Print management system and recycled paper production method

Abstract

A printing management system and a recycled paper production method are disclosed. The printing management system includes a printing unit, a storage unit that stores printing information indicating a printing condition, a determination unit that determines whether or not waste paper recovery is required based on the printing information, a printing request unit that causes a recovery sheet to be printed based on a determination result of the determination unit, and a recovery request unit that requests the waste paper recovery using the recovery sheet based on the determination result of the determination unit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a printing management system and a method for producing recycled paper. Background Technology

[0002] Previously, regarding printing apparatuses that form text and images on paper, there is a printing apparatus disclosed in Patent Document 1 that is capable of communication via the Internet.

[0003] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-088593

[0004] In recent years, there has been an increasing demand for environmental protection. Summary of the Invention

[0005] One aspect of the printing management system of the present invention comprises: a first printing unit for printing; a first storage unit for storing first printing information indicating the printing status in the first printing unit; a judgment unit for determining, based on the first printing information, whether waste paper recycling is required; a printing request unit for printing a recycling form based on the judgment result of the judgment unit; and a recycling request unit for requesting the recycling of the waste paper using the recycling form based on the judgment result of the judgment unit.

[0006] One aspect of the recycled paper production method of the present invention includes the following steps: a printing step, using a first printing unit to print on recording paper; a printing request step, based on first printing information indicating the printing status in the first printing unit, causing a recycling form to be printed; a recycling step, recycling waste paper using the recycling form; and a production step, producing recycled paper from the recycled waste paper. Attached Figure Description

[0007] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating an overview of waste paper recycling using a print management system.

[0008] Figure 2 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the functional structure of a printing management system.

[0009] Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the operation of a printing management system.

[0010] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the operation of a printing management system.

[0011] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the operation of the printing management system according to the second embodiment.

[0012] Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating an outline of waste paper recycling using the printing management system of the third embodiment.

[0013] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0014] 1: Printing unit; 2: Management server; 3: User; 4: Waste paper recycler; 10: Printing department; 20: Printing status acquisition department; 30: Recycling status acquisition department; 100: Printing control department; 110: Input department; 120: Display department; 130: Storage department; 150: Printing processing department; 200: Printing status acquisition and control department; 210: Mode switching department; 230: Storage department; 250: Recycling request department; 260: Document information output department; 270: Benefit supply instruction department; 300: Recycling status acquisition and control department; 310: Input department; 320: Output department; 330: Storage department. Detailed Implementation

[0015] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described using the accompanying drawings. The drawings are for ease of explanation. Furthermore, the embodiments described below are not intended to unduly limit the scope of the invention as described in the claims. Moreover, not all structures described below are essential structural elements of the present invention.

[0016] 1. First Implementation Method

[0017] 1.1 Overview of Waste Paper Recycling Using a Printing Management System

[0018] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating an overview of waste paper recycling using the SY print management system. (See diagram for details.) Figure 1 As shown, the printing management system SY of the first embodiment includes a printing apparatus 1 and a management server 2. Furthermore, the printing apparatus 1 and the management server 2 are communicatively connected, for example, using a signal line such as a LAN (Local Area Network) cable. In addition, in Figure 1 In addition to the printing management system SY, the diagram also shows the user 3 of the printing unit 1 and the waste paper recycler 4 who collects the used recording paper as waste paper from the user 3. Furthermore, the printing unit 1 and the management server 2 can also be communicatively connected via wireless communication without the use of signal cables. Here, waste paper refers to unused paper, including paper that has been discarded after printing and paper that cannot be used due to printing failures. Moreover, the user 3 is not limited to the person directly operating the printing unit 1, but also includes corporations that enable staff to operate it.

[0019] The printing device 1 stores identification information IDs used to identify user 3. The identification information IDs include information used to identify the user 3 using the printing device 1, such as the user 3's name, address, and contact information. The identification information IDs stored in the printing device 1 are output to the management server 2.

[0020] Furthermore, the printing apparatus 1 performs printing processing on the recording paper based on the user 3's operation, generating and outputting printed materials. Specifically, image data Dp is input to the printing apparatus 1, which includes information about text and images formed on the recording paper by the user 3's operation. The printing apparatus 1 performs printing processing on the recording paper to print text and images corresponding to the information included in the input image data Dp. Moreover, the printing apparatus 1 outputs the recording paper that has undergone printing processing as printed materials.

[0021] Here, the printing apparatus 1 only needs to be able to print text and images corresponding to the information included in the image data Dp on the recording paper. For example, it can be an inkjet printer that prints the desired text and images on the recording paper by applying ink to the recording paper, or a laser printer that prints the desired text and images on the recording paper by fixing toner powder on the recording paper. In addition, the printing apparatus 1 can also be a multifunction printer that has multiple functions in addition to printing text and images on the recording paper, such as scanning functions for reading images and copying images.

[0022] The printing apparatus 1 generates printing status information Psi, representing the execution status of the printing process, while performing printing on the recording paper. The printing apparatus 1 retains the generated printing status information Psi and outputs the retained printing status information Psi to the management server 2 at a predetermined time.

[0023] The management server 2 inputs the identification information ID and printing status information Psi output by the printing device 1. Additionally, the management server 2 inputs the recycling status information Csi, indicating the recycling status of waste paper collected by the waste paper recycler 4 from the user 3 through the recycler 4's operation, and the user 3's identification information ID. Furthermore, the management server 2 maintains the printing status information Psi (indicating the printing status of the printing device 1) and the recycling status information Csi (indicating the recycling status of waste paper) in a linked manner with the user 3's identification information ID used to identify the printing device 1.

[0024] The printing device 1 prints a return receipt, which includes at least a portion of the information contained in the document information Fif input from the management server 2. This provides the return receipt to the user 3. Here, the printing device 1 can also print the return receipt without waiting for instruction from the user 3, even after the document information Fif has been input from the management server 2. Furthermore, the printing device 1 can also notify the user 3 of the return receipt printing request after the document information Fif has been input from the management server 2, and print the return receipt if the user 3 responds to the notification and allows the printing of the return receipt. In the following description, it will be assumed that the printing device 1 notifies the user 3 of the return receipt printing request after the document information Fif has been input from the management server 2, and prints the return receipt if the user 3 responds to the notification and allows the printing of the return receipt.

[0025] Here, the recycling slip printed by printing device 1 refers to a slip used to move waste paper from user 3 to waste paper recycler 4. For example, the recycling slip includes information such as the name, address, and contact information of user 3 and waste paper recycler 4. That is, the recycling slip includes identification information (ID) such as the name, address, and contact information of user 3. In addition to the above information, the recycling slip may also include various information related to waste paper recycling, such as the quantity, type, and collection date of the waste paper entrusted by user 3. Such a recycling slip could, for example, be a slip conforming to the format of a delivery slip used when delivering waste paper from user 3 to waste paper recycler 4.

[0026] User 3 packs waste paper into a recycling bin such as a cardboard box, affixes a recycling slip printed by device 1, and sends it to waste paper recycler 4. Thus, the waste paper held by user 3 is recycled by waste paper recycler 4. Waste paper recycler 4 uses the waste paper recycled from user 3 to produce recycled paper and inputs recycling status information Csi corresponding to the waste paper recycled from user 3 and identification information ID printed on the recycling slip of the recycled waste paper into management server 2. Therefore, since user 3 is associated with recycling status information Csi via identification information ID, the recycling status information Csi representing the recycling status of waste paper from user 3, stored in management server 2, can be updated.

[0027] As described above, in the printing management system SY of the first embodiment, the management server 2 determines whether waste paper recycling is necessary based on the printing status of the printing device 1. Furthermore, if the management server 2 determines that recycling waste paper from the user 3 is preferable, the management server 2 outputs document information Fif to the printing device 1, and the printing device 1 prints a recycling form corresponding to the document information Fif input from the management server 2. That is, the printing management system SY of the first embodiment reminds the user 3 to recycle waste paper by notifying them of the appropriate time for recycling, and reduces the labor required for waste paper recycling by providing the user 3 with recycling forms. As a result, the waste paper recycling rate from the user 3 is increased, further promoting the efficient use of resources.

[0028] Furthermore, if the management server 2 determines that it is preferable to recycle waste paper from user 3, the management server 2 can also instruct waste paper recycler 4 to distribute recycling bins to user 3. Thus, at a suitable time for waste paper recycling, recycling bins for waste paper recycling are provided to user 3. That is, in the printing management system SY of the first embodiment, at a suitable time for recycling waste paper from user 3, recycling bins for waste paper recycling and recycling slips for distributing these recycling bins to waste paper recycler 4 are provided to user 3. This further reduces the labor required for waste paper recycling by user 3. As a result, the waste paper recycling rate from user 3 is further improved, and the efficient use of resources is further promoted.

[0029] Furthermore, the waste paper recycling rate of user 3 is further improved, enabling waste paper recycler 4 to conduct continuous waste paper recycling with less labor. As a result, the production efficiency of recycled paper based on the waste paper recycled by waste paper recycler 4 is improved. That is, under the printing management system SY of the first embodiment, by enabling waste paper recycler 4 to perform waste paper recycling and recycled paper production, the waste paper recycling rate and the production efficiency of recycled paper are improved, thereby further promoting the effective utilization of resources.

[0030] Furthermore, the management server 2 determines whether to grant benefits to user 3, identified by the identification information ID, based on the printing status information Psi input from the printing unit 1 and the recycling status information Csi input from the waste paper recycler 4. If the management server 2 determines that benefits should be granted to user 3, it generates benefit supply information Bgi for providing benefits to user 3 and outputs it to the printing unit 1. Specifically, the management server 2 calculates the waste paper recycling rate among user 3 based on the recycling status information Csi and the printing status information Psi. If the calculated waste paper recycling rate is above a predetermined value, the management server 2 determines that user 3 is actively engaged in waste paper recycling, generates benefit supply information Bgi for granting benefits to user 3, and outputs it to the printing unit 1.

[0031] The printing device 1 generates benefit information Bif, which includes the benefits specified by the input benefit supply information Bgi. Furthermore, the printing device 1 informs the user 3 of the benefits included in the benefit information Bif. Thus, the user 3 is provided with the benefits specified by the benefit supply information Bgi. Specifically, when the management server 2 supplies consumables such as recording paper used in the printing device 1 as a benefit to the user 3, the management server 2 generates benefit supply information Bgi, which includes information about exchange vouchers that can be exchanged for consumables such as recording paper, and outputs it to the printing device 1. The printing device 1, through the user 3's operation or at a time when the benefit supply information Bgi is input, prints the exchange vouchers that can be exchanged for consumables such as recording paper, as included in the benefit supply information Bgi. Thus, the user 3 is provided with consumables such as recording paper.

[0032] Furthermore, the benefits provided to user 3 are not limited to consumables such as recording paper, as described above; any benefit that user 3 directly or indirectly receives is acceptable. For example, if user 3 pays a usage fee for printing apparatus 1, a discount on that usage fee can be provided as a benefit. Additionally, items unrelated to printing apparatus 1 can also be provided as benefits.

[0033] Furthermore, management server 2 can also calculate the amount of waste paper recycled from user 3 based on the recycling status information Csi input by waste paper recycler 4. If the calculated amount of waste paper recycled is above a predetermined value, it determines that a benefit should be granted to user 3. Further, management server 2 can also determine whether to grant a benefit to user 3 based on both the amount of waste paper recycled from user 3 and the waste paper recycling rate within user 3. Furthermore, it can also determine whether to grant benefits at multiple levels and to what extent, setting a higher recycling amount or a higher recycling rate as providing greater benefits.

[0034] In the printing management system SY of the first embodiment described above, benefits are provided to user 3 based on the waste paper recycling status, thereby increasing user 3's awareness of waste paper recycling. As a result, the amount and rate of waste paper recycled by user 3 are further improved. Consequently, the efficient use of resources and even environmental protection can be further promoted.

[0035] 1.2 Structure of the Printing Management System

[0036] Next, the functional structure of the printing management system SY will be explained. Figure 2 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the functional structure of the printing management system SY. (See diagram below.) Figure 2 As shown, the printing management system SY has a printing device 1 and a management server 2.

[0037] The printing apparatus 1 includes a printing unit 10. Furthermore, the printing unit 10 includes a printing control unit 100, an input unit 110, a display unit 120, a storage unit 130, and a printing processing unit 150. Moreover, the printing unit 10 generates printed materials by performing printing processing on recording paper to produce desired text and images, and provides them to the user 3. In other words, the printing apparatus 1 includes a printing unit 10 for printing on recording paper.

[0038] The input unit 110 includes one or more switches that accept operations from the user 3. Furthermore, the user 3 operates the input unit 110 to input an input signal Uin, including image data Dp, to the print control unit 100. Here, since the input unit 110 is the structure for inputting the input signal Uin to the print control unit 100, the input unit 110 is not limited to a switch; for example, it could be a connector for mounting a cable that allows the printing apparatus 1 to communicatively connect with an external device, an antenna used for wireless communication between the printing apparatus 1 and the external device, or a communication module for communication between the printing apparatus 1 and the external device.

[0039] The printing control unit 100 controls the operation of various structures included in the printing unit 10. Such a printing control unit 100 is composed of one or more semiconductor devices including a processor.

[0040] When image data Dp is input via input unit 110, printing control unit 100 causes printing processing unit 150 to perform printing processing corresponding to image data Dp. Printing processing unit 150 includes a transport unit (not shown) for transporting recording paper to be printed, and a print head (not shown) for printing text and images corresponding to image data Dp on the transported recording paper. Printing control unit 100 controls the transport of recording paper in the transport unit and the printing of text and images on the recording paper in the print head based on the input image data Dp. Thus, printing processing unit 150 performs printing processing corresponding to image data Dp.

[0041] In addition, the printing control unit 100 enables the storage unit 130 to store various information and read out the information stored in the storage unit 130.

[0042] Specifically, the printing control unit 100 stores the identification information ID in the storage unit 130. That is, the storage unit 130 stores the identification information ID used to identify the user 3 of the printing device 1, as well as information such as the user 3's name, address, and contact information.

[0043] Furthermore, the printing control unit 100 generates printing status information Psi indicating the status of the printing process performed by the printing processing unit 150. The printing control unit 100 also stores the generated printing status information Psi in the storage unit 130. That is, the storage unit 130 stores printing status information Psi indicating the printing status of the printing unit 10.

[0044] Here, a specific example of the printing status information Psi generated by the printing control unit 100 will be described. As one of the pieces of information indicating the printing status of the printing unit 10, the printing control unit 100 generates printing status information Psi that includes information on the type and number of recording papers that have undergone printing processing by the printing processing unit 150.

[0045] Specifically, the printing control unit 100 obtains information about the size, thickness, etc. of the recording paper that the printing processing unit 150 performs printing processing on based on information about the type of recording paper set in the printing apparatus 1, and obtains the number of sheets of the recording paper that have been printed in the printing processing unit 150.

[0046] Furthermore, the printing control unit 100 associates the number of sheets of recording paper that have undergone printing processing with information obtained regarding the type of recording paper, including its size and thickness. As a result, the printing control unit 100 generates printing status information Psi, which includes information on the type and number of sheets of recording paper that have undergone printing processing by the printing processing unit 150. Specifically, it includes information on the number of sheets of recording paper that have undergone printing processing associated with the type of recording paper.

[0047] In addition, the printing status information Psi is generated as one of the information indicating the printing status of the printing unit 10, and includes information about errors generated when the printing processing unit 150 performs printing processing.

[0048] Specifically, the printing control unit 100 obtains information on transport errors and printing errors from the printing processing unit 150 as information about errors generated during the printing process. Here, the transport error information obtained by the printing control unit 100 refers to the number of sheets of recording paper that experienced abnormalities during transport by the transport unit, such as the number of sheets of recording paper that experienced a so-called paper jam, where the recording paper gets stuck inside the printing apparatus 1 during transport by the transport unit. Furthermore, the printing error information obtained by the printing control unit 100 refers to the number of sheets of recording paper that experienced abnormalities during the printing of text or images by the print head, such as the number of sheets of recording paper where the print quality decreased due to insufficient ink or toner during the printing of text or images by the print head.

[0049] Furthermore, the printing control unit 100 generates printing status information Psi, which includes information on errors, such as information on acquired transport errors and information on printing errors.

[0050] In addition, as one of the pieces of information indicating the printing status of the printing unit 10, the printing control unit 100 generates printing status information Psi, which includes information on whether the printed matter generated by the printing process of the printing processing unit 150 contains printing secrets.

[0051] Specifically, the printing control unit 100 analyzes the image data Dp input by the user 3 to determine whether the text and images printed on the recording paper include text representing confidential information such as "external secret," "confidential," or "confidential." Furthermore, if the text and images printed on the recording paper include text representing confidential information, the printing control unit 100 determines that the printed material output based on the input image data Dp contains confidential information.

[0052] Furthermore, when the printing apparatus 1 is a multifunction printer with a copying function for copying elements, the printing control unit 100 reads image information of the elements recorded on the object to be copied by controlling an image sensor (not shown), and prints the read image information on recording paper by controlling the printing processing unit 150. Thus, the printing apparatus 1 outputs a printed matter with copied elements. When determining whether the printed matter output by such a copying function contains confidential information, the printing control unit 100 performs optical character recognition (OCR) processing on the image information read by the image sensor (not shown). Moreover, the printing control unit 100 determines whether the text and images obtained through this OCR processing include text representing confidential information such as "external secret," "confidential," or "confidential."

[0053] Furthermore, the printing control unit 100 generates printing status information Psi, which includes information about the number of printed materials, wherein the printed materials include text representing confidential information.

[0054] As described above, the printing status information Psi includes the following information: information on the type and number of recording papers that have been printed by the printing processing unit 150; information on errors generated during the printing processing by the printing processing unit 150, namely, information on transport errors and printing errors generated during the printing processing by the printing processing unit 150; and information on whether the printed matter generated by the printing processing by the printing processing unit 150 contains confidential information. Therefore, the storage unit 130 stores, as the printing status information Psi indicating the printing status in the printing unit 10, information on the number of printing sheets of each type of recording paper that has been printed, information on whether there are transport errors of recording paper, information on whether there are printing errors of recording paper, and information on whether the printed matter contains confidential information, and stores identification information ID for identifying the user 3 of the printing device 1.

[0055] In addition to the information described above, the printing status information Psi stored in the storage unit 130 may also include information such as the date the printing apparatus 1 performed the printing process. Such a storage unit 130 is composed of one or more semiconductor devices including non-volatile memory. Here, part or all of the storage unit 130 may also be included in the semiconductor devices constituting the printing control unit 100.

[0056] Furthermore, the printing control unit 100 controls the display content on the display unit 120. The display unit 120 notifies the user 3 of information indicating the operating status of the printing apparatus 1, information accompanying operations performed by the user 3 on the input unit 110, information input from the management server 2, and various other information related to the printing apparatus 1 and the printing management system SY. Such a display unit 120 can be, for example, a liquid crystal display, an EL (Electronic Luminescent) display, electronic paper, or other various display panels. Additionally, in Figure 2 In the illustration, the display unit 120 and the input unit 110 are shown as different structures, but the display unit 120 and the input unit 110 can also be an integrated structure, such as a touch panel.

[0057] Furthermore, the printing control unit 100 and the management server 2 have a printing status acquisition control unit 200, which will be described later, that can be communicatively connected.

[0058] The management server 2 has a printing status acquisition unit 20 and a recycling status acquisition unit 30. Furthermore, the recycling status acquisition unit 30 includes a recycling status acquisition control unit 300, an input unit 310, an output unit 320, and a storage unit 330. Moreover, the recycling status acquisition unit 30 acquires recycling status information Csi, which represents the recycling status of the waste paper input by the waste paper recycler 4.

[0059] The input unit 310 includes one or more switches for accepting operations from the waste paper recycler 4. Furthermore, the waste paper recycler 4 operates the input unit 310, inputting an input signal Cin to the recycling status acquisition control unit 300 via the input unit 310. This input signal Cin includes: recycling status information Csi indicating the recycling status of the waste paper corresponding to the user 3; and information for identifying the user 3 who discharged the waste paper, such as identification information ID. That is, the recycling status acquisition unit 30 acquires the recycling status information Csi along with the identification information ID.

[0060] Here, the information input to the recycling status acquisition control unit 300 for identifying the user 3 who has discharged waste paper is not limited to identification information ID. For example, it may be information that includes part or all of the information included in the identification information ID, or it may be information that includes a specific management code corresponding to the identification information ID.

[0061] Furthermore, the recycling status information Csi input to the recycling status acquisition control unit 300 includes the following information: information indicating the recycling status of waste paper, such as the amount of waste paper collected from user 3; and information on foreign matter mixed in with the waste paper collected from user 3. Specifically, the recycling status information Csi includes at least one of the following as information on the amount of waste paper collected from user 3: the number of sheets of waste paper collected from user 3, the number of recycling bins used to pack the waste paper collected from user 3, and the weight of the waste paper collected from user 3; and at least one of the following as information on the type of foreign matter mixed in with the recycling bins collected from user 3: the cost of handling the foreign matter, and the ratio of the weight of the foreign matter to the total weight of the waste paper collected from user 3. In addition to the above information, the recycling status information Csi may also include information on the paper type of the waste paper collected from user 3, the date the waste paper was collected from user 3, etc.

[0062] Here, since the input unit 310, which receives the input signal Cin through the operation of the waste paper recycler 4, is the point at which the input signal Cin is input to the recycling status acquisition control unit 300, the input unit 310 is not limited to a switch. For example, it may be a connector for a cable that allows the management server 2 to communicate with external devices such as a weighing scale, or it may be a communication module for communication between the management server 2 and the external devices.

[0063] The recycling status acquisition control unit 300 controls the operation of various structures included in the recycling status acquisition unit 30. This recycling status acquisition control unit 300 is composed of one or more semiconductor devices, including a processor.

[0064] The recycling status acquisition control unit 300 stores various information in the storage unit 330 and reads the information stored in the storage unit 330. Specifically, the identification information ID output by the printing unit 10 is input to the recycling status acquisition control unit 300 via the printing status acquisition unit 20 (described later). The recycling status acquisition control unit 300 stores the input identification information ID in the storage unit 330. Furthermore, recycling status information Csi and information for identifying the user 3 who discharged waste paper are input to the recycling status acquisition control unit 300 via the input unit 310. Based on the input information for identifying the user 3 who discharged waste paper, the recycling status acquisition control unit 300 determines the identification information ID corresponding to the user 3. Moreover, the recycling status acquisition control unit 300 stores the recycling status information Csi in the storage unit 330 in a state where it is associated with the determined identification information ID.

[0065] Such a storage unit 330 is composed of one or more semiconductor devices including non-volatile memory. Here, part or all of the storage unit 330 may also be included in the semiconductor device constituting the recycling status acquisition control unit 300.

[0066] Furthermore, under the control of the printing status acquisition unit 20 (described later), the recycling status acquisition control unit 300 generates a recycling request Crq requesting the recycling of waste paper from user 3. The recycling status acquisition control unit 300 also outputs an output signal Cout from the output unit 320, including the generated recycling request Crq. Thus, the recycling status acquisition control unit 300 reminds the waste paper recycler 4 of the waste paper recycling from user 3. Specifically, the output unit 320 may also include a display unit such as a display panel, and the recycling status acquisition control unit 300 causes the display panel to display information corresponding to the recycling request Crq requesting the recycling of waste paper from user 3, thereby reminding the waste paper recycler 4 of the waste paper recycling from user 3. Furthermore, the output unit 320 may also include an email sending module, and the recycling status acquisition control unit 300 sends an email containing the recycling request Crq requesting the recycling of waste paper from user 3 to the waste paper recycler 4 via this email sending module, thereby reminding the waste paper recycler 4 of the waste paper recycling.

[0067] Furthermore, the recycling status acquisition control unit 300 is communicatively connected to the printing status acquisition control unit 200, which will be described later. Further, as described above, the printing status acquisition control unit 200 is communicatively connected to the printing control unit 100. That is, the recycling status acquisition control unit 300 is communicatively connected to both the printing status acquisition control unit 200 and the printing control unit 100.

[0068] The printing status acquisition unit 20 includes a printing status acquisition control unit 200, a mode switching unit 210, a storage unit 230, a retrieval request unit 250, a document information output unit 260, and a benefit supply instruction unit 270. Furthermore, the printing status acquisition unit 20 acquires printing status information Psi, which indicates the printing status of the printing unit 10.

[0069] The printing status acquisition and control unit 200 controls the operation of the mode switching unit 210, storage unit 230, retrieval request unit 250, document information output unit 260, and benefit supply instruction unit 270 included in the printing status acquisition unit 20. Such a printing status acquisition and control unit 200 is configured to include, for example, one or more semiconductor devices such as a processor.

[0070] Specifically, the printing status acquisition and control unit 200 outputs a switching control signal to the mode switching unit 210 to control the switching of the operating mode of the printing management system SY. Based on the input switching control signal, the mode switching unit 210 switches the operating mode of the printing management system SY between a first mode MD1 (using recycling forms to collect waste paper from user 3) and a second mode MD2 (not using recycling forms to collect waste paper from user 3). Furthermore, the mode switching unit 210 switches between enabling and disabling the benefit provision mode MB (for providing benefits to user 3) based on the input switching control signal.

[0071] Specifically, for example, if the agreement terms regarding the waste paper recycling method between waste paper recycler 4 and user 3 are changed, waste paper recycler 4 inputs a switching request to change the operating mode of the printing management system SY via input unit 310. This switching request is input to the printing status acquisition control unit 200 via the recycling status acquisition control unit 300. Furthermore, the printing status acquisition control unit 200 generates a switching control signal to switch the operating mode of the printing management system SY to either the first mode MD1 or the second mode MD2 based on the input operating mode switching request, and outputs it to the mode switching unit 210. Thus, the mode switching unit 210 switches the operating mode of the printing management system SY to either the first mode MD1 or the second mode MD2.

[0072] Similarly, if the agreement terms related to the benefit provision between waste paper recycler 4 and user 3 are changed, waste paper recycler 4 inputs a switching request to switch the benefit provision mode MB on / off via input unit 310. This switching request is input to printing status acquisition control unit 200 via recycling status acquisition control unit 300. Furthermore, printing status acquisition control unit 200 generates a switching control signal for switching the benefit provision mode MB on / off in printing management system SY based on the input switching request, and outputs it to mode switching unit 210. Thus, mode switching unit 210 switches the benefit provision mode MB on / off in the operating mode of printing management system SY.

[0073] In addition, the identification information ID output by the printing control unit 100 is input into the printing status acquisition control unit 200. The printing status acquisition control unit 200 stores the input identification information ID in the storage unit 230 and outputs it to the recycling status acquisition control unit 300.

[0074] Furthermore, the printing status acquisition control unit 200 acquires the printing status information Psi stored in the storage unit 130 of the printing unit 10. Specifically, when the number of sheets of recording paper that have undergone printing processing by the printing processing unit 150 reaches a predetermined number, the printing control unit 100 outputs the printing status information Psi to the printing status acquisition control unit 200. The printing status acquisition control unit 200 acquires and holds the input printing status information Psi, and stores it in the storage unit 230 in association with the acquired acquisition timing.

[0075] Furthermore, when the printing status acquisition control unit 200 acquires the printing status information Psi output by the printing control unit 100, it requests the recycling status information Csi from the recycling status acquisition control unit 300. Based on the request from the printing status acquisition control unit 200, the recycling status acquisition control unit 300 reads the recycling status information Csi stored in the storage unit 330. Moreover, the recycling status acquisition control unit 300 outputs the read recycling status information Csi to the printing status acquisition control unit 200. The printing status acquisition control unit 200 acquires and holds the input recycling status information Csi, and stores it in the storage unit 230 in association with the acquired timing.

[0076] After this, the printing status acquisition and control unit 200 determines whether waste paper recycling by the user 3 is necessary based on the printing status information Psi and the recycling status information Csi. Specifically, the printing status acquisition and control unit 200 calculates the waste paper recycling rate of the user 3 based on the printing status information Psi and recycling status information Csi stored in the storage unit 230 and the recycling status information Csi input from the recycling status acquisition and control unit 300. Furthermore, based on the calculated waste paper recycling rate and the printing status information Psi obtained from the printing control unit 100, the printing status acquisition and control unit 200 estimates the amount of waste paper held by the user 3, and determines whether waste paper recycling by the user 3 is necessary based on the estimated amount of waste paper.

[0077] Here, the waste paper recycling rate calculated by the printing status acquisition and control unit 200 may, for example, be the ratio of the amount of waste paper collected by the waste paper recycler 4 from the user 3 to the result obtained by subtracting the number of printed materials containing confidential information previously generated in the printing apparatus 1 from the types and number of sheets of recording paper that have been printed in the printing apparatus 1. Alternatively, it may be the ratio of the amount of waste paper collected by the waste paper recycler 4 from the user 3 to the calculated result obtained by subtracting the number of printed materials containing confidential information previously generated in the printing apparatus 1 from the types and number of sheets of recording paper that have been printed in the printing apparatus 1, after correction by a predetermined correction factor corresponding to the intended use of the printed materials by the user 3. Of course, in either case, the number of sheets containing confidential information may not be subtracted.

[0078] When the printing status acquisition and control unit 200 determines that it is necessary to recycle the waste paper from the user 3, the printing status acquisition and control unit 200 controls the operation of the document information output unit 260 and the recycling request unit 250 according to the operation mode of the printing management system SY selected by the mode switching unit 210.

[0079] Specifically, when the mode switching unit 210 selects the first mode MD1, and the printing status acquisition control unit 200 determines that waste paper from user 3 needs to be recycled, the printing status acquisition control unit 200 requests the document information output unit 260 to output document information Fif. Therefore, the document information output unit 260 outputs document information Fif, which includes information used to identify user 3, based on user 3's identification information ID.

[0080] The document information Fif output by the document information output unit 260 is input to the printing control unit 100 of the printing unit 10. The printing control unit 100 confirms with the user 3 whether waste paper collection based on the input document information Fif is required. Specifically, the printing control unit 100 displays on the display unit 120 a message to confirm with the user 3 whether waste paper collection based on the input document information Fif is required. Furthermore, the user 3 performs an operation corresponding to the display content on the display unit 120, thereby determining whether the user 3 requests waste paper collection.

[0081] If the printing control unit 100 determines that user 3 has requested waste paper recycling, the printing control unit 100 instructs the printing processing unit 150 to print a recycling form including the information contained in the document information Fif. Thus, user 3 obtains a recycling form for waste paper recycling. Conversely, if the printing control unit 100 determines that user 3 has not requested waste paper recycling, the printing control unit 100 does not instruct the printing processing unit 150 to print a recycling form including the information contained in the document information Fif. In this case, the printing control unit 100 may, after a certain period, re-display information on the display unit 120 to confirm whether waste paper recycling based on the document information Fif is required.

[0082] As described above, the document information output unit 260 outputs document information Fif, a request for printing a recycling document, to the printing unit 10 based on the judgment result of the printing status acquisition control unit 200. The printing control unit 100, based on the input document information Fif of the recycling document, determines whether the user 3 requests waste paper recycling. Furthermore, if the user 3 requests waste paper recycling through the operation of the input unit 110, that is, if the printing of the recycling document is permitted through the operation of the input unit 110, the printing processing unit 150 executes the printing of the recycling document including the information included in the document information Fif. On the other hand, if the user 3 does not request waste paper recycling through the operation of the input unit 110, that is, if the printing of the recycling document is not permitted through the operation of the input unit 110, the printing processing unit 150 does not execute the printing of the recycling document. In this case, the document information output unit 260 re-outputs the document information Fif, a request for printing a recycling document, to the printing unit 10. In other words, the printing management system SY has an input unit 110 that allows the printing of returnable documents. When the input unit 110 allows the document information output unit 260 to output a request for printing returnable documents, the printing unit 10 prints the returnable documents. When the input unit 110 does not allow the document information output unit 260 to output a request for printing returnable documents, the printing unit 10 does not print the returnable documents, and the document information output unit 260 re-outputs a request for printing returnable documents to the printing unit 10.

[0083] That is, the document information output unit 260 prints the recycling documents based on the judgment result of the printing status acquisition control unit 200. Specifically, if the printing status acquisition control unit 200 determines that waste paper recycling is necessary and allows the printing request for the recycling documents output by the document information output unit 260 through the operation of the input unit 110, the document information output unit 260 prints the recycling documents based on the judgment result of the printing status acquisition control unit 200. If the printing status acquisition control unit 200 determines that waste paper recycling is necessary and does not allow the printing request for the recycling documents output by the document information output unit 260 through the operation of the input unit 110, the document information output unit 260 does not print the recycling documents. Moreover, the document information output unit 260 waits for the printing request for the recycling documents output by the document information output unit 260 to be allowed through the operation of the input unit 110 before printing the recycling documents.

[0084] Here, the timing for the document information output unit 260 to re-output the printing request for the return document to the printing unit 10 may be, for example, when the printing of the return document is not allowed by the operation of the input unit 110 for a certain period of time after the document information output unit 260 outputs the document information Fif as a printing request for the return document. Alternatively, it may be when the printing of the return document is not allowed by the operation of the input unit 110 for a certain period of time after the document information output unit 260 outputs the document information Fif as a printing request for the return document, and when the printing processing unit 150 has generated a predetermined number of printed materials.

[0085] After this, user 3 puts the waste paper into the recycling bin, attaches the printed recycling slip, and sends the recycling bin to waste paper recycler 4. This can be interpreted as the slip information output unit 260 enabling user 3 to send the waste paper.

[0086] Furthermore, when the mode switching unit 210 selects the first mode MD1, a recycling bin can also be dispatched from the waste paper recycler 4 to the user 3. Specifically, when the printing status acquisition control unit 200 determines that waste paper from the user 3 needs to be recycled, the printing status acquisition control unit 200 requests the recycling request unit 250 to recycle the waste paper using the recycling slip. Based on the request from the printing status acquisition control unit 200, the recycling request unit 250 generates recycling request information requesting the recycling of waste paper using the recycling slip and outputs it to the recycling status acquisition control unit 300. Moreover, based on the recycling request information input from the recycling request unit 250, the recycling status acquisition control unit 300 generates a recycling request Crq for requesting the recycling of waste paper using the recycling slip. Moreover, the recycling status acquisition control unit 300 outputs the generated recycling request Crq as output information Cout via the output unit 320. Thus, the request for recycling of waste paper using the recycling slip is notified to the waste paper recycler 4.

[0087] Based on the recycling request Crq, waste paper recycler 4 determines whether the waste paper requested by user 3 using a recycling slip has been recycled. Furthermore, waste paper recycler 4 distributes recycling bins to user 3. User 3 receives the recycling bins distributed by waste paper recycler 4, packs the waste paper in the bins, affixes the recycling slip, and returns it to waste paper recycler 4. Thus, the waste paper held by user 3 is recycled by waste paper recycler 4. Alternatively, waste paper recycler 4 can print recycling slips and distribute recycling bins with the affixed recycling slips to user 3, without printing the recycling slips themselves. Moreover, when waste paper recycler 4 receives the recycling bin, it inputs the identification information ID included in the recycling slip into the input unit 310, thereby the printing management system SY recognizing that waste paper from user 3 has been recycled.

[0088] When the mode switching unit 210 selects the second mode MD2, and the printing status acquisition control unit 200 determines that waste paper collection from user 3 is required, the printing status acquisition control unit 200 does not request the output of document information FIF from the document information output unit 260. That is, when the mode switching unit 210 selects the second mode MD2, the printing status acquisition control unit 200 does not request the output of document information FIF from the document information output unit 260 regardless of the determination result regarding whether waste paper collection from user 3 is required. In other words, the document information output unit 260 does not output a printing request for collected documents to the printing unit 10 regardless of the determination result of the printing status acquisition control unit 200.

[0089] Furthermore, when the mode switching unit 210 selects the second mode MD2, and the printing status acquisition control unit 200 determines that the waste paper from user 3 needs to be recycled, the printing status acquisition control unit 200 requests the recycling request unit 250 to recycle waste paper without recycling slips. Based on the request from the printing status acquisition control unit 200, the recycling request unit 250 generates recycling request information requesting the recycling of waste paper without recycling slips and outputs it to the recycling status acquisition control unit 300. Based on the recycling request information input from the recycling request unit 250, the recycling status acquisition control unit 300 generates a recycling request Crq requesting the recycling of waste paper without recycling slips. Moreover, the recycling status acquisition control unit 300 outputs the generated recycling request Crq as an output signal Cout via the output unit 320. Thus, the request to recycle waste paper without recycling slips is communicated to the waste paper recycler 4. This recycling request Crq includes identification information ID. That is, the recycling request unit 250 requests waste paper recycling along with the identification information ID used to identify the user 3 of the printing device 1.

[0090] Based on the recycling request Crq, waste paper recycler 4 determines that user 3, corresponding to the identification information ID, requested the recycling of waste paper without using a recycling slip. Therefore, instead of distributing a recycling bin to user 3, waste paper recycler 4 goes directly to user 3's location and collects the waste paper held by user 3. Furthermore, when waste paper recycler 4 performs recycling, it inputs the identification information ID included in the recycling request Crq into the input unit 310, thereby allowing the print management system SY to recognize that waste paper from user 3 has been recycled.

[0091] As described above, the printing management system SY in this embodiment includes a first mode MD1 for recycling waste paper using recycling slips and a second mode MD2 for recycling waste paper not using recycling slips. This allows for waste paper recycling tailored to the specific circumstances of the user 3, improving the convenience for the user 3 using the printing device 1 and the printing management system SY.

[0092] Furthermore, when the mode switching unit 210 selects the benefit provision mode MB to be enabled, the printing status acquisition control unit 200 determines whether to grant a benefit to the user 3 based on at least one of the recycling status information Csi and printing status information Psi stored in the storage unit 230. Moreover, if the printing status acquisition control unit 200 determines that a benefit should be provided to the user 3, it instructs the benefit provision instruction unit 270 to perform benefit provision processing. During benefit provision processing, the benefit provision instruction unit 270 generates benefit provision information Bgi, including information about the benefit to be provided to the user 3, according to the request of the printing status acquisition control unit 200, and outputs it to the printing control unit 100.

[0093] The printing control unit 100 generates benefit information Bif, representing the benefits provided to user 3, based on the benefit information included and provided in the input benefit supply information Bgi. Furthermore, the printing control unit 100 controls the display unit 120 to display the content of the benefits represented by the benefit information Bif on the display unit 120. In other words, the display unit 120 notifies user 3 of the benefit supply specified by the benefit information Bif. Alternatively, the benefit supply instruction unit 270 can also notify user 3 by other means, such as recording the benefit content in an email sent to user 3.

[0094] In addition, at the same time, the benefit provision instruction unit 270 makes instructions for benefit provision. Specifically, for example, the benefit provision instruction unit 270 instructs the coupon issuance system to issue coupons as a benefit provision instruction to user 3. Alternatively, the benefit provision instruction unit 270 may also instruct the fee collection system to provide a discount on the fees of user 3 as a benefit provision instruction. Alternatively, the benefit provision instruction may be made through other methods.

[0095] That is, the printing status acquisition and control unit 200 determines whether to grant benefits to user 3 based on at least one of the recycling status information Csi and the printing status information Psi. Moreover, if benefits are to be granted, the benefit granting instruction unit 270 outputs benefit granting information Bgi to user 3 based on at least one of the recycling status information Csi and the printing status information Psi.

[0096] Here, we will explain an example of the criteria for determining whether the printing status acquisition control unit 200 provides benefits to user 3 under the benefit supply mode MB.

[0097] For example, in the benefit provision mode (MB), the printing status acquisition control unit 200 reads the recycling status information Csi and printing status information Psi stored in the storage unit 230. Furthermore, the printing status acquisition control unit 200 calculates the waste paper recycling rate of user 3 based on the read recycling status information Csi and printing status information Psi. The printing status acquisition control unit 200 can also instruct the benefit provision instruction unit 270 to generate benefit provision information Bgi for granting benefits to user 3 if the waste paper recycling rate of user 3 exceeds a predetermined value during a predetermined period. That is, the benefit provision instruction unit 270 can also instruct the provision of benefits to user 3 based on the waste paper recycling rate.

[0098] Furthermore, in the benefit provision mode (MB), the printing status acquisition control unit 200 reads the recycling status information Csi stored in the storage unit 230. Moreover, the printing status acquisition control unit 200 calculates the amount of waste paper collected from user 3 within a predetermined period based on the read recycling status information Csi. The printing status acquisition control unit 200 can also instruct the benefit provision instruction unit 270 to generate benefit provision information Bgi for granting benefits to user 3 if the amount of waste paper collected from user 3 within the predetermined period exceeds a predetermined value. That is, the benefit provision instruction unit 270 can also instruct the benefit provision to user 3 based on the amount of waste paper collected from user 3.

[0099] Furthermore, as a criterion for determining whether to provide benefits to user 3, the printing status acquisition and control unit 200 may also consider the quality of waste paper collected from user 3 within a predetermined period. The quality of waste paper refers, for example, to the status of foreign matter, such as the foreign matter contamination rate, included in the recycling status information Csi stored in the storage unit 230. Moreover, the printing status acquisition and control unit 200 considers the read foreign matter contamination rate along with the waste paper recycling rate and the amount of waste paper recycled by user 3 within the predetermined period to determine whether to grant benefits to user 3. That is, the benefit provision instruction unit 270 may instruct the provision of benefits to user 3 when the foreign matter contamination rate in the waste paper is relatively low, and not provide benefits to user 3 when the foreign matter contamination rate is relatively high.

[0100] 1.3 Operations of the Printing Management System

[0101] Next, we will explain an example of the actions of the printing management system SY and the printing management method. Figure 3 as well as Figure 4 This diagram illustrates an example of the operation of the print management system SY. The print management system SY is as follows: Figure 3 The process is as follows: the printing device 1 performs a printing sequence SP on the recording paper; the management server 2 outputs a waste paper recycling request SC from the user 3; and the management server 2 stores the recycling status of the waste paper collected by the waste paper recycler 4 in the recycling sequence SC in the recording sequence SM. Figure 4 The execution of the benefit supply sequence SB for user 3 is shown.

[0102] First, the printing sequence SP in which the printing apparatus 1 performs printing processing on the recording paper will be described. When the printing sequence SP is executed, the printing control unit 100 determines whether a printing execution request has been input to the recording paper (step S110). Specifically, if image data Dp is input to the printing apparatus 1 by the user 3, if image information of a copy object copied by the copying function is input to the printing apparatus 1 by the user 3, or if information to be printed on the recording paper is input to the printing apparatus 1, the printing control unit 100 determines that a printing execution request for the recording paper has been generated.

[0103] When the printing control unit 100 determines that a printing execution request has been input to the recording paper (step S110 is yes), the printing control unit 100 causes the printing processing unit 150 to perform printing processing based on the input information (step S120). At this time, the printing control unit 100 generates printing status information Psi and stores it in the storage unit 130. The printing status information Psi includes the type and number of recording papers that have undergone printing processing, information on errors generated during printing processing, and information on whether the printed material generated by the printing processing contains confidential information.

[0104] After the printing process of the recording paper is completed by the printing processing unit 150, or if the printing control unit 100 determines that no printing execution request for the recording paper has been input to the printing apparatus 1 (step S110 is no), the printing control unit 100 determines whether the number of recording papers that have undergone printing processing has reached the predetermined number based on the printing status information Psi stored in the storage unit 130 (step S130). Furthermore, if the printing control unit 100 determines that the number of recording papers that have undergone printing processing has not reached the predetermined number (step S130 is no), the printing control unit 100 performs a determination on whether a printing execution request has been input for the recording paper (step S110).

[0105] On the other hand, when the printing control unit 100 determines that the number of sheets of recording paper that have undergone printing processing has reached a predetermined number (yes in step S130), the printing control unit 100 reads the printing status information Psi stored in the storage unit 130 and outputs it to the printing status acquisition control unit 200 of the management server 2 (step S140). The printing status information Psi is input to the management server 2, thereby executing the recycling sequence SC described later.

[0106] After outputting printing status information Psi to the printing status acquisition control unit 200, the printing control unit 100 determines whether document information Fif has been input from the management server 2 (step S150). If document information Fif has been input to the printing control unit 100 (yes in step S150), the printing control unit 100 causes the display unit 120 to display a printing request for the retrieved document based on the document information Fif (step S160). Furthermore, based on the display on the display unit 120, the printing control unit 100 determines whether a printing execution request for the retrieved document has been input (step S170).

[0107] When a user 3 inputs a print request for a return receipt based on the display on the display unit 120, that is, when the print control unit 100 determines that a print request for a return receipt has been input (step S170 is yes), the print control unit 100 instructs the print processing unit 150 to perform print processing of the return receipt based on the input receipt information Fif (step S180). Thus, a return receipt is provided to the user 3. Furthermore, after the print processing of the return receipt performed by the print processing unit 150 is completed, or if the print control unit 100 determines that no print request for a return receipt has been input (step S170 is no), the print control unit 100 performs a determination of whether a print request has been input on the recording paper (step S110).

[0108] As described above, in the printing sequence SP, the printing process of the recording paper is performed based on the printing execution request for the recording paper input by the user 3, and when the printing request for the recycling form is displayed on the display unit 120, the printing process of the recycling form is performed based on the printing execution request for the recycling form input by the user 3.

[0109] Next, the recycling sequence SC for the waste paper recycling request output by the management server 2 from the user 3 will be described. In step S140 of the printing sequence SP, the printing status information Psi output by the printing control unit 100 is input to the management server 2, and the recycling sequence SC begins.

[0110] The recycling sequence SC is initiated, and the printing status acquisition control unit 200 acquires the printing status information Psi output by the printing control unit 100 (step S210). Furthermore, the printing status acquisition control unit 200 acquires the recycling status information Csi from the storage unit 330 of the recycling status acquisition unit 30 (step S220). Specifically, the printing status acquisition control unit 200 requests the recycling status information Csi from the recycling status acquisition control unit 300. Based on the request from the printing status acquisition control unit 200, the recycling status acquisition control unit 300 reads the recycling status information Csi stored in the storage unit 330 and outputs it to the printing status acquisition control unit 200. Thus, the printing status acquisition control unit 200 acquires the recycling status information Csi.

[0111] Furthermore, the printing status acquisition and control unit 200 acquires the operating mode of the printing management system SY from the mode switching unit 210 (step S230). Therefore, the printing status acquisition and control unit 200 controls the operation of the printing management system SY, including the printing status acquisition unit 20, according to the operating mode of the printing management system SY.

[0112] After this, the printing status acquisition and control unit 200 determines whether waste paper recycling from user 3 is required based on the printing status information Psi and the recycling status information Csi (step S240). If the printing status acquisition and control unit 200 determines that waste paper recycling from user 3 is not required (step S240 is no), the recycling sequence SC in the management server 2 ends.

[0113] On the other hand, if the printing status acquisition and control unit 200 determines that it is necessary to recycle the waste paper from the user 3 (step S240 is yes), the printing status acquisition and control unit 200 determines whether it is necessary to print the recycling form in the printing unit 10 (step S250).

[0114] Specifically, the printing status acquisition and control unit 200 determines whether the printing of return forms in the printing unit 10 needs to be performed based on the operation mode of the printing management system SY. More specifically, when the operation mode of the printing management system SY is the first mode MD1, the printing status acquisition and control unit 200 determines that the printing of return forms in the printing unit 10 needs to be performed; when the operation mode of the printing management system SY is the second mode MD2, the printing of return forms in the printing unit 10 does not need to be performed.

[0115] Furthermore, the printing status acquisition control unit 200 can also acquire information on whether the printing unit 10 has printed the return form based on the document information Fif, and determine whether the printing of the return form in the printing unit 10 needs to be performed based on the acquired information. Specifically, after the printing status acquisition control unit 200 outputs a signal requesting the output of the document information Fif to the document information output unit 260, if no information indicating that the return form corresponding to the document information Fif has been printed is input to the printing status acquisition control unit 200 within a predetermined period, the printing status acquisition control unit 200 determines that the printing of the return form in the printing unit 10 needs to be performed. On the other hand, after the printing status acquisition control unit 200 outputs a signal requesting the output of document information Fif to the document information output unit 260, within a predetermined period, if the printing status acquisition control unit 200 outputs information indicating that a return document corresponding to the document information Fif has been printed, or if the printing status acquisition control unit 200 outputs a signal requesting the output of document information Fif to the document information output unit 260, before the predetermined period has elapsed, the printing status acquisition control unit 200 determines that the printing of the return document in the printing unit 10 is not required.

[0116] When the printing status acquisition and control unit 200 determines that printing of the return form in the printing unit 10 is required (yes in step S250), the printing status acquisition and control unit 200 causes the document information output unit 260 to output document information Fif (step S260). Thus, under the control of the printing control unit 100 included in the printing unit 10, the printing request for the return form based on the document information Fif is displayed on the display unit 120.

[0117] If the printing status acquisition and control unit 200 determines that printing of the recycling form in the printing unit 10 is not required (step S260 is no), or after the printing status acquisition and control unit 200 outputs the form information Fif to the printing unit 10, the printing status acquisition and control unit 200 calculates the number of recycling bins to be distributed to the user 3 based on the printing status information Psi (step S270).

[0118] Here, an example of a method for calculating the number of recycling bins in the printing status acquisition and control unit 200 will be explained. Furthermore, in the following explanation, when calculating the number of recycling bins, the bottom area of ​​the recycling bins will be A3 and the depth of the recycling bins will be depth D.

[0119] When calculating the number of recycling bins, the printing status acquisition and control unit 200 first calculates the total height H of the recycled waste paper.

[0120] Specifically, the Printing Status Acquisition and Control Unit 200 estimates the waste paper information collected from User 3 based on information including the type and number of recording papers used in the Printing Status Information Psi, information on errors generated during the printing process, and information on whether the printed matter generated by the printing process contains confidential information. Here, the Printing Status Acquisition and Control Unit 200 estimates the waste paper information collected from User 3 based on the Printing Status Information Psi, for example, by using information on the type and number of recording papers used in the printing process since the last waste paper collection from User 3, and the collection status of waste paper collected from User 3 in the past, to estimate the type and number of waste paper expected to be discharged from User 3 this time as waste paper information.

[0121] After this, the printing status acquisition and control unit 200, based on the estimated information of waste paper expected to be recycled from user 3, classifies the waste paper into n segments of thickness range Tc1 to Tcn according to the thickness of the waste paper. Furthermore, based on the information of waste paper classified into thickness ranges Tc1 to Tcn, the printing status acquisition and control unit 200 obtains the number of waste papers larger than A4 but smaller than A3 as X1, the number of confidential documents included in X1 as Xd1, the number of recording papers included in X1 that caused delivery errors as Xj1, and the number of waste papers smaller than A4 as Y1, the number of confidential documents included in Y1 as Yd1, and the number of recording papers included in Y1 that caused delivery errors as Yj1.

[0122] After that, the printing status acquisition and control unit 200 calculates the height H1 of the recycled waste paper included in the thickness segment Tc1 by substituting the central value of the segment Tc1, i.e., the thickness t1, the number of waste paper sheets greater than A4 but less than A3, i.e., X1, the number of confidential documents included in X1, i.e., Xd1, the number of recording paper sheets that caused the delivery error included in X1, i.e., Xj1, the number of waste paper sheets less than A4, i.e., Y1, the number of confidential documents included in Y1, i.e., Yd1, and the number of recording paper sheets that caused the delivery error included in Y1, i.e., Yj1, into the following formula (1).

[0123]

Mathematical Formula 1

[0124]

[0125] Similarly, the printing condition acquisition and control unit 200 acquires the following information based on waste paper classified into thickness ranges Tc2 to Tcn: the number of sheets of waste paper larger than A4 but smaller than A3, the number of confidential documents among the sheets larger than A4 but smaller than A3, the number of sheets larger than A4 but smaller than A3 that experienced transport errors, the number of waste paper smaller than A4, the number of confidential documents among the sheets smaller than A4, and the number of sheets smaller than A4 that experienced transport errors. Furthermore, based on the same calculation formula as for thickness range Tc1, the printing condition acquisition and control unit 200 calculates the heights H2 to Hn of the recycled waste paper, corresponding to thickness ranges Tc2 to Tcn respectively. Moreover, the printing condition acquisition and control unit 200 calculates the total height H of the recycled waste paper by summing the calculated heights H1 to Hn.

[0126] After this, the printing status acquisition and control unit 200 divides the calculated total height H of the waste paper by the depth D of the recycling bin, and rounds up the decimal point of the resulting value. The printing status acquisition and control unit 200 keeps this calculation result as the number of recycling bins to be distributed to the user 3.

[0127] Here, the coefficient A included in equation (1) is a correction coefficient used to correct for the thickness of the recording paper caused by a feeding error during the printing process in the printing processing unit 150. When feeding the recording paper, if a feeding error such as a paper jam occurs, wrinkles are formed on the recording paper, resulting in an increase in the actual space occupied by the recording paper. Coefficient A, used to correct for the change in the thickness of the recording paper that occurs along with such a feeding error, is set to a value of "1" or higher.

[0128] As described above, after the printing status acquisition control unit 200 calculates the number of recycling bins to be distributed to the user 3, the printing status acquisition control unit 200 outputs various information to the recycling status acquisition control unit 300 via the recycling request unit 250. The various information includes information on the number of recycling bins distributed to the user 3, information on the operation mode of the printing management system SY, and information on identifying the user 3 based on the identification information ID.

[0129] The recycling status acquisition and control unit 300 generates a recycling request Crq, which includes information identifying user 3, based on the input information about the number of recycling bins, the operation mode information of the printing management system SY, and the identification information ID, and outputs it to the waste paper recycler 4. That is, the recycling status acquisition and control unit 300 and the printing status acquisition and control unit 200 output a recycling request Crq for recycling waste paper from user 3 to the waste paper recycler 4 (step S280). Moreover, the recycling sequence SC ends when the recycling request Crq for recycling waste paper from user 3 is output to the waste paper recycler 4.

[0130] Waste paper recycler 4 collects waste paper from user 3 based on a recycling request Crq. Specifically, when the operation mode of the printing management system SY specified by the recycling request Crq is the first mode MD1, waste paper recycler 4 distributes the number of recycling bins specified by the recycling request Crq to user 3. User 3 packs the waste paper into the recycling bins distributed by waste paper recycler 4, affixes a recycling slip, and returns it to waste paper recycler 4. Furthermore, waste paper recycler 4 collects the waste paper from the returned recycling bins. On the other hand, when the operation mode of the printing management system SY specified by the recycling request Crq is the second mode MD2, waste paper recycler 4 goes to user 3 with the number of recycling bins specified by the recycling request Crq, or waste paper recycling containers capable of recycling an equivalent amount of waste paper, and collects the waste paper held by user 3. Furthermore, waste paper recycler 4 produces recycled paper from the collected waste paper.

[0131] After waste paper recycler 4 collects waste paper from user 3, waste paper recycler 4 inputs recycling status information Csi corresponding to the collected waste paper into management server 2. This triggers a recording sequence SM that stores the recycling status of the waste paper collected by waste paper recycler 4 in the management server 2 within the recycling sequence SC. Specifically, in the recording sequence SM, the recycling status acquisition control unit 300 stores the input recycling status information Csi in storage unit 330 (step S310). At this time, the recycling status acquisition control unit 300 may also store information such as the date and location of the input recycling status information Csi. Finally, the recycling status acquisition control unit 300 stores the recycling status information Csi in storage unit 330, and the recording sequence SM ends.

[0132] Management server 2 updates the waste paper recycling status corresponding to user 3 based on the recycling status information Csi stored in the record sequence SM. Therefore, based on the latest waste paper recycling status, management server 2 can determine whether waste paper recycling for user 3 is necessary.

[0133] Next, the benefit supply sequence SB for providing benefits to user 3 will be explained. When the benefit supply mode MB is enabled, the benefit supply sequence SB is executed at the timing of providing benefits to user 3. The benefit supply sequence SB begins, and the printing status acquisition control unit 200 reads and acquires the printing status information Psi and recycling status information Csi stored in the storage unit 230 (step S410). Furthermore, based on the acquired printing status information Psi and recycling status information Csi, the printing status acquisition control unit 200 calculates user 3's waste paper recycling rate, waste paper recycling amount, and foreign matter contamination rate, and determines whether to provide benefits to user 3 based on the calculation results (step S420). Here, the printing status acquisition control unit 200 can determine whether to provide benefits to user 3 based on any one of user 3's waste paper recycling rate, waste paper recycling amount, and foreign matter contamination rate, or it can comprehensively consider two or more of these factors together to determine whether to provide benefits to user 3. Furthermore, the printing status acquisition and control unit 200 can also determine whether benefit provision is necessary based on other information besides this.

[0134] If the printing status acquisition control unit 200 determines that it is not necessary to provide benefits to user 3 (step S420 is No), the benefit provision sequence SB in the management server 2 ends. On the other hand, if the printing status acquisition control unit 200 determines that it is necessary to provide benefits to user 3 (step S420 is Yes), the printing status acquisition control unit 200 instructs the benefit provision instruction unit 270 to perform benefit provision processing. As a result, the benefit provision instruction unit 270 outputs benefit provision information Bgi (step S430) including information on the benefits provided to user 3, and performs benefit provision, ending the benefit provision sequence SB in the management server 2.

[0135] The benefit supply sequence SB in the printing unit 10 is started by inputting the benefit supply information Bgi output by the benefit supply instruction unit 270 into the printing unit 10. The benefit supply information Bgi output by the benefit supply instruction unit 270 is input into the printing control unit 100. Based on the benefit information included and supplied in the input benefit supply information Bgi, the printing control unit 100 generates benefit information Bif, which represents the benefit information supplied to the user 3. Furthermore, the printing control unit 100 displays the information based on the benefit information Bif on the display unit 120 (step S440).

[0136] Here, the benefit provision instruction unit 270 provides benefits, for example, by instructing the coupon issuance system to issue coupons as a benefit provision to user 3. It also instructs the fee collection system to provide discounts on user 3's fees as a benefit provision. Furthermore, it instructs the distribution of recycling bins to waste paper recyclers 4 in a manner that combines the bins with items such as tissue paper. These are examples, but not limited to them.

[0137] Here, printing unit 10 is an example of a first printing unit, at least one of storage units 130, 230, and 330 is an example of a first storage unit, printing status acquisition and control unit 200 is an example of a judgment unit, document information output unit 260 is an example of a printing request unit, mode switching unit 210 is an example of a switching unit, and input unit 110 is an example of a printing authorization unit. Furthermore, printing status information Psi is an example of first printing information, and retrieval status information Csi is an example of retrieval information. Furthermore, the printing sequence SP in which the printing unit 10 prints on the recording paper is an example of a printing process; the step S260 in which the document information output unit 260 outputs a printing request for recycling documents to the printing unit 10 based on the judgment result of the printing status acquisition control unit 200 is an example of a printing request process; the waste paper recycling performed by the recycling status acquisition control unit 300 and the printing status acquisition control unit 200 by outputting a recycling request Crq for recycling waste paper from the user 3 to the waste paper recycler 4 (step S280) is an example of a recycling process; and the production of recycled paper based on waste paper by the waste paper recycler 4 after the recycling process is an example of a production process.

[0138] 1.4 Effects

[0139] As described above, the printing management system SY of the first embodiment includes: a printing unit 10 for printing on recording paper; storage units 130, 230, and 330 for storing printing status information Psi indicating the printing status in the printing unit 10; a printing status acquisition and control unit 200 for determining whether waste paper recycling is required based on the printing status information Psi; a document information output unit 260 for outputting a printing request for recycling documents to the printing unit 10 based on the determination result of the printing status acquisition and control unit 200; and a recycling request unit 250 for requesting the recycling of waste paper using recycling documents based on the determination result of the printing status acquisition and control unit 200.

[0140] In this first embodiment of the printing management system SY, the printing status acquisition and control unit 200 can determine whether waste paper recycling is necessary based on the printing status of the printing device 1 and the printing unit 10. Furthermore, when the printing status acquisition and control unit 200 determines that it is preferable to recycle waste paper from the user 3, the document information output unit 260 outputs document information Fif to the printing unit 10, and the printing unit 10 prints a recycling form corresponding to the input document information Fif. That is, by doing so, the user 3 using the printing device 1 can be reminded to recycle waste paper at a suitable time and provided with a recycling form for waste paper recycling. Therefore, the labor required for waste paper recycling by the user 3 can be reduced. As a result, the recycling rate of waste paper is increased, and consequently, the efficient use of resources and environmental protection can be further promoted.

[0141] Furthermore, when the printing status acquisition and control unit 200 determines that it is preferable to recycle waste paper from user 3, the recycling request unit 250 outputs a recycling request Crq to the waste paper recycler 4 requesting the recycling of waste paper. As a result, the waste paper recycler 4 distributes a recycling bin for recycling waste paper from user 3 to user 3. That is, in the printing management system SY of the first embodiment, the waste paper recycler 4 does not need to manage the status of user 3 separately, but is notified of the appropriate time for recycling waste paper from user 3. As a result, the waste paper recycler 4 can remind user 3 using the printing device 1 to recycle waste paper at the appropriate time and provide the recycling bin for waste paper recycling. Therefore, the labor required for waste paper recycling by the waste paper recycler 4 is reduced, and the labor required for waste paper recycling by user 3 can be further reduced. As a result, the waste paper recycling rate from user 3 is further improved, which can further promote the efficient use of resources and environmental protection.

[0142] Furthermore, the printing management system SY of the first embodiment includes: a printing apparatus 1, including a printing unit 10 for printing on recording paper; a printing status acquisition unit 20 for acquiring printing status information Psi indicating the printing status of the printing unit 10; a recycling status acquisition unit 30 for acquiring recycling status information Csi indicating the recycling status of waste paper; and a benefit provision instruction unit 270 for instructing the provision of benefits to the user 3 of the printing apparatus 1 based on at least one of the printing status information Psi and the recycling status information Csi.

[0143] In this printing management system SY, the benefit supply instruction unit 270 can provide benefits to user 3 based on the printing status of the printing unit 10 and the recycling status of waste paper from user 3, thereby increasing user 3's awareness of waste paper recycling. As a result, the amount and rate of waste paper recycled by user 3 are further improved. Consequently, the efficient use of resources and environmental protection are further promoted.

[0144] Furthermore, the increased waste paper recycling rate of user 3 allows waste paper recycler 4 to conduct continuous waste paper recycling with less labor. As a result, the production efficiency of recycled paper based on the waste paper collected by waste paper recycler 4 is improved. That is, in the printing management system SY of the first embodiment, the improved waste paper recycling rate and the production efficiency of recycled paper further promote the effective utilization of resources.

[0145] 1.5 Variation Example

[0146] In the printing management system SY of the first embodiment described above, it has been described that all the structures included in the printing status acquisition unit 20 and the recycling status acquisition unit 30 are provided in the management server 2. However, it is also possible to provide some or all of the structures included in the printing status acquisition unit 20 and the recycling status acquisition unit 30 in the printing apparatus 1. Furthermore, any one of the structures included in the printing unit 10, the printing status acquisition unit 20, and the recycling status acquisition unit 30 may be constituted by a single semiconductor device.

[0147] Furthermore, in the printing management system SY of the first embodiment described above, the identification information ID stored in the printing device 1 can be input by the user through the operation of the printing device 1, or it can be uniquely assigned to the printing device 1. The name, address, contact information, etc. of the user 3 of the printing device 1 are pre-assigned as identification information IDs and associated with the printing device 1, so that the management server 2 can print the collected documents by obtaining the identification information IDs from the printing device 1.

[0148] Furthermore, the various structures of the printing management system SY of the first embodiment described above can be formed into one structure through the cooperation of multiple devices, or a part of the above-described structure can be included in different devices.

[0149] Furthermore, in the printing management system SY of the first embodiment described above, the waste paper recycler 4 may also include one or more individuals or legal entities that recycle waste paper from the user 3, and one or more individuals or legal entities that produce recycled paper from the recycled waste paper.

[0150] Furthermore, the calculation method and formula described in the first embodiment above are just one example and are not limited thereto.

[0151] Furthermore, some or all of the various processes performed by the printing management system SY of the first embodiment described above can also be performed by AI (Artificial Intelligence). For example, AI can also perform decisions such as determining the timing of waste paper recycling, whether or not there is a benefit to be provided, and the amount of benefit to be provided.

[0152] Alternatively, either the provision of benefits accompanied by the input of recycling status information Csi by waste paper recycler 4 and the production of recycled paper by waste paper recycler 4 can be carried out first.

[0153] 2. Second Implementation Method

[0154] The printing management system SY according to the second embodiment will be described. When describing the printing management system SY according to the second embodiment, the same reference numerals will be used to label structures identical to those in the printing management system SY according to the first embodiment, and their descriptions will be simplified or omitted.

[0155] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the operation of the printing management system SY according to the second embodiment, as shown below. Figure 5 As shown, in the second embodiment of the printing management system SY, when executing the printing sequence SP, the printing control unit 100 determines whether a printing execution request has been input to the recording paper (step S110). Furthermore, if the printing control unit 100 determines that a printing execution request has been input to the recording paper (step S110 is yes), the printing control unit 100 causes the printing processing unit 150 to perform printing processing based on the input information (step S120). At this time, the printing control unit 100 generates printing status information Psi and stores it in the storage unit 130. This printing status information Psi includes the type and number of recording papers that have undergone printing processing, information about errors generated during printing processing, and information about whether the printed material generated by the printing processing contains confidential information.

[0156] Furthermore, after the printing process performed by the printing processing unit 150 is completed, or if the printing control unit 100 determines that no printing execution request for the recording paper has been input to the printing apparatus 1 (step S110 is no), the printing control unit 100 converts the number of recording papers that have undergone printing processing into the number of sheets of a predetermined size based on the printing status information Psi stored in the storage unit 130. That is, the printing control unit 100 performs the conversion of the number of printing processing sheets (step S125).

[0157] A specific example of the conversion of the number of prints processed by the printing control unit 100 will be explained. In addition, in explaining one example of the conversion of the number of prints processed, the following explanation will illustrate the case of converting the number of prints processed to A3 size.

[0158] When performing the conversion of the number of printed sheets, the printing control unit 100 obtains the number of recording sheets larger than A4 but smaller than A3 as x based on the printing status information Psi, obtains the number of confidential documents included in x as xd, obtains the number of recording sheets included in x that have caused a delivery error as xj, and obtains the number of recording sheets smaller than A4 as y, obtains the number of confidential documents included in y as yd, and obtains the number of recording sheets included in y that have caused a delivery error as yj.

[0159] After that, the printing control unit 100 calculates the converted number of sheets CON by substituting the number of sheets of recording paper larger than A4 but smaller than A3 (x), the number of confidential documents included in x (xd), the number of recording papers that caused delivery errors included in x (xj), the number of sheets of recording paper smaller than A4 (y), the number of confidential documents included in y (yd), and the number of recording papers that caused delivery errors included in y (yj) into the following formula (2).

[0160]

Mathematical Formula 2

[0161]

[0162] Here, the coefficient B included in equation (2) is a correction coefficient used to correct for the thickness of the recording paper caused by a feeding error during the printing process in the printing processing unit 150. When feeding the recording paper, if a feeding error such as a paper jam occurs, wrinkles are formed on the recording paper, resulting in an increase in the actual space occupied by the recording paper. The coefficient B is a correction coefficient used to correct for the change in the thickness of the recording paper that occurs along with such a feeding error, and is set to a value of "1" or higher.

[0163] After the printing control unit 100 performs the conversion of the number of sheets to be printed, the printing control unit 100 determines whether the converted number of sheets CON has reached the specified number of sheets (step S130). Furthermore, if the printing control unit 100 determines that the converted number of sheets CON has not reached the specified number of sheets (step S130 is no), the printing control unit 100 performs a determination on whether a printing execution request has been input to the printing apparatus 1 (step S110).

[0164] On the other hand, when the printing control unit 100 determines that the number of recording papers that have undergone printing processing has reached the specified number (step S130 is yes), the printing control unit 100 reads the printing status information Psi stored in the storage unit 130 and outputs it to the printing status acquisition control unit 200 of the management server 2 (step S140).

[0165] After that, the printing management system SY, in the same manner as in the first embodiment, executes the actions after step S140 in the printing sequence SP, and executes the actions in the recycling sequence SC, the recording sequence SM, and the benefit supply sequence SB, respectively.

[0166] Even the printing management system SY of the second embodiment, constructed as described above, has the same effect as the printing management system SY of the first embodiment. Furthermore, in the printing management system SY of the second embodiment, the number of printed sheets is converted using formula (2), and the converted number of sheets CON is calculated. Thus, even if a conveying error occurs during printing on the recording paper and the thickness of the waste paper increases, the recycling time of the waste paper requested by the user 3 can be more accurately determined.

[0167] Specifically, the print status information Psi includes information indicating whether there is a paper feeding error. Compared to a print status information Psi that does not include information assuming a feeding error has occurred, the print control unit 100 determines the timing for reaching the specified number of sheets earlier when the print status information Psi includes information assuming a feeding error has occurred. Therefore, the print status acquisition control unit 200 determines the timing for needing waste paper recycling earlier when the print status information Psi includes information indicating whether there is a paper feeding error, compared to a print status information Psi that includes information assuming no feeding error has occurred.

[0168] Therefore, it is possible to obtain more detailed information about the timing of waste paper recycling requested by user 3, and to remind user 3 to recycle waste paper at a more timely time.

[0169] 3. Third Implementation Method

[0170] Next, the printing management system SY according to the third embodiment will be described. In describing the printing management system SY according to the third embodiment, the same reference numerals will be used to label the same structures as those in the printing management systems SY of the first and second embodiments, and their descriptions will be simplified or omitted.

[0171] Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating an overview of waste paper recycling using the printing management system SY according to the third embodiment. (See diagram below.) Figure 6As shown, in the printing management system SY of the third embodiment, the point at which the user 3 operates the two printing devices 1 differs from the printing management systems SY of the first and second embodiments. That is, in the printing management system SY of the third embodiment, the point at which the two printing devices 1 used by the user 3 are communicatively connected to a management server 2 differs from the printing management systems SY of the first and second embodiments.

[0172] In the following description, one side of the printing device 1 operated by user 3 will be referred to as printing device 1-1, and the other side of the printing device 1 operated by user 3 will be referred to as printing device 1-2. Furthermore, printing device 1-1 and printing device 1-2 have the same structure. Figure 2 The printing apparatus 1 shown has the following structure. Specifically, printing apparatuses 1-1 and 1-2 each include a printing control unit 100, an input unit 110, a display unit 120, a storage unit 130, and a printing processing unit 150. Furthermore, in the following description, the printing control unit 100, input unit 110, display unit 120, storage unit 130, and printing processing unit 150 included in printing apparatus 1-1 will sometimes be referred to as printing control unit 100-1, input unit 110-1, display unit 120-1, storage unit 130-1, and printing processing unit 150-1, and the printing control unit 100, input unit 110, display unit 120, storage unit 130, and printing processing unit 150 included in printing apparatus 1-2 will be referred to as printing control unit 100-2, input unit 110-2, display unit 120-2, storage unit 130-2, and printing processing unit 150-2.

[0173] Furthermore, the printing apparatus 1-1 is communicatively connected to the management server 2. Identification information ID and image data Dp1 are input to the printing apparatus 1-1. The identification information ID identifies the user 3, and the image data Dp1 is the information of text and images formed by the printing apparatus 1-1 on the recording paper. Consequently, the printing processing unit 150-1 included in the printing apparatus 1-1 performs the printing process of printing text and images corresponding to the information included in the input image data Dp1 onto the recording paper. At this time, the printing control unit 100-1 included in the printing apparatus 1-1 generates printing status information Psi1 indicating the execution status of the printing process performed by the printing processing unit 150-1, and stores it in the storage unit 130-1. Moreover, if the number of recording papers processed by the printing processing unit 150-1 exceeds a predetermined number, the printing control unit 100-1 outputs the printing status information Psi1 stored in the storage unit 130-1 to the management server 2.

[0174] Furthermore, the printing apparatus 1-2 is communicatively connected to the management server 2. Identification information ID and image data Dp2 are input to the printing apparatus 1-2. The identification information ID is information identifying the user 3, and the image data Dp2 is information about the text and images formed by the printing apparatus 1-2 on the recording paper. Consequently, the printing processing unit 150-2 included in the printing apparatus 1-2 performs the printing process of printing the text and images corresponding to the information included in the input image data Dp2 onto the recording paper. At this time, the printing control unit 100-2 included in the printing apparatus 1-2 generates printing status information Psi2 indicating the execution status of the printing process performed by the printing processing unit 150-2, and stores it in the storage unit 130-2. Moreover, if the number of recording papers processed by the printing processing unit 150-2 exceeds a predetermined number, the printing control unit 100-2 outputs the printing status information Psi2 stored in the storage unit 130-2 to the management server 2.

[0175] The printing status acquisition control unit 200, included in the printing status acquisition unit 20 of the management server 2, determines whether waste paper collection from user 3 is required based on the printing status information Psi1 output by printing device 1-1, the printing status information Psi2 output by printing device 1-2, and the recycling status information Csi input by waste paper recycler 4. If the management server 2 determines that waste paper collection from user 3 is required, it outputs document information Fif to printing device 1-1 according to the operation mode of the printing management system SY, and outputs a recycling request Crq to waste paper recycler 4 requesting waste paper recycling.

[0176] In addition, the management server 2 generates benefit supply information Bgi for granting benefits to user 3 based on the printing status information Psi1 input from printing device 1-1, the printing status information Psi2 input from printing device 1-2, and the recycling status information Csi input from waste paper recycler 4, and outputs it to printing device 1-1.

[0177] As described above, in the printing management system SY of the third embodiment, the two printing devices 1-1 and 1-2, which are operated by the user 3, are communicatively connected to the management server 2. Even with this third embodiment of the printing management system SY, it achieves the same effects as the printing management systems SY of the first and second embodiments.

[0178] In the printing management system SY of the third embodiment, the printing unit 10-1 is an example of a first printing unit, the storage unit 130-1 is an example of a first storage unit, the printing status information Psi1 is an example of first printing information, the printing unit 10-2 is an example of a second printing unit, the storage unit 130-2 is an example of a second storage unit, and the printing status information Psi2 is an example of second printing information.

[0179] The embodiments and variations have been described above, but the present invention is not limited to these embodiments and can be implemented in various ways without departing from its spirit. For example, the embodiments described above can also be appropriately combined.

[0180] This invention includes structures substantially identical to those described in the embodiments (e.g., structures with the same function, method, and result, or structures with the same purpose and effect). Furthermore, this invention includes structures that replace non-essential parts of the structures described in the embodiments. Furthermore, this invention includes structures capable of achieving the same effect or purpose as the structures described in the embodiments. Furthermore, this invention includes structures incorporating known techniques into the structures described in the embodiments. This invention can be implemented by cooperating one structure described in the embodiments in multiple devices, or by cooperating multiple structures described in the embodiments in one device. Furthermore, this invention can be understood as an invention of a printing management system, an invention of a program for controlling a printing management system, and also as a printing management method, a method for recycling waste paper and producing recycled paper.

[0181] The following content is derived from the above implementation method.

[0182] One aspect of a printing management system includes: a first printing unit for printing; a first storage unit for storing first printing information indicating the printing status in the first printing unit; a judgment unit for determining, based on the first printing information, whether waste paper recycling is required; a printing request unit for printing a recycling form based on the judgment result of the judgment unit; and a recycling request unit for requesting the recycling of the waste paper using the recycling form based on the judgment result of the judgment unit.

[0183] According to this printing management system, the judgment department determines whether waste paper recycling is necessary based on the printing status of the first printing unit. This eliminates the need for users who use the first printing unit and entrust waste paper recycling to manage recycling schedules, thus improving user convenience. Furthermore, when the judgment department determines that waste paper recycling is necessary, it provides users with recycling slips, reducing the labor required for waste paper recycling. Additionally, when the judgment department determines that waste paper recycling is necessary, it requests recycling from waste paper recyclers, eliminating the need for recyclers to manage their own waste paper recycling schedules, thus improving their convenience as well. Moreover, waste paper recyclers can determine the optimal recycling time and provide users with the necessary materials for recycling, thus reminding users to recycle their waste paper at the optimal time.

[0184] As mentioned above, this printing management system offers greater convenience to users and further reduces the labor required for waste paper recycling. Therefore, the increased waste paper recycling rate by users can further promote the efficient use of resources and environmental protection.

[0185] In one embodiment of the printing management system, a switching unit may be included to switch between a first mode and a second mode. In the first mode, the printing request unit prints the recycling form based on the judgment result of the judgment unit, and the recycling request unit requests the recycling of waste paper that uses the recycling form based on the judgment result of the judgment unit. In the second mode, the printing request unit does not print the recycling form regardless of the judgment result of the judgment unit, and the recycling request unit requests the recycling of waste paper that does not use the recycling form based on the judgment result of the judgment unit.

[0186] This printing management system allows users to choose between recycling waste paper using receipts and recycling waste paper without receipts, further enhancing user convenience. Therefore, by increasing users' waste paper recycling rates, it can further promote the efficient use of resources and environmental protection.

[0187] In one embodiment of the printing management system, the first printing information may also include information on the number of prints of each type of printing paper that has been printed.

[0188] According to this printing management system, the first printing information of the printing status in the first printing unit, used to determine whether waste paper recycling is required in the judgment unit, includes information on the number of sheets printed for each type of recording paper, thereby improving the accuracy of the judgment unit's determination of whether waste paper recycling is required. This allows for better management of the timing of waste paper recycling by users.

[0189] In one embodiment of the printing management system, the first printing information may also include information indicating whether there is a paper feeding error. Compared to the case where the first printing information does not include information assuming that the feeding error has occurred, the timing for determining that the waste paper needs to be recycled is earlier when the first printing information includes information assuming that the feeding error has occurred.

[0190] According to this printing management system, the first printing information used by the determination unit to determine whether waste paper recycling is needed includes information indicating whether there is a paper feeding error. Compared to a case where the first printing information includes information assuming no feeding error occurred, or a case where the first printing information includes information assuming a feeding error occurred, the timing for determining whether waste paper recycling is needed is earlier, thus improving the accuracy of the determination unit's assessment. This allows for better management of the timing of waste paper recycling for users.

[0191] In one embodiment of the printing management system, the first printing information may also include information on whether the printed material contains confidential information.

[0192] According to this printing management system, the first printing information of the printing status in the first printing unit, used by the determination unit to determine whether waste paper recycling is necessary, includes information on whether the printed material contains confidential information, thereby improving the accuracy of the determination unit's determination of whether waste paper recycling is necessary. This allows for better management of the timing of waste paper recycling by the user.

[0193] In one embodiment of the printing management system, the determination unit may also determine whether the waste paper recycling needs to be performed based on the first printing information stored in the first storage unit and the recycling information indicating the recycling status of the waste paper.

[0194] According to this printing management system, in addition to the first printing information stored in the first storage unit, the judgment unit also determines whether waste paper recycling is necessary based on recycling information indicating the recycling status of waste paper, thereby improving the accuracy of the judgment unit in determining whether waste paper recycling is necessary. This allows for better management of the timing of waste paper recycling by the user.

[0195] In one embodiment of the printing management system, a printing authorization unit may be included to allow the printing of the recycling form. If the determination unit determines that the waste paper recycling is required and the printing authorization unit allows the printing of the recycling form, the printing request unit causes the recycling form to be printed. If the determination unit determines that the waste paper recycling is required and the printing authorization unit does not allow the printing of the recycling form, the printing request unit waits for permission from the printing authorization unit and then allows the recycling form to be printed.

[0196] According to this printing management system, if the timing of waste paper recycling output by the judgment department is not optimal, whether to print recycling forms depends on the control of the printing license department, thereby enabling users to achieve better recycling times for their waste paper.

[0197] In one embodiment of the printing management system, identification information for determining the recycling destination of the waste paper can also be printed on the recycling form.

[0198] In one embodiment of the printing management system, it may also include: a second printing unit for printing; and a second storage unit for storing second printing information indicating the printing status in the second printing unit, wherein the determination unit determines whether the waste paper recycling needs to be performed based on the first printing information stored in the first storage unit and the second printing information stored in the second storage unit.

[0199] According to this printing management system, even when a second printing unit is present in addition to the first printing unit that prints on recording paper, the judgment unit determines whether waste paper recycling is necessary based on first printing information indicating the printing status of the first printing unit and second printing information indicating the printing status of the second printing unit. This increases user convenience and further reduces the labor required for waste paper recycling. Therefore, by increasing the user's waste paper recycling rate, the effective use of resources and environmental protection can be further promoted.

[0200] One method for producing recycled paper may include: a printing step in which printing is performed on recording paper using a first printing unit; a printing request step in which a recycling form is printed based on first printing information indicating the printing status in the first printing unit; a recycling step in which waste paper using the recycling form is recycled; and a production step in which recycled paper is produced from the recycled waste paper.

[0201] According to this printing management method, in the judgment process, the judgment unit determines whether waste paper recycling is necessary based on the printing status of the first printing unit. This eliminates the need for users who use the first printing unit for printing, i.e., users who entrust waste paper recycling, to manage waste paper recycling schedules, thus improving user convenience. Furthermore, in the judgment process, if the judgment unit determines that waste paper recycling is necessary, in the printing request process, the printing request unit outputs a waste paper recycling form to the first printing unit, providing this form to the users of the first printing unit. This reduces the labor required for users involved in waste paper recycling. Additionally, in the judgment process, if the judgment unit determines that waste paper recycling is necessary, in the recycling request process, the recycling request unit requests waste paper recycling from waste paper recyclers. This eliminates the need for waste paper recyclers to manage their own waste paper recycling schedules, further improving their convenience. Furthermore, in the judgment process, if the judgment unit determines that waste paper needs to be recycled, in the recycling request process, the recycling request unit requests the recycling of waste paper from the waste paper recycler. The waste paper recycler can grasp the optimal recycling time, thereby providing the user with the materials and other materials required for waste paper recycling. As a result, the user is also reminded to recycle waste paper.

[0202] As stated above, this printing management method offers greater convenience to users and further reduces the labor required for waste paper recycling. Therefore, increasing the waste paper recycling rate among users can further promote the efficient use of resources and environmental protection.

Claims

1. A printing management system, characterized in that, have: The first printing department is responsible for printing. The first storage unit stores first printing information indicating the printing status in the first printing unit; The judgment unit determines, based on the first printing information, whether it is necessary to recycle the waste paper discharged from the first printing unit; The printing request unit, based on the judgment result of the judgment unit, causes the first printing unit to print the return document; as well as The recycling request unit, based on the judgment result of the judgment unit, requests the recycling of the waste paper using the recycling document.

2. The printing management system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The printing management system includes a switching unit for switching between a first mode and a second mode. In the first mode Based on the judgment result of the judgment unit, the printing request unit prints the recycling form. Based on the judgment result of the judgment unit, the recycling request unit requests the recycling of the waste paper that used the recycling document. In the second mode Regardless of the judgment result of the judgment unit, the printing request unit will not allow the recycling form to be printed. Based on the judgment result of the judgment unit, the recycling request unit requests the recycling of the waste paper without using the recycling form.

3. The printing management system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The first printing information includes information on the number of prints for each type of printing paper.

4. The printing management system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first printing information includes information indicating whether there is a paper feeding error. Compared to the case where the first printing information does not include information assuming that the transport error has occurred, in the case where the first printing information includes information assuming that the transport error has occurred, the timing for determining that the waste paper recycling needs to be performed is earlier.

5. The printing management system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first printing information includes information on whether the printed material contains confidential information.

6. The printing management system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The determination unit determines whether the waste paper needs to be recycled based on the first printing information stored in the first storage unit and the recycling information indicating the recycling status of the waste paper.

7. The printing management system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The printing management system includes a printing license department that permits the printing of the return documents. If the determination unit determines that the waste paper recycling is necessary, and the printing permission unit approves the printing of the recycling form, the printing request unit causes the recycling form to be printed. If the determination unit determines that the waste paper needs to be recycled and the printing permission unit does not allow the printing of the recycling form, the printing request unit waits for permission from the printing permission unit and then prints the recycling form.

8. The printing management system according to claim 1, characterized in that, Identification information for determining the recycling destination of the waste paper is printed on the recycling form.

9. The printing management system according to claim 1, characterized in that, have: The second printing department is responsible for printing; and The second storage unit stores second printing information indicating the printing status in the second printing unit. The determination unit determines whether it is necessary to recycle the waste paper discharged from the first printing unit and the second printing unit based on the first printing information stored in the first storage unit and the second printing information stored in the second storage unit.

10. A method for producing recycled paper, characterized in that, The process includes the following steps: In the printing process, the first printing unit is used to print on the recording paper; The printing request process, based on first printing information indicating the printing status in the first printing unit, causes the first printing unit to print a return document; The recycling process involves using the aforementioned recycling form to recycle the waste paper discharged from the first printing section; and The production process involves producing recycled paper from the collected waste paper.

11. A printing management procedure, characterized in that, To enable the computer to perform the following functions: The first acquisition function is to communicate with the printing department to acquire the printing status in the printing department; The judgment function determines, based on the printing status, whether it is necessary to recycle the waste paper discharged from the printing section; The printing function, based on the judgment result of the judgment function, enables the printing department to print the recycling form; as well as The recycling request function requests the recycling of waste paper using the recycling document based on the judgment result of the judgment function.

Images