Service providing system, service providing apparatus, and printing apparatus

Abstract

A service providing system, a service providing apparatus, and a printing apparatus capable of performing printing in an amount corresponding to an ink remaining amount of an ink cartridge 121 installed before entry into a service after withdrawal from the service are provided. The service providing system (1000) includes a providing section that distributes a dedicated ink cartridge (121A) to be installed in place of a non-dedicated ink cartridge (121B) that is an ink cartridge installed in a multifunction peripheral (1) before entry into a service; a server storage (210) that stores an ink remaining amount of the non-dedicated ink cartridge (121B); and a permitting section (102) that permits printing using the dedicated ink cartridge (121A) in accordance with the ink remaining amount stored in the server storage (210) in a case where a user withdraws from the service.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a service delivery system, a service delivery apparatus, a printing apparatus, and a control method for the service delivery system. Background Technology

[0002] A system has been known to provide users of printing equipment with storage containers for the printing materials used in printing. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a system for delivering specific ink cartridges to printer users. The system disclosed in Patent Document 1 sets the printing equipment to a state where the specific ink cartridge is unusable if the contract for the delivery of the specific ink cartridge has been terminated.

[0003] Patent Document 1, when enrolling in a service, not only replaces the installed ink cartridge with a specific ink cartridge, but also renders the specific ink cartridge unusable upon termination of the service contract. Thus, in the prior art, it is impossible to print using an amount corresponding to the remaining amount of printing material stored in the storage unit installed before service enrollment, after service cancellation.

[0004] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2017-049767 Summary of the Invention

[0005] One solution to the aforementioned problem is a service delivery system that provides a service for delivering storage items for storing printing materials used in printing by a printing apparatus. The service delivery system comprises: a delivery unit that delivers a second storage item, which is to be installed as a replacement for a first storage item, the first storage item being the one already installed in the printing apparatus before the user joins the service; a storage unit that stores remaining quantity data indicating the remaining amount of printing material in the first storage item; and an enabling unit that, upon the user of the printing apparatus withdrawing from the service, allows printing performed by the printing apparatus using the second storage item, based on the remaining quantity data stored in the storage unit.

[0006] Another approach to solving the aforementioned problem is a service providing device for providing a service to deliver a storage item to a user of a printing device, the storage item storing printing materials used by the printing device in printing. The service providing device comprises: a providing unit that delivers a second storage item, which is to be installed as a replacement for a first storage item, the first storage item being the one already installed in the printing device before joining the service; and an enabling unit that, in the event that a user of the printing device cancels the service, retrieves the remaining quantity data from a storage unit storing remaining quantity data indicating the remaining amount of printing material in the first storage item, and enables printing performed by the printing device using the second storage item based on the remaining quantity indicated by the remaining quantity data.

[0007] Another approach to solving the aforementioned problem is a printing apparatus that uses a storage container for storing printing material to perform printing, and includes: a storage unit that stores remaining quantity data indicating the remaining quantity when a user of the printing apparatus joins a service that delivers the storage container, and indicating the remaining quantity of printing material stored in a first storage container that was installed in the printing apparatus before joining the service; and an enabling unit that, in the event that a user of the printing apparatus cancels their service, enables printing using a second storage container based on the remaining quantity data stored in the storage unit, the second storage container being the storage container installed in place of the first storage container.

[0008] Another approach to solving the aforementioned problem is a control method for a service delivery system that provides a service for distributing storage items for storing printing materials used by a printing apparatus in printing. In the control method of the service delivery system, the following processes are performed: distributing a second storage item, installed as a replacement for a first storage item, which was installed in the printing apparatus before the user joined the service; storing remaining quantity data indicating the remaining amount of printing material in the first storage item; and, in the event that a user of the printing apparatus cancels the service, allowing printing performed by the printing apparatus using the second storage item based on the remaining quantity indicated by the remaining quantity data stored in the storage unit. Attached Figure Description

[0009] Figure 1 A diagram representing the structure of a service provision system.

[0010] Figure 2 A diagram showing the structure of a multifunction printer.

[0011] Figure 3 A diagram illustrating the structure of the terminal device.

[0012] Figure 4 A diagram illustrating the structure of the management server.

[0013] Figure 5 A flowchart illustrating the operation of the terminal device, management server, and multifunction printer.

[0014] Figure 6 A flowchart illustrating the operation of the terminal device, management server, and multifunction printer.

[0015] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the permission section in the permission process.

[0016] Figure 8 A flowchart illustrating the operation of a multifunction printer. Detailed Implementation

[0017] 1. First Implementation Method

[0018] 1-1. Structure of the Service Provider System

[0019] Figure 1 A diagram illustrating the structure of the service provision system 1000.

[0020] Service provision system 1000 is a system that provides services via subscription. This service involves delivering ink cartridges 121 to user P when the remaining ink in ink cartridge 121 used in printing performed by the multifunction printer 1 becomes low, provided that user P of the multifunction printer 1 has already subscribed to the service.

[0021] The multifunction printer 1 corresponds to an example of a "printing apparatus". The ink cartridge 121 corresponds to an example of a "storage item". The ink stored in the ink cartridge 121 corresponds to an example of "printing material".

[0022] In the following description, the ink cartridge 121 provided in service will be referred to as a "dedicated ink cartridge" and marked with the symbol "121A".

[0023] Furthermore, in the following description, ink cartridge 121 that is not provided in the service will be referred to as a "non-dedicated ink cartridge" and marked with the symbol "121B". Non-dedicated ink cartridge 121B refers to ink cartridge 121 purchased by user P, for example, in a store such as a large home appliance store.

[0024] The dedicated ink cartridge 121A corresponds to an example of the "secondary storage item". The non-dedicated ink cartridge 121B corresponds to an example of the "first storage item".

[0025] The service provision system 1000 includes a management server 2 for managing services. This management server 2 corresponds to an example of a "service provision device". The matters managed by the management server 2 can be exemplified by the remaining ink level of the dedicated ink cartridge 121A. The management server 2 is a server device connected to a communication network NW. The communication network NW can be the Internet, a private circuit, a public circuit, or a similar network.

[0026] Management server 2 communicates with delivery server 3 via communication network NW. Delivery server 3 is a server device that instructs delivery personnel on the delivery of goods. Delivery server 3 is, for example, owned by a delivery operator and provides delivery instructions to delivery personnel who are agents of that delivery operator.

[0027] Furthermore, although the management server 2 and the distribution server 3 are represented by a box in the various figures, this does not mean that they are constituted by a single server device. For example, the management server 2 and the distribution server 3 can also be configured as multiple server devices that handle different content. Alternatively, the management server 2 and the distribution server 3 can also be configured using the same server device.

[0028] The service provision system 1000 includes a multifunction printer 1.

[0029] The multifunction printer 1 is referred to as an MFP (Multi Function Peripheral), and is a device capable of performing various processing operations such as printing and scanning. The multifunction printer 1 is equipped with an ink cartridge 121 and receives ink from the installed ink cartridge 121 for printing. The multifunction printer 1 is connected to a local network LN constructed by the communication device 4, and communicates with devices connected to the communication network NW via the communication device 4. Furthermore, the multifunction printer 1 communicates with a terminal device 5 connected to the local network LN.

[0030] Communication device 4 is installed at the delivery destination KO of dedicated ink cartridge 121A. Communication device 4 is connected to communication network NW and communicates with management server 2 via communication network NW. Communication device 4 functions as an interface device for connecting multifunction printer 1 and terminal device 5 to communication network NW.

[0031] The service provision system 1000 has 5 terminal devices.

[0032] Terminal device 5 is a computer. Terminal device 5 is connected to the local network LN and communicates with the multifunction printer 1 connected to the local network LN and the management server 2 connected to the communication network NW. Furthermore, although... Figure 1The terminal device 5 shown exemplifies a laptop computer, but it can also be a desktop or tablet. When the terminal device 5 can connect to the communication network NW without going through the local network LN, it can also communicate with the management server 2 without going through the local network LN. Furthermore, the terminal device 5 can also communicate with the multifunction printer 1 via a one-to-one communication method. Direct communication methods such as Wi-Fi Direct are cited as examples. Wi-Fi is a registered trademark.

[0033] Next, the structure of the multifunction printer 1, the terminal device 5, and the management server 2 will be described.

[0034] First, the structure of the composite machine 1 will be explained.

[0035] Figure 2 This is a block diagram illustrating the structure of the multifunction printer 1.

[0036] 1-2. Structure of the composite machine

[0037] The multifunction printer 1 includes a multifunction printer control device 10, a multifunction printer communication unit 11, and a printing unit 12.

[0038] The multifunction printer control device 10 includes a multifunction printer processor 100 composed of one or more CPUs (Central Processing Units), MPUs (Micro-processing Units), or ASICs (Application Specific Integrated Circuits), as well as a multifunction printer memory 110, and controls various parts of the multifunction printer 1.

[0039] The multifunction printer memory 110 stores the programs executed by the multifunction printer processor 100 and the data processed by the multifunction printer processor 100. The multifunction printer memory 110 stores the control program 111, setting data 112, serial number 113, and various other data executed by the multifunction printer processor 100. The multifunction printer memory 110 has non-volatile storage areas. The multifunction printer memory 110 may also have volatile storage areas and constitute the working area of ​​the multifunction printer processor 100. The multifunction printer memory 110 may be constructed, for example, of ROM (Read Only Memory) or RAM (Random Access Memory).

[0040] Setting data 112 is data related to the settings of multifunction printer 1. Setting data 112 has a combination of setting items and setting values ​​for each setting item.

[0041] Serial number 113 is an identification number used to identify multifunction printer 1.

[0042] The multifunction printer communication unit 11 is equipped with communication hardware such as connectors and communication circuits according to a predetermined communication standard, and communicates with devices connected to the local network LN and the communication network NW under the control of the multifunction printer control device 10. That is, the multifunction printer communication unit 11 communicates with the terminal device 5 and the management server 2.

[0043] The printing unit 12 includes an inkjet head that ejects ink to the printing medium to form dots, a carriage that moves the inkjet head in the scanning direction, a carriage drive motor that drives the carriage, a transport structure that transports the printing medium, a structure that mounts the ink cartridge 121, and a maintenance mechanism for maintaining the inkjet head, among other printing-related structures. The printing unit 12 performs printing according to the control of the multifunction printer control device 10, thereby printing an image onto the printing medium.

[0044] Ink cartridge 121 is equipped with an IC (Integrated Circuit) chip 121C. During each printing operation, the multifunction printer control device 10 determines the remaining ink level in ink cartridge 121 based on the detection value of a remaining ink detection sensor installed for ink cartridge 121 or the amount of ink used in printing, and records the remaining ink level on the IC chip 121C of the installed ink cartridge 121. Additionally, the IC chip 121C of the dedicated ink cartridge 121A records information indicating that it is a dedicated ink cartridge 121A.

[0045] The multifunction printer processor 100 functions as a multifunction printer communication control unit 101, a permission unit 102, and a printing control unit 103 by reading and executing the control program 111 of the multifunction printer memory 110.

[0046] The multifunction printer communication control unit 101 communicates with the terminal device 5 and the management server 2 via the multifunction printer communication unit 11.

[0047] When a dedicated ink cartridge 121A is installed in the multifunction printer 1, the multifunction printer communication control unit 101 sends a set of dedicated remaining quantity data, including multiple dedicated remaining quantity data, to the management server 2 each time the multifunction printer 1 performs printing. Dedicated remaining quantity data refers to data indicating the remaining ink quantity of the dedicated ink cartridge 121. In this embodiment, the multifunction printer communication control unit 101 sends dedicated remaining quantity data to the management server 2 for each of C (cyan), M (magenta), Y (yellow), and K (black). The dedicated remaining quantity data set sent to the management server 2 includes a serial number 113 stored in the multifunction printer memory 110.

[0048] When a non-dedicated ink cartridge 121B is installed in the multifunction printer 1, the multifunction printer communication control unit 101 sends a group of non-dedicated remaining quantity data, including multiple non-dedicated remaining quantity data, to the management server 2 upon receiving a request from the management server 2. The non-dedicated remaining quantity data represents the remaining ink quantity of the non-dedicated ink cartridge 121B. In this embodiment, the multifunction printer communication control unit 101 sends the non-dedicated remaining quantity data for each CMYK to the management server 2. The non-dedicated remaining quantity data group sent to the management server 2 includes a serial number 113 stored in the multifunction printer memory 110. The multifunction printer communication control unit 101 reads the remaining ink quantity from the IC chip 121C of the non-dedicated ink cartridge 121B for each CMYK and sends the non-dedicated remaining quantity data representing the read remaining ink quantity to the management server 2.

[0049] If user P cancels the service, and if predetermined conditions are met, permission unit 102 allows printing performed by the multifunction printer 1 using the dedicated ink cartridge 121A. Details regarding permission unit 102 will be described later.

[0050] The printing control unit 103 controls the printing performed by the printing unit 12.

[0051] When a non-dedicated ink cartridge 121B is installed in the multifunction printer 1, the printing control unit 103 enables the printing unit 12 to perform printing independently of the permission unit 102.

[0052] When user P has joined the service and the dedicated ink cartridge 121A is installed in the multifunction printer 1, the printing control unit 103 enables the printing unit 12 to perform printing independently of the control of the permission unit 102.

[0053] When user P cancels service and dedicated ink cartridge 121A has been installed in multifunction printer 1, printing control unit 103 controls the printing process in a manner that allows the ink volume within the allowable range of allowable unit 102.

[0054] Furthermore, when the ink cartridge 121 is installed in the multifunction printer 1, the printing control unit 103 updates the remaining ink level in the IC chip 121C recorded in the ink cartridge 121 each time printing is performed by the printing unit 12.

[0055] 1-3. Structure of the terminal device

[0056] Next, the structure of terminal device 5 will be described.

[0057] Figure 3 This is a block diagram illustrating the structure of terminal device 5.

[0058] The terminal device 5 includes a terminal control device 50, a terminal communication unit 51, a terminal input unit 52, and a terminal display unit 53.

[0059] The terminal control device 50 includes a terminal processor 500 consisting of a CPU, an MPU, etc., and a terminal memory 510, and controls various parts of the terminal device 5.

[0060] Terminal memory 510 stores programs executed by terminal processor 500 and data processed by terminal processor 500. Terminal memory 510 stores applications 511, drivers 512, and various other data executed by terminal processor 500. Terminal memory 510 has non-volatile storage areas. Terminal memory 510 may also have volatile storage areas and constitute the working area of ​​terminal processor 500. Terminal memory 510 is constructed, for example, by ROM or RAM.

[0061] Application 511 is a service-related application. Application 511 can be either a dedicated service-related application or a browser.

[0062] Driver 512 is a program that enables the multifunction printer 1 to print images.

[0063] The terminal communication unit 51 has communication hardware such as communication circuits according to a predetermined communication standard, and communicates with the multifunction printer 1 and the management server 2 connected to the local network LN under the control of the terminal control device 50.

[0064] The terminal input unit 52 includes a keyboard, mouse, and other input units, and detects the user P's operations on the input units and outputs them to the terminal control device 50. The terminal control device 50 performs processing corresponding to the user P's operations on the input units based on the input from the terminal input unit 52.

[0065] The terminal display unit 53 is equipped with a display screen, and under the control of the terminal control device 50, it displays various information on the display screen.

[0066] The terminal processor 500 functions as an application execution unit 501 by reading and executing the application 511. Furthermore, the terminal processor 500 functions as a driver execution unit 502 by reading and executing the driver 512.

[0067] Application execution unit 501 performs processing related to joining the service and processing related to leaving the service.

[0068] Application execution unit 501 displays a user interface on terminal display unit 53 to initiate a membership application for the service. This user interface is used to input information such as serial number 113 and delivery destination information (e.g., the delivery destination KO for the dedicated ink cartridge 121A). The delivery destination information includes, for example, the address of the delivery destination KO. Application execution unit 501 then sends the membership request information, including the information input into the user interface, to management server 2 via terminal communication unit 51.

[0069] For user P who has completed joining the service, the application execution unit 501 displays a user interface on the terminal display unit 53 to cancel the service. In this user interface, a member ID (identification) is entered to identify the user's membership. The application execution unit 501 then sends the cancellation request information, including the information entered into the user interface, to the management server 2 via the terminal communication unit 51.

[0070] The driver execution unit 502 generates printing data and sends the generated printing data to the multifunction printer 1 via the terminal communication unit 51. The printing data includes image data of the object to be printed, printing commands based on the command system of the multifunction printer 1, etc.

[0071] 1-4. Structure of the Management Server

[0072] Next, the structure of management server 2 will be explained.

[0073] Figure 4 A block diagram illustrating the structure of management server 2.

[0074] The management server 2 includes a server control device 20. The server control device 20 includes a server processor 200 consisting of one or more CPUs, MPUs, etc., and a server memory 210, and controls various parts of the management server 2.

[0075] Server memory 210 corresponds to an example of a "storage unit".

[0076] Server memory 210 stores the programs executed by server processor 200 and the data processed by server processor 200. Server memory 210 stores control program 211, first management DB 212, second management DB 213, and various other data executed by server processor 200. Server memory 210 has non-volatile storage areas. Server memory 210 may also have volatile storage areas and constitute the working area of ​​server processor 200. Server memory 210 is constructed, for example, by ROM or RAM.

[0077] The first management database DB212 is used to manage service-related data. DB212 has a record R1 for each member joining the service. A record R1 contains a member ID, serial number 113, delivery destination information, a non-dedicated remaining quantity data group, and a dedicated remaining quantity data group.

[0078] The second management DB213 is a database for managing data related to the multifunction printer 1. The second management DB213 has a record R2 for each multifunction printer 1. Record R2 includes a serial number 113 and communication information for communicating with the multifunction printer 1. For example, a predetermined address is used as an example of this communication information.

[0079] Management server 2 has a server communication unit 21.

[0080] The server communication unit 21 has communication hardware based on a predetermined communication standard and communicates with the terminal device 5 and the multifunction printer 1 under the control of the server control device 20.

[0081] The server processor 200 functions as the server communication control unit 201, the provision unit 202, and the update unit 203.

[0082] The server communication control unit 201 communicates with the terminal device 5 and the multifunction printer 1 via the server communication unit 21.

[0083] The supply unit 202 provides dedicated ink cartridges 121A to users P who have already joined the service. The supply unit 202 provides dedicated ink cartridges 121A to users P by sending a delivery request for the dedicated ink cartridges 121A to the delivery server 3. The supply unit 202 sends delivery request information to the delivery server 3 in the delivery request. The delivery request information includes delivery destination information.

[0084] Update Department 203 updates the first management DB212.

[0085] The update department 203 implements updates related to joining the service and updates related to leaving the service.

[0086] The update unit 203 performs the generation of record R1 and the storage of the generated record R1 in the first management DB 212 as an update related to membership application for the service. When the server communication control unit 201 receives membership application information from the terminal device 5, the update unit 203 generates a member ID. Next, the update unit 203 generates record R1, which includes the generated member ID, the serial number 113 included in the received membership application information, the delivery destination information included in the received membership application information, a non-dedicated remaining quantity data group indicating a blank space, and a dedicated remaining quantity data group indicating a blank space. The update unit 203 then stores the generated record R1 in the first management DB 212.

[0087] In addition, when the update unit 203 newly stores record R1 in the first management DB 212, the server communication control unit 201 sends the member ID included in the newly stored record R1 to the terminal device 5 in response to the membership request information.

[0088] Furthermore, after the update unit 203 has newly stored record R1 in the first management DB 212, the supply unit 202 submits a delivery request to the delivery server 3. Specifically, the supply unit 202 sends the delivery request information of the newly stored record R1, including delivery destination information, to the delivery server 3.

[0089] The update unit 203 deletes record R1 as an update related to membership withdrawal from the service. When the server communication control unit 201 receives a membership withdrawal request from the terminal device 5, the update unit 203 determines the record R1 containing the member ID included in the received membership withdrawal request from the first management DB 212. Next, the update unit 203 deletes the determined record R1 from the first management DB 212.

[0090] The update unit 203 updates the information contained in record R1.

[0091] When the server communication control unit 201 receives a non-dedicated remaining data group from the multifunction printer 1, the update unit 203 updates the non-dedicated remaining data group of record R1 to the received non-dedicated remaining data group. As described above, a serial number 113 is assigned to the non-dedicated remaining data group sent from the multifunction printer 1. The update unit 203 identifies the record R1 with the serial number 113 and updates the non-dedicated remaining data group of the identified record R1 to the received non-dedicated remaining data group.

[0092] When the server communication control unit 201 receives a dedicated remaining data set from the multifunction printer 1, the update unit 203 updates the dedicated remaining data set of record R1 to the received dedicated remaining data set. As described above, the dedicated remaining data set sent from the multifunction printer 1 is assigned a serial number 113. The update unit 203 identifies the record R1 with the serial number 113 and updates the dedicated remaining data set of the identified record R1 to the received dedicated remaining data set.

[0093] 1-5. The operation of each part of the service delivery system

[0094] Next, the operation of each part of the service provision system 1000 will be explained.

[0095] First, the operation of each part of the service provision system 1000 in the case of user P joining the service will be explained.

[0096] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating the operation of terminal device 5, management server 2, and multifunction printer 1. Figure 5 In the flowchart, FA represents the operation of terminal device 5, FB represents the operation of management server 2, and FC represents the operation of multifunction printer 1.

[0097] As shown in flowchart FA, the application execution unit 501 sends the membership request information to the management server 2 (step SA1).

[0098] As shown in flowchart FB, the server communication control unit 201 receives the membership request information from the management server 2 (step SB1).

[0099] Next, the update unit 203 performs an update related to joining the service based on the membership request information received in step SB1 (step SB2).

[0100] Next, the server communication control unit 201 determines the record R2 with the serial number 113 included in the membership request information received in step SB1 from the second management DB213 (step SB3).

[0101] Next, the server communication control unit 201 uses the communication information of record R2 determined in step SB3 and sends the request information to the multifunction printer 1 (step SB4). The request information is a request for a non-dedicated remaining data set.

[0102] As shown in flowchart FC, the multifunction printer communication control unit 101 receives request information from the management server 2 (step SC1).

[0103] Next, the communication control unit 101 of the multifunction printer communicates with the IC chip 121C to read the remaining ink amount from each of the non-dedicated ink cartridges 121B installed in the multifunction printer 1 (step SC2).

[0104] Next, the multifunction printer communication control unit 101 sends a non-dedicated remaining quantity data set to the management server 2 in response to the request information (step SC3). The non-dedicated remaining quantity data set sent in step SC3 includes the non-dedicated remaining quantity data indicating the ink remaining quantity read in step SC2. Furthermore, a serial number 113 stored in the multifunction printer memory 110 is appended to the non-dedicated remaining quantity data set sent in step SC3.

[0105] As shown in flowchart FB, the server communication control unit 201 receives the non-dedicated remaining data group from the multifunction printer 1 (step SB5).

[0106] Next, the update unit 203 determines the record R1 with the sequence number 113 that was attached to the non-dedicated remaining data group received in step SB5 from the first management DB212 (step SB6).

[0107] Next, the update unit 203 updates the non-dedicated remaining data group of record R1 determined in step SB6 to the non-dedicated remaining data group received in step SB5 (step SB7).

[0108] By conducting Figure 5 This allows the management server 2 to store the remaining ink amount of the non-dedicated ink cartridge 121B that was installed when user P joined the service.

[0109] Next, we will explain the operation of each part of the service provision system 1000 in the case of user P leaving the service.

[0110] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating the operation of terminal device 5, management server 2, and multifunction printer 1. Figure 6 In the flowchart, FD represents the operation of terminal device 5, FE represents the operation of management server 2, and FF represents the operation of multifunction printer 1.

[0111] As shown in flowchart FD, the application execution unit 501 sends the withdrawal request information to the management server 2 (step SD1).

[0112] As shown in flowchart FE, the server communication control unit 201 receives the membership cancellation request information from the terminal device 5 (step SE1).

[0113] Next, the server communication control unit 201 determines the record R1 with the serial number 113 included in the withdrawal request information received in step SE1 from the first management DB212 (step SE2).

[0114] Next, the providing unit 202 determines whether the total amount of ink remaining shown in the non-dedicated remaining amount data group of record R1 determined in step SE2 is the same as the total amount of ink remaining shown in the dedicated remaining amount data group of record R1 (step SE3).

[0115] If the supply unit 202 determines that the total amount of ink remaining shown in the non-dedicated remaining amount data group is less than the total amount of ink remaining shown in the dedicated remaining amount data group (step SE3: Yes), the server communication control unit 201 sends the first disconnection information to the multifunction printer 1 (step SE4).

[0116] The first cancellation message indicates that user P has cancelled the service and includes the non-dedicated remaining data group of record R1 as determined in step SE2. Alternatively, the first cancellation message may also include the dedicated remaining data group of record R1 as determined in step SE2.

[0117] In step SE4, the server communication control unit 201 determines the record R2 containing the sequence number 113 included in the cancellation request information received in step SE1 from the second management DB 213. Then, the server communication control unit 201 generates first cancellation information and sends the generated first cancellation information to the multifunction printer 1 using the communication information of record R2 determined from the second management DB 213.

[0118] Returning to the explanation of step SE3, if it is determined that the total amount of ink remaining shown in the non-dedicated remaining amount data group is not less than the total amount of ink remaining shown in the dedicated remaining amount data group (step SE3: No), the supply unit 202 delivers a new dedicated ink cartridge 121A to the user P (step SE5).

[0119] In step SE5, the providing unit 202 sends delivery request information to the delivery server 3. The delivery request information sent in step SE5 includes delivery destination information included in record R1 determined in step SE2, information indicating that new dedicated ink cartridges 121A for all CMYK colors will be delivered, etc. Upon receiving this delivery request information, the delivery server 3 instructs the delivery person to deliver dedicated ink cartridges 121A for all colors to the delivery destination KO indicated in the received delivery request information.

[0120] When the supply unit 202 provides a new dedicated ink cartridge 121A, the server communication control unit 201 sends a second cancellation message to the multifunction printer 1 (step SE6).

[0121] The second cancellation message indicates that user P has cancelled the service, including the non-dedicated remaining quantity data group of record R1 determined in step SE2. Additionally, the second cancellation message includes information indicating that a new dedicated ink cartridge 121A has been provided to user P. Furthermore, the second cancellation message may also include, similarly to the first cancellation message, the dedicated remaining quantity data group of record R1 determined in step SE2.

[0122] As shown in flowchart FF, the multifunction communication control unit 101 receives either the first disconnection information or the second disconnection information (step SF1).

[0123] Next, the permission unit 102 performs permission processing based on the membership cancellation information received in step SF1 (step SF2).

[0124] Permission processing refers to the processing related to the permission of printing using special ink cartridge 121A.

[0125] Figure 7 A flowchart FG is provided to illustrate the operation of the permission unit 102 in the permission process.

[0126] The permission unit 102 determines whether the remaining ink level of the non-dedicated ink cartridge 121B when user P joins the service is zero for all colors (step SG1).

[0127] In step SG1, the enabling unit 102 determines whether each of the non-dedicated remaining quantity data included in the cancellation information received in step SF1 indicates that the ink remaining quantity is zero. If all non-dedicated remaining quantity data indicate zero, the enabling unit 102 makes an affirmative determination in step SG1. On the other hand, if there are non-dedicated remaining quantity data that do not show zero among multiple non-dedicated remaining quantity data, the enabling unit 102 makes a negative determination in step SG1.

[0128] If the remaining ink level of the non-dedicated ink cartridge 121B is zero for all colors (step SG1: Yes), the permission unit 102 sets the printing using the dedicated ink cartridge 121A to be disallowed (step SG2).

[0129] In step SG2, the allowing unit 102 sets a disallowed setting value for the allowed or disallowed items in the setting data 112. The allowed or disallowed items are those that set whether printing using the dedicated ink cartridge 121A is permitted. When the dedicated ink cartridge 121A is installed, the printing control unit 103 does not perform printing when a disallowed setting value is set for the allowed or disallowed items.

[0130] If the allowance unit 102 determines that the remaining ink level of the non-dedicated ink cartridge 121B is not zero for all colors, i.e., there is remaining ink in any non-dedicated ink cartridge 121B (step SG1: No), then the process in step SG3 is performed. Here, the allowance unit 102 determines whether the remaining ink level of the non-dedicated ink cartridge 121B when user P joins the service is less than the remaining ink level of the dedicated ink cartridge 121A that was installed when user P leaves the service (step SG3).

[0131] In step SG3, the enabling unit 102 reads the remaining ink quantity from the IC chip 121C of the dedicated ink cartridge 121A for all colors. Next, the enabling unit 102 compares the remaining ink quantity shown in the non-dedicated remaining ink quantity data received in step SE1 with the read remaining ink quantity for each color. If the enabling unit 102 determines that the remaining ink quantity shown in the non-dedicated remaining ink quantity data is less than or equal to the read remaining ink quantity for all colors, it makes a positive determination in step SG3. Conversely, if the enabling unit 102 determines that the remaining ink quantity shown in the non-dedicated remaining ink quantity data is greater than the read remaining ink quantity for at least one color, it makes a negative determination in step SG3.

[0132] If the permission unit 102 makes a positive judgment in step SG3, it implements the first permission (step SG4).

[0133] The first permission indicates a situation where printing with the dedicated ink cartridge 121A is permitted even after the service has ended.

[0134] Furthermore, the first permission refers to the case where, for each of the CMYK, the ink from the dedicated ink cartridge 121A is permitted to be used in printing in an amount corresponding to the remaining ink amount of the non-dedicated ink cartridge 121B when joining the service.

[0135] Specifically, in step SG4, the enabling unit 102 sets a setting value indicating permission for allowed or disallowed items in the setting data 112. Furthermore, the enabling unit 102 records the ink quantity of the permitted dedicated ink cartridge 121A for each of the CMYK colors in the multifunction printer memory 110. Additionally, when the enabling unit 102 permits printing, the printing control unit 103 subtracts the ink quantity consumed during printing from the ink quantity recorded by the enabling unit 102 in the multifunction printer memory 110 each time printing is performed.

[0136] Example 1

[0137] Example 1 represents the first allowed example.

[0138] In Example 1, the remaining ink amount of each of the CMYK ink cartridges 121B upon joining the service is set to 5g. Furthermore, in Example 1, the remaining ink amount of each of the CMYK ink cartridges 121A that has been installed upon leaving the service is set to 10g. In this example, as a first permission, the permission unit 102 allows the use of 5g of ink from the dedicated ink cartridge 121A for each of the CMYK ink cartridges in printing.

[0139] In Example 1, the allow unit 102 sets a setting value indicating permission for allowed or disallowed items in the setting data 112, and records the case where the ink amount of the allowed special ink cartridge 121A for each of CMYK is 5g in the multifunction printer memory 110.

[0140] Returning to the explanation of step SG3, if the allowance unit 102 makes a negative judgment in step SG3, it determines whether the cancellation information received in step SF1 is the first cancellation information or the second cancellation information (step SG5).

[0141] If the cancellation information received in step SF1 is determined to be the first cancellation information (step SG5: first cancellation information), the permission unit 102 determines whether there is a second color with an added supply (step SG6).

[0142] Here, the amount to be added is explained.

[0143] Before explaining the amount to be added, the first color, the second color, the first remaining amount, and the second remaining amount will be explained.

[0144] The first color refers to the color where the remaining ink quantity shown in the non-dedicated remaining quantity data is greater than the remaining ink quantity of the dedicated ink cartridge 121A when user P cancels the service.

[0145] The second color refers to the color where the remaining ink level shown in the non-dedicated remaining amount data is less than the remaining ink level of the dedicated ink cartridge 121A when user P cancels the service.

[0146] The first remaining amount refers to the ink remaining amount shown in the non-dedicated remaining amount data corresponding to the first color when joining the service.

[0147] The second remaining amount refers to the remaining amount of ink in the dedicated ink cartridge 121A corresponding to the first color when the service is cancelled.

[0148] The summation amount refers to the amount obtained by adding the ink remaining amount of the non-dedicated ink cartridge 121B corresponding to the second color to the difference between the first remaining amount and the second remaining amount.

[0149] Example 2

[0150] Example 2 represents an example of the sum, first remainder, second remainder, first color, and second color.

[0151] In Example 2, when joining the service, the remaining ink in non-dedicated ink cartridge 121B (C, blue-green) is 5g, the remaining ink in non-dedicated ink cartridge 121B (M, magenta) is 5g, the remaining ink in non-dedicated ink cartridge 121B (Y, yellow) is 5g, and the remaining ink in non-dedicated ink cartridge 121B (K, black) is 10g.

[0152] Furthermore, in this example, upon exiting the service, the remaining ink in the dedicated ink cartridge 121A for C (turquoise) is 6g, the remaining ink in the dedicated ink cartridge 121A for M (magenta) is 5g, the remaining ink in the dedicated ink cartridge 121A for Y (yellow) is 5g, and the remaining ink in the dedicated ink cartridge 121A for K (black) is 9g.

[0153] In Example 2, the first color is K (black) and the second color is C (blue-green).

[0154] Furthermore, in Example 2, the first remaining amount is 10g, and the second remaining amount is 9g.

[0155] Furthermore, in Example 2, the sum is 6g, which is “5g + (10g - 9g)”.

[0156] Furthermore, since C (blue-green) is the second color of the supply additive quantity in the case of Example 2, the unit 102 is allowed to make a positive judgment in step SG6.

[0157] If the allowance unit 102 determines that there is a second color with an added supply (step SG6: Yes), it implements a second allowance (step SG7).

[0158] The second permission indicates that printing with the special ink cartridge 121A is permitted even after the service has ended.

[0159] Furthermore, the second permission indicates a situation where, for the first color, the amount of ink remaining in the dedicated ink cartridge 121A that was installed when the product was returned from service is permitted to be used in printing.

[0160] Furthermore, the second permission indicates a situation where, for one of the second colors supplied in the additive amount, the ink from a dedicated ink cartridge 121A is permitted to be used in printing in an amount corresponding to the additive amount.

[0161] Furthermore, the second permission refers to a situation where, for other colors, an amount of ink from the dedicated ink cartridge 121A corresponding to the remaining ink amount in the dedicated ink cartridge 121A that was installed upon return from service is permitted for use in printing. Here, "other colors" refers to colors other than the first color and the second color for which the additive use is permitted.

[0162] Specifically, in step SG7, the enabling unit 102 sets a setting value indicating permission for allowed or disallowed items in the setting data 112. Additionally, the enabling unit 102 records the amount of ink allowed for each of the CMYK dedicated ink cartridges 121A in the multifunction printer memory 110.

[0163] Example 3

[0164] Example 3 represents a second allowed example.

[0165] In Example 3, when joining the service, the remaining ink in non-dedicated ink cartridge 121B (C, blue-green) is 5g, the remaining ink in non-dedicated ink cartridge 121B (M, magenta) is 5g, the remaining ink in non-dedicated ink cartridge 121B (Y, yellow) is 5g, and the remaining ink in non-dedicated ink cartridge 121B (K, black) is 10g.

[0166] Furthermore, in Example 3, when cancelling from the service, the remaining ink in the dedicated ink cartridge 121A for C (blue-green) is 6g, the remaining ink in the dedicated ink cartridge 121A for M (magenta) is 5g, the remaining ink in the dedicated ink cartridge 121A for Y (yellow) is 5g, and the remaining ink in the dedicated ink cartridge 121A for K (black) is 9g.

[0167] Furthermore, in Example 3, K is the first color, and C (blue-green) is the second color supplied in the additive amount.

[0168] In Example 3, as a second permission, the permission section 102 allows the use of 9g of ink from the dedicated ink cartridge 121A in printing for K (black).

[0169] Furthermore, in Example 3, as a second permission, the permission section 102 allows the use of ink from the special ink cartridge 121A in an amount of 6g, “5g + (10g - 9g)”, for C (blue-green) in printing.

[0170] Furthermore, in Example 3, as a second permission, the permission section 102 allows the use of 5g of ink from the dedicated ink cartridge 121A in printing for each of M (magenta) and Y (yellow).

[0171] Furthermore, when the enabling unit 102 implements the second enabling, if multiple second colors are supplied in additive quantities, it determines the second color with the largest cumulative usage in the multifunction printer 1 as the second color that is allowed to be used in quantities corresponding to the additive quantity. The enabling unit 102 retrieves the cumulative ink usage from a predetermined storage area for all colors and determines the second color with the largest retrieved cumulative usage as the second color that is allowed to be used in quantities corresponding to the additive quantity. The cumulative usage can be stored either in the multifunction printer 1 or in a predetermined server device connected to the communication network NW.

[0172] Example 4

[0173] Example 4 represents a second allowed example.

[0174] In Example 4, when joining the service, the remaining ink in non-dedicated ink cartridge 121B (C, blue-green) is 5g, the remaining ink in non-dedicated ink cartridge 121B (M, magenta) is 5g, the remaining ink in non-dedicated ink cartridge 121B (Y, yellow) is 5g, and the remaining ink in non-dedicated ink cartridge 121B (K, black) is 10g.

[0175] Furthermore, in Example 4, when unsubscribing from the service, the remaining ink in the dedicated ink cartridge 121A for C (blue-green) is 6g, the remaining ink in the dedicated ink cartridge 121A for M (magenta) is 6g, the remaining ink in the dedicated ink cartridge 121A for Y (yellow) is 5g, and the remaining ink in the dedicated ink cartridge 121A for K (black) is 9g.

[0176] Furthermore, in Example 4, K is the first color, and C (blue-green) and M (magenta) are the second colors supplied in the additive amounts.

[0177] In Example 4, when the cumulative usage of C (blue-green) is greater than that of M (magenta), the second permission is implemented by the permission unit 102, which is the same as in Example 3.

[0178] On the other hand, in Example 4, when the cumulative usage of M (magenta) is larger than that of C (blue-green), as a second permission, the permission unit 102 allows the use of 9g of ink from the dedicated ink cartridge 121A in printing for K (black). Furthermore, in this case, as a second permission, the permission unit 102 allows the use of 6g of ink from the dedicated ink cartridge 121A in printing for M (magenta), which is "5g + (10g - 9g)".

[0179] Furthermore, in Example 3, as a second permission, the second permission section 102 allows the use of 5g of ink from the dedicated ink cartridge 121A in printing for each of C (blue-green) and Y (yellow).

[0180] Furthermore, although the example of controlling the amount of ink in grams was given above, the unit of measurement for the controlled amount of ink is not limited to this.

[0181] Returning to the description of step SG6, if the permission unit 102 determines that there is no supply of the second color in the added amount (step SG6: yes), it will implement the third permission (step SG8).

[0182] The third permission indicates that printing with the special ink cartridge 121A is permitted even after the service has ended.

[0183] Furthermore, the third permission indicates a situation where, for the first color, the amount of ink from the dedicated ink cartridge 121A that corresponds to the remaining amount of ink in the dedicated ink cartridge 121A that was installed upon return from service is permitted to be used in printing.

[0184] Furthermore, the third allows for the use of ink from a dedicated ink cartridge 121A in printing for multiple second colors, taking into account the amount corresponding to the difference between the first and second remaining amounts.

[0185] Furthermore, a third provision allows the use of ink from the dedicated ink cartridge 121A in printing of an amount corresponding to the remaining ink level of the dedicated ink cartridge 121A installed upon return from service, for inks of other colors. Here, "other colors" refers to colors other than the first color and the difference between the first and second remaining amounts.

[0186] Specifically, in step SG8, ​​the enabling unit 102 sets a setting value indicating permission for allowed and disallowed items in the setting data 112. Furthermore, the enabling unit 102 records the amount of ink from the permitted dedicated ink cartridge 121A for each of the CMYK values ​​in the multifunction printer memory 110.

[0187] Example 5

[0188] Example 5 represents a third allowed example.

[0189] In Example 5, when joining the service, the remaining ink in non-dedicated ink cartridge 121B (C, blue-green) is 5g, the remaining ink in non-dedicated ink cartridge 121B (M, magenta) is 5g, the remaining ink in non-dedicated ink cartridge 121B (Y, yellow) is 5g, and the remaining ink in non-dedicated ink cartridge 121B (K, black) is 10g.

[0190] Furthermore, in Example 3, when unsubscribing from the service, the remaining ink in the dedicated ink cartridge 121A for C (blue-green) is 6g, the remaining ink in the dedicated ink cartridge 121A for M (magenta) is 6g, the remaining ink in the dedicated ink cartridge 121A for Y (yellow) is 6g, and the remaining ink in the dedicated ink cartridge 121A for K (black) is 8g.

[0191] Furthermore, in Example 5, K is the first color, and each of CMY is the second color that is not supplied with additive amounts.

[0192] In Example 5, as a third permission, Permission 102 allows the use of 8g of ink from the dedicated ink cartridge 121A in printing for K (black).

[0193] Furthermore, in Example 5, as a second permission, the permission section 102 allows the use of ink from a dedicated ink cartridge 121A in an amount of 6g ("5g + 1g") for printing of the two colors in CMY.

[0194] Furthermore, in Example 5, as a second permission, the permission section 102 allows the use of 5g of ink from a dedicated ink cartridge 121A in printing for one of the CMY colors.

[0195] Returning to the explanation of step SG5, if it is determined that the cancellation information received in step SF1 is the second cancellation information (step SG5: second cancellation information), the permission unit 102 performs the fourth permission (step SG9).

[0196] The fourth permission indicates that printing with the dedicated ink cartridge 121A is permitted even after the service has ended.

[0197] Furthermore, the fourth permission indicates a situation where, for the first color, the amount of ink from the dedicated ink cartridge 121A that corresponds to the remaining amount of ink in the dedicated ink cartridge 121A that was installed upon return from service is permitted to be used in printing.

[0198] Furthermore, the fourth provision allows for the use of a newly supplied special ink cartridge 121A in printing of an amount corresponding to the difference between the first and second remaining amounts for the first color.

[0199] Furthermore, the fourth permission indicates a situation where, for colors other than the first color, the amount of ink remaining in the dedicated ink cartridge 121A that was installed upon return from service is permitted for use in printing.

[0200] Specifically, in step SG9, the enabling unit 102 sets a setting value indicating whether an item in the setting data 112 is allowed or not allowed. Additionally, the enabling unit 102 records the amount of ink in each of the CMYK dedicated ink cartridges 121A that is allowed to be used in the multifunction printer memory 110.

[0201] Example 6

[0202] Example 6 represents one of the fourth allowed examples.

[0203] In Example 6, when joining the service, the remaining ink in non-dedicated ink cartridge 121B (C, blue-green) is 5g, the remaining ink in non-dedicated ink cartridge 121B (M, magenta) is 5g, the remaining ink in non-dedicated ink cartridge 121B (Y, yellow) is 5g, and the remaining ink in non-dedicated ink cartridge 121B (K, black) is 1g.

[0204] Furthermore, in Example 6, when unsubscribing from the service, the remaining ink in the dedicated ink cartridge 121A for C (blue-green) is 5g, the remaining ink in the dedicated ink cartridge 121A for M (magenta) is 5g, the remaining ink in the dedicated ink cartridge 121A for Y (yellow) is 5g, and the remaining ink in the dedicated ink cartridge 121A for K (black) is 9g.

[0205] In Example 6, K (black) is the first color.

[0206] In Example 6, as a fourth permission, permission unit 102 allows the use of 9g of ink from dedicated ink cartridge 121A in printing for K (black). Furthermore, in Example 6, as a fourth permission, permission unit 102 allows the use of 1g of newly dispensed dedicated ink cartridge 121A in printing for K (black). Additionally, in Example 6, as a fourth permission, permission unit 102 allows the use of 5g of ink from dedicated ink cartridge 121A in printing for each of CMY.

[0207] Next, after allowing processing, the operation of the composite machine 1 will be explained.

[0208] Figure 8 The flowchart FH illustrates the operation of the multifunction printer 1.

[0209] The permission unit 102 determines, for each of the CMYK values, whether the ink amount of the permitted dedicated ink cartridge 121A has been consumed during printing (step SH1). If the ink amount recorded by the multifunction printer memory 110 is zero for all CMYK values, the permission unit 102 makes an affirmative determination in step SH1.

[0210] If the permission unit 102 determines that the amount of ink in the dedicated ink cartridge 121A has been consumed during printing (step SH1: Yes), it sets the printing using the dedicated ink cartridge 121A to be disallowed (step SH2).

[0211] 1-6. Effects of this implementation method

[0212] As explained above, the service providing system 1000 provides a service to deliver ink cartridges 121, which store the inks used in printing by the multifunction printer 1, to users of the multifunction printer 1. The service providing system 1000 includes a delivery unit 200 that delivers a dedicated ink cartridge 121A, which will be installed to replace the non-dedicated ink cartridge 121B, which is an ink cartridge already installed in the multifunction printer 1 before the service subscription. Furthermore, the service providing system 1000 includes a server memory 210 that stores non-dedicated remaining ink data indicating the remaining ink amount of the non-dedicated ink cartridge 121B. Additionally, the service providing system 1000 includes an enabling unit 102 that, upon service withdrawal, allows printing performed by the multifunction printer 1 using the dedicated ink cartridge 121A based on the remaining ink amount shown in the non-dedicated remaining ink data stored in the server memory 210.

[0213] Accordingly, after service termination, printing by the multifunction printer 1 is permitted using the dedicated ink cartridge 121B based on the remaining ink quantity indicated by the non-dedicated remaining quantity data stored in the server memory 210. Therefore, printing can be performed after service termination with an amount of ink remaining corresponding to the ink quantity of the ink cartridge 121 installed before service commencement.

[0214] The multifunction printer 1 can install ink cartridges 121 for each of multiple colors. The multifunction printer memory 110 stores non-dedicated remaining quantity data for each of the multiple colors. The enabling unit 102 allows the use of an amount of ink from dedicated ink cartridge 121A corresponding to the remaining quantity of dedicated ink cartridge 121A when user P cancels service for a first color, where the remaining quantity shown in the non-dedicated remaining quantity data is greater than the remaining quantity of dedicated ink cartridge 121A when user P cancels service. Furthermore, the enabling unit 102 allows the use of an amount of ink from dedicated ink cartridge 121A corresponding to the sum of the remaining quantities for a second color, where the remaining quantity shown in the non-dedicated remaining quantity data is less than the remaining quantity of dedicated ink cartridge 121A when user P cancels service. The amount corresponding to the summation is the amount obtained by adding the difference between the remaining amount shown in the non-dedicated remaining amount data corresponding to the first color and the remaining amount of ink in the dedicated ink cartridge 121A corresponding to the first color when user P leaves the service to the remaining amount shown in the non-dedicated remaining amount data corresponding to the second color.

[0215] Accordingly, for the first color, if the remaining ink in the ink cartridge 121 installed before joining the service cannot be supplied using the remaining ink in the ink cartridge 121 installed when the service is terminated, the unsupplied amount is supplemented using a dedicated ink cartridge 121A corresponding to the second color. Therefore, printing can be performed appropriately after the service termination, corresponding to the amount of ink remaining in the ink cartridge 121 installed before joining the service.

[0216] In the presence of multiple second colors, the permissive unit 102 determines the second color with the largest usage in the multilayer machine 1 as the second color that is allowed to be used in an amount corresponding to the sum of the amounts.

[0217] Therefore, when the remaining ink in ink cartridge 121 installed before joining the service cannot be supplied using the ink remaining amount installed in ink cartridge 121 installed when the service is cancelled, the unsupplied amount is supplemented using a dedicated ink cartridge 121A for the color most frequently used by user P. Thus, it is possible to perform printing with an amount corresponding to the remaining ink in ink cartridge 121 installed before joining the service, while taking into account the color most frequently used by user P.

[0218] If the remaining ink quantity shown in the non-dedicated remaining quantity data is greater than the remaining ink quantity of the dedicated ink cartridge 121A when user P cancels service, the supply unit 202 will deliver a new dedicated ink cartridge 121A. When the supply unit 202 provides the new dedicated ink cartridge 121A, the permission unit 102 will allow printing performed by the multifunction printer 1 using the new dedicated ink cartridge 121A in an amount corresponding to the difference between the remaining ink quantity shown in the non-dedicated remaining quantity data and the remaining ink quantity of the dedicated ink cartridge 121A when user P cancels service.

[0219] Therefore, even if the remaining ink in ink cartridge 121 installed before joining the service is greater than the remaining ink in ink cartridge 121 installed upon leaving the service, printing using dedicated ink cartridge 121A can be performed with an amount corresponding to the remaining ink in non-dedicated ink cartridge 121B installed upon joining the service. Thus, printing with an amount corresponding to the remaining ink in ink cartridge 121 installed before joining the service can be reliably performed after leaving the service.

[0220] In the control method of the service provision system 1000, a dedicated ink cartridge 121A is dispensed, and non-dedicated remaining quantity data indicating the remaining quantity of ink in a non-dedicated ink cartridge 121B is stored. When user P leaves the service, printing performed by the multifunction printer 1 using the dedicated ink cartridge 121A is permitted based on the remaining quantity indicated by the stored non-dedicated remaining quantity data.

[0221] Therefore, the same effect as the service provision system 1000 described above can be achieved.

[0222] 2. Second Implementation Method

[0223] Next, the second embodiment will be described.

[0224] The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that it allows for a different method of determining the second color, which corresponds to the amount of addition.

[0225] In the second embodiment, the allowing unit 102 determines the second color that best reduces the deviation of ink residue among the second colors as the second color that is allowed to be used in an amount corresponding to the sum of the amounts.

[0226] For example, when joining a service, C's non-dedicated ink cartridge 121B has 6g of ink remaining, M's non-dedicated ink cartridge 121B has 5g of ink remaining, Y's non-dedicated ink cartridge 121B has 6g of ink remaining, and K's non-dedicated ink cartridge 121B has 10g of ink remaining.

[0227] Furthermore, in this example case, when cancelling from the service, the remaining ink in C's dedicated ink cartridge 121A is 6g, the remaining ink in M's dedicated ink cartridge 121A is 7g, the remaining ink in Y's dedicated ink cartridge 121A is 8g, and the remaining ink in K's dedicated ink cartridge 121A is 9g.

[0228] In this example, K is equivalent to the first color, and C, M, and Y are equivalent to the second colors, respectively.

[0229] In this example, the first remaining amount is 10g, and the second remaining amount is 9g.

[0230] In this example, the color with the least ink residue among C, M, and Y is M. Therefore, in this example, the allowance unit 102 allows the use of 6g of ink from the dedicated ink cartridge 121A for printing, specifically for M among C, M, and Y, which is the second color. Thus, for C, M, Y, and K, utilization is allowed sequentially at 6g, 6g, 6g, and 9g upon withdrawal, further reducing the ink residue deviation among CMY compared to when joining the service.

[0231] As explained above, when multiple second colors exist, the allowable unit 102 determines the second color that best reduces the deviation of the remaining amount between the second colors as the second color that is allowed to be used with an amount corresponding to the summation amount.

[0232] Therefore, when the remaining ink in ink cartridge 121 installed before service entry cannot be supplied using the ink remaining amount in ink cartridge 121 installed when the service is terminated, the unsupplied amount is supplemented using a dedicated ink cartridge 121A of the color that best minimizes the deviation in ink remaining amount between the two colors. Thus, it is possible to achieve highly efficient ink consumption while performing printing after service termination with an amount corresponding to the remaining ink in ink cartridge 121 installed before service entry.

[0233] 3. Third Implementation Method

[0234] Compared to the first and second embodiments, in the third embodiment, the multifunction printer memory 110 stores non-dedicated remaining ink data for each of the CMYK molecules. In the third embodiment, when a non-dedicated ink cartridge 121B is installed in the multifunction printer 1, the printing control unit 103 updates the remaining ink level recorded in the IC chip 121C of the non-dedicated ink cartridge 121B each time printing is performed by the printing unit 12. Furthermore, in the third embodiment, when a non-dedicated ink cartridge 121B is installed in the multifunction printer 1, the printing control unit 103 updates the remaining ink level shown by the non-dedicated remaining ink data stored in the multifunction printer memory 110.

[0235] In the third embodiment, the multifunction memory 110 corresponds to an example of a "storage unit".

[0236] In the third embodiment, since non-dedicated remaining data is stored in the multifunction printer memory 110, it is not stored in the server memory 210. Therefore, the cancellation message sent by the management server 2 does not include the non-dedicated remaining data group. Upon receiving cancellation information from the management server 2, the enabling unit 102 of the third embodiment reads the non-dedicated remaining data stored in the multifunction printer memory 110 and executes... Figure 7 The work.

[0237] As explained above, the multifunction printer 1 that uses ink cartridge 121 for printing includes a multifunction printer memory 110 and an enabling unit 102. The multifunction printer memory 110 stores non-dedicated remaining amount data, which indicates the remaining amount of ink in the non-dedicated ink cartridge 121B that was installed in the multifunction printer 1 before joining the service. The enabling unit 102 allows printing using the dedicated ink cartridge 121A when the user P leaves the service, based on the remaining amount of ink shown in the non-dedicated remaining amount data stored in the multifunction printer memory 110.

[0238] Accordingly, the same effect as the service providing system 1000 of the first embodiment can be achieved.

[0239] 4. Other implementation methods

[0240] The above-described embodiments are merely one way of illustrating the present invention, and can be arbitrarily modified and applied within the scope of the present invention.

[0241] Although in the above embodiments, the multifunction printer 1 has a structure with a serial inkjet head, the inkjet head of the multifunction printer 1 is not limited to a serial type.

[0242] Although the multifunction printer 1 has been exemplified as a printing apparatus in the above embodiments, the printing apparatus is not limited to the multifunction printer 1. The printing apparatus may be an apparatus that does not have a scanning function, or an apparatus that also has other functions such as a fax function.

[0243] Although inkjet printing has been exemplified as the printing method for the multifunction printer 1 in the above embodiments, the printing method of the multifunction printer 1 is not limited to inkjet printing, and may also be other printing methods such as photolithography. Furthermore, when the printing method of the multifunction printer 1 is photolithography, the toner cartridge installed in the multifunction printer 1 corresponds to an example of a "storage item," and the toner stored in the toner cartridge corresponds to an example of "printing material."

[0244] In the embodiments described above, the permission unit 102 has been described as a functional unit of the multifunction printer processor 100. However, the server processor 200 may also function as the permission unit 102. In this configuration, the management server 2 sends the content permitted by the permission unit 102 to the multifunction printer 1, and performs printing using the dedicated ink cartridge 121A within the scope of the content permitted by the multifunction printer 1.

[0245] In this embodiment, the management server 2 includes: a supply unit 202 that delivers dedicated ink cartridges 121A; and an enabling unit 102 that, upon service termination, retrieves non-dedicated remaining quantity data from a server memory 210 that stores non-dedicated remaining quantity data, and enables printing performed by the multifunction printer 1 using dedicated ink cartridges 121 based on the ink remaining quantity indicated by the non-dedicated remaining quantity data.

[0246] Accordingly, the same effect as the service providing system 1000 of the first embodiment can be achieved.

[0247] The functions of the multifunction processor 100, server processor 200, and terminal processor 500 can also be achieved through multiple processors or semiconductor chips.

[0248] Figure 2 Figure 3 as well as Figure 4 The parts shown are examples and are not specifically limited. Of course, it is not necessary to install hardware corresponding to each part; the structure could also be configured such that a processor executes a program to implement the functions of each part. A portion of the functionality implemented in software could also be implemented in hardware, or vice versa. Furthermore, the specific structural details of the multifunction printer 1, management server 2, and terminal device 5 can be arbitrarily changed.

[0249] To facilitate understanding of how the various parts of the service delivery system 1000 work, Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 as well as Figure 8 The steps shown are divided based on the main processing content and are not limited by the method or name of the division. Further division into more steps is also possible based on the processing content. Alternatively, a single step unit may include more processes. Furthermore, the order of these steps can be appropriately changed.

[0250] Symbol Explanation

[0251] 1… Multifunction printer (printing unit); 2… Management server (service provisioning unit); 3… Delivery server; 5… Terminal device; 10… Multifunction printer control unit; 11… Multifunction printer communication unit; 12… Printing unit; 100… Multifunction printer processor; 101… Multifunction printer communication control unit; 102… Allowing unit; 103… Printing control unit; 110… Multifunction printer memory; 111… Control program; 112… Setting data; 113… Serial number; 121… Ink cartridge (storage item); 121A… Dedicated ink cartridge (second storage item); 121B… Non-dedicated ink cartridge (first storage item); 202… Provisioning unit; 1000… Service provisioning system; NW… Communication network; P… User.

Claims

1. A service delivery system that provides a service for delivering storage items, said storage items being for storing printing materials used in printing by a printing apparatus, wherein... The service providing system has the following features: The supply department distributes a second storage item, which will be installed as a replacement for the first storage item, which was installed in the printing device before the user of the printing device joined the service. The storage unit stores data on the remaining amount of printed material representing the remaining quantity of the first stored item. The permissioning unit, in the event that a user of the printing device cancels the service, allows printing of the second storage item performed by the printing device based on the remaining quantity indicated by the remaining quantity data stored in the storage unit.

2. The service provisioning system as described in claim 1, wherein, The printing apparatus is capable of mounting the storage item for each of a plurality of colors. The storage unit stores the remaining data for each of the multiple colors. The allowing unit allows the use of a first color for which the remaining amount shown in the remaining amount data is greater than the remaining amount of printing material of the second storage item when the user cancels the service, and allows the use of an amount of the second storage item corresponding to the remaining amount of printing material of the second storage item when the user cancels the service in printing using the second storage item. For the second color where the remaining amount shown in the remaining amount data is less than the remaining amount of the printing material of the second storage item when the user cancels the service, an amount of the second storage item corresponding to the sum of the remaining amounts is allowed in the printing where the second storage item was used. The quantity corresponding to the summation is the amount obtained by adding the difference between the remaining quantity shown in the remaining quantity data corresponding to the first color and the remaining quantity of the printing material of the second storage item corresponding to the first color when the user logs out of the service to the remaining quantity shown in the remaining quantity data corresponding to the second color.

3. The service provisioning system as described in claim 2, wherein, In the presence of multiple second colors, the allowing unit determines the second color with the largest usage in the printing apparatus as the second color that is allowed to be used in an amount corresponding to the sum of the amounts.

4. The service provisioning system as described in claim 2, wherein, In the presence of multiple second colors, the allowing unit determines the second color that best reduces the deviation of the remaining amount between the second colors as the allowed second color to be used in an amount corresponding to the summation amount.

5. The service provisioning system as described in any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, If the remaining amount shown in the remaining quantity data is greater than the remaining amount of printed material in the second storage item when the user cancels the service, the supply unit will deliver a new second storage item. When the providing unit delivers the new second storage item, the allowing unit allows printing performed by the printing device on the new second storage item in an amount corresponding to the difference between the remaining amount shown in the remaining amount data and the remaining amount of printing material in the second storage item when the user cancels the service.

6. A service providing device for providing a service of delivering storage items to users of a printing apparatus, the storage items being for storing printing materials used by the printing apparatus in printing, wherein... The service providing device includes: The supply department distributes a second storage item, which will be installed as a replacement for the first storage item, which was installed in the printing device before the user of the printing device joined the service. The permissioning unit, in the event that a user of the printing device cancels the service, retrieves the remaining quantity data from a storage unit that stores remaining quantity data indicating the remaining amount of printing material of the first storage item, and allows the printing of the second storage item performed by the printing device based on the remaining quantity indicated by the remaining quantity data.

7. A printing apparatus that uses a storage container for storing printing materials to perform printing, and includes: The storage unit stores data on the remaining amount of printing material, which indicates the amount remaining when a user of the printing device joins the service that delivers the storage item, and also indicates the remaining amount of printing material stored in the first storage item that was installed in the printing device before the user joined the service. The permissioning unit, in the event that a user of the printing device cancels the service, allows printing of a second storage item based on the remaining quantity data stored in the storage unit, wherein the second storage item is the storage item installed in place of the first storage item.

Images