Printer encryption method, device and storage medium based on ink usage

Abstract

The application discloses a printer encryption method based on ink use, equipment and storage medium, including using MCU to record all ink use actions; the MCU carries out statistics according to pre-calibrated ink consumption according to the recorded actions; whether the ink use amount exceeds the preset value is judged through the monitoring module; if the ink use amount exceeds the preset value, the monitoring module sends a first signal to the MCU to make the MCU prohibit all actions related to ink; the application accurately records and statistics by adopting microcontroller, and combines with the monitoring module to monitor the ink consumption in real time, solves the problem that the traditional timing encryption method lacks flexibility and accuracy; whether the ink use amount exceeds the preset value is judged through the monitoring module, if the ink use amount exceeds the preset value, an automatic warning is sent and ink related actions are suspended, so that the control of ink use is realized, unauthorized personnel is prevented from abusing ink, and resource waste and equipment abuse due to time locking are effectively avoided.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of printer technology, specifically to a printer encryption method, device, and storage medium based on ink usage. Background Technology

[0002] In modern printing equipment, ink usage and control are critical technological aspects. To ensure the secure use of printing equipment and prevent unauthorized operations, encrypted control of ink usage is typically required. Existing technologies generally employ time-based recording as an encryption method, where the device automatically locks after a set time to prevent unauthorized use. However, this time-based encryption method has several drawbacks. First, while simple to implement, it lacks flexibility; the device automatically locks once the set time is reached, regardless of actual ink usage. Second, due to cost and technological limitations, existing encryption methods may struggle to accurately control ink consumption, often leading to resource waste or equipment misuse. Furthermore, current technology lacks dynamic control capabilities, failing to adjust in real-time based on actual ink usage. This means that even with low ink consumption, the device may still lock, impacting the user experience. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The purpose of this invention is to provide a printer encryption method, device, and storage medium based on ink usage. It provides the function of allowing users to enter an authorization code to unlock the device, so that when the ink runs out, users can enter an activation code to clear the ink count and reactivate the device, thereby ensuring the security of the printing device and preventing unauthorized use.

[0004] The objective of this invention can be achieved through the following technical solutions:

[0005] This application provides a printer encryption method based on ink usage, including the following steps:

[0006] The MCU records all ink usage actions, including at least one of printing, manual ink filling, automatic cleaning, and flash printing.

[0007] The MCU performs statistics based on the recorded actions and according to the pre-calibrated ink usage.

[0008] The monitoring module determines whether the ink usage exceeds the preset value.

[0009] If the ink usage exceeds a preset value, the monitoring module sends a first signal to the MCU to cause the MCU to disable all actions involving ink.

[0010] Furthermore, the method also includes:

[0011] When the device is disabled, the monitoring module receives a second signal from the user, the second signal carrying the authorization code of the ink;

[0012] The monitoring module generates a third signal based on the authorization code and sends the third signal to the MCU.

[0013] The MCU resets the ink statistics based on the third signal and unlocks the device for continued use.

[0014] Furthermore, before the monitoring module receives the second signal from the user, the method further includes:

[0015] The monitoring module displays a first interface, which includes multiple buttons for inputting the authorization code.

[0016] The monitoring module receives the authorization code entered by the user through the multiple buttons.

[0017] Furthermore, after the monitoring module generates a third signal based on the authorization code, the method further includes:

[0018] The monitoring module displays a second interface, which includes multiple buttons for inputting the ink model.

[0019] The monitoring module receives the ink model number input by the user via the multiple buttons.

[0020] Furthermore, after the monitoring module receives the ink model number input by the user via the multiple keys, the method further includes:

[0021] The monitoring module sends a fourth signal to the MCU, the fourth signal carrying the model number of the ink;

[0022] The MCU stores the model number of the ink.

[0023] Furthermore, the monitoring module determines whether the ink usage exceeds a preset value, specifically including:

[0024] The monitoring module queries whether the statistics of the ink stored in the MCU are greater than or equal to a threshold. If so, it determines that the ink usage exceeds a preset value; otherwise, it determines that the ink usage does not exceed the preset value.

[0025] Furthermore, the monitoring module determines whether the ink usage exceeds a preset value, specifically including:

[0026] The monitoring module queries whether the remaining amount of ink stored in the MCU is less than or equal to zero. If so, it determines that the ink usage exceeds a preset value; otherwise, it determines that the ink usage does not exceed the preset value.

[0027] A printer encryption device based on ink usage includes a processor, a memory, and computer program instructions stored in the memory. When the computer program instructions are executed by the processor, they implement the steps of the aforementioned printer encryption method based on ink usage.

[0028] Furthermore, the printer encryption device also includes:

[0029] A recording unit is used to record all ink usage actions using an MCU, wherein the ink usage actions include at least one of printing, manual inking, automatic cleaning, and flash printing;

[0030] The statistics unit is used by the MCU to perform statistics based on the recorded actions and according to the pre-calibrated ink usage.

[0031] The judgment unit is used to determine whether the ink usage exceeds a preset value through the monitoring module.

[0032] The prohibition unit is used so that if the ink usage exceeds a preset value, the monitoring module sends a first signal to the MCU to cause the MCU to prohibit all actions involving ink.

[0033] A storage medium storing computer program instructions that, when executed by a processor, implement the steps of the ink-based printer encryption method described above.

[0034] The beneficial effects of this invention are as follows:

[0035] This invention solves the problems of inflexibility and accuracy in traditional timed encryption methods by using a microcontroller (MCU) to accurately record and count ink usage actions such as printing, manual inking, automatic cleaning, and flash printing, combined with a monitoring module to monitor ink consumption in real time. The monitoring module determines whether ink usage exceeds a preset value. If ink usage exceeds the preset value, the monitoring module sends a first signal to the MCU, causing the MCU to prohibit all ink-related actions, automatically issue a warning, and suspend ink-related actions. This achieves control over ink usage, prevents unauthorized personnel from abusing ink, and effectively avoids resource waste and equipment misuse caused by time-locking. Furthermore, this invention provides a function for users to enter an authorization code to unlock the device. When ink runs out, users can enter an activation code to reset the ink count and reactivate the device, thereby ensuring the security of the printing equipment and preventing unauthorized use, while improving user experience and equipment efficiency. Attached Figure Description

[0036] To better understand and implement this application, the technical solution is described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0037] Figure 1 This is a flowchart illustrating the steps of a printer encryption method based on ink usage, as provided in Embodiment 1 of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0038] To further illustrate the technical means and effects adopted by the present invention to achieve its intended purpose, exemplary embodiments will be described in detail below, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. In the following description relating to the drawings, unless otherwise indicated, the same numbers in different drawings represent the same or similar elements. The embodiments described in the following exemplary embodiments do not represent all embodiments consistent with this application. Rather, they are merely examples of methods and systems consistent with some aspects of this application as detailed in the appended claims.

[0039] The terminology used in this application is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the application. The singular forms “a,” “the,” and “the” used in this application and the appended claims are also intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It should also be understood that the term “and / or” as used herein refers to and includes any or all possible combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0040] The following detailed description of the specific implementation methods, features, and effects of the present invention, in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and preferred embodiments, is provided in detail.

[0041] Example 1

[0042] Please see Figure 1 This embodiment provides a printer encryption method, device, and storage medium based on ink usage. It provides the function of allowing users to enter an authorization code to unlock the device, so that when the ink runs out, users can enter an activation code to clear the ink count and reactivate the device, thereby ensuring the security of the printing device and preventing unauthorized use.

[0043] This invention provides a printer encryption method based on ink usage, comprising the following steps:

[0044] S1: Use a microcontroller (MCU) to record all ink usage actions, wherein the ink usage actions include at least one of printing, manual inking, automatic cleaning, and flash printing.

[0045] Specifically, an MCU can be set up to record all ink usage, including various operations such as printing, manual inking, automatic cleaning, and flash printing. This allows for effective tracking of ink usage, facilitating subsequent management and control.

[0046] S2: The MCU performs statistics based on the recorded actions and the pre-calibrated ink usage.

[0047] Specifically, a counter can be set in the MCU to record ink usage. Each time ink is used, the counter is incremented accordingly. Simultaneously, a standard ink usage level needs to be set in the system, such as how many milliliters of ink are needed to print one sheet of paper. This allows the total ink usage to be calculated by comparing the current ink usage with the standard usage.

[0048] S3: The monitoring module determines whether the ink usage exceeds the preset value.

[0049] Specifically, a monitoring module can be set up to monitor the status of the entire system. If the ink usage exceeds the preset value, a warning will be issued or corresponding measures will be taken. The "preset value" mentioned here can be adjusted according to the actual situation. Generally, it should be a certain percentage of the total ink volume (such as 80%) to ensure that the limit is not exceeded under normal use.

[0050] S4: If the ink usage exceeds the preset value, the monitoring module sends a first signal to the MCU to cause the MCU to prohibit all actions involving ink.

[0051] Specifically, if the monitoring module detects that the ink usage has reached a preset value, it will immediately send a signal to the MCU, telling it to stop all ink-related operations (such as printing, manual ink refilling, etc.). This effectively prevents unauthorized personnel from abusing ink while ensuring the normal operation of the system.

[0052] The above is the main flow of the method provided in the embodiments of this application. As can be seen, the method provided in the embodiments of this application determines whether the ink usage exceeds the preset value through the monitoring module. If the ink usage exceeds the preset value, the monitoring module sends a first signal to the MCU to make the MCU prohibit all actions involving ink, thereby realizing the control of ink usage and preventing unauthorized personnel from abusing ink.

[0053] In an optional embodiment, the method further includes:

[0054] When the device is disabled, the monitoring module receives a second signal from the user, the second signal carrying the authorization code of the ink;

[0055] The monitoring module generates a third signal based on the authorization code and sends the third signal to the MCU.

[0056] The MCU resets the ink statistics based on the third signal and unlocks the device for continued use.

[0057] Specifically, when the device is disabled, the user needs to re-enter the ink authorization code to unlock the device and continue using it. This authorization code is a special password that can only be obtained by authorized personnel. After the user enters the correct authorization code, the monitoring module generates a new signal and transmits it to the MCU. At this point, the MCU will clear the previous ink statistics and unblock the device, thus restoring it to normal operation.

[0058] In another optional embodiment, before the monitoring module receives the second signal from the user, the method further includes:

[0059] The monitoring module displays a first interface, which includes multiple buttons for inputting the authorization code.

[0060] The monitoring module receives the authorization code entered by the user through the multiple buttons.

[0061] Specifically, when the device is disabled, the user needs to enter the ink's authorization code using specific buttons. For this purpose, the monitoring module will display a dedicated interface on the screen for entering the authorization code. This interface offers multiple buttons for the user to select, each corresponding to a different number or letter. The user simply needs to press the corresponding button in sequence to complete the authorization code input process.

[0062] Furthermore, after the monitoring module generates a third signal based on the authorization code, the method further includes:

[0063] The monitoring module displays a second interface, which includes multiple buttons for inputting the ink model.

[0064] The monitoring module receives the ink model number input by the user via the multiple buttons.

[0065] Specifically, in addition to entering the authorization code, users also need to enter the ink type. This is because different types of ink may have different properties and uses, which can easily lead to confusion if not distinguished. Therefore, the monitoring module displays a second interface on the screen specifically for entering the ink type. This interface also has multiple buttons for users to select, each corresponding to a different ink type (such as black, color, etc.). Users simply need to press the corresponding buttons in sequence to complete the ink type selection process.

[0066] Furthermore, after the monitoring module receives the ink model number input by the user via the multiple keys, the method further includes:

[0067] The monitoring module sends a fourth signal to the MCU, the fourth signal carrying the model number of the ink;

[0068] The MCU stores the model number of the ink.

[0069] Specifically, after the user completes the input of the authorization code and ink type, the monitoring module generates a new signal and transmits it to the MCU. This signal contains the recently entered authorization code and ink type, among other relevant information. Upon receiving this signal, the MCU saves it for later use.

[0070] Furthermore, the monitoring module determines whether the ink usage exceeds a preset value, specifically including:

[0071] The monitoring module queries whether the statistics of the ink stored in the MCU are greater than or equal to a threshold. If so, it determines that the ink usage exceeds a preset value; otherwise, it determines that the ink usage does not exceed the preset value.

[0072] Specifically, the monitoring module periodically reads the latest ink statistics from the MCU and compares them with preset thresholds. If the threshold is exceeded, it indicates that the ink usage has exceeded the normal range and appropriate measures need to be taken; otherwise, it means that everything is under control.

[0073] Furthermore, the monitoring module determines whether the ink usage exceeds a preset value, specifically including:

[0074] The monitoring module queries whether the remaining amount of ink stored in the MCU is less than or equal to zero. If so, it determines that the ink usage exceeds a preset value; otherwise, it determines that the ink usage does not exceed the preset value.

[0075] Specifically, the monitoring module also monitors the remaining amount of ink in the ink bottle in real time and compares it with the preset minimum capacity. If it is below this minimum capacity, it indicates that the ink is about to run out and needs to be replenished in time; otherwise, it means that there is still enough ink available.

[0076] In summary, the solution provided in this application embodiment determines whether the ink usage exceeds a preset value through a monitoring module. If the ink usage exceeds the preset value, the monitoring module sends a first signal to the MCU to prevent the MCU from performing any actions involving ink, thereby achieving control over ink usage and preventing unauthorized personnel from abusing ink.

[0077] Finally, this application also provides an ink-based printer encryption device, including a processor, a memory, and computer program instructions stored in the memory, which, when executed by the processor, implement the steps of the ink-based printer encryption method described above.

[0078] The device further includes: a recording unit for recording all ink usage actions using a microcontroller (MCU), wherein the ink usage actions include at least one of printing, manual inking, automatic cleaning, and flash printing;

[0079] The statistics unit is used by the MCU to perform statistics based on the recorded actions and according to the pre-calibrated ink usage.

[0080] The judgment unit is used to determine whether the ink usage exceeds a preset value through the monitoring module.

[0081] The prohibition unit is used so that if the ink usage exceeds a preset value, the monitoring module sends a first signal to the MCU to cause the MCU to prohibit all actions involving ink.

[0082] The device provided in this application embodiment uses a monitoring module to determine whether the ink usage exceeds a preset value. If the ink usage exceeds the preset value, the monitoring module sends a first signal to the MCU to prevent the MCU from performing any actions involving ink, thereby controlling the use of ink and preventing unauthorized personnel from abusing ink.

[0083] A printer encryption device based on ink usage.

[0084] Furthermore, this application embodiment also provides a storage medium storing computer program instructions, which, when executed by a processor, implement the steps of the above-described ink-based printer encryption method.

[0085] This invention utilizes a microcontroller (MCU) to accurately record all ink usage actions, including printing, manual inking, automatic cleaning, and flash printing, and performs usage statistics based on preset calibration values. Through real-time monitoring by the monitoring module, once ink usage exceeds a preset threshold, the system immediately issues a warning and automatically disables all ink-related actions, thereby preventing unauthorized use and resource waste. Furthermore, this method provides a user interaction mechanism, allowing users to unlock the device and continue using it by entering an authorization code, enhancing system flexibility and user experience. These measures effectively address the limitations of ink usage control in existing technologies; they not only improve the security and efficiency of ink usage but also optimize the management of printing equipment through dynamic control strategies, avoiding unnecessary locking caused by timed encryption, and ensuring efficient operation of the printing equipment and rational utilization of ink resources.

[0086] Example 2

[0087] This embodiment differs from Embodiment 1 in that it also includes dynamically adjusting the preset ink usage threshold based on the user's usage habits and ink consumption rate, thereby further improving the efficiency of ink usage and meeting the personalized needs of different users.

[0088] Specific dynamic threshold adjustment methods include:

[0089] Step 1: First, collect the user's printing history data, including the number of pages printed, ink consumption, and printing mode (draft or high quality).

[0090] Step 2: Use machine learning algorithms, such as cluster analysis, to classify users' printing behavior and identify their usage patterns (such as frequent printing, occasional printing, preference for high-quality printing, etc.).

[0091] Step 3: For each user category, calculate the average ink consumption rate using the following formula:

[0092] Consumption rate = Total ink volume / Total number of pages printed;

[0093] Step 4: Based on the user's usage patterns and historical consumption rates, predict ink consumption over a future period:

[0094] Predicted consumption = Consumption rate × Expected number of pages printed;

[0095] Step 5: Dynamically adjust the ink usage threshold based on the predicted consumption. If the predicted consumption is close to the current threshold, the system will raise the threshold to avoid frequent device lockouts.

[0096] New threshold = Current threshold + α × (Predicted consumption - Current threshold) where α is an adjustment factor used to control the sensitivity of threshold adjustment;

[0097] Step 6: The system implements the new threshold and continues to monitor the actual ink consumption. If the actual consumption deviates significantly from the predicted consumption, the system will readjust the threshold.

[0098] This method allows the system to dynamically adjust ink usage thresholds based on real-time user activity, reducing print interruptions caused by ink depletion, improving the user printing experience, and effectively managing ink usage to avoid resource waste. This approach is particularly suitable for users with fluctuating printing needs, such as home users, small offices, or educational institutions, allowing for flexible adjustments based on actual usage to optimize printing costs and efficiency.

[0099] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the present invention in any way. Although the present invention has been disclosed above with reference to preferred embodiments, it is not intended to limit the present invention. Any person skilled in the art can make some modifications or alterations to the above-disclosed technical content to create equivalent embodiments without departing from the scope of the present invention. Any simple modifications, equivalent changes and alterations made to the above embodiments based on the technical essence of the present invention without departing from the scope of the present invention shall still fall within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A printer encryption method based on ink usage, characterized in that: The process includes the following steps: using an MCU to record all ink usage actions, wherein the ink usage actions include at least one of printing, manual inking, automatic cleaning, and flash printing; The MCU performs statistics based on the recorded actions and according to the pre-calibrated ink usage. Specifically, a counter is set in the MCU to record the amount of ink used. Each time ink is used, the counter is triggered to increment by the corresponding value. A standard for ink usage is set in the system, and the total amount of ink is calculated by comparing the current amount of ink used with the standard amount. The monitoring module determines whether the ink usage exceeds the preset value. Specifically, a monitoring module is set up to monitor the status of the entire system. When the ink usage exceeds the preset value, a warning will be issued or corresponding measures will be taken. The preset value is adjusted according to the actual situation, and more specifically, it is a certain percentage of the total ink volume, so as to ensure that the limit is not exceeded. If the ink usage exceeds a preset value, the monitoring module sends a first signal to the MCU to cause the MCU to prohibit all actions involving ink. When the device is disabled, the monitoring module receives a second signal from the user, the second signal carrying the authorization code of the ink; The monitoring module generates a third signal based on the authorization code and sends the third signal to the MCU. The MCU resets the ink count based on the third signal and unlocks the device for continued use. Specifically, when the device is disabled, the user needs to re-enter the ink authorization code to unlock the device and continue using it. The authorization code is a special password that can only be obtained by authorized personnel. After the user enters the correct authorization code, the monitoring module will generate a new signal and transmit it to the MCU. At the same time, the MCU will clear the previous ink statistics and remove the disabled state, thereby restoring the device to normal operation. Before the monitoring module receives the second signal from the user, the method further includes: The monitoring module displays a first interface, which includes multiple buttons for inputting the authorization code. The monitoring module receives the authorization code input by the user through the multiple buttons; Specifically, when the device is disabled, the user needs to enter the ink authorization code through a specific key. The monitoring module displays a first interface on the screen specifically for entering the authorization code. On this interface, there are multiple keys for the user to select. Each key corresponds to a different number or letter. The user only needs to press the corresponding key in sequence to complete the authorization code input process. The monitoring module displays a second interface, which includes multiple buttons for inputting the ink model. The monitoring module receives the ink model number input by the user via the multiple buttons; After the monitoring module receives the ink model number input by the user via the multiple keys, the method further includes: The monitoring module sends a fourth signal to the MCU, the fourth signal carrying the model number of the ink; The MCU stores the ink model number; The monitoring module determines whether the ink usage exceeds a preset value, specifically including: The monitoring module queries whether the statistics of the ink stored in the MCU are greater than or equal to a threshold. If so, it determines that the ink usage exceeds the preset value; otherwise, it determines that the ink usage does not exceed the preset value. The monitoring module determines whether the ink usage exceeds a preset value, specifically including: The monitoring module queries whether the remaining amount of ink stored in the MCU is less than or equal to zero. If so, it determines that the ink usage exceeds a preset value; otherwise, it determines that the ink usage does not exceed the preset value.

2. A printer encryption device based on ink usage, characterized in that: It includes a processor, a memory, and computer program instructions stored in the memory, which, when executed by the processor, implement the method described in claim 1.

3. A printer encryption device based on ink usage according to claim 2, characterized in that: The printer encryption device also includes: A recording unit is used to record all ink usage actions using an MCU, wherein the ink usage actions include at least one of printing, manual inking, automatic cleaning, and flash printing; The statistics unit is used by the MCU to perform statistics based on the recorded actions and according to the pre-calibrated ink usage. The judgment unit is used to determine whether the ink usage exceeds a preset value through the monitoring module. The prohibition unit is used so that if the ink usage exceeds a preset value, the monitoring module sends a first signal to the MCU to cause the MCU to prohibit all actions involving ink.

4. A storage medium storing computer program instructions thereon, characterized in that, The method described in claim 1 is implemented when computer program instructions are executed by a processor.

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