Management system and method for controlling management device

Abstract

The invention relates to a management system and a control method of a management device. A contribution is made to the goal 12 of sustainable development goals (SDGs). A control method for a management device that manages a storage container that stores consumables for a printing device, the control method being characterized in that: a processor of the management device functions as an application unit; the assigning unit assigns a first amount of privilege to a user who performs a collection behavior for collecting the storage container during a first period, and assigns a second amount of privilege different from the first amount to a user who performs a collection behavior during a second period different from the first period.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a management system and a control method of a management device. Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, as disclosed in Patent Document 1, there is known a method of collecting storage containers storing consumables used in printing devices and reusing the collected storage containers.

[0003] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2003-039708

[0004] However, when the storage containers are collected and reused to manufacture the storage containers as recycled products as in the prior art, there is sometimes a problem that the supply of the storage containers manufactured as recycled products is insufficient to meet the demand for the storage containers manufactured as recycled products. Therefore, the existing technology has room for improvement for SDGs, i.e., Goal 12 "ensuring sustainable production and consumption patterns" among the 17 sustainable development goals adopted by the United Nations General Assembly on September 25, 2015. Summary of the invention

[0005] In addition, the above-mentioned technical problem is not limited to the technical problem of recycling the storage container for storing consumables used in the printing device, for example, it also belongs to all scenarios of recycling reusable parts.

[0006] In order to solve the above technical problems, the control method of the management device involved in the present invention is a control method of the management device for managing storage containers for storing consumables used in a printing device, characterized in that the control method enables the processor of the management device to function as an granting unit, and the granting unit grants a first amount of privileges to a user who has performed a recycling behavior for recycling the storage container during a first period, and grants a second amount of privileges different from the first amount to a user who has performed the recycling behavior during a second period different from the first period.

[0007] In addition, the management system involved in the present invention is a management system for managing reusable specific parts, and is characterized in that the management system includes an granting unit, which grants a first amount of privileges to a user who has performed recycling behavior for recycling the specific parts during a first period, and grants a second amount of privileges different from the first amount to a user who has performed the recycling behavior during a second period different from the first period. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] Figure 1 This is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the management system Sys according to the embodiment of the present invention.

[0009] Figure 2 It is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the cassette 7 .

[0010] Figure 3 This is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the user card 8.

[0011] Figure 4 This is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the collection box 3 .

[0012] Figure 5 This is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the management server 1 .

[0013] Figure 6 This is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the management system Sys when executing the point granting rate determination process.

[0014] Figure 7 It is an explanatory diagram for explaining a first numerical example corresponding to the point granting rate determination process.

[0015] Figure 8 It is an explanatory diagram for explaining a first numerical example corresponding to the point granting rate determination process.

[0016] Fig. 9 It is an explanatory diagram for explaining a second numerical example corresponding to the point granting rate determination processing involved in the reference example.

[0017] Fig.10 It is an explanatory diagram for explaining a second numerical example corresponding to the point granting rate determination processing involved in the reference example.

[0018] Fig.11 This is a sequence diagram showing an example of the operation of the management system Sys when executing the self-contained point granting process.

[0019] Fig.12 This is a sequence diagram showing an example of the operation of the management system Sys when executing the point granting process during mailing.

[0020] Description of Reference Numerals

[0021] 1: Management server; 3: Recycling box; 5: Recycling acceptance terminal; 7: Box; 8: User card; 9: Recycling plant; 10: Control device; 11: Demand forecasting unit; 12: Point granting rate determination unit; 13: Granted point number determination unit; 14: Point granting unit; 19: Point determination unit; 20: Storage device; PR: Printing device; Sys: Management system. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0022] Hereinafter, the mode for implementing the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, in each figure, the size and scale of each part are appropriately different from the actual size and scale. In addition, the embodiments described below are preferred specific examples of the present invention, and therefore various technically preferred limitations are added, and the scope of the present invention is not limited to these modes, unless the subject matter of the present invention is specifically described in the following description.

[0023] A. Implementation Method

[0024] In the present embodiment, the management system Sys that manages the cartridge 7 storing the ink used in the printing apparatus PR is exemplified for description.

[0025] 1. Composition of the management system

[0026] Below, refer to Figures 1 to 5 , an example of the structure of the management system Sys involved in this embodiment is described.

[0027] Figure 1 This is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the management system Sys.

[0028] like Figure 1 As shown, the management system Sys includes a management server 1, one or more collection boxes 3, one or more collection acceptance terminals 5, and a recycling factory 9, and manages cartridges 7 storing ink used in the printing apparatus PR.

[0029] The management server 1 is a server device for managing the cartridge 7. Here, the cartridge 7 is a container that stores ink used in the printing apparatus PR and is a container that can be mounted on the printing apparatus PR.

[0030] In the present embodiment, the management server 1 is an example of a “management device”, the ink is an example of a “consumables”, and the cartridge 7 is an example of a “storage container”.

[0031] The collection box 3 is a device for collecting the used cartridge 7 from the user UP of the printing device PR. Here, the used cartridge 7 is, for example, a cartridge 7 in which the remaining amount of ink contained inside is small, or a cartridge 7 in which the ink contained inside is deteriorated. That is, in this embodiment, the collection box 3 can collect the cartridge 7 even if there is ink remaining inside the cartridge 7.

[0032] In this embodiment, the collection box 3 is installed in a commercial facility FS. Here, the commercial facility FS refers to a commercial facility such as a home appliance hypermarket that sells printing devices PR, a shopping mall that sells various products, a public facility such as a community center, or a medical facility such as a hospital.

[0033] In the present embodiment, the collection box 3 is an example of a “collection device”.

[0034] The collection acceptance terminal 5 is a terminal device installed in the collection center FE. Specifically, the collection acceptance terminal 5 is a terminal device for the staff UE of the collection center FE to input information of the cartridge 7 mailed by the user UP of the printing device PR when the user UP mails the used cartridge 7 to the collection center FE. Here, the collection center FE refers to a facility for collecting the used cartridge 7 from the user UP of the printing device PR.

[0035] In the present embodiment, the recycling center FE is another example of the “recycling facility”.

[0036] The recycling factory 9 is a facility for recycling the used cartridges 7 collected from the users UP in the collection box 3 or the collection center FE as recycled products by reusing them. Specifically, the recycling factory 9 is a facility that manufactures "recycled products of cartridges 7" by reusing the used cartridges 7 after cleaning them and refilling the cleaned cartridges 7 with ink. However, the recycling factory 9 may manufacture recycled products of cartridges 7 by disassembling the used cartridges 7 into raw materials and using the disassembled raw materials. In addition, the recycling factory 9 may manufacture products different from the cartridges 7 as recycled products by disassembling the used cartridges 7 into raw materials and using the disassembled raw materials.

[0037] In addition, in this embodiment, it is assumed that the printing apparatus PR is installed in a user facility FU. Here, the user facility FU refers to a facility where the user UP uses the printing apparatus PR, such as the user UP's home or the user UP's office.

[0038] In addition, in the present embodiment, as an example, a case where there are two collection paths, namely, a user-brought collection path RT1 and a mail collection path RT2 , as collection paths for used cartridges 7 .

[0039] The so-called user-brought recycling path RT1 refers to a path for the user UP to bring the used cartridge 7 in the user facility FU to the recycling box 3 provided in the commercial facility FS, thereby collecting the used cartridge 7 from the user UP. In addition, in the present embodiment, as an example, it is assumed that when the used cartridge 7 is collected through the user-brought recycling path RT1, when the user UP puts the used cartridge 7 into the recycling box 3, the user UP is authenticated by the user card 8 owned by the user UP.

[0040] In the present embodiment, the action of the user UP bringing the cartridge 7 to the collection box 3 of the commercial facility FS is an example of the “collection action”.

[0041] The mailing collection route RT2 is a route for collecting the used cartridge 7 from the user UP by mailing the used cartridge 7 from the user facility FU to the collection center FE. In addition, in the present embodiment, as an example, it is assumed that when the used cartridge 7 is collected through the mailing collection route RT2, the user UP mails the mailing object ML in which the used cartridge 7 and the collection application form AP are packaged together to the collection center FE.

[0042] In the present embodiment, the action of the user UP mailing the box 7 to the collection center FE is another example of the “collection action”.

[0043] Figure 2 It is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the cassette 7 .

[0044] like Figure 2 As shown in FIG. 1 , the cartridge 7 includes a storage device 70. The cartridge 7 is also provided with an ink storage chamber (not shown) for storing ink.

[0045] The storage device 70 is, for example, an IC chip, and stores cartridge model information DQ1 , cartridge manufacturing date information DQ2 , and cartridge reuse information DQ3 .

[0046] The cartridge model information DQ1 is information indicating the product model of the cartridge 7 .

[0047] The cartridge manufacturing date information DQ2 is information indicating the year, month, and day when the cartridge 7 was manufactured.

[0048] The cartridge reuse information DQ3 is information indicating the number of times the cartridge 7 has been reused as a reused product. Specifically, the cartridge reuse information DQ3 indicates "0" when the cartridge 7 is a new product before reuse, and indicates a value greater than "1" when the cartridge 7 is a reused product after reuse.

[0049] Figure 3 This is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the user card 8.

[0050] like Figure 3 As shown, the user card 8 includes a storage device 80 for storing information on points that can be used by the user UP.

[0051] Furthermore, in the present embodiment, it is assumed that when the user UP purchases a recycled product of box 7, a part or all of the purchase amount can be replaced by points. Furthermore, in the present embodiment, it is assumed that when the user UP purchases goods in the commercial facility FS, a part or all of the purchase amount can be replaced by points. That is, in the present embodiment, as an example, it is assumed that points can be exchanged for recycled products of box 7, and points can be exchanged for goods that can be purchased in the commercial facility FS. However, the present invention is not limited to such a method. It is sufficient that points can be exchanged for at least recycled products of box 7.

[0052] In addition, in the present embodiment, points are awarded to the user UP when the user UP brings the used box 7 into the collection box 3, when the user UP mails the used box 7 to the collection center FE, and when the user UP purchases goods at the commercial facility FS. However, the present invention is not limited to such a mode. At least when the user UP brings the used box 7 into the collection box 3, and when the user UP mails the used box 7 to the collection center FE, points are awarded to the user UP. That is, at least when the user UP performs a recycling behavior, points are awarded to the user UP.

[0053] In addition, in this embodiment, points are an example of "privileges".

[0054] The storage device 80 is, for example, an IC chip, and stores user identification information DU1 , user owned points information DU2 , user accumulated points information DU3 , and points history information DU4 .

[0055] The user identification information DU1 is information indicating a user ID for uniquely identifying each user from among a plurality of users who have the user card 8. In addition, in the present embodiment, it is assumed that the user who has the user card 8 is a user UP who uses the printing device PR. However, the present invention is not limited to such a mode. The user who has the user card 8 may be a user UP who uses the printing device PR and a user who uses the commercial facility FS. In addition, the user who has the user card 8 may be a user who uses the box 7.

[0056] The user owned points information DU2 is information indicating the number of points owned by the user UP. Here, the number of points refers to the number of points.

[0057] The user accumulated points information DU3 is information indicating the accumulated value of the points obtained by the user UP from the start of the management of the user UP by the management system Sys to the present. Here, the management of the user UP by the management system Sys may start, for example, when the user UP purchases the printing device PR. In addition, the management of the user UP by the management system Sys may start, for example, when the user UP purchases the cartridge 7.

[0058] The point history information DU4 is information indicating a history of granting points to the user UP and a history of using points by the user UP during the period from the start of management of the user UP by the management system Sys to the present.

[0059] Figure 4 This is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the collection box 3 .

[0060] like Figure 1 as well as Figure 4 As shown, the collection box 3 includes a box input port 30 , a box information reading device 31 , a user card information reading device 32 , a communication device 33 , and a control device 35 .

[0061] The cartridge insertion port 30 is an opening for the user UP to insert the cartridge 7 into a cartridge storage space (not shown) provided inside the collection box 3 .

[0062] When a cartridge 7 is inserted into the cartridge insertion port 30, the cartridge information reading device 31 reads the cartridge model information DQ1, the cartridge manufacturing date information DQ2, and the cartridge reuse information DQ3 stored in the storage device 70 provided in the cartridge 7. However, the present invention is not limited to such a mode. When a cartridge 7 is inserted into the cartridge insertion port 30, the cartridge information reading device 31 only needs to read at least the cartridge model information DQ1 stored in the storage device 70 provided in the storage device 70.

[0063] When the user UP touches the user card 8 to the user card information reading device 32, the user card information reading device 32 reads the user identification information DU1, the user's points information DU2, the user's accumulated points information DU3, and the points history information DU4 stored in the storage device 80 from the storage device 80 provided in the user card 8. However, the present invention is not limited to such a mode. When the user UP touches the user card 8 to the user card information reading device 32, the user card information reading device 32 only needs to read at least the user identification information DU1 from the storage device 80 provided in the user card 8.

[0064] The communication device 33 is hardware for communicating with an external device existing outside the collection box 3 via one or both of a wired network and a wireless network.

[0065] The control device 35 includes a cartridge collection determination unit 36 ​​and a user card authentication unit 37 .

[0066] The box collection determination unit 36 ​​determines whether the object inserted into the box insertion port 30 belongs to the box 7 that can be collected by the collection box 3 based on the reading result of the box information reading device 31. Specifically, the box collection determination unit 36 ​​determines whether the model number indicated by the box model number information DQ1 read by the box information reading device 31 is a model number corresponding to the box 7 that can be collected by the collection box 3.

[0067] Then, when the model indicated by the box model information DQ1 read by the box information reading device 31 is a model corresponding to the box 7 that can be collected by the collection box 3, the box collection determination unit 36 ​​determines that the object put into the box input port 30 belongs to the box 7 that can be collected by the collection box 3. In addition, when the model indicated by the box model information DQ1 read by the box information reading device 31 is not a model corresponding to the box 7 that can be collected by the collection box 3, the box collection determination unit 36 ​​determines that the object put into the box input port 30 does not belong to the box 7 that can be collected by the collection box 3. In addition, when the box information reading device 31 does not read the box model information DQ1, the box collection determination unit 36 ​​determines that the object put into the box input port 30 does not belong to the box 7 that can be collected by the collection box 3.

[0068] Furthermore, when the determination result of the box recovery determination unit 36 ​​is positive, that is, when the object inserted into the box insertion port 30 is a box 7 that can be recovered by the recovery box 3, the recovery box 3 stores the box 7 in the box storage space in the recovery box 3. On the other hand, when the determination result of the box recovery determination unit 36 ​​is negative, that is, when the object inserted into the box insertion port 30 is not a box 7 that can be recovered by the recovery box 3, the recovery box 3 discharges the object to the outside of the recovery box 3.

[0069] When the user card 8 is brought into contact with the user card information reading device 32 , the user card authentication unit 37 identifies the user ID of the user UP who owns the user card 8 based on the user identification information DU1 stored in the storage device 80 included in the user card 8 .

[0070] Figure 5 This is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the management server 1 .

[0071] like Figure 5 As shown, the management server 1 includes a control device 10 , a storage device 20 , and a communication device 29 .

[0072] The communication device 29 is hardware for communicating with an external device existing outside the management server 1 via one or both of a wired network and a wireless network.

[0073] The storage device 20 includes a volatile memory such as a RAM (Random Access Memory) that functions as a work area of ​​the control device 10, and a non-volatile memory such as an EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory) that stores various information. In the present embodiment, the storage device 20 stores annual demand performance information DD0, annual demand forecast information DDA, annual point granting information DDE, user management information DP, accumulated point information DS, and a control program PG-K for controlling various parts of the management server 1.

[0074] The annual demand performance information DD0 is information indicating the performance of the demand for the box 7 managed by the management system Sys during the past specified period. Here, in the present embodiment, as an example, a case where the specified period is "1 year" is assumed. That is, in the present embodiment, a case where the past specified period is the past 1 year is assumed. Specifically, in the present embodiment, as an example, a case where the past specified period is the 1 year from January to December of the previous year is assumed. That is, in the present embodiment, the annual demand performance information DD0 indicates the performance value of the demand for the box 7 during the 1 year from January to December of the previous year.

[0075] In addition, below, a year as a prescribed period is sometimes divided into M unit periods. Here, the value M is a natural number satisfying 1≤M. Specifically, in this embodiment, as an example, a case where the unit period is "one month" is assumed. That is, in this embodiment, as an example, a case where "M=12" is assumed.

[0076] In addition, below, the subscript [m] may be given to indicate information corresponding to the mth unit period among the M unit periods constituting the predetermined period. Here, the variable m is a natural number satisfying 1≤m≤M. Below, the mth unit period may be referred to as "m-month".

[0077] In this embodiment, the annual demand performance information DD0 includes M demand performance information D0[1] to D0[M] corresponding to M unit periods. The demand performance information D0[m] is information indicating the performance value of the demand for the box 7 in the mth unit period, that is, the demand performance value S0[m].

[0078] The annual demand forecast information DDA is information indicating the forecast value of the demand for the cartridge 7 in a specified period including the present. Specifically, in the present embodiment, as an example, it is assumed that the specified period including the present is a case where the specified period is a year from January to December of this year. That is, in the present embodiment, the annual demand forecast information DDA indicates the forecast value of the demand for the cartridge 7 in a year from January to December of this year.

[0079] In this embodiment, the annual demand forecast information DDA includes M demand forecast information DA[1] to DA[M] corresponding to M unit periods. The demand forecast information DA[m] is information indicating the forecast value of the demand for the box 7 in the mth unit period, namely, the demand forecast value SA[m].

[0080] The annual point granting information DDE is information indicating the granting rate of points granted to the user UP in a predetermined period including the present time. In addition, in the present embodiment, it is assumed that the granting rate of points granted to the user UP is determined individually for each unit period.

[0081] In addition, in this embodiment, the annual point granting information DDE includes M point granting rate information DE[1] to DE[M] corresponding to M unit periods. Among them, the point granting rate information DE[m] is information indicating the granting rate of points granted to the user UP in the mth unit period. Hereinafter, the point granting rate shown in the point granting rate information DE[m] is referred to as the point granting rate SE[m].

[0082] The user management information DP is information indicating a user ID for identifying the user UP, information indicating the number of points owned by the user UP, information indicating the history of points given to the user UP, information indicating the history of points used by the user UP, and information indicating the cumulative value of points given to the user UP. That is, the user management information DP is information indicating the same content as the user identification information DU1, the user owned points information DU2, the user accumulated points information DU3, and the points history information DU4.

[0083] In addition, in this embodiment, the user management information DP is an example of "history information".

[0084] In addition, in this embodiment, as an example, it is assumed that the storage device 80 stores the user identification information DU1, the user's points information DU2, the user's accumulated points information DU3, and the points history information DU4, and the storage device 20 stores the user management information DP, but the present invention is not limited to such a method. For example, the storage device 80 only needs to store at least the user identification information DU1 indicating the user ID, and may not store the user's points information DU2, the user's accumulated points information DU3, and the points history information DU4.

[0085] In the present embodiment, it is assumed that the management system Sys gives points to the user UP when the user UP performs recycling behavior, and also gives points to the user UP when the cumulative value of the points obtained by the user UP satisfies a specific condition.

[0086] In addition, hereinafter, the accumulated value of the number of points obtained by the user UP may be referred to as accumulated earned points. In addition, hereinafter, when the accumulated value of the number of points obtained by the user UP satisfies a specific condition, the points awarded to the user UP may be referred to as accumulated awarded points.

[0087] The accumulated points information DS is information that specifies the relationship between the accumulated points of the user UP and the number of accumulated points to be awarded to the user UP. Specifically, the accumulated points information DS may also be information indicating a specific condition that the accumulated points should satisfy in order to award the accumulated points to the user UP. Here, the so-called specific condition may be, for example, that the accumulated points reach a specific value, or that the accumulated points reach a multiple of a specific value.

[0088] The control device 10 is provided with a processor. The processor of the control device 10 is configured to include, for example, one or more CPUs (Central Processing Unit). In the present embodiment, the processor of the control device 10 executes the control program PG-K stored in the storage device 20, and by acting in accordance with the control program PG-K, it can function as a demand forecasting unit 11, a point granting rate determination unit 12, a point granting number determination unit 13, and a point granting unit 14. In addition, the processor of the control device 10 may be configured to include hardware such as a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), or an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) in addition to one or more CPUs, or in place of a part or all of one or more CPUs. In this case, a part or all of the functions implemented by the processor of the control device 10 may also be implemented by hardware such as a DSP.

[0089] The demand prediction unit 11 predicts the demand for the cassette 7 .

[0090] Specifically, in the present embodiment, the demand forecasting unit 11 generates the full-year demand forecast information DDA for a prescribed period before the start of a prescribed period, based on the full-year demand performance information DD0 in other prescribed periods before the prescribed period. That is, in the present embodiment, the demand forecasting unit 11 forecasts the demand for box 7 this year, for example, based on the actual performance of the demand for box 7 in the previous year. However, the present invention is not limited to such a method. The demand forecasting unit 11 may also forecast the demand for box 7 after this year based on the actual performance of the demand for box 7 in the past many years. In addition, in the present embodiment, for simplicity, it is assumed that the demand forecasting unit 11 sets the demand forecast value SA[m] shown in the demand forecasting information DA[m] to the same value as the actual demand performance value S0[m] shown in the demand performance information D0[m].

[0091] The point granting rate determination unit 12 generates annual point granting information DDE based on the annual demand forecast information DDA.

[0092] The assigned points determination unit 13 determines the number of points assigned to the user UP based on the points assignment rate information DE[m] included in the annual points assignment information DDE. Specifically, in the present embodiment, when the used cartridge 7 is collected from the user UP, the assigned points determination unit 13 determines the number of points assigned to the user UP by accumulating the sales price of the cartridge 7 collected from the user UP and the points assignment rate SE[m] indicated by the points assignment rate information DE[m]. In addition, the assigned points determination unit 13 determines the number of points assigned to the user UP based on the accumulated points obtained by the user UP indicated by the user management information DP and the accumulated points information DS.

[0093] In addition, in this embodiment, the point granting rate determination unit 12 and the granting point number determination unit 13 are referred to as a point determination unit 19. In this embodiment, the point determination unit 19 is an example of a “determination unit”.

[0094] The point granting unit 14 grants points of the number of points determined by the granting point number determination unit 13 to the user UP. Furthermore, the point granting unit 14 updates the user management information DP when the point granting unit 14 grants points to the user UP and when the user UP uses the points. In addition, hereinafter, information indicating the number of points granted by the point granting unit 13 to the user UP is sometimes referred to as granting point information DX.

[0095] In addition, in this embodiment, the point granting unit 14 is an example of a “granting unit”.

[0096] 2. Points award rate determination process

[0097] Below, refer to Figure 6 An example of the point granting rate determination process is described below. Here, the point granting rate determination process refers to the process of generating the annual point granting information DDE.

[0098] Figure 6 This is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the management system Sys when the management system Sys performs point granting rate determination processing.

[0099] like Figure 6 As shown, in the point granting rate determination process, the demand forecasting unit 11 provided in the management server 1 first obtains the annual demand performance information DD0 from the storage device 20 (S11). In addition, in the present embodiment, the management server 1 generates the annual demand performance information DD0 before executing the point granting rate determination process, and stores the generated annual demand performance information DD0 in the storage device 20.

[0100] Next, the demand forecasting unit 11 generates annual demand forecast information DDA based on the annual demand performance information DD0 acquired in step S11 ( S13 ).

[0101] Specifically, in step S13 , the demand forecasting unit 11 generates the annual demand forecast information DDA by setting the demand forecast value SA[m] indicated by the demand forecast information DA[m] to the same value as the demand performance value S0[m] indicated by the demand performance information D0[m].

[0102] Next, the point granting rate determination unit 12 generates new product annual demand forecast information DDB and recycled product annual demand forecast information DDC based on the annual demand forecast information DDA ( S15 ).

[0103] The new product annual demand forecast information DDB is information indicating the forecast value of the demand for the new product of the box 7 in a specified period including the current period. In this embodiment, the new product annual demand forecast information DDB includes M new product demand forecast information DB[1] to DB[M] corresponding to M unit periods. Among them, the new product demand forecast information DB[m] is information indicating the forecast value of the demand for the box 7 of the new product in the mth unit period, that is, the new product demand forecast value SB[m].

[0104] In this embodiment, as an example, an assumption is introduced that the relationship of the following equation (1) holds true between the demand forecast value SA[m] indicated by the demand forecast information DA[m] and the new product demand forecast value SB[m] indicated by the new product demand forecast information DB[m]. Here, the new product demand rate α is a real number satisfying “0<α<1”.

[0105] SB[m]=α*SA[m]……(1)

[0106] Therefore, in this embodiment, as an example, it is assumed that the point assignment rate determination unit 12 generates new product demand forecast information DB[m] by setting the value obtained by accumulating the demand forecast value SA[m] shown in the demand forecast information DA[m] and the new product demand rate α as the new product demand forecast value SB[m].

[0107] The annual demand forecast information DDC for recycled products is information indicating the forecast value of the demand for recycled products of the cartridge 7 in a specified period including the current period. In the present embodiment, the annual demand forecast information DDC for recycled products includes M recycled product demand forecast information DC[1] to DC[M] corresponding to M unit periods. Among them, the recycled product demand forecast information DC[m] is information indicating the forecast value of the demand for recycled products of the cartridge 7 in the mth unit period, i.e., the recycled product demand forecast value SC[m].

[0108] In the present embodiment, as an example, it is assumed that the relationship of the following equation (2) holds true between the demand forecast value SA[m] indicated by the demand forecast information DA[m] and the recycled product demand forecast value SC[m] indicated by the recycled product demand forecast information DC[m].

[0109] SC[m]=(1-α)*SA[m]......(2)

[0110] Therefore, in this embodiment, as an example, it is assumed that the point assignment rate determination unit 12, in step S15, sets the value obtained by adding the demand forecast value SA[m] shown in the demand forecast information DA[m] and the value "1-α" obtained by subtracting the new product demand rate α from "1" as the recycled product demand forecast value SC[m], thereby generating the recycled product demand forecast information DC[m].

[0111] In addition, in the present embodiment, it is assumed that the point granting rate determination unit 12 generates the new product annual demand forecast information DDB and the recycled product annual demand forecast information DDC in step S15, but the present invention is not limited to such a method. The point granting rate determination unit 12 may also generate one of the new product annual demand forecast information DDB and the recycled product annual demand forecast information DDC in step S15.

[0112] Next, the point granting rate determination unit 12 generates annual collection rate information DDD based on the annual demand forecast information DDA and the recycled product annual demand forecast information DDC ( S17 ).

[0113] Here, the annual collection rate information DDD is information indicating the ratio of the cartridges 7 that the management system Sys should collect to the demand for the cartridges 7. In other words, the annual collection rate information DDD is information indicating the ratio of the cartridges 7 purchased by the user UP that are not discarded but need to be collected through collection activities.

[0114] In addition, in the present embodiment, as an example, it is assumed that the purchase of the cartridge 7 by the user UP and the disposal or collection of the used cartridge 7 by the user UP are performed in the same unit period. That is, in the present embodiment, as an example, it is assumed that when the purchase of the cartridge 7 by the user UP is performed in the m-th unit period, the disposal or collection of the used cartridge 7 after the user UP uses the cartridge 7 is performed in the m-th unit period.

[0115] In addition, in the present embodiment, as an example, it is assumed that a time length equivalent to the unit period is required from the recycling behavior performed by the user UP to the transfer of the used cartridge 7 collected by the recycling behavior to the recycling plant 9. That is, in the present embodiment, as an example, when the recycling behavior performed by the user UP is performed in the mth unit period, it is assumed that the transfer of the used cartridge 7 collected by the recycling behavior to the recycling plant 9 is performed in the (m+1)th unit period.

[0116] In addition, in the present embodiment, as an example, it is assumed that a time length equivalent to the unit period is required from the transfer of the used cartridge 7 to the regeneration plant 9 to the supply of the regenerated cartridge 7 to the market. That is, in the present embodiment, as an example, it is assumed that when the used cartridge 7 is transferred to the regeneration plant 9 in the (m+1)th unit period, the supply of the regenerated cartridge 7 to the market in the (m+2)th unit period is implemented.

[0117] In addition, in the present embodiment, it is assumed that the demand for the cassette 7 in the mth prescribed period in one prescribed period is similar to the demand for the cassette 7 in the mth prescribed period in another prescribed period. Specifically, in the present embodiment, it is assumed that the demand for the cassette 7 in the mth month of a certain year is similar to the demand for the cassette 7 in the mth month of another year. Therefore, in the present embodiment, for example, in the case of "(m+1)>M", the (m+1)th unit period is sometimes read as the (m+1-M)th unit period, and in the case of "(m+2)>M", the (m+2)th unit period is sometimes read as the (m+2-M)th unit period. Specifically, in the present embodiment, for example, in the case of "December", the (m+1)th unit period is sometimes regarded as "January" and the (m+2)th unit period is sometimes regarded as "February".

[0118] In this embodiment, the annual recovery rate information DDD includes M recovery rate information DD[1] to DD[M] corresponding to M unit periods. The recovery rate information DD[m] is information indicating the ratio of the cartridges 7 that the management system Sys should recover to the demand for the cartridges 7 in the mth unit period, i.e., the recovery rate SD[m].

[0119] In the present embodiment, as described above, the cartridge 7 collected in the mth unit period is supplied to the market again as a recycled cartridge 7 in the (m+2)th unit period. Therefore, in the present embodiment, the point granting rate determination unit 12 determines the recovery rate SD[m] based on the demand forecast information DA[m] indicating the predicted value of the demand for cartridges 7 in the mth unit period and the recycled product demand forecast information DC[m+2] indicating the predicted value of the demand for recycled cartridges 7 in the (m+2)th unit period in step S17. Specifically, the point granting rate determination unit 12 calculates the recovery rate SD[m] based on the predicted value of the demand for recycled cartridges 7 in the (m+2)th unit period, that is, the recycled product demand forecast value SC[m+2], and the predicted value of the demand for cartridges 7 in the mth unit period, that is, the demand forecast value SA[m], as shown in the following formula (3).

[0120] SD[m]=SC[m+2]÷SA[m]......(3)

[0121] Thus, in the present embodiment, the recovery rate of the used cartridge 7 in the m-th unit period is set based on the predicted value of the demand for the recycled cartridge 7 in the (m+2)-th unit period. Therefore, according to the present embodiment, the supply amount of the recycled cartridge 7 to the market in the (m+2)-th unit period can be set according to the demand amount of the recycled cartridge 7 in the (m+2)-th unit period.

[0122] Next, the point granting rate determination unit 12 generates annual point granting information DDE based on the annual recovery rate information DDD ( S19 ).

[0123] In addition, in the present embodiment, it is assumed that when the integral granting rate SE[m] in the mth unit period is high, the recovery rate SD[m] in the mth unit period becomes higher than when it is low. In addition, in the present embodiment, it is assumed that the relationship of the following formula (4) between the recovery rate SD[m] and the integral granting rate SE[m] holds. In addition, the value λ appearing in the following formula (4) is a real number that satisfies "λ>0".

[0124] SD[m]=λ*SE[m]……(4)

[0125] Therefore, in the present embodiment, the point granting rate determination unit 12 generates the annual point granting information DDE by determining the point granting rate SE[m] based on the recovery rate SD[m] as shown in the following formula (5) in step S19. In addition, the value μ appearing in the following formula (5) is a real number that satisfies “μ=1 / λ”.

[0126] SE[m]=μ*SD[m]……(5)

[0127] Next, the point granting rate determination unit 12 generates annual collection number prediction information DDF based on the annual demand prediction information DDA and the annual collection rate information DDD ( S21 ).

[0128] Here, the annual collection number prediction information DDF is information indicating a predicted value of the number of used cartridges 7 transferred to the recycling plant 9 within a predetermined period.

[0129] In this embodiment, the annual collection number forecast information DDF includes M collection number forecast information DF[1] to DF[M] corresponding to M unit periods. The collection number forecast information DF[m] is information indicating the forecast value of the number of used cartridges 7 transferred to the recycling plant 9 during the mth unit period, i.e., the collection number forecast value SF[m].

[0130] In addition, as described above, in the present embodiment, it is assumed that, when a recycling behavior is performed by the user UP in the mth unit period, the used cartridge 7 collected by the recycling behavior is transferred to the recycling plant 9 in the (m+1)th unit period. Therefore, in the present embodiment, the point granting rate determination unit 12 generates the collection number prediction information DF[m] based on the demand forecast information DA[m-1] included in the annual demand forecast information DDA and the collection rate information DD[m-1] included in the annual demand performance information DD0 in step S21. More specifically, the point granting rate determination unit 12 calculates the collection number prediction value SF[m] shown in the collection number prediction information DF[m] based on the demand forecast value SA[m-1] shown in the demand forecast information DA[m-1] and the collection rate SD[m-1] shown in the collection rate information DD[m-1] in step S21 as shown in the following formula (6).

[0131] SF[m]=SA[m-1]*SD[m-1]......(6)

[0132] Next, the point granting rate determination unit 12 generates recycled product annual supply schedule information DDG based on the annual collection number prediction information DDF ( S23 ).

[0133] Here, the recycled product annual supply schedule information DDG is information indicating a scheduled value of the supply amount of recycled products of the cartridge 7 to the market during a predetermined period.

[0134] In this embodiment, the annual supply schedule information DDG of recycled products includes M pieces of supply schedule information DG[1] to DG[M] corresponding to M unit periods. The recycled product supply schedule information DG[m] is information indicating the scheduled value of the supply amount of recycled products of box 7 to the market in the mth unit period, i.e., the recycled product supply schedule value SG[m].

[0135] In addition, as described above, in the present embodiment, it is assumed that, in the case where the used cartridge 7 is transferred to the recycling plant 9 in the mth unit period, the cartridge 7 after the used cartridge 7 is recycled is supplied to the recycled product market in the (m+1)th unit period. Therefore, in the present embodiment, the point granting rate determination unit 12 generates the recycled product supply schedule information DG[m] based on the collection number forecast information DF[m-1] included in the annual collection number forecast information DDF in step S23. Specifically, in step S23, the point granting rate determination unit 12 sets the collection number forecast value SF[m-1] indicated by the collection number forecast information DF[m-1] to the recycled product supply schedule value SG[m] indicated by the recycled product supply schedule information DG[m], thereby generating the recycled product supply schedule information DG[m].

[0136] Next, the point granting rate determination unit 12 generates recycled product annual shortage information DDH and recycled product annual excess information DDI based on the recycled product annual demand forecast information DDC and the recycled product annual supply schedule information DDG ( S25 ).

[0137] The remanufactured product annual shortage information DDH is information indicating the shortage amount of the remanufactured product supplied to the cartridge 7 during a predetermined period.

[0138] In this embodiment, the annual regenerated product shortage information DDH includes M regenerated product shortage information DH[1] to DH[M] corresponding to M unit periods. The regenerated product shortage information DH[m] is information indicating the shortage of the regenerated product supply of the box 7 in the mth unit period, i.e., the regenerated product shortage amount SH[m].

[0139] In this embodiment, the point assignment rate determination unit 12 generates recycled product shortage information DH[m] in step S25 based on the recycled product demand forecast information DC[m] included in the recycled product annual demand forecast information DDC and the recycled product supply schedule information DG[m] included in the recycled product annual supply schedule information DDG.

[0140] Specifically, in step S25, when the recycled product demand forecast value SC[m] shown in the recycled product demand forecast information DC[m] is greater than the recycled product supply schedule value SG[m] shown in the recycled product supply schedule information DG[m], the point assignment rate determination unit 12 sets the value obtained by subtracting the recycled product supply schedule value SG[m] from the recycled product demand forecast value SC[m] as the recycled product shortage amount SH[m], thereby generating the recycled product shortage information DH[m].

[0141] In addition, in step S25, the point assignment rate determination unit 12 generates recycled product shortage information DH[m] by setting the recycled product shortage amount SH[m] to "0" when the recycled product demand forecast value SC[m] shown in the recycled product demand forecast information DC[m] is less than the recycled product supply schedule value SG[m] shown in the recycled product supply schedule information DG[m].

[0142] The recycled product annual excess information DDI is information indicating the excess amount of the supply of recycled products of the cartridge 7 within a predetermined period.

[0143] In this embodiment, the recycled product excess information DDI for the whole year includes M recycled product excess information DI[1] to DI[M] corresponding to M unit periods. Among them, the recycled product excess information DI[m] is information indicating the excess amount of recycled product supply of the box 7 in the mth unit period, that is, the recycled product excess amount SI[m].

[0144] In this embodiment, in step S25, the point assignment rate determination unit 12 generates recycled product excess information DI[m] based on the recycled product demand forecast information DC[m] included in the recycled product annual demand forecast information DDC and the recycled product supply schedule information DG[m] included in the recycled product annual supply schedule information DDG.

[0145] Specifically, in step S25, when the recycled product supply scheduled value SG[m] shown in the recycled product supply scheduled information DG[m] is greater than the recycled product demand forecast value SC[m] shown in the recycled product demand forecast information DC[m], the point assignment rate determination unit 12 sets the value obtained by subtracting the recycled product demand forecast value SC[m] from the recycled product supply scheduled value SG[m] as the recycled product excess amount SI[m], thereby generating the recycled product excess information DI[m].

[0146] In addition, in step S25, the point assignment rate determination unit 12 generates recycled product excess information DI[m] by setting the recycled product excess amount SI[m] to "0" when the recycled product supply scheduled value SG[m] shown in the recycled product supply scheduled information DG[m] is less than the recycled product demand forecast value SC[m] shown in the recycled product demand forecast information DC[m].

[0147] In addition, in the present embodiment, it is assumed that the point granting rate determination unit 12 generates the recycled product annual shortage information DDH and the recycled product annual excess information DDI in step S25, but the present invention is not limited to such a mode. The point granting rate determination unit 12 may generate one of the recycled product annual shortage information DDH and the recycled product annual excess information DDI in step S25.

[0148] Next, the point granting rate determination unit 12 generates new product annual supply schedule information DDJ based on the new product annual demand forecast information DDB and the recycled product annual shortage information DDH ( S27 ).

[0149] The new product annual supply schedule information DDJ is information indicating a scheduled value of the supply quantity of the new product of the cartridge 7 to the market during a predetermined period.

[0150] In this embodiment, the new product supply schedule information DDJ for the whole year includes M new product supply schedule information DJ[1] to DJ[M] corresponding to M unit periods. Among them, the new product supply schedule information DJ[m] is information indicating the scheduled value of the supply quantity of the new product of box 7 to the market in the mth unit period, that is, the new product supply schedule value SJ[m].

[0151] In this embodiment, the point granting rate determination unit 12 generates the new product supply schedule information DJ[m] in step S27 based on the new product demand forecast information DB[m] included in the new product annual demand forecast information DDB and the recycled product shortage information DH[m] included in the recycled product annual shortage information DDH. Specifically, the point granting rate determination unit 12 generates the new product supply schedule information DJ[m] in step S27 by setting the value obtained by adding the new product demand forecast value SB[m] shown in the new product demand forecast information DB[m] and the recycled product shortage amount SH[m] shown in the recycled product shortage information DH[m] as the new product supply schedule value SJ[m].

[0152] 3. Numerical Examples

[0153] Below, refer to Figures 7 to 10 , a numerical example of the processing for determining the point granting rate is explained.

[0154] 3.1. First numerical example

[0155] Figure 7 and Figure 8 is a diagram showing a numerical example of the point granting rate determination process according to the present embodiment. Figure 7 and Figure 8 The numerical example shown is referred to as a “first numerical example”.

[0156] In the first numerical example, the value M is assumed to be "12". In the first numerical example, the new product demand rate α is set to "0.9", the value λ is set to "10", and the value μ is set to "0.1".

[0157] like Figure 7 as well as Figure 8As shown, in the first numerical example, it is assumed that the total value SSA of the demand forecast values ​​SA[1] to SA

[12] shown in the demand forecast information DA[1] to DA

[12] included in the annual demand forecast information DDA is "2000". In addition, in the first numerical example, it is assumed that the demand forecast value SA

[10] for October is "100" and the demand forecast value SA

[12] for December is "350". In addition, in the first numerical example, it is assumed that the demand forecast value SA

[12] (="350") for December is the largest among the demand forecast values ​​SA[1] to SA

[12] from January to December.

[0158] Then, in the first numerical example, the point assignment rate determination unit 12 multiplies the demand forecast value SA

[12] (= "350") for December by the new product demand rate α (= "0.9"), thereby calculating the new product demand forecast value SB

[12] (= "315") for December, and multiplies the demand forecast value SA

[12] (= "350") for December by the value obtained by subtracting the new product demand rate α from "1" (= "0.1"), thereby calculating the recycled product demand forecast value SC

[12] (= "35") for December.

[0159] Furthermore, in the first numerical example, the total value SSB of the new product demand forecast values ​​SB[1] to SB

[12] indicated by the new product demand forecast information DB[1] to DB

[12] included in the new product annual demand forecast information DDB is "1800". Furthermore, in the first numerical example, the total value SSC of the recycled product demand forecast values ​​SC[1] to SC

[12] indicated by the recycled product demand forecast information DC[1] to DC

[12] included in the recycled product annual demand forecast information DDC is "200".

[0160] In addition, in the first numerical example, the point assignment rate determination unit 12 divides the December recycled product demand forecast value SC

[12] (= "35") by the October demand forecast value SA

[10] (= "100"), thereby calculating the October recovery rate SD

[10] (= "35%"), and multiplies the October recovery rate SD

[10] (= "35%") by the value μ (= "0.1"), thereby calculating the October point assignment rate SE

[10] (= "3.5%").

[0161] Then, in the first numerical example, the point assignment rate determination unit 12 calculates the recovery number forecast value SF

[11] (= "35") for November by multiplying the demand forecast value SA

[10] (= "100") for October and the recovery rate SD

[10] (= "35%") for October, and sets the calculated value as the recycled product supply scheduled value SG

[12] (= "35") for December.

[0162] Furthermore, in the first numerical example, the total value SSF of the predicted recycling numbers SF[1] to SF

[12] indicated by the predicted recycling numbers DF[1] to DF

[12] included in the annual predicted recycling numbers DDF is "200". Furthermore, in the first numerical example, the total value SSG of the planned recycled product supply values ​​SG[1] to SG

[12] indicated by the planned recycled product supply information DG[1] to DG

[12] included in the planned recycled product supply information DDG is "200".

[0163] In addition, in the first numerical example, since the forecast value SC

[12] (= "35") of the demand for recycled products in December is equal to the predetermined value SG

[12] (= "35") of the supply of recycled products in December, the point granting rate determination unit 12 sets "0" for the shortage amount SH

[12] of recycled products in December, and also sets "0" for the excess amount SI

[12] of recycled products in December.

[0164] In addition, in the first numerical example, the total value SSH of the insufficient amounts of recycled products SH[1] to SH

[12] indicated by the insufficient information DH[1] to DH

[12] included in the insufficient information DDH of recycled products throughout the year becomes "0". In addition, in the first numerical example, the insufficient amounts of recycled products SH[1] to SH

[12] become "0", respectively.

[0165] In addition, in the first numerical example, the total value SSI of the recycled product excess amounts SI[1] to SI

[12] shown in the recycled product excess information DI[1] to DI

[12] included in the recycled product excess information DDI for the whole year becomes "0". In addition, in the first numerical example, the recycled product excess amounts SI[1] to SI

[12] each become "0".

[0166] Furthermore, in the first numerical example, the point granting rate determination unit 12 sets the value obtained by adding the new product demand forecast value SB

[12] (="315") in December and the recycled product shortage amount SH

[12] (="0") in December as the new product supply scheduled value SJ

[12] (="315") in December.

[0167] Furthermore, in the first numerical example, the total value SSJ of the new product supply schedule values ​​SJ[1] to SJ

[12] shown in the new product supply schedule information DJ[1] to DJ

[12] included in the new product annual supply schedule information DDJ is "1800". Furthermore, in the first numerical example, the new product supply schedule value SJ[m] is equal to the new product demand forecast value SB[m].

[0168] Thus, in the first numerical example involved in the present embodiment, since the insufficient amounts of recycled products SH[1]~SH

[12] are respectively set to "0", the total value SSJ of the new product supply scheduled values ​​SJ[1]~SJ

[12] can be set to a value equal to the total value SSB of the new product demand forecast values ​​SB[1]~SB

[12] .

[0169] 3.2. Second numerical example

[0170] Fig. 9 as well as Fig.10 is a diagram showing a numerical example of the point granting rate determination process involved in the reference example. Fig. 9 as well as Fig.10 The numerical example shown is referred to as a “second numerical example”.

[0171] The point granting rate determination process involved in the reference example is different from that in the embodiment in that the recovery rate SD[m] shown in the recovery rate information DD[m] and the point granting rate SE[m] shown in the point granting rate information DE[m] are fixed values. Specifically, in the reference example, it is assumed that the recovery rate SD[m] is fixed to "10.0%" and the point granting rate SE[m] is fixed to "1.0%".

[0172] In the second numerical example involved in the reference example, similarly to the first numerical example, it is assumed that the value M is "12". In the second numerical example, similarly to the first numerical example, it is assumed that the new product demand rate α is set to "0.9", the value λ is set to "10", and the value μ is set to "0.1".

[0173] like Fig. 9 as well as Fig.10 As shown, in the second numerical example, similarly to the first numerical example, it is assumed that the total value SSA of the demand forecast values ​​SA[1] to SA

[12] shown in the demand forecast information DA[1] to DA

[12] included in the annual demand forecast information DDA is "2000". In addition, in the second numerical example, similarly to the first numerical example, it is assumed that the demand forecast value SA

[10] for October is "100" and the demand forecast value SA

[12] for December is "350".

[0174] Then, in the second numerical example, similarly to the first numerical example, the point assignment rate determination unit 12 calculates the new product demand forecast value SB

[12] (= "315") for December by multiplying the demand forecast value SA

[12] (= "350") for December by the new product demand rate α (= "0.9"), and calculates the recycled product demand forecast value SC

[12] (= "35") for December by multiplying the demand forecast value SA

[12] (= "350") for December by the value obtained by subtracting the new product demand rate α from "1" (= "0.1").

[0175] In addition, in the second numerical example, as in the first numerical example, the total value SSB of the new product demand forecast values ​​SB[1]~SB

[12] shown in the new product demand forecast information DB[1]~DB

[12] included in the new product annual demand forecast information DDB becomes "1800".

[0176] Then, in the second numerical example, the point assignment rate determination unit 12 multiplies the demand forecast value SA

[10] (="100") for October and the recovery rate SD

[10] (="10%") for October, thereby calculating the recovery number forecast value SF

[11] (="10") for November, and sets the calculated value as the recycled product supply scheduled value SG

[12] (="10") for December.

[0177] Furthermore, in the second numerical example, the total value SSF of the predicted recycling numbers SF[1] to SF

[12] indicated by the predicted recycling numbers DF[1] to DF

[12] included in the annual predicted recycling numbers information DDF is "200". Furthermore, in the second numerical example, the total value SSG of the planned recycled product supply values ​​SG[1] to SG

[12] indicated by the planned recycled product supply information DG[1] to DG

[12] included in the planned recycled product supply information DDG is "200".

[0178] In the second numerical example, the point granting rate determination unit 12 calculates the recycled product shortage SH

[12] (= "25") for December by subtracting the recycled product supply schedule SG

[12] (= "10") for December from the recycled product demand forecast value SC

[12] (= "35") for December. In the second numerical example, the point granting rate determination unit 12 sets the recycled product excess SI

[12] for December to "0".

[0179] Furthermore, in the second numerical example, the total value SSH of the regenerated product shortage amounts SH[1] to SH

[12] indicated by the regenerated product shortage information DH[1] to DH

[12] included in the regenerated product shortage information DDH throughout the year is "67". Furthermore, in the second numerical example, the total value SSI of the regenerated product excess amounts SI[1] to SI

[12] indicated by the regenerated product excess information DI[1] to DI

[12] included in the regenerated product excess information DDI throughout the year is "67".

[0180] Then, in the second numerical example, the point granting rate determination unit 12 sets the value obtained by adding the new product demand forecast value SB

[12] (="315") in December and the recycled product shortage amount SH

[12] (="25") in December as the new product supply scheduled value SJ

[12] (="340") in December.

[0181] In the second numerical example, the total value SSJ of the new product supply schedule values ​​SJ[1] to SJ

[12] shown in the new product supply schedule information DJ[1] to DJ

[12] included in the new product annual supply schedule information DDJ is "1867". In addition, in the first numerical example, the new product supply schedule value SJ[m] may be different from the new product demand forecast value SB[m].

[0182] Thus, in the reference example, as shown in the second numerical example, there is a regenerated product shortage amount SH[m] that becomes "SH[m]>0" among the regenerated product shortage amounts SH[1] to SH

[12] , and there is a regenerated product excess amount SI[m] that becomes "SI[m]>0" among the regenerated product excess amounts SI[1] to SI

[12] , so there are unit periods in which the supply amount of regenerated products of the box 7 is insufficient, and unit periods in which the supply amount of regenerated products of the box 7 is excessive. Therefore, in the reference example, as shown in the second numerical example, the total value SSJ "1867" of the new product supply scheduled values ​​SJ[1] to SJ

[12] needs to be greater than the total value SSB "1800" of the new product demand forecast values ​​SB[1] to SB

[12] .

[0183] In contrast, in the present embodiment, as shown in the first numerical example, the insufficient amounts SH[1] to SH

[12] of the regenerated products can be made "0" respectively, and the possibility of the excessive amounts SI[1] to SI

[12] of the regenerated products can be made "0" respectively, as compared with the second numerical example, so that the possibility of the occurrence of a unit period in which the supply amount of the regenerated products of the box 7 is insufficient and the possibility of the occurrence of a unit period in which the supply amount of the regenerated products of the box 7 is excessive can be reduced. Therefore, in the present embodiment, as shown in the first numerical example, the total value SSJ "1800" of the new product supply scheduled values ​​SJ[1] to SJ

[12] can be made closer to the total value SSB "1800" of the new product demand forecast values ​​SB[1] to SB

[12] than the second numerical example.

[0184] 4. Points granting process

[0185] Below, refer to Figure 11 to Figure 12 , an example of the point granting process is described. Here, the point granting process refers to the process of granting points to the user UP. In addition, hereinafter, when the user UP performs a recycling behavior based on the user's own recycling path RT1, the point granting process performed by the management system Sys is referred to as the point granting process when the user UP brings the recycling behavior based on the mailing recycling path RT2. In addition, hereinafter, when the user UP performs a recycling behavior based on the mailing recycling path RT2, the point granting process performed by the management system Sys is referred to as the point granting process when the mailing is performed.

[0186] Fig.11 This is a sequence diagram showing an example of the operation of the management system Sys when the management system Sys executes the self-contained point granting process.

[0187] like Fig.11 As shown, in the process of granting points when bringing your own card, when the user UP touches the user card 8 to the user card information reading device 32 and the user card information reading device 32 reads the user identification information DU1 from the storage device 80 provided in the user card 8, the user card authentication unit 37 of the collection box 3 determines the user ID of the user UP who owns the user card 8 based on the user identification information DU1 (S101).

[0188] Next, when the user UP inserts the cartridge 7 into the cartridge insertion port 30 , the cartridge collection determination unit 36 ​​of the collection box 3 controls the cartridge information reading device 31 to read the cartridge model information DQ1 and other information stored in the storage device 70 provided for the cartridge 7 ( S103 ).

[0189] Next, the cartridge collection determination unit 36 ​​of the collection box 3 determines whether the object inserted into the cartridge insertion port 30 is a cartridge 7 that can be collected by the collection box 3 based on the reading result of the cartridge information reading device 31 in step S103 ( S105 ).

[0190] Next, when the result of determination in step S105 is affirmative, the control device 35 of the collection box 3 controls the communication device 33 so as to transmit the user identification information DU1 identifying the user UP specified in step S101 to the management server 1 ( S107 ).

[0191] Thereafter, the payout point number determination unit 13 of the management server 1 acquires the user identification information DU1 transmitted by the control device 35 in step S107 ( S111 ).

[0192] Next, the point determination unit 13 of the management server 1 determines the number of points to be given to the user UP based on the user identification information DU1 acquired by the point determination unit 13 in step S111 and the point granting rate information DE[m] generated in the point granting rate determination process ( S113 ).

[0193] Next, the point granting unit 14 of the management server 1 updates the user management information DP corresponding to the user UP indicated by the user identification information DU1 acquired by the point granting number determination unit 13 in step S111 based on the determination result of the point granting number determination unit 13 in step S113, thereby granting points to the user UP (S115). Specifically, in step S115, the point granting unit 14 grants points to the user UP indicated by the user identification information DU1 by updating the number of points owned by the user UP indicated by the user identification information DU1, the history of points granted to the user UP indicated by the user identification information DU1, and the cumulative value of points granted to the user UP indicated by the user identification information DU1 in the user management information DP.

[0194] Next, the point granting unit 14 of the management server 1 issues a point granting notification (S117). Here, the point granting notification is a notification indicating that the number of points determined by the granting point number determining unit 13 in step S113 is granted to the user UP indicated by the user identification information DU1 acquired by the granting point number determining unit 13 in step S111. Specifically, the point granting notification is information including the user identification information DU1 acquired by the granting point number determining unit 13 in step S111 and the granting point information DX indicating the number of points determined by the granting point number determining unit 13 in step S113.

[0195] Thereafter, the control device 35 of the collection box 3 acquires the point granting notification transmitted by the point granting unit 14 in step S117 ( S121 ).

[0196] Next, the control device 35 of the collection box 3 reflects the point granting result on the user card 8 (S123). Specifically, in step S123, the control device 35 controls the user card information reading device 32 in such a manner as to update the user's point information DU2, the user's accumulated point information DU3, and the point history information DU4 stored in the storage device 80 provided in the user card 8 of the user UP based on the point granting notification, so that the point granting result is reflected on the user card 8.

[0197] Fig.121 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the operation of the management system Sys when the management system Sys performs the point granting process at the time of mailing. In addition, in the present embodiment, the collection acceptance terminal 5 provided in the collection center FE has the same functions as the box information reading device 31, the communication device 33, and the control device 35 provided in the collection box 3. In addition, in the present embodiment, when the user UP performs the collection behavior based on the mail collection route RT2, the collection application form AP enclosed together with the mailing object ML to the collection center FE contains a user ID for uniquely identifying the user UP.

[0198] like Fig.12 As shown, when the staff UE of the collection center FE inputs the user ID recorded in the collection application form AP enclosed with the mailing item ML from the user UP to the collection acceptance terminal 5, the collection acceptance terminal 5 accepts the user ID and generates user identification information DU1 indicating the user ID (S201).

[0199] Next, the staff UE of the collection center FE uses a reading device (not shown) to read the box model information DQ1 stored in the storage device 70 of the box 7 packaged together with the mail item ML from the user UP. Then, the collection acceptance terminal 5 accepts the box model information DQ1 read by the reading device (S203).

[0200] Next, the collection acceptance terminal 5 determines whether the box 7 packaged together with the mailing object ML from the user UP is a box 7 that can be collected by the collection center FE based on the box model information DQ1 accepted in step S203 ( S205 ).

[0201] Next, when the result of determination in step S205 is affirmative, the collection acceptance terminal 5 transmits the user identification information DU1 indicating the user ID accepted in step S201 to the management server 1 ( S207 ).

[0202] After that, the management server 1 executes the processing of steps S111 to S117 described above.

[0203] Thereafter, the collection acceptance terminal 5 acquires the point granting notification transmitted by the point granting unit 14 in step S117 ( S221 ).

[0204] Then, the collection acceptance terminal 5 notifies the user UP of the point granting result using a communication means such as an e-mail ( S223 ).

[0205] 5. Summary of implementation methods

[0206] As described above, the management server 1 involved in the present embodiment is characterized in that the management server 1 manages the box 7 containing ink for the printing device PR, and the management server 1 has a point granting unit 14, which grants points corresponding to the point granting rate SE[m1] to the user UP who has performed a recycling behavior for recovering the box 7 in the m1th unit period, and grants points corresponding to the point granting rate SE[m2] to the user UP who has performed a recycling behavior for recovering the box 7 in the m2th unit period.

[0207] Here, the variable m1 is a natural number satisfying "1≤m1≤M", and the variable m2 is a natural number satisfying "1≤m2≤M" and "m1≠m2". In addition, in the present embodiment, the m1th unit period is an example of the "first period", the m2th unit period is an example of the "second period", the amount corresponding to the integral granting rate SE[m1] is an example of the "first amount", and the amount corresponding to the integral granting rate SE[m2] is an example of the "second amount".

[0208] Thus, according to the present embodiment, the management server 1 makes the amount of points given to the user UP who has performed the recycling behavior of collecting the cartridge 7 variable. Therefore, according to the present embodiment, compared with a method in which points are not given to the user UP and a method in which the amount of points given to the user UP is fixed, the amount of used cartridges 7 collected from the user UP can be controlled more flexibly. Thus, in the present embodiment, compared with a method in which points are not given to the user UP and a method in which the amount of points given to the user UP is fixed, the balance between the supply of cartridges 7 manufactured as recycled products and the demand for cartridges 7 can be controlled more appropriately. That is, in the present embodiment, compared with a method in which points are not given to the user UP and a method in which the amount of points given to the user UP is fixed, the ratio of recycled cartridges 7 to the demand for cartridges 7 can be increased.

[0209] Therefore, according to this embodiment, compared with a method in which no points are awarded to user UP or a method in which the amount of points awarded to user UP is fixed, a greater contribution can be made to "substantially reduce waste generation by preventing, reducing, recycling and reusing it" stated in SDGs Goal 12.5.

[0210] In addition, the present embodiment is characterized in that the management server 1 includes a point determination unit 19 that determines the point granting rate SE[m1] and the point granting rate SE[m2] based on the predicted amount of demand for the cassette 7 indicated by the annual demand forecast information DDA.

[0211] Thus, according to the present embodiment, the management server 1 determines the amount of points to be given to the user UP based on the predicted amount of demand for the cassette 7. Therefore, according to the present embodiment, the ratio of the regenerated products of the cassette 7 to the demand for the cassette 7 can be increased compared to a method in which no points are given to the user UP or a method in which the amount of points given to the user UP is fixed.

[0212] Therefore, according to this embodiment, compared with a method in which no points are awarded to user UP or a method in which the amount of points awarded to user UP is fixed, a greater contribution can be made to "substantially reduce waste generation by preventing, reducing, recycling and reusing it" stated in SDGs Goal 12.5.

[0213] In addition, in the present embodiment, it is characterized in that the predicted amount of demand for box 7 in the m3th unit period of the recycled box 7 remanufactured by using the box 7 recovered in the m1th unit period, i.e., the demand forecast value SA[m3], is greater than the predicted amount of demand for box 7 in the m4th unit period of the recycled box 7 remanufactured by using the box 7 recovered in the m2th unit period, i.e., the demand forecast value SA[m4], and the number of points corresponding to the point granting rate SE[m1] is greater than the number of points corresponding to the point granting rate SE[m2].

[0214] Here, the m3-th unit period is an example of the “first supply period”, and the m4-th unit period is an example of the “second supply period”.

[0215] For example, in the first numerical example, it is characterized in that the predicted amount of demand for box 7 in December for the recycled box 7 that is remanufactured by using the box 7 collected in October, i.e., the demand forecast value SA

[12] (= "350"), is greater than the predicted amount of demand for box 7 in November for the recycled box 7 that is remanufactured by using the box 7 collected in September, i.e., the demand forecast value SA

[11] (= "110"), and the number of points corresponding to the point granting rate SE

[10] (= "3.5%") is greater than the number of points corresponding to the point granting rate SE[9] (= 0.39%).

[0216] Thus, according to the present embodiment, the management server 1 determines the amount of points to be given to the user UP based on the predicted amount of demand for the cassette 7. Therefore, according to the present embodiment, the ratio of the regenerated products of the cassette 7 to the demand for the cassette 7 can be increased compared to a method in which no points are given to the user UP or a method in which the amount of points given to the user UP is fixed.

[0217] Therefore, according to this embodiment, compared with a method in which no points are awarded to user UP or a method in which the amount of points awarded to user UP is fixed, a greater contribution can be made to "substantially reduce waste generation by preventing, reducing, recycling and reusing it" stated in SDGs Goal 12.5.

[0218] In addition, in this embodiment, it is characterized in that the m3th unit period is the period when the demand for ink for the printing device PR is the largest in the prescribed period, and the m1th unit period is the period when the amount of points awarded to the user UP who performed the recycling behavior is the largest in the prescribed period.

[0219] For example, in the first numerical example, December is the period when the demand for ink for the printing apparatus PR is the highest in the whole year, and October is the period when the amount of points given to the user UP who performs recycling behavior is the highest in the whole year.

[0220] Thus, according to the present embodiment, the management server 1 specifies the period in which the amount of points given to the user UP is the largest, according to the period in which the demand for the cassette 7 is the largest. Therefore, according to the present embodiment, the ratio of the regenerated products of the cassette 7 to the demand for the cassette 7 can be increased compared to a method in which no points are given to the user UP or a method in which the amount of points given to the user UP is fixed.

[0221] Therefore, according to this embodiment, compared with a method in which no points are awarded to user UP or a method in which the amount of points awarded to user UP is fixed, a greater contribution can be made to "substantially reduce waste generation by preventing, reducing, recycling and reusing it" stated in SDGs Goal 12.5.

[0222] In addition, in the present embodiment, the point is characterized in that the point is the right to obtain a remanufactured product of the cartridge 7 using the cartridge 7 collected by the recycling activity.

[0223] Thus, according to the present embodiment, by giving points to the user UP for obtaining the used cartridge 7, the user UP is motivated to reuse the cartridge 7. Therefore, according to the present embodiment, the necessity of recycling the cartridge 7 can be more strongly inspired to the user UP, compared with a method in which no points are given to the user UP or a method in which the amount of points given to the user UP is fixed.

[0224] Therefore, according to this embodiment, compared with a method in which no points are awarded to user UP or a method in which the amount of points awarded to user UP is fixed, a greater contribution can be made to "improve education, inspiration, human capabilities and institutional functions related to climate change mitigation, adaptation, impact reduction and early warning" recorded in SDGs Target 13.3.

[0225] In addition, the present embodiment is characterized in that the point granting unit 14 manages user management information DP on the history of recycling behavior of the user UP, and determines the amount of points to be granted to the user UP based on the user management information DP.

[0226] Thus, according to the present embodiment, the amount of points given to the user UP is determined based on the history of the user UP's recycling behavior. Therefore, according to the present embodiment, compared with a method in which the history of the user UP's recycling behavior is not considered when giving points to the user UP, it is possible to continuously provide the user UP with a motivation to reuse the cartridge 7 for a longer period of time.

[0227] Therefore, according to this embodiment, compared with a method in which no points are awarded to user UP or a method in which the amount of points awarded to user UP is fixed, a greater contribution can be made to "improve education, inspiration, human capabilities and institutional functions related to climate change mitigation, adaptation, impact reduction and early warning" recorded in SDGs Target 13.3.

[0228] In addition, in the present embodiment, it is characterized in that the recycling behavior is the behavior of bringing the box 7 into the recycling box 3 or the recycling center FE, and the recycling box 3 and the recycling center FE can recycle the box 7 in both cases: a case where no ink remains in the ink containing chamber of the box 7 and a case where ink remains in the ink containing chamber of the box 7.

[0229] Thus, according to this embodiment, the box 7 can be recovered even when there is ink remaining in the box 7, so compared with a method in which the box 7 can be recovered only when there is no ink remaining in the box 7, the possibility of environmental pollution caused by improper disposal of ink by the user UP can be reduced.

[0230] Therefore, according to this embodiment, compared with a method in which the cartridge 7 can be collected only when no ink remains in the cartridge 7, a greater contribution can be made to "reduce the number of deaths and diseases caused by harmful chemicals and air, water and soil pollution" stated in SDGs Target 3.9.

[0231] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, compared with a method of collecting the cartridge 7 only when no ink remains in the cartridge 7, it is possible to make a greater contribution to "improvement of water quality by minimizing the release of harmful chemical substances" described in SDGs Target 6.3.

[0232] B. Modification

[0233] The above methods can be variously modified. The following examples illustrate specific modified methods. Two or more methods arbitrarily selected from the following examples can be appropriately combined within the scope of non-contradiction. In addition, in the modified examples illustrated below, for elements with the same effects and functions as those in the embodiments, the reference numerals used in the above description are used, and the detailed descriptions of each are appropriately omitted.

[0234] Modification 1

[0235] In the above-mentioned embodiment, for the sake of convenience of explanation, the management server 1 is illustrated as generating the annual demand forecast information DDA, the new product annual demand forecast information DDB, the recycled product annual demand forecast information DDC, the annual recovery rate information DDD, the annual point granting information DDE, the annual recovery number forecast information DDF, the recycled product annual supply reservation information DDG, the recycled product annual shortage information DDH, the recycled product annual excess information DDI and the new product annual supply reservation information DDJ based on the annual demand performance information DD0 in the point granting rate determination process, but the present invention is not limited to such a method. In the point granting rate determination process, the management server 1 only needs to generate the annual point granting information DDE based on the annual demand performance information DD0. For example, the management server 1 may also only execute in the point granting rate determination process Figure 6 The processing of steps S11 to S19 in the processing of steps S11 to S27 shown.

[0236] Modification 2

[0237] In the above-mentioned embodiment and modification 1, the case where the box 7 is provided with the storage device 70 storing the box model information DQ1 is described, but the present invention is not limited to such a mode. For example, the box 7 may also be provided with a symbol for indicating the box model information DQ1. Here, the so-called symbol may be a display having a pattern for indicating the box model information DQ1. More specifically, the so-called symbol may be a two-dimensional code for indicating the box model information DQ1, or may be a one-dimensional code for indicating the box model information DQ1.

[0238] Furthermore, when the cartridge 7 has a symbol, the cartridge information reading device 31 may be an imaging device that images the symbol, or may be an image processing device that reads the cartridge model information DQ1 from the symbol.

[0239] Thus, according to this variation, the recycling box 3 determines whether the item brought into the recycling box 3 is a box 7 that should be recycled by the recycling box 3 based on the symbol set on the box 7. Therefore, compared with existing methods such as a method of configuring personnel with specific skills that can determine the type of box 7 and a method of configuring a specific sensor device that can determine the type of box 7, it is easier to determine the box 7.

[0240] Therefore, according to this embodiment, compared with the conventional method of deploying personnel with specific skills or specific sensor devices, it is possible to make a greater contribution to "promoting inclusive and sustainable industrialization and increasing employment" in the industrial field involved in recycling as stated in SDGs Target 9.2.

[0241] Modification 3

[0242] In the above-described embodiment and Modifications 1 and 2, the case where the cartridge information reading device 31 reads the cartridge model information DQ1 from the cartridge 7 is described as an example, but the present invention is not limited to such an embodiment.

[0243] For example, the box information reading device 31 may be an image analysis device that reads the shape of the box 7. In this case, the box collection determination unit 36 ​​may determine whether the article brought into the collection box 3 is a box 7 that can be collected by the collection box 3 based on the shape of the box 7 read by the box information reading device 31.

[0244] For example, the box information reader 31 may be an imaging device that images the box 7. In this case, the box collection determination unit 36 ​​may determine whether the article brought into the collection box 3 is a box 7 that can be collected in the collection box 3 based on the imaging result of the box information reader 31.

[0245] Modification 4

[0246] In the above-mentioned embodiment and variations 1 to 3, examples are given in which the management server 1 awards points to the user UP when the user UP performs recycling behavior, and in which points are awarded to the user UP when the accumulated points obtained by the user UP meet specific conditions. However, the present invention is not limited to such a method.

[0247] For example, when the user UP performs a recycling behavior, the management server 1 may determine the points to be given to the user UP based on the number of times the cartridge 7 that is the target of the recycling behavior is recycled as a recycled product of the cartridge 7 .

[0248] Furthermore, for example, when the user UP performs a recycling action, the management server 1 may determine the points to be given to the user UP based on the manufacturing date of the cartridge 7 that is the target of the recycling action.

[0249] Modification 5

[0250] In the above-mentioned embodiment and Modifications 1 to 4, the management server 1 gives points to the user UP when the user UP performs a recycling behavior, but the present invention is not limited to such a method. For example, the management server 1 may also increase the rate of granting points to the user UP when the user UP performs a recycling behavior. That is, in this modification, the increase in the rate of granting points is an example of a "privilege".

[0251] In the present invention, "privileges" are not limited to points and an increase in the point granting rate, etc. "Privileges" may be tangible or intangible items that are valuable to the user UP, such as money or gift certificates, or may be items that motivate the user UP to perform recycling activities.

[0252] Modification 6

[0253] In the above-mentioned embodiment and variations 1 to 5, a method of determining the amount of privileges such as points based on a unit period, that is, the amount of privileges granted to a user UP who has performed recycling behavior in one unit period is different from the amount of privileges granted to a user UP who has performed recycling behavior in other unit periods, but the present invention is not limited to such a method.

[0254] For example, the management server 1 may change the type of privilege according to the unit period. Specifically, the management server 1 may grant the first type of privilege to the user UP who has performed recycling behavior in one unit period, and grant the second type of privilege different from the first type of privilege to the user UP who has performed recycling behavior in other unit periods. Here, for example, it is preferred that when the recovery rate SD[m] obtained in one unit period is large and more cartridges 7 need to be recycled in one unit period, and when the recovery rate SD[m] obtained in other unit periods is small and the necessity of recycling cartridges 7 in other unit periods is low, the first type of privilege is a privilege that more strongly motivates the user UP to perform recycling behavior, or a privilege that is more beneficial to the user UP, compared with the second type of privilege.

[0255] Modification 7

[0256] In the above-mentioned embodiment and Modifications 1 to 6, box 7 is described as a specific component to be collected, but the present invention is not limited to this form. The target of the collection in the management system Sys can be any reusable specific component.

[0257] Here, the specific component may be, for example, a container for storing consumables used in the printing apparatus PR, such as a toner bottle for storing toner as a consumable, in addition to the cartridge 7 for storing ink as a consumable. In addition, the specific component may be, for example, a container for storing waste generated by the use of the printing apparatus PR, such as a waste ink box for storing waste ink as waste and a waste toner box for storing waste toner as waste.

[0258] Furthermore, the specific component is not limited to the component related to the printing apparatus PR, and may be, for example, a projector including a lamp as a consumable component, a smartphone including a battery as a consumable component, or a component that can be reused by replacing consumable components.

[0259] Furthermore, the specific parts are not limited to parts that can be reused by replacing consumables. For example, the specific parts may be clothes made of cloth as raw material, printed paper made of fiber as raw material, etc., which can be reused by being decomposed into raw materials.

Claims

1. A control method, characterized in that: A control method for a management device for managing a storage container for storing consumables used in a printing device. The control method causes the processor of the management device to function as an assigning unit. The granting unit grants a first amount of privileges to a user who has performed a recycling action for recycling the storage container during a first period, A second amount of privilege different from the first amount is given to a user who has performed the recycling behavior in a second period different from the first period.

2. The control method according to claim 1, wherein: The control method causes the processor of the management device to function as a determination unit. The determination unit determines the first amount and the second amount based on a predicted amount of demand for the consumables.

3. The control method according to claim 1, wherein: The predicted amount of demand for the consumables in the first supply period is greater than the predicted amount of demand for the consumables in the second supply period, The first supply period is a period in which recycled storage containers manufactured using the storage containers recovered in the first period are supplied. The second supply period is a period for supplying recycled storage containers that are remanufactured using the storage containers recovered during the second period. The first amount is greater than the second amount.

4. The control method according to claim 3, wherein: The first supply period is a period during which the demand for consumables for the printing device is the highest throughout the year. The first period is a period during which the amount of privileges granted to the user who has performed the recycling behavior is the largest in the whole year.

5. The control method according to claim 1, wherein: The privilege is the right to obtain a recycled product of a storage container remanufactured using the storage container recovered through the recycling activity.

6. The control method according to claim 1, wherein: The granting department managing historical information related to the history of recycling behavior of the user, An amount of privilege to be granted to the user is determined based on the historical information.

7. The control method according to claim 1, wherein: The recycling behavior is an act of bringing the storage container into a recycling device for recycling the storage container, The recycling device can recycle the storage container in both cases, when no consumables remain in the storage container and when consumables remain in the storage container.

8. A management system, characterized in that: Manage specific parts that can be reused. The management system comprises an assigning unit, The granting unit grants a first amount of privileges to a user who has performed a recycling action for recycling the specific component during a first period, A second amount of privilege different from the first amount is given to a user who has performed the recycling behavior in a second period different from the first period.

9. The management system according to claim 8, wherein: The management system includes a determination unit that determines the first amount and the second amount based on a predicted amount of demand for the specific component.

10. The management system according to claim 8, wherein: The predicted amount of demand for the specific component in the first supply period is greater than the predicted amount of demand for the specific component in the second supply period. The first supply period is a period during which a remanufactured specific component produced by using the specific component recovered during the first period is supplied. The second supply period is a period for supplying a remanufactured specific component that is remanufactured using the specific component recovered during the second period. The first amount is greater than the second amount.

11. The management system according to claim 10, wherein: The first supply period is a period during which the demand for the specific component is the highest throughout the year. The first period is a period during which the amount of privileges granted to the user who has performed the recycling behavior is the largest in the whole year.

12. The management system according to claim 8, wherein: The privilege is the right to obtain a recycled product of a specific component remanufactured using the specific component recovered through the recycling action.

13. The management system according to claim 8, wherein: The granting department managing historical information related to the history of recycling behavior of the user, An amount of privilege to be granted to the user is determined based on the historical information.

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