable is installed in the housing.

[0010] (4) Preferably, according to the printing apparatus of (3), the consumables further include bundled consumables packaged and shipped together with the printing apparatus. The control unit is configured to determine in the determination process that a conversion to the contract mode should be performed if: no contract-specific consumables are installed in the housing; and at least one bundled consumable is installed in the housing. The control unit is configured to perform the specific printing using the at least one bundled consumable after the conversion to the contract mode is completed if the determination process determines that a conversion to the contract mode should be performed.

[0011] (5) Preferably, in any one of (1) to (4) of the printing apparatus, the control unit is configured to determine the state of an error in the printing apparatus, and the control unit is further configured to determine in the determination process not to perform the conversion to the contract mode if a predetermined condition related to the error is met.

[0012] (6) Preferably, the printing apparatus according to (5) further includes a device memory for storing definition information, which defines errors deemed unsuitable for performing the conversion to the contract mode. The control unit is configured to determine, in the determination process, not to perform the conversion to the contract mode if the error state indicates that an error defined by the definition information stored in the device memory has occurred.

[0013] (7) Preferably, according to the printing device described in (5) or (6), the control unit is configured to determine in the determination process not to perform the conversion to the contract mode if the error state indicates that an error has occurred that prevents the completion of contract-related processing within a specified period after the conversion to the contract mode, the contract-related processing being performed between the server and the printing device to register the printing device as the contract coverage device.

[0014] (8) Preferably, in the printing apparatus according to any one of (5) to (7), the control unit is configured to determine in the determination process not to perform the conversion to the contract mode if the error state indicates that an error has occurred that stops the printing operation.

[0015] (9) Preferably, in the printing apparatus according to any one of (1) to (8), the control unit is configured to further determine whether a task with a higher priority than the mode control process is being executed, and the control unit is configured to determine in the determination process not to perform the conversion to the contract mode if it is determined that the priority of the task is higher than the mode control process.

[0016] (10) Preferably, the printing apparatus according to (9) further includes: a housing capable of housing consumables for use in the specific printing; and an image forming unit for forming an image using a developer stored in the consumables housed in the housing. The control unit is configured to determine in the determination process not to perform the conversion to the contract mode when the task of introducing the developer into the image forming unit is being performed.

[0017] (11) Preferably, the printing apparatus according to (9) further includes a device memory for storing a computer program executed by the control unit to operate in the printing apparatus. The control unit is configured to determine in the determination process not to perform the conversion to the contract mode when the computer program is being updated as the task is being performed.

[0018] (12) Preferably, the printing apparatus according to any one of (1) to (11) is a quota printing according to the contract.

[0019] (13) According to another aspect of the present invention, a printing system is provided, comprising: a printing device; and a server capable of providing specific services for printing according to a contract with the printing device. The printing device includes a communication interface and a control unit. The server includes: a server communication unit capable of communicating with the communication interface of the printing device; and a server control unit. The control unit of the printing device is configured to control the conversion of the operating mode of the printing device from a non-contractual mode to a contractual mode, the non-contractual mode being a mode without a contract with the server, and the contractual mode being a mode in which the printing device is identified as a contract-covered device qualified to perform specific printing according to the contract. The server control unit is configured to perform a conversion process, sending a conversion command instructing the printing device to perform a conversion from the non-contractual mode to the contractual mode to the control unit of the printing device. In response to receiving the conversion command from the server, the control unit of the printing device is configured to perform: a determination process for determining whether to perform a conversion to the contractual mode in the printing device; and a mode control process for maintaining the non-contractual mode and not performing a conversion to the contractual mode, contrary to the conversion command, if the determination process determines that a conversion to the contractual mode should not be performed. The server control unit is configured to perform identification processing in response to receiving a completion message from the printing device via the server communication unit, identifying the printing device as the contract covering device, wherein the completion message indicates that the conversion to the contract mode has been completed in the printing device.

[0020] (14) According to another aspect of the present invention, a method for controlling a printing device is provided, the method comprising: responding to receiving from a server a conversion command for performing an operation mode conversion of the printing device from a non-contractual mode to a contractual mode, the non-contractual mode being a mode in which there is no contract with the server, the contractual mode being a mode in which the printing device is identified as eligible to perform a specific printing contract-covered device according to a contract between the printing device and the server; a determination step for determining whether to perform a conversion to the contractual mode in the printing device; and a mode control step for maintaining the non-contractual mode and not performing a conversion to the contractual mode, contrary to the conversion command, if the determination step determines that a conversion to the contractual mode is not to be performed.

[0021] Typically, a printing device performs a conversion to a contract mode in response to receiving a conversion command from a server. Therefore, in the printing device 1 according to (1), the control unit of the printing device is configured to determine whether the printing device is in a condition suitable for performing the conversion to a contract mode before actually performing the conversion. If the printing device is not in a condition suitable for performing the conversion, the control unit determines that the conversion to a contract mode will not be performed. When the determination is made not to perform the conversion, even if a conversion command is received from the server, the control unit disregards the conversion command and maintains a non-contract mode, and does not perform the conversion to a contract mode; that is, the conversion to a contract mode is not performed in the printing device.

[0022] Therefore, the printing device according to (1) is configured such that it will not perform the conversion to the contract mode unless the state of the printing device is determined to be suitable for performing the conversion. With this structure, the server does not need to initiate a series of information processing related to contract formalities (contract-related processing) with the printing device that is in a state unsuitable for performing the conversion to the contract mode. Therefore, this structure avoids the inconvenience of contract-related processing already initiated between the server and the printing device unsuitable for conversion to the contract mode being interrupted and not completed.

[0023] As described above, the contract-related processing is configured to be initiated only for printing devices deemed suitable for performing the conversion to a contract mode. As a result, it is possible to perform the necessary settings for implementing specific printing services at the appropriate time on the printing device.

[0024] In the printing device according to (2), the control unit is further configured to determine whether the prescribed conditions related to the consumables installed in the printing device are met before performing the conversion to the contract mode. If the prescribed conditions related to the consumables are met, the control unit is configured to cancel the conversion to the contract mode even if a conversion command is issued. With this structure, contract-related processing is prevented from starting between the server and the printing device where the consumables are in a condition unsuitable for conversion to the contract mode, thereby avoiding the inconvenience of interruption in contract-related processing.

[0025] Regarding the printing device according to (3), the printing device needs to use contract-specific consumables specifically designed for printing according to the contract with the server. For example, the contract-specific consumables can be delivered to the printing device in contract mode after the server recognizes the printing device as a contract-covered device. For this reason, the server does not want the contract-specific consumables to be installed on the printing device in non-contract mode, that is, on the printing device that has not yet been switched to contract mode.

[0026] In the printing device according to (3), the control unit is configured to determine whether contract-specific consumables are installed in the printing device before performing the conversion to the contract mode. If it is determined that at least one contract-specific consumable is installed in the printing device, the control unit is configured to disobey the conversion command and not perform the conversion to the contract mode. This structure avoids the risk that contract-related processing that has already been initiated between the server and the printing device, which is not ready to convert to the contract mode, is interrupted and not completed.

[0027] In the printing apparatus according to (4), the control unit is configured such that even if at least one bundled consumable is installed in the housing of the printing apparatus, the conversion to contract mode can be performed as long as no contract-specific consumable is installed in the housing. Therefore, the control unit allows the conversion to contract mode. On the other hand, once the printing apparatus enters contract mode, the control unit recognizes the installed bundled consumable as consumable that can be used for specific printing according to the contract with the server, i.e., contract-specific consumable. In other words, the control unit allows the use of bundled consumables already installed in the housing to perform specific printing according to the contract in the printing apparatus.

[0028] Furthermore, it is conceivable that even after the printing device has entered contract mode, contract-specific printing cannot be performed in the printing device until at least one contract-specific consumable is actually supplied to the printing device from the service provider. However, in the printing device according to (4), the printing device is able to perform contract-specific printing immediately after switching to contract mode. This structure enhances the convenience for users of the printing device.

[0029] In the printing apparatus according to (5), the control unit is configured to prevent the conversion to the contract mode from being performed in the event of a specific error occurring in the printing apparatus, in violation of the conversion command from the server. This structure prevents contract-related processing from being initiated between the server and the printing apparatus experiencing such an error, thereby avoiding interruption and incomplete completion of contract-related processing.

[0030] In the printing apparatus according to (6), the control unit is configured such that, in the event of a specific error defined by definition information stored in the device memory occurring in the printing apparatus, the conversion command from the server is violated and the conversion to the contract mode is not performed. This structure prevents contract-related processing from being initiated between the server and the printing apparatus experiencing such an error, thereby avoiding interruption and incomplete completion of contract-related processing.

[0031] Regarding the printing device according to (7), contract-related processing may be interrupted if the printing device experiences an error that could hinder the completion of contract-related processing (e.g., an error related to printing within the printing device, or a communication error between the server and the printing device). In this case, the following inconvenience arises in the system: even if the printing device has entered contract mode, the server does not recognize the printing device as a contract-covered device. Therefore, contract-related processing needs to be performed and completed without failure during the contract formality period (from when the printing device enters contract mode until the server recognizes the printing device as a contract-covered device).

[0032] Therefore, in the printing device according to (7), the control unit is configured to determine whether the printing device is experiencing an error that may prevent the completion of contract-related processing during contract formalities before performing the conversion to the contract mode. If it is determined that such an error is occurring, the control unit is configured to disobey the conversion command from the server and not perform the conversion to the contract mode.

[0033] This structure prevents contract-related processing from being initiated between the server and an unstable printing device that may fail to complete the process, thus avoiding interruptions in the execution of contract-related processes.

[0034] In the printing apparatus according to (8), the control unit is configured to refrain from performing the conversion to the contract mode in the event that the printing apparatus is experiencing an error that could stop the printing operation, contrary to the conversion command from the server. A printing apparatus experiencing an error that could stop printing is deemed unsuitable for performing the conversion to the contract mode because such a printing apparatus cannot perform the specific printing. Therefore, this structure prevents the initiation of contract-related processing between the server and the printing apparatus experiencing such an error, thereby avoiding the risk that contract-related processing will be interrupted and incomplete.

[0035] Regarding the printing device according to (9), if the control unit performs mode control processing (part of contract-related processing) while the printing device is performing a high-priority task, the contract-related processing is likely to be interrupted during contract processing. This is because the control unit assigns a higher priority to high-priority tasks than to contract-related processing. For example, tasks with a higher priority than contract-related processing could be: settings during printing device installation; and updates to the printing device's program. Once contract-related processing is interrupted, the server can no longer confirm whether the printing device has entered contract mode. As a result, even if the conversion to contract mode has been completed in the printing device, the server cannot recognize the printing device as a contract-covered device, leading to undesirable inconvenience in the system.

[0036] Therefore, in the printing apparatus according to (9), the control unit is configured not to perform the conversion to the contract mode when the printing apparatus is performing a higher priority task. This structure prevents interruptions to contract-related processing, thereby avoiding inconvenience in the system.

[0037] In the printing apparatus according to (10), the control unit is configured to not perform the conversion to the contract mode in violation of the conversion command from the server when the developer in the consumable installed in the housing is being introduced into the image forming unit of the printing apparatus. With this structure, it is possible to prevent the interruption of contract-related processing, thereby avoiding inconvenience in the system.

[0038] In the printing apparatus according to (11), the control unit is configured such that, in the event that an update of the control unit's operating procedure is being performed in the printing apparatus, the conversion to the contract mode is not performed in violation of the conversion command from the server. This structure prevents interruption of contract-related processing, thereby avoiding inconvenience in the system.

[0039] The printing system according to (13) can achieve the same technical advantages as the printing device according to (1).

[0040] The method according to (14) can achieve the same technical advantages as the printing device according to (1). Attached Figure Description

[0041] 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.

[0042] Figure 2 This is a sequence diagram illustrating the flow of the processes performed in the printing system 100 according to the first embodiment;

[0043] Figure 3This is a diagram illustrating a specific example of box information stored in region 821 of the printing apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment;

[0044] Figure 4 This 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;

[0045] 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;

[0046] 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;

[0047] Figure 7 This is a sequence diagram illustrating the flow of processes performed in the printing system 200 according to the second embodiment; and

[0048] Figure 8 It is shown in Figure 7 The flowchart shows the steps involved in the consumables judgment process during the processing. Detailed Implementation

[0049] 1. First Implementation Method

[0050] <Topic>

[0051] To use a fixed-rate printing service, the service provider (hereinafter referred to as the "Provider") sometimes requires users 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").

[0052] 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.

[0053] 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.

[0054] <Overview of 100 Printing Systems>

[0055] The following is for reference Figures 1 to 5 The first embodiment of the present invention will be described below.

[0056] 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.

[0057] 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.

[0058] In the quota printing service, the times of (1) and (2) below may differ from each other:

[0059] (1) The moment when server 9 identifies printing device 1 as a device covered by the contract;

[0060] (2) Server 9 identifies the moment when the quota printing service is started on printing device 1.

[0061] 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.

[0062] 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.

[0063] 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.

[0064] 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.

[0065] 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.

[0066] 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.

[0067] 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.

[0068] <Internal structure of printing unit 1, ink cartridge 4 and server 9>

[0069] 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.

[0070] —Ink Cartridge 4—

[0071] 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).

[0072] 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 as appropriate.

[0073] 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.

[0074] 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.

[0075] 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.

[0076] 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.

[0077] 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.

[0078] —Printing device 1—

[0079] 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.

[0080] 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.

[0081] 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.

[0082] 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.

[0083] 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.

[0084] Device memory 82 is a memory from which information can be read and written. Device memory 82 is, for example, a flash ROM (read-only memory) or an EEPROM (registered trademark). In this embodiment, device memory 82 has seven regions 821 to 827.

[0085] 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.

[0086] 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.

[0087] 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.

[0088] 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".

[0089] 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.

[0090] 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.

[0091] "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.

[0092] 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.

[0093] 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.

[0094] 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 A more detailed explanation of the exemplary data structure of the decision table is provided.

[0095] Area 826 stores the first page count. The first page count represents the cumulative number of pages printed in printing device 1.

[0096] 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.

[0097] 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.

[0098] 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.

[0099] 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.

[0100] —Server 9—

[0101] Server 9 includes server communication unit 91, server memory 92 and server control unit 93.

[0102] 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.

[0103] 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.

[0104] 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.

[0105] 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.

[0106] 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.

[0107] 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.

[0108] 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.

[0109] <Overall Process in Printing System 100>

[0110] Figure 2 This is a sequence diagram illustrating the process flow performed in the printing system 100 according to the first embodiment.

[0111] 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.

[0112] 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.

[0113] 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 the contract mode. Specifically, the determination process determines whether the printing device 1 is in a state suitable for converting to the contract mode. For example, in the determination process, the decision to convert to the 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.

[0114] 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.

[0115] 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 region 823 from non-contract mode to contract mode.

[0116] Then, in step S7, printing device 1 and server 9 can communicate with each other at an appropriate time to confirm that the conversion of printing device 1 to the contract mode is complete. For example, server control unit 93 can send a request to inquire whether the conversion of 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, control unit 80 of printing device 1 can return a response to server 9 indicating whether the conversion was successful or failed. The above transactions can be repeated periodically until server 9 confirms that the "conversion to the contract mode is complete" in printing device 1.

[0117] 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-contract 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 contract 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-contract 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 contract 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.

[0118] 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.

[0119] 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.

[0120] 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 contract-covered device. 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".

[0121] 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.

[0122] Data Structures

[0123] —Box Information—

[0124] 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.

[0125] 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 decision processing of step S3 whether the printing device 1 is ready to perform the conversion to the contract mode.

[0126] 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.

[0127] —Judgment Table—

[0128] 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.

[0129] 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.

[0130] 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.

[0131] 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).

[0132] 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).

[0133] 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 is the time from when printing device 1 enters contract mode (…). Figure 2 The time when server 9 identifies printing device 1 as a device covered by the contract (S6) Figure 2 The time span of S 8) in the judgment table. Therefore, 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.

[0134] <Judgment and Handling>

[0135] 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.

[0136] 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).

[0137] 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 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.

[0138] 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.

[0139] 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.

[0140] In step S105, the control unit 80 determines whether an error is occurring in the printing device 1.

[0141] 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.

[0142] 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).

[0143] 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 contract procedures. 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.

[0144] 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.

[0145] 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.

[0146] 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.

[0147] In step S108, the control unit 80 obtains the execution status of the task currently being executed in the printing device 1.

[0148] In step S109, the control unit 80 determines whether the task currently being executed by the printing device 1 is a high-priority task.

[0149] Here, high-priority tasks can be, for example, those with higher-level control processing (…). Figure 2 The process from step S4 to S5 (is it a no-no process) involves a task with a higher priority. Alternatively, a high-priority task could be one that has a higher priority than completing report processing (i.e., ...). Figure 2 In step S7, a higher priority task is to complete the report processing, through communication between the printing device 1 and the server 9, to confirm that the conversion to the 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.

[0150] 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 If 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, if no high-priority task is performed (S109: no), the control unit 80 proceeds to step S110.

[0151] 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".

[0152] <Technical Advantages of the First Embodiment>

[0153] 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).

[0154] 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.

[0155] <Modifications of the First Embodiment>

[0156] 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:

[0157] (1) Installation status of ink cartridge 4 (steps S101 and S102);

[0158] (2) Error status (steps S104 to S107); and

[0159] (3) Execution status of high priority tasks (steps S108 and S109).

[0160] 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.

[0161] 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.

[0162] 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.

[0163] 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 satisfies 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.

[0164] 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.

[0165] 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.

[0166] 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, depending on the type of service provided by the service provider, thereby increasing the design freedom of the printing system 100.

[0167] 2. Second Implementation Method

[0168] <Topic>

[0169] 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.

[0170] 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.

[0171] 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.

[0172] <Basic Structure>

[0173] 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.

[0174] 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.

[0175] 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.

[0176] 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.

[0177] 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.

[0178] The second page count is the same information as the information stored in the second page count 827 of the printing device 1.

[0179] 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.

[0180] 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.

[0181] <Overall Process>

[0182] 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.

[0183] 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.

[0184] 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.

[0185] 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.

[0186] 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.

[0187] 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.

[0188] 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.

[0189] More specifically, Figure 8 The flowchart shows the process of consumable judgment processing performed by the control unit 80 in step S21.

[0190] 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.

[0191] 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.

[0192] 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.

[0193] 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.

[0194] 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.

[0195] 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.

[0196] 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.

[0197] 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.

[0198] 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.

[0199] 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.

[0200] 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.

[0201] 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).

[0202] 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.

[0203] 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.

[0204] 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).

[0205] 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.

[0206] <Technical Advantages of the Second Embodiment>

[0207] 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.

[0208] 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.

[0209] <Modifications of the Second Embodiment>

[0210] 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.

[0211] 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.

[0212] 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.

[0213] 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.

[0214] 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.

[0215] 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.

[0216] 3. Third Implementation Method

[0217] 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.

[0218] 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).

[0219] According to the agreement for the fixed-rate printing service, the bundled cartridges can be regarded as commercial cartridges or contract cartridges.

[0220] When a bundled cartridge is installed on a printing device 1 operating in non-contractual mode, the installed bundled cartridge can be considered a commercial ink cartridge. That is, when the bundled cartridge is installed on a printing device 1 operating in non-contractual mode, the printing device 1 can perform normal printing using the installed bundled cartridge.

[0221] 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.

[0222] 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 following step S7 in the middle).

[0223] 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.

[0224] 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.

[0225] Server 9 does not need to deliver the first contract ink cartridge to the printer 1, which is already in contract mode and equipped with a bundle box.

[0226] 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.

[0227] <Supplementary Notes>

[0228] In a printing apparatus according to one aspect of the present invention, when the printing apparatus is experiencing an error that can be eliminated by power-off, the control unit can determine that the printing apparatus is currently "unsuitable" for conversion, as described in the first embodiment (see [reference]). Figure 5 In the example, S105 is yes, S106 is yes (to step S103).

[0229] If contract-related processing begins in a printing device that is experiencing a power outage, the printing device is likely to lose power during the contract processing. When the printing device loses power, the server cannot communicate with it, causing contract-related processing to be interrupted. As a result, even if the printing device has completed the conversion to the contract mode, the server cannot recognize the printing device as a contract-covered device in the printing system.

[0230] To address the aforementioned inconveniences in printing systems, in one aspect, the printing device is configured not to switch to contract mode in the event of a power outage during contract processing. This configuration avoids the risk of interruption during contract-related processing, thereby preventing the aforementioned inconveniences in the printing system.

[0231] Furthermore, in a printing apparatus according to another aspect of the present invention, the control unit of the printing apparatus can determine in the judgment process that the conversion is "inappropriate" while the printing apparatus is experiencing an error that may force the operation of the control unit to terminate, as described in the first embodiment (see [reference]). Figure 5 In the example, S105 is yes, S107 is yes (to step S103).

[0232] Here, it is assumed that in the printing apparatus according to the above aspects, printing apparatus 1 is experiencing an error that may involve the forced termination of the control unit's operation, such as a "memory full error." If contract-related processing begins at this time, the operation of the control unit is likely to be forcibly terminated during contract processing. The termination of the control unit's operation may cause contract-related processing to be suspended, so that even if the conversion to contract mode has been completed in the printing apparatus, the server cannot recognize the printing apparatus as a contract-covered apparatus, causing inconvenience to the printing system.

[0233] However, the printing device described above is designed so that it will not perform the conversion to the contract mode if there is a possibility that the operation of the control unit may be forcibly terminated during contract processing. This structure makes it less likely that contract-related processing will be interrupted, thus avoiding the aforementioned inconvenience in the printing system.

[0234] <Examples implemented by software>

[0235] 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.

[0236] 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.

[0237] 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.

[0238] <Note>

[0239] Printing device 1 is an example of a printing device. Servers 9 and 209 are examples of servers. 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 2 Step S3 and Figure 5 The routine in the flowchart is an example of a judgment process performed by the control unit of the printing device. Figure 2The routine from step S4 (whether it is "no") to S5 is an example of mode control processing performed by the control unit of the printing device. Ink cartridge 4 is an example of a consumable. Device memory 82 is an example of a device memory. The housing of printing device 1 is an example of a housing. The image forming mechanism of printing device 1 is an example of an image forming unit. Printing systems 100 and 200 are examples of printing systems. Server control unit 93 is an example of a server control unit. Server communication unit 91 is an example of a server communication unit. Figure 2 The routine in step S8 is an example of the identification process performed by the server's server control unit.

[0240] [Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures]

[0241] 1: Printing device

[0242] 4: Ink cartridge

[0243] 9, 209: Server

[0244] 42: Box memory

[0245] 80: Control Department

[0246] 81: Communication Interface

[0247] 82: Device memory

[0248] 91: Server Communication Department

[0249] 92: Server Storage

[0250] 93: Server Control Department

[0251] 100, 200: Printing system

[0252] 101: Connecting part

Claims

1. A printing apparatus, comprising: A communication interface is provided to communicate with a server that can provide specific services for printing in accordance with a contract with the printing device. as well as The control unit is configured to control the switching of the printing device's operating mode from a non-contractual mode to a contractual mode. The non-contractual mode is a mode without a contract with the server, while the contractual mode is a mode in which the printing device is identified as a contract-covered device qualified to perform specific printing according to the contract. In response to receiving a conversion command from the server for performing a conversion from the non-contractual mode to the contractual mode, the control unit is configured to perform: The determination process is used to determine whether to perform the conversion to the contract mode in the printing device by determining whether the printing device is in a condition suitable for performing the conversion to the contract mode. If the determination process determines that the printing device is not in a condition suitable for performing the conversion to the contract mode, the determination process determines that the conversion to the contract mode will not be performed. as well as The mode control processing is configured to, in the case that the judgment processing determines that a conversion to the contract mode should not be performed, maintain the non-contract mode and not perform a conversion to the contract mode, contrary to the conversion command received from the server.

2. The printing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a housing that allows consumables to be mounted for the specific printing. The control unit is further configured to determine in the judgment process, if the specified conditions related to the consumables are met, that the conversion to the contract mode will not be performed.

3. The printing apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that, The consumables include contract-specific consumables, which are consumables provided from the server after the conversion to the contract mode is completed, specifically for the purpose of the particular printing. The control unit is configured to determine, in the determination process, not to perform the conversion to the contract mode if it is determined that at least one contract-specific consumable is installed in the housing.

4. The printing apparatus according to claim 3, characterized in that, The consumables also include bundled consumables that are packaged and shipped together with the printing device. The control unit is configured to determine in the decision-making process to perform a conversion to the contract mode under the following circumstances: It was determined that no contract-specific consumables were installed in the housing; and It is determined that at least one bundled consumable is installed in the housing. The control unit is configured to perform the specific printing using the at least one bundled consumable after the conversion to the contract mode is completed, if the determination process determines that a conversion to the contract mode is to be performed.

5. The printing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The control unit is configured to determine the state of an error in the printing device. The control unit is further configured to determine in the judgment process, if the specified conditions related to the error are met, not to perform the conversion to the contract mode.

6. The printing apparatus according to claim 5, characterized in that, It also includes a memory for storing definition information that defines errors deemed unsuitable for performing the conversion to the contract pattern. The control unit is configured to determine, in the determination process, not to perform the conversion to the contract mode when the error state indicates that an error defined by the definition information stored in the device memory has occurred.

7. The printing apparatus according to claim 5, characterized in that, The control unit is configured to, in the event that the error state indicates an error has occurred that prevents the completion of contract-related processing within a specified period after the conversion to the contract mode, determine in the judgment process not to perform the conversion to the contract mode, wherein the contract-related processing is performed between the server and the printing device to register the printing device as the contract-covered device.

8. The printing apparatus according to claim 5, characterized in that, The control unit is configured to determine, in the judgment process, not to perform the conversion to the contract mode if the error state indicates that an error has occurred that stops the printing operation.

9. The printing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The control unit is configured to also determine whether a task with a higher priority than the mode control processing is being executed. The control unit is configured to determine in the judgment process not to perform the conversion to the contract mode if it is determined that the priority of the task is higher than that of the mode control process.

10. The printing apparatus according to claim 9, characterized in that, Also includes: A housing that allows consumables to be mounted in the housing for the specific printing; as well as An image forming unit is used to form an image using a developer stored in the consumables mounted in the housing. The control unit is configured to determine in the determination process not to perform the conversion to the contract mode when the task of introducing the developer into the image forming unit is being performed.

11. The printing apparatus according to claim 9, characterized in that, It also includes a storage device for storing computer programs, which are executed by the control unit to operate the printing device. The control unit is configured to determine in the decision process not to perform the conversion to the contract mode when the computer program is being updated as the task is being performed.

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

13. A printing system, comprising: A printing device, including a communication interface and a control unit; as well as A server, capable of providing specific services for printing according to a contract with the printing device, the server comprising: The server communication unit is capable of communicating with the communication interface of the printing device; and Server Control Department The control unit of the printing device is configured to control the switching of the printing device's operating mode from a non-contractual mode to a contractual mode. The non-contractual mode is a mode in which there is no contract with the server, and the contractual mode is a mode in which the printing device is identified as a contract-covered device qualified to perform specific printing according to the contract. The server control unit is configured to perform conversion processing, sending a conversion command to the printing device's control unit, instructing the printing device to perform a conversion from the non-contractual mode to the contractual mode. In response to receiving the conversion command from the server, the control unit of the printing device is configured to execute: The determination process is used to determine whether to perform the conversion to the contract mode in the printing device by determining whether the printing device is in a condition suitable for performing the conversion to the contract mode; if the determination process determines that the printing device is not in a condition suitable for performing the conversion to the contract mode, the determination process determines not to perform the conversion to the contract mode; and The mode control processing is configured to, in the case where the judgment processing determines that a conversion to the contract mode should not be performed, maintain the non-contract mode and not perform a conversion to the contract mode, contrary to the conversion command received from the server. The server control unit is configured to perform identification processing in response to receiving a completion message from the printing device via the server communication unit, identifying the printing device as the contract covering device, wherein the completion message indicates that the conversion to the contract mode has been completed in the printing device.

14. A method for controlling a printing device, the method comprising: In response to receiving a conversion command from the server to switch the operating mode of the printing device from a non-contractual mode to a contractual mode, wherein the non-contractual mode is a mode in which there is no contract with the server, and the contractual mode is a mode in which the printing device is identified as eligible to perform specific printing under a contractual agreement between the printing device and the server. The determination step is used to determine whether to perform the conversion to the contract mode in the printing device by determining whether the printing device is in a condition suitable for performing the conversion to the contract mode. If the determination step determines that the printing device is not in a condition suitable for performing the conversion to the contract mode, the determination step determines that the conversion to the contract mode will not be performed. as well as A mode control step is used to maintain the non-contract mode and not perform the conversion to the contract mode, contrary to the conversion command received from the server, if the determination step determines that the conversion to the contract mode should not be performed.

Images