Image forming apparatus and control method

Abstract

The device memory stores first type information indicating whether the device body is a contract device or a normal device. When a device contract for an image forming device is signed, a contract device can be used. The consumable memory stores a second type of information indicating whether the consumable is a contract consumable or a normal consumable. Contract consumables can be used when a consumable contract for an image forming apparatus is signed. The controller is configured to determine whether the first type information indicates that the apparatus main body is a contract apparatus, determine whether the second type information indicates that the consumable attached to the apparatus main body is a contract consumable, and switch a function available in the image forming apparatus based on a combination of the first type information and the second type information.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to an image forming device and a control method. Background Art

[0002] In recent years, a flat-rate printing service has been widely provided to users of image forming apparatuses. The flat-rate printing service is also called a subscription service. For example, Patent Document 1 describes the following: In an image forming apparatus as a contract target apparatus, a contract for using the flat-rate printing service is signed, and a maximum of a preset number of sheets are allowed to be printed with a certain usage fee within a predetermined period.

[0003] Prior art literature

[0004] Patent Literature

[0005] Patent Document 1: International Publication No. 2014 / 120199

[0006] Technical issues

[0007] In such a subscription service, there is a contract for an image forming apparatus having multiple functions such as a printing function, a scanning function, a fax transmission function, and a fax reception function. There is a demand for changing the available functions of the image forming apparatus based on whether it is a contract-only apparatus available when a device contract for the image forming apparatus is signed or a general apparatus available regardless of whether the device contract is signed. There is also a demand for changing the available functions of the image forming apparatus based on whether it is a contract consumable available when a consumables contract for the image forming apparatus is signed or a general consumable available regardless of whether the consumables contract is signed. Summary of the invention

[0008] In view of the above circumstances, an object of the present invention is to change available functions of an image forming apparatus based on whether a contract for the image forming apparatus and consumables is concluded.

[0009] Technical means for solving technical problems

[0010] In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, an image forming device according to a first aspect of the present invention includes: a device body; a device memory configured to store first type information, wherein the first type information indicates whether the device body is a contract device or a general device, and the contract device can be used when a device contract for the image forming device is signed, and the general device can be used regardless of whether the device contract is signed; consumables, which are attached to the device body, and the consumables include a consumable memory, which is configured to store second type information, wherein the second type information indicates whether the consumables are contract consumables or general consumables, and the contract consumables can be used when a consumable contract for the image forming device is signed, and the general consumables can be used regardless of whether the consumable contract is signed; and a controller, which is configured to: determine whether the first type information indicates that the device body is the contract device; determine whether the second type information indicates that the consumables attached to the device body are the contract consumables; and switch the functions available in the image forming device based on a combination of the first type information and the second type information.

[0011] In an image forming device according to the second aspect of the present invention, the controller can be configured to, after determining whether the first type information indicates that the device body is the contract device, determine whether the second type information indicates that the consumables attached to the device body are the contract consumables.

[0012] In the image forming apparatus according to the third aspect of the present invention, the apparatus memory may be configured to store condition information indicating a switching condition set for switching a function available in the image forming apparatus according to the first type information or the second type information.

[0013] In the image forming apparatus according to the fourth aspect of the present invention, the apparatus memory may be configured to store contract information indicating whether the image forming apparatus is in a state where the consumables contract for the image forming apparatus is signed. The controller may be configured to: determine whether the contract information indicates a state where the consumables contract is signed; and if it is determined that the contract information indicates a state where the consumables contract is signed, determine whether the switching condition is satisfied.

[0014] In the image forming apparatus according to the fifth aspect of the present invention, when it is determined that the switching condition is satisfied, the function available in the image forming apparatus is switched.

[0015] In the image forming apparatus according to the sixth aspect of the present invention, switching of the function available in the image forming apparatus may include limiting the function available in the image forming apparatus.

[0016] In the image forming apparatus according to the seventh aspect of the present invention, the image forming apparatus may further include a print engine. The switching of the function available in the image forming apparatus may include switching a print function that can be used by the print engine.

[0017] In the image forming apparatus according to the eighth aspect of the present invention, the image forming apparatus may further include a scanner. The switching of the functions available in the image forming apparatus may include switching a scanning function that can be used by the scanner.

[0018] In the image forming apparatus according to the ninth aspect of the present invention, the image forming apparatus may further include a communication interface; and a fax interface configured to perform a fax transmission function via the communication interface and a fax reception function via the communication interface. Switching of the functions available in the image forming apparatus may include switching at least a part of the fax transmission function or the fax reception function.

[0019] In the image forming apparatus according to the tenth aspect of the present invention, the image forming apparatus may further include a communication interface. The apparatus memory may include a sheet number storage unit configured to store the number of printable sheets during an offline period in which communication with an external communication device via the communication interface is disconnected. The switching condition may include the number of sheets printed during the offline period reaching the number of sheets printable during the offline period.

[0020] In the image forming apparatus according to the eleventh aspect of the present invention, the image forming apparatus may further include a communication interface. The switching condition may include receiving a print stop instruction from an external communication device via the communication interface.

[0021] In the image forming apparatus according to the twelfth aspect of the present invention, the controller may include a timer. The apparatus memory may include a period storage unit configured to store a contract period of each of the consumables contract and the apparatus contract, the contract period being a period from the start of the contract to the end of the contract. The switching condition may include the timer detecting the end of the contract period of the consumables contract or the apparatus contract.

[0022] In the image forming device according to the thirteenth aspect of the present invention, the image forming device may further include a printing engine having a printing function. The controller may be configured to, when it is determined that the first type information represents the contract device and the switching condition is satisfied, set the printing function of the printing engine to an unavailable state.

[0023] In the image forming apparatus according to the fourteenth aspect of the present invention, the image forming apparatus may further include a print engine having a print function. The controller may be configured to, when it is determined that the first type information indicates the general device, the second type information indicates the contract consumables, and the switching condition is satisfied, set the print function of the print engine to an unavailable state.

[0024] In the image forming device according to the fifteenth aspect of the present invention, the controller can be configured to set the printing function of the printing engine to an available state when it is determined that the first type information represents the usual device, when it is determined that the second type information represents the usual consumables, and when it is determined that the switching condition is met.

[0025] In an image forming apparatus according to a sixteenth aspect of the present invention, the image forming apparatus may further include a notification device configured to output information. The apparatus memory may be configured to store notice condition information indicating a notice condition, the notice condition being set to output a notice that there is a possibility of switching the function available in the image forming apparatus based on the first type of information or the second type of information. The controller may be configured to, in a case where it is determined that the contract information indicates a state in which the consumables contract has been signed, determine whether the notice condition is satisfied, and in a case where it is determined that the notice condition is satisfied, output, via the notification device, the notice that there is a possibility of switching the function available in the image forming apparatus based on a combination of the first type of information and the second type of information.

[0026] In an image forming device according to the seventeenth aspect of the present invention, the controller may be configured to, after switching a function available in the image forming device, determine whether the switching condition is satisfied, and, if it is determined that the switching condition is not satisfied, return the function available in the image forming device to the function available in the image forming device before the function switching.

[0027] In the image forming apparatus according to the eighteenth aspect of the present invention, the image forming apparatus may further include a communication interface. The controller may be configured to, when receiving a notification that the device contract has been signed from an external communication device via the communication interface, store the first type information indicating the contract device in the device memory.

[0028] In the image forming apparatus according to the nineteenth aspect of the present invention, the image forming apparatus may further include a communication interface. The controller may be configured to, when receiving a notification of the signing of the consumables contract from an external communication device via the communication interface, store the contract information indicating the state of signing the consumables contract for the contract device of the image forming apparatus in the apparatus memory.

[0029] According to a twentieth aspect, there is provided a control method for controlling an image forming apparatus, the image forming apparatus comprising: an apparatus body; an apparatus memory configured to store first type information indicating whether the apparatus body is a contract apparatus or a general apparatus, the contract apparatus being usable when an apparatus contract for the image forming apparatus is signed, and the general apparatus being usable regardless of whether the apparatus contract is signed; and consumables attached to the apparatus body, the consumables comprising a consumables memory configured to store second type information indicating whether the consumables are contract consumables or general consumables, the contract consumables being usable when an apparatus contract for the image forming apparatus is signed, and the general consumables being usable regardless of whether the consumables contract is signed. The control method comprises: determining whether the first type information indicates that the apparatus body is the contract apparatus; determining whether the second type information indicates that the consumables attached to the apparatus body are the contract consumables; and switching functions available in the image forming apparatus based on a combination of the first type information and the second type information.

[0030] Effects of the Invention

[0031] According to the image forming apparatus of the first viewpoint, or according to the control method of the twentieth viewpoint, the controller switches the functions available in the image forming apparatus based on the first type of information determined in the first determination process and the second type of information determined in the second determination process. Therefore, the available functions are changed based on whether the apparatus body of the image forming apparatus is a contract apparatus available when the apparatus contract is signed, or whether the consumables attached to the apparatus body are contract consumables available when the apparatus contract is signed. In other words, the available functions of the image forming apparatus are changed based on whether a contract for the image forming apparatus and the consumables is signed.

[0032] According to the image forming apparatus of the second aspect, since the second determination process is executed after the first determination process, the controller can reliably determine whether the apparatus contract for the image forming apparatus has been concluded.

[0033] According to the image forming apparatus of the third aspect, the apparatus memory stores a switching condition set for switching a function available in the image forming apparatus according to the first type information or the second type information. Thus, the controller determines whether the switching condition set for switching a function available in the image forming apparatus is satisfied.

[0034] According to the image forming apparatus of the fourth aspect, when a consumables contract for the image forming apparatus is signed, the controller determines whether a switching condition for switching a function available in the image forming apparatus is satisfied. Thus, whether the switching condition is satisfied is determined only when a consumables contract for the image forming apparatus is signed.

[0035] According to the image forming apparatus of the fifth aspect, the controller executes the switching process when it is determined that the switching condition is satisfied. Thus, the controller changes the function available in the image forming apparatus when it is determined that the switching condition is satisfied.

[0036] According to the image forming apparatus of the sixth aspect, the switching process includes a process of limiting the functions available in the image forming apparatus. Thus, the controller limits the available functions based on whether the apparatus contract for the image forming apparatus is signed.

[0037] According to the image forming apparatus of the seventh aspect, the controller switches and changes the print function available in the print engine based on whether the apparatus contract for the image forming apparatus is concluded.

[0038] According to the image forming apparatus of the eighth aspect, the controller switches and changes the scan function available in the scanner based on whether the apparatus contract for the image forming apparatus is concluded.

[0039] In the image forming apparatus according to the ninth aspect, the controller switches and changes at least a part of the facsimile transmission function or the facsimile reception function performed via the communication interface based on whether the apparatus contract for the image forming apparatus is concluded.

[0040] According to the image forming apparatus of the tenth aspect, the switching condition includes the number of sheets printed during the offline period reaching the number of sheets printable during the offline period. Thus, when the number of sheets printed during the offline period reaches the number of sheets printable during the offline period, the controller switches to stop the printing function based on whether the device contract for the image forming apparatus is signed.

[0041] According to the image forming apparatus of the eleventh aspect, the switching condition includes receiving a print stop instruction from an external communication device via the communication interface. Thus, when the print stop instruction is received from the external communication device via the communication interface, the controller switches to stop the printing function based on whether a device contract for the image forming apparatus is signed.

[0042] According to the image forming apparatus of the twelfth aspect, the switching condition includes the timer detecting the expiration of the consumables contract or the device contract. Thus, when the timer detects the expiration of the consumables contract or the device contract, the available functions are changed based on whether the device contract for the image forming apparatus is signed.

[0043] According to the image forming apparatus of the thirteenth aspect, when it is determined that the first type information indicates a contract device and the switching condition is satisfied, the controller sets the printing function of the print engine to an unavailable state. Thus, when the image forming apparatus is owned by the business operator, the controller stops using the printing functions of the contract consumables and the normal consumables when the switching condition is satisfied.

[0044] According to the image forming apparatus of the fourteenth aspect, when it is determined that the first type information indicates a normal device, when it is determined that the second type information indicates a contract consumable, and when it is determined that the switching condition is satisfied, the controller sets the printing function of the print engine to an unavailable state. Thus, when the ownership of the image forming apparatus belongs to the user, the controller stops using the printing function of the contract consumable when the switching condition is satisfied.

[0045] According to the image forming apparatus of the fifteenth aspect, when it is determined that the first type information indicates a normal device, when it is determined that the second type information indicates a normal consumable, and when it is determined that the switching condition is satisfied, the controller sets the printing function of the print engine to an available state. Thus, when the ownership of the image forming apparatus belongs to the user, the controller sets the printing function using the normal consumable to be continuously available when the switching condition is satisfied.

[0046] According to the image forming apparatus of the sixteenth aspect, when it is determined that the notice condition is satisfied in the state where the consumables contract is signed, the controller outputs a notice that there is a possibility of switching the functions available in the image forming apparatus based on whether the apparatus contract for the image forming apparatus is signed. This allows the user to confirm the possibility of switching the available functions of the image forming apparatus and avoid switching the available functions of the image forming apparatus.

[0047] According to the image forming apparatus of the seventeenth aspect, when the switching condition for switching the function of the image forming apparatus is canceled, the controller returns the function available in the image forming apparatus to the function available in the image forming apparatus before the function switching.

[0048] According to the image forming apparatus of the eighteenth aspect, when receiving a notification of signing a device contract from an external communication device via a communication interface, the controller stores the first type information indicating the contract device in the device memory. Thus, by sending a notification of signing a device contract from an external communication device via a communication interface to the image forming apparatus at a warehouse of a sales company, etc., a setting is made so that the ownership of the image forming apparatus belongs to the operator. This enables a setting such as the ownership of the image forming apparatus belonging to the user to be made in advance when shipping from a factory, thereby allowing standardization of inventory products in a warehouse of a sales company, etc.

[0049] According to the image forming apparatus of the nineteenth aspect, when receiving a notification of signing a consumables contract from an external communication device via a communication interface, the controller stores contract information indicating a state in which a consumables contract for the image forming apparatus has been signed in the device memory. Thus, by sending a notification of signing a consumables contract from an external communication device via a communication interface to the image forming apparatus at a warehouse of a sales company, etc., the contract information is set to a state in which a consumables contract has been signed. Thus, at the time of shipment from a factory, the contract information is set in advance to a state in which a consumables contract has not been signed, thereby allowing standardization of inventory products in a warehouse of a sales company, etc. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0050] Figure 1 It is a block diagram showing a schematic overall configuration of the image forming system in the first embodiment.

[0051] Figure 2 This is a block diagram showing an example of information stored in the toner memory of the toner cartridge.

[0052] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing an example of information stored in device memory.

[0053] Figure 4 This is a flowchart showing an example of contract status update processing executed by the MFP.

[0054] Figure 5 1 is a flowchart showing an example of a switching process for switching a plurality of functions that can be used by the MFP and executed by the MFP.

[0055] Figure 6 It is a diagram showing an example of a switching determination table.

[0056] Figure 7 It is a diagram showing an example of a notice mode setting table.

[0057] Figure 8 It is a diagram showing an example of a notice content setting table.

[0058] Fig. 9It is a diagram showing an example of a restriction mode setting table.

[0059] Fig.10 It is a diagram showing an example of a restriction content setting table. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0060] <First Embodiment>

[0061] Combine the following Figures 1 to 10 A first embodiment of the present invention will be described. In this embodiment, as an example, the image forming apparatus is a so-called multifunction printer (MFP) having multiple functions including a printing function, a scanning function, and a fax transmission and reception function. The printing function will be explained by a case where it is composed of a laser printer.

[0062] <Overview of Image Forming System>

[0063] Figure 1 1 is a block diagram showing the overall schematic configuration of the image forming system 100 according to the present embodiment. Figure 1 As shown, the image forming system 100 includes an MFP 1 , a server 8 , a user terminal 9 , and a delivery management server 5 .

[0064] The MFP 1 is a device for realizing a service provided by setting a contract such as a "device contract" or a "consumables contract" described later for the MFP 1. It can also be said that the MFP 1 is a device that is a contract target. Hereinafter, the MFP 1 that is a contract target designated by a user or provided to a user by a business operator is also referred to as a "contract target device."

[0065] For example, the user signs a "device contract" with the operator, which is an example of a "contract". With this contract, the user is provided with a service that allows the user to use the contract-only device main body 10 provided by the operator, for example, at a fixed monthly fee. Therefore, when the user signs the "device contract" with the operator, the ownership of the MFP 1 belongs to the operator. On the other hand, when the user purchases the MFP 1 and does not sign the "device contract" with the operator, the ownership of the MFP 1 belongs to the user.

[0066] For example, a user signs a "consumables contract" with an operator, which is an example of a "contract". This allows the user to use the contracted consumables for a fixed monthly fee, for example. The signing of these contracts means that the operator providing the service and the user agree that the operator will provide the service to the user during the period agreed upon on the service usage period, usage fee, etc.

[0067] In other words, in the MFP 1 of the present embodiment, after the "consumables contract" is concluded, the MFP 1 performs printing using the contracted consumables (hereinafter also referred to as "contract printing") based on the contents of the concluded contract.

[0068] In the MFP 1 of this embodiment, after the "device contract" is concluded, the user is allowed to use the contract-only device main body 10 based on the contents of the concluded contract. In other words, after the "device contract" is concluded, the user is allowed to use the contracted MFP 1.

[0069] When the user signs the “device contract”, the user may also sign the “consumables contract” at the same time. By signing the “device contract” and the “consumables contract”, the user is allowed to perform contract printing using contract consumables on the MFP 1 of the contract-only device body 10 .

[0070] <Delivery Management Server 5>

[0071] The delivery management server 5 is a server managed by a sales company. The sales company is a company that temporarily stores the MFP 1 shipped from the factory in a warehouse and provides a delivery service of delivering the MFP 1 from the warehouse in response to an order from a large retailer or the like. The delivery management server 5 is installed in the sales company. The delivery management server 5 is an external device that communicates with the MFP 1 stored in the warehouse via the network NT. The delivery management server 5 includes a processor such as a CPU, a storage device, and a communication interface (not shown) for connecting to the network NT.

[0072] <User Terminal 9>

[0073] The user terminal 9 used by the user is a device that communicates with the server 8 to sign and cancel contracts and perform other procedures. For example, an information processing terminal with a standard communication function such as a PC (personal computer) or a smartphone can be used as the user terminal 9. The user can issue a print command to the MFP 1 via the user terminal 9 to print an arbitrary number of sheets using contract consumables. The user terminal 9, the server 8, and the MFP 1 that constitute the image forming system 100 communicate with each other via a network NT such as the Internet.

[0074] The user terminal 9 includes an input interface for receiving various user input operations and a communication interface for communicating with the server 8. The user registers the contract target device of the "consumables contract" in the server 8 by performing input operations via the user terminal 9. For example, the user inputs his / her own identification information and the identification information of the MFP 1 to be the contract target device of the "consumables contract" to the user terminal 9. In response to receiving the input, the user terminal 9 transmits the input information to the server 8.

[0075] <Server 8>

[0076] The server 8 is an external device that communicates with the MFP 1 via the network NT, and is an example of a management device that manages the operating state of the MFP 1. In the present embodiment, the server 8 is a server managed by an operator. Figure 1 As shown, the server 8 includes a server controller 81, a server memory 82, a communication interface 83, and a timer 84. The server controller 81, the server memory 82, the communication interface 83, and the timer 84 are connected to each other via a bus 85. The server controller 81 is a CPU (Central Processing Unit) that performs overall control of the server 8. The server memory 82 is a storage device for storing data required for the operation of the server 8.

[0077] The server controller 81 updates the registration table stored in the server memory 82 according to the notification or request received from the MFP 1. The "registration table" is a data table in which the device ID identifying the MFP 1 designated as the contract target device, the user name, and the user ID identifying the user are registered (stored) in association with each other by the user or by the server 8. In other words, the registration table includes information associating the user with the MFP 1 as the contract target device. The "registration table" is also data indicating whether a contract is currently concluded with each contract target device.

[0078] The server memory 82 includes an area 821 and an area 822. The server memory 82 stores device information in the area 821. The server memory 82 stores a registration table in the area 822. The areas 821 and 822 are rewritable areas. The device information is data in which various types of information about the MFP 1 are collected. The device information is stored separately for each MFP 1. The device information includes at least a device ID for identifying the MFP 1. In addition, the device information may include the cumulative number of print sheets printed by the MFP 1 and the cumulative number of print sheets printed by the MFP 1 under contract printing.

[0079] The communication interface 83 is a wired or wireless interface for communicating with the user terminal 9, the delivery management server 5, and the MFP 1, and is connected to the network NT. The server controller 81 receives various data, notifications, and requests from the MFP 1 via the communication interface 83. The server controller 81 transmits various data, notifications, and requests to the MFP 1 via the communication interface 83.

[0080] For example, the server controller 81 receives the device ID, the cumulative number of printed sheets, and the cumulative number of printed sheets printed under contract printing from the MFP 1 via the communication interface 83. Then, the server controller 81 can associate the received device ID with the cumulative number of each sheet and store them in the same area 821 of the server memory 82 as the device information of the MFP 1.

[0081] <MFP 1>

[0082] like Figure 1 As shown, the MFP 1 includes a controller 61, a device memory 62, a communication interface 63, a display 64, an operation interface 65, a print engine 66, a scanner 67, a fax and telephone communication interface 68, and a box communication interface 71. The controller 61, the device memory 62, the communication interface 63, the display 64, the operation interface 65, the print engine 66, the scanner 67, the fax and telephone communication interface 68, and the box communication interface 71 are connected to each other via a bus 72.

[0083] In the MFP 1, the toner cartridge 4 is attached to the drum cartridge 20, and the toner cartridge 4 is detachably attached to the device body 10 together with the drum cartridge 20. The drum cartridge 20 includes a photosensitive drum (not shown) as a component used for image formation. The drum cartridge 20 may include a drum memory 22. The drum memory 22 is a memory that reads and writes information. The drum memory 22 is, for example, a flash ROM (Read Only Memory) or an EEPROM (Electronically Erasable and Programmable Read Only Memory).

[0084] The drum memory 22 may store information about the photosensitive drum of the drum cartridge 20. The drum memory 22 may store a drum ID. The drum memory 22 may store drum life information. The drum ID is a unique serial number for identifying each drum cartridge 20. The drum life information is information indicating the life of the photosensitive drum.

[0085] like Figure 2 As shown, the toner cartridge 4 includes a toner memory 42 as an example of a consumable material memory. The toner memory 42 is arranged on the outer surface of the toner cartridge 4. The toner memory 42 is a memory that reads and writes information, such as a flash ROM or an EEPROM.

[0086] The toner memory 42 includes a first area 421, a second area 422, and a third area 423 for storing information about the toner cartridge 4. The toner memory 42 stores the toner ID in the first area 421. The toner memory 42 stores the second type information in the second area 422. The toner memory 42 stores the toner remaining amount information in the third area 423. The third area 423 can be rewritten with data.

[0087] The toner ID is, for example, a unique serial number for identifying each toner cartridge 4. The toner ID may include information indicating the color of each toner cartridge 4.

[0088] The second type of information is information indicating the type of the toner cartridge 4. In the present embodiment, there are two types of toner cartridges 4. One is a "contract box (contract-only box)", which is an example of a contract consumable (contract-only consumable) that can only be used in a contract target device. The other is a "normal box", which is an example of a normal consumable that can be used even in an MFP 1 that is not a contract target device. The second type of information may include a toner ID. That is, the toner ID may be information for identifying each toner cartridge 4 and information indicating the type of each toner cartridge 4.

[0089] The toner remaining amount information is information representing the amount of toner remaining in the toner cartridge 4. For example, the toner remaining amount is composed of values ​​corresponding to a plurality of stages from full to empty, and the values ​​corresponding to the toner remaining amounts in the plurality of stages from full to empty are stored in the third area 423. The stages of the toner remaining amount stored in the toner memory 42 may be character strings such as "full" to "empty", or numerical values ​​such as "100%" to "0%", or information combining character strings and numerical values ​​based on the above values.

[0090] The cartridge communication interface 71 is, for example, a terminal. The cartridge communication interface 71 is electrically connected to each of the drum memory 22 of the drum cartridge 20 attached to the apparatus body 10 and the toner memory 42 of the toner cartridge 4 attached to the apparatus body 10 together with the drum cartridge.

[0091] The controller 61 includes, for example, an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit). The controller 61 also includes a timer 69 and is configured to measure time. The controller 61 enables use of various functions of the MFP 1 including a printing function, a scanning function, and a fax transmission / reception function by executing various processes.

[0092] The controller 61 may include a processor such as a CPU. In this case, the device memory 62 may store a control program for implementing various functions including a printing function, a scanning function, and a fax transmission / reception function. The processor of the controller 61 may operate according to the control program stored in the device memory 62, thereby being able to implement various functions including a printing function, a scanning function, and a fax transmission / reception function using the MFP 1.

[0093] The controller 61 itself may include a computer-readable recording medium (storage medium) storing the control program. As the recording medium, a "non-temporary physical medium" such as a ROM (Read Only Memory), a magnetic tape, a disk, a card, a semiconductor memory, a programmable logic circuit, etc. may be used. In addition, a RAM (random access memory) for expanding the control program may also be used.

[0094] The control program may be supplied to the computer via any transmission medium capable of transmitting the control program (communication network, broadcast wave, etc.) One aspect of the present invention may also be implemented in the form of a data signal embedded in a carrier wave in which the control program is implemented by electronic transmission.

[0095] When the drum cartridge 20 and the toner cartridge 4 are attached to the apparatus body 10, the drum memory 22 and the toner memory 42 are electrically connected to the controller 61 via the cartridge communication interface 71. The controller 61 reads information from the drum memory 22 and the toner memory 42 via the cartridge communication interface 71. The controller 61 performs at least a write process and a rewrite process of information on the drum memory 22 and the toner memory 42 via the cartridge communication interface 71.

[0096] The device memory 62 is a memory for reading and writing information. The device memory 62 is, for example, a flash ROM or an EEPROM. Figure 3 As shown, the device memory 62 includes areas 621 to 628 for storing various information. The device memory 62 stores toner information in area 621.

[0097] The toner information is information about each toner cartridge 4 attached to the MFP 1. For example, the toner information may be data in which a toner ID read from a certain toner memory 42 is present, and the toner information is associated with the second type information and the toner remaining amount information read from the same toner memory 42. The device memory 62 may store the data associated in this manner for each toner cartridge 4 in the area 621.

[0098] The device memory 62 stores a device ID in an area 622. The device ID is identification information for identifying the MFP 1. The device ID may be, for example, a serial number of the MFP 1.

[0099] The device memory 62 stores the contract information in area 623. The contract information indicates one of two modes, "contract mode" and "normal mode". "Contract mode (consumables contract mode)" indicates a state in which a "consumables contract" for the MFP 1 is signed. "Normal mode" indicates a state in which a "consumables contract" for the MFP 1 is not signed, or the "consumables contract" has been canceled. When the MFP 1 is shipped from the factory, area 623 stores a value corresponding to the "normal mode" as an initial value. The controller 61 can rewrite the "contract information" as appropriate.

[0100] The device memory 62 stores the first type information in the area 624. The first type information is information indicating the type of the MFP 1. In the present embodiment, there are two types of MFPs 1. One is a "contract (contract-only) device" that can be used when a "device contract" is signed. The other is a "normal device" that can be used without signing a "device contract" or regardless of whether a "device contract" is signed.

[0101] The controller 61 rewrites the first type information appropriately. When the MFP 1 is shipped from the factory, the area 624 stores a value corresponding to the "normal mode" as an initial value. The first type information may be included in the device ID. That is, the device ID may be information for identifying each MFP 1 and information indicating the type of each MFP 1.

[0102] The device memory 62 stores a first sheet number count in area 625. The first sheet number count is the total number of sheets printed in the MFP 1. The device memory 62 stores a second sheet number count in area 626. The second sheet number count indicates the number of sheets printed by the MFP 1 under contract printing. The second sheet number count may be reset to 0 whenever the MFP 1 is switched from the contract mode to the normal mode, or the second sheet number count may be the total number of sheets printed so far by the MFP 1 under contract printing. Hereinafter, unless otherwise specified, the value of the second sheet number count is the total number of sheets printed under contract printing.

[0103] The device memory 62 stores condition information in area 627. The condition information includes a plurality of preset "restriction conditions B" to restrict the use of various functions of the MFP 1 (see Fig. 9 ). The device memory 62 stores the restriction mode setting table 95 described later in the area 627 (see Fig. 9 ).

[0104] The restriction mode setting table 95 stores "restriction modes" for restricting the use of various functions of the MFP 1. The restriction mode is associated with a combination of multiple restriction conditions B and the presence or absence of a device contract for the MFP 1. The "restriction mode" includes restriction modes of "restriction 1", "restriction 2", "restriction 3", "restriction 4", "restriction 5" and "restriction 6". Each restriction mode is marked with "level 1", "level 2" or "level 3", which indicates the selection order of selecting a "restriction mode" from two or more "restriction modes" corresponding to the satisfied restriction conditions B when two or more restriction conditions B are satisfied at the same time. The selection order for selecting the "restriction mode" decreases from "level 3", "level 2" or "level 1". That is, "level 3" is the highest level and "level 1" is the lowest level.

[0105] The device memory 62 stores a restriction content setting table 96 (see Fig.10 ) The restriction content setting table 96 stores the restriction content of various functions of the MFP 1 for each restriction mode.

[0106] The device memory 62 stores the notice condition information in the area 628. The notice condition information includes a plurality of preset "notice conditions A" (see Figure 7 ). The plurality of "preliminary conditions A" are used to display on the display 64 a condition for preliminarily notifying that the functions available to the MFP 1 can be limited for each of the plurality of limitation modes. The device memory 62 stores a preliminarily notified mode setting table 92 (see FIG. 1 ) described later in an area 628. Figure 7 ).

[0107] The notice mode setting table 92 stores a "notice mode" that provides a notice indicating that the functions available for the MFP 1 may be limited. The "notice mode" is associated with a combination of a plurality of notice conditions A and the presence or absence of a device contract for the MFP 1. The "notice mode" includes notice modes of "notice 1", "notice 2", "notice 3", "notice 4", "notice 5", and "notice 6". The device memory 62 stores a notice content setting table 93 described later in an area 628 (see Figure 8 ). The notice content setting table 93 stores notice content for each notice mode.

[0108] The device memory 62 further includes a sheet count storage section 629. When the MFP 1 continues to be offline from the network NT, the sheet count storage section 629 stores the number of sheets that can be printed under contract printing. The device memory 62 further includes a period storage section 630. The period storage section 630 stores contract period information including information on a contract start date and time and a contract end date and time for each of the "consumables contract" and the "device contract".

[0109] The communication interface 63 is a wired or wireless interface for communicating with the user terminal 9, the server 8, and the delivery management server 5, and is connected to the network NT. The communication interface 63 is also connected to the telephone network. The controller 61 receives various data, notifications, and requests from the server 8 and the delivery management server 5 via the communication interface 63. The controller 61 transmits various data, notifications, and requests to the server 8 via the communication interface 63.

[0110] The display 64 is, for example, a liquid crystal display. The operation interface 65 is a device that receives user operations. The user inputs various instructions to the MFP 1 by operating the operation interface 65. The operation interface 65 may be a touch panel integrated with the screen of the display 64.

[0111] The print engine 66 takes out a sheet from a sheet feeding tray through a conveying mechanism (not shown) and conveys the sheet. The print engine 66 prints an image on the conveyed sheet by a laser printing method using the drum cartridge 20 and the toner cartridge 4. Therefore, the MFP 1 has a printing function using the print engine 66. The toner cartridge 4 includes cyan, magenta, yellow, and black toner cartridges 4. However, hereinafter, unless otherwise specified, they will be simply referred to as "toner cartridges 4" without distinction.

[0112] The scanner 67 optically reads a document, which is an object to be read, using a photoelectric conversion element such as a CCD and a CMOS. Then, the MFP 1 generates scan data representing an image read by the scanner 67. Therefore, the MFP 1 has a scanning function using the scanner 67.

[0113] The fax and telephone communication interface 68 is connected to the telephone network via the communication interface 63. The fax and telephone communication interface 68 performs transmission and reception of image data as fax signals with an external communication destination device, and performs voice communication with a desired destination. Therefore, the MFP 1 has a fax transmission function and a fax reception function.

[0114] <Contract status update processing>

[0115] Next, refer to Figure 4 An example of contract status update processing executed by the controller 61 of the MFP 1 in a warehouse or the like of a sales company will be described. Figure 4 An example of the contract status update process executed by the controller 61 of the MFP 1 is shown. Figure 4 The program shown in the flowchart is stored in advance in the device memory 62.

[0116] When the MFP 1 is shipped from the factory and stored in the warehouse of the sales company, the contract information stored in the area 623 of the device memory 62 is set to indicate the "normal mode". In addition, the contract information stored in the area 623 of the device memory 62 is set to indicate the "normal device". That is, when the MFP 1 is shipped from the factory and delivered to the warehouse of the sales company, the contract information of the MFP 1 indicates the "normal mode" and the "normal device".

[0117] The contract status update process described later is a process executed in a warehouse or the like of a sales company after the MFP 1 is delivered to the warehouse or the like. The contract status update process is also a process executed when the MFP 1 is delivered from the warehouse or the like to a user.

[0118] When powered on, the controller 61 displays a standby screen on the display 64. When the controller 61 is instructed to execute the contract status update process via the operation interface 65 on the standby screen, the controller 61 starts Figure 4 The procedure of the contract status update processing shown in the flowchart is executed, and the processing proceeds to S11.

[0119] like Figure 4 As shown, the controller 61 of the MFP 1 first determines whether an instruction indicating that the "device contract" and the "consumables contract" have been signed is input through the operation interface 65 (S11). If it is determined that an instruction indicating that the "device contract" and the "consumables contract" have been signed is input through the operation interface 65 (S11: Yes), the controller 61 proceeds to the process of S12.

[0120] In S12, controller 61 reads the first type information stored in area 624 of device memory 62. Then, controller 61 changes the setting of the first type information from "normal device" to "contract device", and stores the first type information in area 624 again (S12).

[0121] In S13, the controller 61 reads the contract information stored in the area 623 of the device memory 62. Then, the controller 61 changes the setting of the contract information from the "normal mode" to the "contract mode", and then stores the contract information in the area 623 again (S13). Thereafter, the controller 61 ends the contract status update process.

[0122] Therefore, the MFP 1 stored in the warehouse of the sales company or the like is set as a product delivered to the user who has signed the "device contract" and the "consumables contract". Therefore, when all the MFP 1 are shipped from the factory, the first type information is set to indicate the "normal device". In addition, the contract information is set to indicate the "normal mode". This enables the product of the MFP 1 shipped from the factory to be standardized.

[0123] In addition, since the first type information is set to indicate "contract device", the ownership of the MFP 1 is set to belong to the business operator. In addition, the contract information is set to indicate "contract mode". Therefore, the MFP 1 is set to perform contract printing using the toner cartridge 4 as a contract cartridge.

[0124] The contract status update process may be executed by the controller 61 before the MFP 1 is shipped from the factory. Then, in the case where it is determined that an instruction indicating that the "device contract" and the "consumables contract" have been signed is input via the operation interface 65 (S11: Yes), the controller 61 may execute the processes of S12 and S13. In other words, after the MFP 1 is set as an MFP 1 that can be delivered to a user who has signed the "device contract" and the "consumables contract", the MFP 1 may be shipped to the sales company.

[0125] In S11, when it is determined that no instruction indicating that the "device contract" and the "consumables contract" have been signed has been input through the operation interface 65 (S11: No), the controller 61 proceeds to the process of S14. In S14, the controller 61 determines whether an instruction indicating that the "consumables contract" has been signed has been input through the operation interface 65 (S14).

[0126] When it is determined that a command indicating that a "consumables contract" has been concluded has been inputted via the operation interface 65 (S14: Yes), the controller 61 proceeds to the process of S13. After executing the process of S13, the controller 61 ends the contract status update process.

[0127] Thus, the MFP 1 stored in the warehouse of the sales company or the like is set as a product that can be delivered to the user who has signed the "consumables contract". Therefore, when all the MFP 1 are shipped from the factory, the first type information is set to indicate "normal device" and the contract information is set to indicate "normal mode", which enables the products of the MFP 1 shipped from the factory to be standardized. Furthermore, since the first type information is set to indicate "normal device", the ownership of the MFP 1 belongs to the user who purchased the MFP 1. In addition, since the contract information is set to indicate "contract mode", the MFP 1 is set to perform contract printing using the toner cartridge 4 as a contract cartridge.

[0128] The contract status update process may be executed by the controller 61 before the MFP 1 is shipped from the factory. When it is determined that an instruction indicating that a "consumables contract" has been signed is input via the operation interface 65 (S14: Yes), the controller 61 may execute the process of S13. In other words, after the MFP 1 is set as an MFP 1 that can be delivered to a user who has signed a "consumables contract", the MFP 1 may be shipped to the sales company.

[0129] If it is determined in S14 that the instruction indicating that the "consumables contract" has been concluded is not input via the operation interface 65 (S14: No), the controller 61 determines not to change the contract information stored in the device memory 62. In other words, the MFP 1 becomes a non-contract MFP 1 that has not concluded a contract with the user. Thereafter, the controller 61 ends the contract status update process.

[0130] By the above-mentioned contract status update processing, the MFP 1 stored in the warehouse of the sales company or the like is set as a product that can be delivered to the user in the state of being shipped from the factory, which enables the product standardization of the MFP 1 shipped from the factory. The ownership of the MFP 1 belongs to the user who purchased the MFP 1. The MFP 1 is not allowed to perform contract printing using the toner cartridge 4 as a contract cartridge.

[0131] <Switch Process>

[0132] Next, in the MFP 1 configured as described above, referring to Figures 5 to 10 An example of a switching process executed by the controller 61 for switching a plurality of functions available in the MFP 1 is described. Figure 5 1 is a flowchart showing a switching process executed by the controller 61 of the MFP 1 for switching a plurality of functions available in the MFP 1. Figure 5 The program shown in the flowchart is pre-stored in the device memory 62. When the power is turned on, the controller 61 starts every few minutes to hours. Figure 5 The procedure of the switching process shown in the flowchart is executed, and the process enters step S21.

[0133] The controller 61 may start the switching process and enter the process of S21 not only when the power is turned on, but also when receiving an execution instruction for performing the switching process from the outside via the communication interface 63. Furthermore, the controller 61 may start the switching process and enter S21 not only when the power is turned on, but also at a prescribed interval, such as an interval of several hundred milliseconds.

[0134] Figure 6 The switching determination table 91 shown is stored in advance in the device memory 62 . Figure 7 The preview mode setting table 92 shown in FIG. Figure 8 The preview content setting table 93 shown, Fig. 9 The restriction mode setting table 95 and Fig.10 The restriction content setting table 96 shown is stored in advance in the device memory 62 .

[0135] like Figure 5 As shown, the controller 61 of the MFP 1 firstly performs Figure 6 The switching determination table 91 shown in FIG. 1 determines whether a switching determination based on the consumables contract is required (S21). Figure 6 As shown, the switching determination table 91 stores information including "device contract concluded", "device contract not concluded", "consumables contract mode set", and "consumables contract mode not set".

[0136] "Device contract signed" indicates that the "Device contract" has been signed. "Device contract not signed" indicates that the "Device contract" has not been signed. "Consumables contract mode set" indicates that the "Consumables contract" has been signed. "Consumables contract mode not set" indicates that the "Consumables contract" has not been signed. Each of "Consumables contract mode set" and "Consumables contract mode not set" includes information indicating the type of each attached toner cartridge 4, i.e., "Contract cartridge" and "Normal cartridge".

[0137] For example, if the combination of "device contract signed" and "consumables contract mode set" is applied, the controller 61 determines that the switching determination in S21 is required regardless of whether the type of the toner cartridge 4 is a "contract cartridge" or a "normal cartridge". If the combination of "device contract not signed" and "consumables contract mode set" is applied, the controller 61 determines that the switching determination in S21 is required regardless of whether the type of the toner cartridge 4 is a "contract cartridge" or a "normal cartridge".

[0138] If the combination of "device contract signed" and "consumables contract mode not set" is applied, the controller 61 determines that the switching determination in S21 is not required regardless of whether the type of the toner cartridge 4 is a "contract cartridge" or a "normal cartridge". If the combination of "device contract not signed" and "consumables contract mode not set" is applied, the controller 61 determines that the switching determination in S21 is not required regardless of whether the type of the toner cartridge 4 is a "contract cartridge" or a "normal cartridge".

[0139] In other words, when the "consumables contract mode is set", that is, when the "consumables contract" has been signed, the controller 61 determines that the switching determination in S21 is required. When the "consumables contract mode is not set", that is, when the "consumables contract" has not been signed, the controller 61 determines that the switching determination in S21 is not required.

[0140] Therefore, in S21, the controller 61 first reads the first type information from the area 624 of the device memory 62. Then, the controller 61 determines whether the first type information indicates "contract device" (first determination process). When the first type information indicates "contract device", the controller 61 determines that "device contract has been signed" of the switching determination table 91 is applicable. When the first type information indicates "normal device", the controller 61 determines that "device contract has not been signed" of the switching determination table 91 is applicable.

[0141] After the first determination process, the controller 61 reads the "second type information" of the toner information from the area 621 of the device memory 62. Then, the controller 61 determines whether the second type information indicates a "contract box" (second determination process). In the case where the second type information indicates a "contract box", the controller 61 determines that it is a "contract box" of the applicable switching determination table 91. In the case where the second type information indicates a "normal box", the controller 61 determines that it is a "normal box" of the applicable switching determination table 91. Note that the determination order of the first determination process and the second determination process performed by the controller 61 is not limited to this. That is, the controller 61 can perform the first determination process after performing the second determination process.

[0142] The controller 61 also reads the contract information from the area 623 of the device memory 62, and then the controller 61 determines whether the contract information indicates the "contract mode". In the case where the contract information indicates the "normal mode", that is, when the consumables contract has not been signed for the MFP 1, the controller 61 determines that the "consumables contract mode is not set" of the applicable switching determination table 91. In the case where the "consumables contract mode is not set" of the applicable switching determination table 91, the controller 61 determines that no switching determination is required regardless of whether the type of the toner cartridge 4 is a "contract cartridge" or a "normal cartridge" (S21: No). In this way, the controller 61 determines whether a switching determination is required based on the first type information, the second type information, and the contract information. After that, the controller 61 ends the switching process.

[0143] When the contract information indicates "contract mode", that is, when the consumables contract is set for the MFP 1, the controller 61 determines that the "consumables contract mode has been set" of the switching determination table 91 is applicable. When the "consumables contract mode has been set" of the switching determination table 91 is applicable, the controller 61 determines that the switching determination is required regardless of whether the type of the toner cartridge 4 is a "contract cartridge" or a "normal cartridge" (S21: Yes). Then, the controller 61 proceeds to the process of S22.

[0144] In S22, the controller 61 determines whether Figure 7 The forecast mode setting table 92 shown in FIG. Figure 7 As shown, the notice mode setting table 92 stores information including "device contract concluded", "device contract not concluded", and "notice condition A".

[0145] "Preliminary condition A" includes information representing "condition A1", "condition A2", and "condition A3". Condition A1, condition A2, and condition A3 are as follows.

[0146] Condition A1: 100 sheets are left to be printed during offline period

[0147] Condition A2: Three days before the printing stop instruction from the server

[0148] Condition A3: Three days before the end of the contract period of the internal clock

[0149] Each condition will be described in detail.

[0150] Condition A1 is the case where, during the offline period when the communication with the external communication device such as the server 8 is disconnected via the communication interface 63, the number of print sheets printed by the contract printing reaches, for example, 100 sheets remaining from the number of printable sheets during the offline period. Specifically, the controller 61 reads the number of printable sheets during the offline period from the sheet number storage unit 629 of the device memory 62. Then, the controller 61 reads the value of the second sheet number count stored in the area 626 of the device memory 62 from the time when the offline is detected, and determines whether the condition A1 is satisfied.

[0151] Condition A2 is the following case: three days before the print stop instruction is received from the server 8 via the communication interface 63, for example, when the user has not paid the usage fee after the final payment deadline of the usage fee of the device contract or the consumables contract has passed, the controller 61 receives the print stop instruction from the server 8 via the communication interface 63. Here, the final payment deadline of the usage fee of the device contract or the consumables contract is stored in the equipment memory 62 when the contract is signed. The controller 61 reads the date and time information through the timer 69 as an internal clock. Then, the controller 61 reads the final payment deadline of the usage fee of the device contract or the consumables contract from the device memory 62, and determines whether the condition A2 is satisfied.

[0152] Condition A3 is the case where the timer 69 as an internal clock has reached, for example, three days before the end of the contract period of the "device contract" or the "consumables contract". The controller 61 reads the contract end date and time information of each of the "device contract" and the "consumables contract" from the period storage unit 630 of the device memory 62, and determines whether the condition A3 is satisfied.

[0153] If it is determined that any of the notification conditions A in the notification mode setting table 92 is not satisfied (S22: No), the controller 61 executes the process of S22 again. If it is determined that any of the notification conditions A in the notification mode setting table 92 is satisfied (S22: Yes), the controller 61 proceeds to the process of S23.

[0154] In S23, the controller 61 obtains the preview mode based on the first type information and the preview condition satisfied in S22. Specifically, the controller 61 first reads the first type information from the area 624 of the device memory 62. Then, when the first type information indicates "contract device", the controller 61 determines that the "device contract" has been signed. Then, the controller 61 reads the preview mode based on the combination with any one of the conditions A1, A2, A3 satisfied in S22, and stores the preview mode in the device memory 62 (S23). For example, if the combination of "device contract has been signed" and "condition A1" is applicable, the controller 61 reads the preview mode of "preview 1" in S23.

[0155] When the first type information indicates "normal device", the controller 61 determines that the "device contract" has not been signed. Then, the controller 61 reads the notice mode based on the combination with any one of the conditions A1, A2, and A3 satisfied in S23, and stores the notice mode in the device memory 62 (S23). For example, when the combination of "device contract not signed" and "condition A1" is applied, the controller reads the notice mode of "Notice 2" in S22.

[0156] Here, refer to Figure 8 Specific instructions Figure 7 Shown are trailer 1, trailer 2, trailer 3, trailer 4, trailer 5 and trailer 6. Figure 8 93 shows an example of the preview content setting table. Figure 8 As shown, the notice content setting table 93 includes information of "notice mode" and "notice content". "Notice mode" includes information representing the notice modes of notice 1, notice 2, notice 3, notice 4, notice 5, and notice 6. "Notification content" includes information of the notice content corresponding to the notice modes of notice 1, notice 2, notice 3, notice 4, notice 5, and notice 6.

[0157] The information of the preview content corresponding to the preview mode of each of preview 1, preview 2, preview 3, preview 4, preview 5 and preview 6 is as follows:

[0158] Warning 1, Warning 3, and Warning 5: The device may become unusable. Please check your dashboard for details.

[0159] Notice 2, Notice 4 and Notice 6: Contract Box may become unavailable. Please check your dashboard for details.

[0160] Here, a "dashboard" is a web page for a corresponding individual user.

[0161] In S24, the controller 61 reads the preview mode stored in S23 from the device memory 62. Then, the controller 61 reads the preview mode stored in S23 from the device memory 62. Figure 8 The notice content setting table 93 shown reads the "notice content" corresponding to the notice mode, and stores the notice content in the device memory 62 (S24).

[0162] For example, in a case where the preview mode read from the device memory 62 is "Preview 1", the controller 61 reads "The device may become unusable. Please check your dashboard for details". The controller 61 then stores the content of the read preview in the device memory 62. In a case where the preview mode read from the device memory 62 is "Preview 2", the controller 61 reads "The contract box may become unusable. Please check your dashboard for details" corresponding to preview 2 from the preview content setting table 93. The controller 61 then stores the content of the read preview in the device memory 62.

[0163] In S25, the controller 61 reads the content of the preview stored in the device memory 62 in S24, displays the content on the display 64, and notifies the user of the content of the preview (S25), and then proceeds to the process of S26.

[0164] In S26, the controller 61 determines whether Fig. 9 The restriction mode setting table 95 shown in FIG. 9 is an arbitrary restriction condition B (S26). Fig. 9 As shown, the restriction mode setting table 95 stores information including "device contract concluded" and "device contract not concluded" and the like, and "restriction condition B".

[0165] "Constraint B" includes information representing "Condition B1", "Condition B2" and "Condition B3". Conditions B1, B2 and B3 are as follows:

[0166] Condition B1: The number of printed sheets during the offline period reaches the number of printable sheets during the offline period

[0167] Condition B2: Receive a print stop command from the server

[0168] Condition B3: The end of the contract period is detected by the internal clock

[0169] Each condition will be described in detail.

[0170] Condition B1 is the case where the number of print sheets printed by contract printing has reached the number of printable sheets during the offline period when the communication with the external communication device such as the server 8 is disconnected via the communication interface 63. Specifically, the controller 61 reads the number of printable sheets during the offline period from the sheet number storage unit 629 of the device memory 62. Then, the controller 61 reads the value of the second sheet number count stored in the area 626 of the device memory 62 from the time when the offline is detected, and determines whether the condition B1 is satisfied.

[0171] Condition B2 is the case where a print stop instruction is received from the server 8 via the communication interface 63. For example, the controller 61 receives a print stop instruction from the server 8 via the communication interface 63 when the user fails to pay the usage fee after the final payment deadline of the usage fee of the device contract or consumables contract.

[0172] Condition B3 is the case where the end of the contract period of the "device contract" or the "consumables contract" is detected by the timer 69 as the internal clock. The controller 61 reads the contract end date and time information of each "device contract" and "consumables contract" from the period storage unit 630 of the device memory 62, and determines whether the condition B3 is satisfied.

[0173] If it is determined that any restriction condition B of the restriction mode setting table 95 is not satisfied (S26: No), the controller 61 executes the process of S22 again. If it is determined that any restriction condition B of the restriction mode setting table 95 is satisfied (S26: Yes), the controller 61 stores the satisfied condition in the restriction condition B in the device memory 62 and proceeds to the process of S27.

[0174] In S27, the controller 61 acquires the restriction mode based on the first type information and the restriction condition satisfied in S26. Specifically, first, the controller 61 reads the first type information from the area 624 of the device memory 62. When the first type information indicates "contract device", the controller 61 determines that the "device contract" has been signed. Then, the controller 61 reads the restriction mode based on a combination with any one of the conditions B1, B2 and B3 satisfied in S26, and stores the restriction mode in the device memory 62 (S27).

[0175] For example, in the case where the combination of "device contract has been signed" and "condition B1" is applied, the controller 61 reads the restriction mode of restriction 1 (level 1) in S27. In the case where multiple conditions among condition B1, condition B2 and condition B3 are satisfied, the controller 61 reads the restriction mode of the higher (or highest) level from "restriction 1 (level 1)", "restriction 3 (level 2)" and "restriction 5 (level 3)". Then, the controller 61 stores the read restriction mode in the device memory 62 (S27).

[0176] When the first type information indicates "normal device", the controller 61 determines that the "device contract" has not been signed. Then, the controller 61 reads the restriction mode based on the combination with any one of the conditions B1, B2 and B3 satisfied in S26, and stores the restriction mode in the device memory 62 (S27).

[0177] For example, when the combination of "device contract not signed" and "condition B1" is applied, the controller reads the restriction mode of restriction 2 (level 1) in S27. When multiple conditions among condition B1, condition B2 and condition B3 are satisfied, the controller 61 reads a restriction mode of a higher (or highest) level from "restriction 2 (level 1)", "restriction 4 (level 2)" and "restriction 6 (level 3)". Then, the controller 61 stores the read restriction mode in the device memory 62 (S27).

[0178] In S28, the controller 61 reads the restriction mode stored in S27 from the device memory 62 and sets Fig.10 The restriction content setting table 96 shown in FIG. Fig.10 As shown, the restriction content setting table 96 includes “restriction mode” and information representing “usable toner cartridge”, “scanning function”, “FAX transmission function”, “FAX reception function (printing)” and “FAX reception function (memory reception)” of the functions of the MFP 1 .

[0179] “Restriction mode” includes information on restriction modes of restriction 1, restriction 2, restriction 3, restriction 4, restriction 5, and restriction 6. “Available toner cartridge” includes restriction content information “None” corresponding to restriction 1, restriction 3, and restriction 5, and includes restriction content information “Normal cartridge” corresponding to restriction 2, restriction 4, and restriction 6. “Scan function” includes restriction content information “Available” corresponding to restriction 1, restriction 2, restriction 4, and restriction 6, and restriction content information “Unavailable” corresponding to restriction 3 and restriction 5.

[0180] The “Fax transmission function” includes restriction content information “Available” corresponding to restriction 1, restriction 2, restriction 4, and restriction 6, and includes restriction content information “Unavailable” corresponding to restriction 3 and restriction 5. The “Fax reception function (printing)” includes restriction content information “Unavailable” corresponding to restriction 1, restriction 3, and restriction 5, and includes restriction content information “(normally available) available” corresponding to restriction 2, restriction 4, and restriction 6.

[0181] The “Fax reception function (memory reception)” includes the restriction content information “Not available” corresponding to restriction 1, and includes the restriction content information “Available” corresponding to restriction 2, restriction 4, and restriction 6. The “Fax reception function (memory reception)” includes the restriction content information “Available (panel display guidance)” corresponding to restriction 3, and includes the restriction content information “Not available (forced telephone mode)” corresponding to restriction 5.

[0182] Therefore, based on each of restrictions 1 to 6, at least a part of the "FAX transmission function", "FAX reception function (printing)" and "FAX reception function (memory reception)" is switched from "available" to "unavailable". Alternatively, all of the "FAX transmission function", "FAX reception function (printing)" and "FAX reception function (memory reception)" corresponding to restrictions 1, 3 and 5 can be switched from "available" to "unavailable".

[0183] The restriction content information of “usable toner cartridge”, “scan function”, “FAX transmission function”, “FAX reception function (printing)”, and “FAX reception function (memory reception)” representing the functions of the MFP 1 will be described in detail below.

[0184] The "usable toner cartridge" in the restriction content setting table 96 indicates the "print function" that can be used in the print engine 66, and indicates the type of toner cartridge 4 that can be used for printing among the two types of toner cartridges, the contract cartridge and the normal cartridge. For example, in the case where the "usable toner cartridge" is "none", this means that neither the contract cartridge nor the normal cartridge can be used for printing. In other words, this means that the "print function" available in the print engine 66 is stopped.

[0185] When the "usable toner cartridge" is "normal cartridge", this means that only the normal cartridge toner cartridge 4 can be used for printing. In other words, when the contract cartridge toner cartridge 4 is attached to the device body 10, the "print function" available in the print engine 66 is stopped (disabled).

[0186] For example, in the case where the “scanning function” in the restriction content setting table 96 is “available”, this means that the “scanning function” that can be used by the scanner 67 is not limited. In other words, this means that the MFP 1 is allowed to use the “scanning function” of the scanner 67. In the case where the “scanning function” in the restriction content setting table 96 is “unavailable”, this means that the “scanning function” available in the scanner 67 is stopped. In other words, this means that the MFP 1 stops the “scanning function” of the scanner 67.

[0187] For example, when the “Fax transmission function” in the restriction content setting table 96 is “available”, this means that the fax transmission function via the fax and telephone communication interface 68 is available. When the “Fax transmission function” in the restriction content setting table 96 is “unavailable”, this means that the fax transmission function via the fax and telephone communication interface 68 is stopped. In other words, this means that the MFP 1 stops the “Fax transmission function” that can be used by the fax and telephone communication interface 68.

[0188] For example, in the case where the “Fax reception function (print)” in the restriction content setting table 96 is “unavailable”, this means that the printout of the image received by fax via the communication interface 63 is stopped. In the case where the “Fax reception function (print)” in the restriction content setting table 96 is “available (when normal cartridge)”, this means that the image data received by fax is printed out when the toner cartridge 4 of the normal cartridge is attached. In other words, this means that when the toner cartridge 4 of the contract cartridge is attached, the “Fax reception function” for printing out the image data received by fax is stopped.

[0189] For example, when the “Fax reception function (printing)” in the restriction content setting table 96 is “available”, this means that the image data received by fax is stored and saved in the device memory 62. When the “Fax reception function (printing)” in the restriction content setting table 96 is “unavailable”, this means that a setting (restriction) is made to stop the image data received by fax via the communication interface 63 from being stored in the device memory 62.

[0190] In the case where the "Fax reception function (memory reception)" in the restriction content setting table 96 is "available (panel display guidance)", this means that the image data received by fax is displayed on the display 64 and stored in the device memory 62. In the case where the "Fax reception function (memory reception)" in the restriction content setting table 96 is "unavailable (forced telephone mode)", this means that when a fax is received via the communication interface 63, the fax and telephone communication interface 68 performs voice communication. In other words, this means that the storage of the image data received by fax into the device memory 62 is stopped (prohibited).

[0191] Then, the controller 61 sets the restriction content corresponding to the restriction mode for each function of "usable toner cartridge", "scanning function", "fax sending function", "fax receiving function (printing)" and "fax receiving function (memory receiving)". That is, the controller 61 switches each function to the restriction content corresponding to the restriction mode (S28).

[0192] Therefore, in S28, for example, when the controller 61 reads out the restriction mode of "Restriction 3" stored in S27 from the device memory 62, as shown in FIG. Fig.10 The "restriction 3" in the restriction content setting table 96 shown in FIG. Fig.10 As shown, since the “usable toner cartridge” corresponding to “limitation 3” is “none”, the controller 61 performs setting (limitation) to stop the “print function” available in the print engine 66 .

[0193] Since the “scanning function” corresponding to “restriction 3” is “unavailable”, the controller 61 performs settings (restrictions) to stop the “scanning function” available in the scanner 67. In addition, since the “fax transmission function” corresponding to “restriction 3” is “unavailable”, the controller 61 performs settings (restrictions) to stop the “scanning function” via the fax and telephone communication interface 68.

[0194] In addition, since the “Fax receiving function (printing)” corresponding to “Restriction 3” is “unavailable”, the controller 61 performs settings (restrictions) to stop printing out the image data received by fax via the communication interface 63. In addition, since the “Fax receiving function (memory reception)” corresponding to “Restriction 3” is “available (panel display guidance)”, the controller 61 performs settings to store and save the image data received by fax in the device memory 62.

[0195] When the image data is stored in the device memory 62, the controller 61 displays on the display 64 that the image data received by fax is stored in the device memory 62. This enables the user to receive the fax-received image data such as a message from the MFP 1 through the user terminal 9 and check the received image data.

[0196] When the "print function" available in the print engine 66 is limited in S28, the controller 61 displays the content of the limited "print function" on the display 64 in S29 to inform the user. When the "scan function" available in the scanner 67 is limited (stopped) in S28, the controller 61 displays on the display 64 that the "scan function" has been limited (stopped) to inform the user.

[0197] When the "fax sending function" that can be used by the fax and telephone communication interface 68 is restricted (stopped) in S28, the controller 61 displays on the display 64 that the "fax sending function" has been restricted (stopped) to notify the user. When the "fax receiving function" that can be used by the fax and telephone communication interface 68 is restricted (stopped, etc.), the controller 61 displays on the display 64 that the "fax receiving function" has been restricted (stopped, etc.) to notify the user (S29).

[0198] Thereafter, in S30, the controller 61 reads out the satisfied restriction condition B stored in the device memory 62 in S26, and determines whether the satisfied restriction condition B has been cancelled. For example, in the case where the satisfied restriction condition B in S26 is condition B1, the controller 61 determines whether communication with an external communication device such as the server 8 has been established via the communication interface 63. In the case where it is determined that communication with an external communication device such as the server 8 has been established via the communication interface 63, the controller 61 determines that the satisfied restriction condition B in S26 has been cancelled.

[0199] For example, when the restriction condition B satisfied in S26 is condition B2, the controller 61 determines whether the user has paid the usage fee and has received a print restart instruction from the server 8 via the communication interface 63. When it is determined that the print restart instruction has been received from the server 8 via the communication interface 63, the controller 61 determines that the restriction condition B satisfied in S26 has been canceled.

[0200] For example, when the restriction condition B satisfied in S26 is condition B3, the controller 61 determines whether a notification that the “device contract” and the “consumables contract” have been signed or a notification that the “consumables contract” has been signed has been received from the server 8 via the communication interface 63. When it is determined that a notification that the “device contract” and the “consumables contract” have been signed or a notification that the “consumables contract” has been signed has been received from the server 8 via the communication interface 63, the controller 61 determines that the restriction condition B satisfied in S26 has been cancelled.

[0201] If it is determined that the constraint condition B satisfied in S26 has not been cancelled (S30: No), the controller 61 executes the process of S30 again. If it is determined that the constraint condition B satisfied in S26 has been cancelled (S30: Yes), the controller 61 proceeds to the process of S31.

[0202] In S31, the controller 61 cancels the restriction setting set in S28 for the “print function” that can be used by the print engine 66. This enables the user to perform printing using the toner cartridge 4 of the contract cartridge and the normal cartridge. In addition, the controller 61 cancels the restriction setting set in S28 for the “scan function” that can be used by the scanner 67. This enables the user to acquire the image data of the scanned object read by the scanner 67.

[0203] The controller 61 also cancels the restriction setting set in S28 for each of the "fax transmission function" and the "fax reception function" that can be used through the fax and telephone communication interface 68. This enables the user to send and receive faxes to and from the outside. After that, the controller 61 executes the processing after S22 again.

[0204] <Modification>

[0205] <Modification 1>

[0206] For example, stored in Fig. 9 The "restriction 1", "restriction 2", "restriction 3", "restriction 4", "restriction 5", and "restriction 6" of the restriction mode setting table 95 shown may not have a selection order of selecting one of two or more "restriction modes". That is, "level 1", "level 2", and "level 3" indicating the selection order of selecting one of two or more "restriction modes" may not be added to each restriction mode of "restriction 1", "restriction 2", "restriction 3", "restriction 4", "restriction 5", and "restriction 6".

[0207] Furthermore, it is possible to store Fig.10 The restriction content setting table 96 shown adds "level 1", "level 2", "level 3", "level 4", etc. to each restriction content of the multiple functions of the MFP1 corresponding to each restriction mode to indicate the selection order of selecting the "restriction content". When more than two restriction modes are selected, "level 1", "level 2", "level 3", "level 4", etc. indicate the selection order of selecting one "restriction content" from the two or more "restriction contents" of each function corresponding to each restriction mode. The selection order of selecting the "restriction content" can be in the order of "level 1", "level 2", "level 3", "level 4", etc., which becomes higher (for example, "level 1" is the lowest level).

[0208] In S27 , when multiple conditions among the conditions B1 , B2 , and B3 are satisfied, the controller 61 may read the corresponding multiple restriction modes and store them in the device memory 62 .

[0209] In S28, the controller 61 reads the plurality of restriction modes stored in S27 from the device memory 62, and sets Fig.10 The restriction mode of the restriction content setting table 96 is shown. Then, the controller 61 can set the highest level of restriction content among the two or more "restriction contents" of "level 1", "level 2", "level 3" and "level 4" etc. added to each function corresponding to each restriction mode as the restriction content of each function.

[0210] <Modification 2>

[0211] The image forming apparatus of the present invention is not limited to the MFP 1. The image forming apparatus may be an apparatus having a single function (eg, a printing function), such as a laser printer or an inkjet printer.

[0212] <Variation 3>

[0213] The drum cartridge 20 may include a photosensitive drum, a cartridge housing, a drum storage 22, a charger, and a developing roller. The photosensitive drum, the drum storage 22, the charger, and the developing roller are disposed in the cartridge housing. The toner cartridge 4 includes a cartridge housing and a toner storage 42, but does not include a developing roller. The cartridge housing accommodates toner. The outer peripheral surface of the developing roller contacts the outer peripheral surface of the photosensitive drum inside the drum cartridge 20.

[0214] <Variation 4>

[0215] The toner cartridge 4 may have two cartridges (not shown). The first cartridge of the two cartridges constituting the toner cartridge 4 includes a developing roller. The second cartridge of the two cartridges constituting the toner cartridge 4 includes a cartridge housing and a toner storage 42. The cartridge housing accommodates toner.

[0216] <Variation 5>

[0217] The MFP 1 may have a cartridge (not shown) instead of the drum cartridge 20 and the toner cartridge 4. The cartridge includes a photosensitive drum, a cartridge housing, a memory, a charger, and a developing roller. The peripheral surface of the developing roller contacts the peripheral surface of the photosensitive drum in the interior of the cartridge. The cartridge housing of the cartridge accommodates toner.

[0218] <Variation 6>

[0219] In the MFP 1, the drum cartridge 20 and the toner cartridge 4 are detachable from the apparatus main body 10 independently of each other.

[0220] <Variation 7>

[0221] The print engine 66 of the MFP 1 may be of an inkjet printer type. In the case where the print engine 66 is of an inkjet printer type, ink cartridges are attached to the device body 10 of the MFP 1 instead of the drum cartridge 20 and the toner cartridge 4. The number of ink cartridges to be attached to the MFP 1 is not particularly limited. For example, a total of four ink cartridges corresponding to four colors of cyan, magenta, yellow, and black may be attached to the MFP 1, or an ink cartridge of one color of black may be attached to the MFP 1.

[0222] The ink cartridge includes an ink storage. The ink storage stores, for example, ink ID, ink type information, ink remaining amount, new product flag, and order information. The ink ID is information similar to the toner ID. The ink type information is information similar to the second type information.

[0223] In the case where the print engine 66 is an inkjet printer type, Figure 4 and Figure 5The processing flow is also the same. Specifically, when the print engine 66 is an inkjet printer type, the "toner cartridge 4" and "toner storage 42" in the above embodiment can be changed to an ink cartridge and an ink storage, respectively. Furthermore, the "toner ID", "second type information" and "toner remaining amount information" can be changed to an ink ID, ink type information and ink remaining amount information, respectively. When the print engine 66 is an inkjet printer type, the same effect as the MFP 1 in the above embodiment is also obtained.

[0224] <Variation 8>

[0225] In the above-mentioned embodiment Figure 4 In S11, the controller 61 determines whether an instruction indicating that the "device contract" and the "consumables contract" have been signed has been input through the operation interface 65. Alternatively, in S11, the controller 61 may determine whether an instruction indicating that the "device contract" has been signed has been input through the operation interface 65. If it is determined that an instruction indicating that the "device contract" has been signed has been input through the operation interface 65, the controller 61 may enter the processing of S12 and then determine whether an instruction indicating that the "consumables contract" has been signed has been input through the operation interface 65.

[0226] <Variation 9>

[0227] Figure 6 The "needed" and "unnecessary" in each cell of the switching determination table 91 are just an example. The "needed" and "unnecessary" in each cell of the switching determination table 91 can be appropriately changed, and the controller 61 can determine whether the switching determination is required or not based on whether the device contract is signed (first type information), whether the type of the toner cartridge 4 is a "contract cartridge" or a "normal cartridge" (second type information), and whether the consumables contract is signed (contract information).

[0228] <Implementation Example Using Software>

[0229] The functions of the MFP 1 (hereinafter referred to as “device”) can be realized by a program that causes a computer to function as the MFP 1 or a program that causes a computer to function as the controller 61 of the MFP 1 .

[0230] In this case, the MFP 1 includes a computer having at least one controller (eg, processor) and at least one storage device (eg, memory) as hardware for executing the above program. By executing the above program using the controller and the storage device, each function described in each embodiment is realized.

[0231] The above-mentioned program may be recorded in one or more non-transitory computer-readable recording media (storage media). The recording media may or may not be included in the MFP 1. In the latter case, the above-mentioned program may be supplied to the MFP 1 via any wired or wireless transmission medium.

[0232] Part or all of the functions of the controller 61 may be realized by a logic circuit. For example, an integrated circuit having a logic circuit formed therein to function as the above-mentioned control block is also within the scope of the present invention.

[0233] Although the present invention is described in conjunction with the various example structures summarized above and shown in the accompanying drawings, various alternatives, changes, modifications, improvements and / or substantial equivalents, whether known or currently unforeseeable, are apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. Therefore, the embodiments of the present invention as described above are intended to illustrate the present invention, rather than to limit the present invention. Various changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Therefore, the present invention is intended to cover all known or later developed alternatives, changes, modifications, improvements and / or substantial equivalents. Some specific examples of potential alternatives, changes or modifications in the described invention are appropriately provided.

[0234] Explanation of symbols

[0235] 1: MFP, 4: toner cartridge, 42: toner memory, 61: controller, 62: device memory, 63: communication interface, 64: display, 66: print engine, 67: scanner, 68: fax and telephone communication interface, 69: timer, 629: sheet number storage unit, 630: period storage unit.

Claims

1. An image forming device, characterized in that: have: Device body; a device memory configured to store first type information indicating whether the device body is a contract device or a normal device, the contract device being usable when a device contract for the image forming device is signed, and the normal device being usable regardless of whether the device contract is signed; a consumable attached to the apparatus body, the consumable comprising a consumable storage configured to store second type information indicating whether the consumable is a contract consumable or a normal consumable, the contract consumable being usable in a case where a consumable contract for the image forming apparatus is signed, and the normal consumable being usable regardless of whether the consumable contract is signed; as well as Controller, The controller is configured to: determining whether the first type of information indicates that the device body is the contract device; determining whether the second type information indicates that the consumables attached to the device body are the contract consumables; and Based on a combination of the first type information and the second type information, a function available in the image forming apparatus is switched.

2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: The controller is configured to, after determining whether the first type information indicates that the device body is the contract device, determine whether the second type information indicates that the consumable attached to the device body is the contract consumable.

3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The device memory is configured to store condition information indicating a switching condition set for switching a function available in the image forming device according to the first type of information or the second type of information.

4. The image forming apparatus according to claim 3, wherein: The device memory is configured to store contract information indicating whether the image forming device is in a state where a contract for the consumables of the image forming device is concluded, and The controller is configured to: determining whether the contract information indicates that the consumables contract has been signed; and If it is determined that the contract information indicates that the consumables contract is concluded, it is determined whether the switching condition is satisfied.

5. The image forming apparatus according to claim 4, wherein: The controller is configured to, if it is determined that the switching condition is satisfied, switch the function available in the image forming apparatus.

6. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that: The switching of the function available in the image forming apparatus includes limiting the function available in the image forming apparatus.

7. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that: It also has a print engine. The switching of the functions available in the image forming apparatus includes switching a print function that can be used by the print engine.

8. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that: It also has a scanner. Here, the switching of the functions available in the image forming apparatus includes switching a scanning function that can be used by the scanner.

9. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that: Also available: Communication interface; as well as a fax interface configured to perform a fax sending function via the communication interface and to perform a fax receiving function via the communication interface, The switching of the functions available in the image forming apparatus includes switching at least a part of the fax transmission function or the fax reception function.

10. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 3 to 9, characterized in that: It also has a communication interface. wherein the device memory includes a sheet number storage unit configured to store the number of printable sheets during an offline period in which communication with an external communication device via the communication interface is disconnected, and The switching condition includes that the number of sheets printed during the offline period reaches the number of sheets printable during the offline period.

11. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 3 to 10, characterized in that: It also has a communication interface. The switching condition includes receiving a printing stop instruction from an external communication device via the communication interface.

12. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 3 to 11, characterized in that: The controller includes a timer, The device memory includes a period storage unit configured to store a contract period of each of the consumables contract and the device contract, wherein the contract period is a period from the start of the contract to the end of the contract, and The switching condition includes the timer detecting that the contract period of the consumables contract or the device contract has ended.

13. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 5 to 12, characterized in that: It also has a printing engine, which has a printing function. Wherein, the controller is configured to: When it is determined that the first type information indicates the contract device and when it is determined that the switching condition is satisfied, the print function of the print engine is set to a disabled state.

14. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 5 to 13, characterized in that: It also has a printing engine, which has a printing function. Wherein, the controller is configured to: When it is determined that the first type information indicates the general device, when it is determined that the second type information indicates the contract consumables, and when it is determined that the switching condition is satisfied, the print function of the print engine is set to a disabled state.

15. The image forming apparatus according to claim 14, wherein: The controller is configured to, When it is determined that the first type information indicates the general device, when it is determined that the second type information indicates the general consumables, and when it is determined that the switching condition is satisfied, the printing function of the print engine is set to an available state.

16. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 5 to 15, characterized in that: Also provided is a notification device, the notification device being configured to output information, wherein the device memory is configured to store notice condition information indicating a notice condition set to output a notice that there is a possibility of switching the function available in the image forming device based on the first type of information or the second type of information, Wherein, the controller is configured to: If it is determined that the contract information indicates that the consumables contract has been concluded, it is determined whether the notice condition is satisfied, and If it is determined that the notice condition is satisfied, the notice that there is a possibility of switching the function available in the image forming apparatus based on a combination of the first type information and the second type information is output via the notification device.

17. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 5 to 16, characterized in that: The controller is configured to, After the function available in the image forming apparatus is switched, it is determined whether the switching condition is satisfied, and If it is determined that the switching condition is not satisfied, the function available in the image forming apparatus is returned to the function available in the image forming apparatus before the function is switched.

18. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 17, characterized in that: It also has a communication interface. Wherein, the controller is configured to: When a notification that the device contract has been concluded is received from an external communication device via the communication interface, the first type information indicating the contract device is stored in the device memory.

19. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 4 to 18, characterized in that: It also has a communication interface. Wherein, the controller is configured to: When a notification that the consumables contract has been concluded is received from an external communication device via the communication interface, the contract information indicating that the consumables contract for the image forming apparatus has been concluded is stored in the apparatus memory.

20. A control method for controlling an image forming device, characterized in that: The image forming apparatus comprises: an apparatus body; an apparatus memory configured to store first type information, the first type information indicating whether the apparatus body is a contract apparatus or a normal apparatus, the contract apparatus being usable when an apparatus contract for the image forming apparatus is signed, and the normal apparatus being usable regardless of whether the apparatus contract is signed; and consumables, the consumables being attached to the apparatus body, the consumables comprising a consumables storage, the consumables storage being configured to store second type information, the second type information indicating whether the consumables are contract consumables or general consumables, the contract consumables being usable in the case where a consumables contract for the image forming apparatus is signed, and the general consumables being usable regardless of whether the consumables contract is signed, The control method comprises: determining whether the first type of information indicates that the device body is the contract device; determining whether the second type information indicates that the consumables attached to the device body are the contract consumables; and Based on a combination of the first type information and the second type information, a function available in the image forming apparatus is switched.

Images