Remaining amount management device

Abstract

The invention provides a remaining amount management device which suppresses distribution of printing supplies to a user in a state that the printing supplies are left in a storage body. A printer (200) acquires a liquid ink consumption amount formed on the basis of an image formed by an inkjet head (3), detects, using a liquid level sensor (90), that the liquid level of the liquid ink in a tank (32) increases from below an intermediate reference liquid level (ML) to above the intermediate reference liquid level (ML), and determines that the liquid ink has been introduced from a bottle to the tank (32). The liquid level sensor (90) detects that the liquid level of the liquid ink in the tank (32) is lower than the intermediate reference liquid level (ML), and determines whether the difference between the current estimated remaining amount calculated by using the acquired liquid ink consumption amount and the current detected remaining amount is equal to or greater than a predetermined amount, and if the difference is determined to be equal to or greater than the predetermined amount, the liquid level sensor (90) detects that the liquid level of the liquid ink in the tank (32) is lower than the intermediate reference liquid level (ML). The input guide information for guiding the liquid ink to be input into the tank (32) is output.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a balance management device for managing the remaining amount of printing consumables in the container of a printing device. Background Technology

[0002] Previously, as described in Patent Document 1, there was a known technique in which a sensor was installed at the bottom of the tank of the printing device, and the remaining amount of the latest printing consumable in the printing device was calculated and managed based on the detection result of the liquid level of the printing consumable by the sensor.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2016-190361 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0007] In the aforementioned prior art, when the printing consumables in the can are consumed and become less due to printing, the user adds printing consumables from the storage container into the can, thereby replenishing the printing consumables in the can.

[0008] In the aforementioned prior art, for example, no consideration is given to the situation where the amount of printing consumables that the user puts into the container from the storage is not the entire amount in the storage.

[0009] On the other hand, in recent years, services have emerged that involve signing a contract with the user of the printing device, based on which the user is charged according to the content of the print job. Depending on the contracted service terms, sometimes the user does not bear the financial burden of printing consumables consumption, and the consumables are delivered to the user from a designated distribution source.

[0010] In this case, if printing is performed without using the full amount of printing consumables in the storage tank, as described above, new printing consumables will be delivered even though there are still some remaining in the storage tank, resulting in a significant negative impact on the service provider.

[0011] The purpose of this invention is to provide a surplus management device that can prevent the delivery of printing consumables to users when there are still printing consumables remaining in the storage body.

[0012] Technical solutions for solving the problem

[0013] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides a balance management device for managing the balance of printing consumables in a printing device. The printing device includes: a tank storing printing consumables added in predetermined capacity units from a storage body containing the printing consumables; a level sensor for detecting whether the level of the printing consumables in the tank is above an intermediate reference level corresponding to the vertical center of the tank; and a printing unit for forming an image on a printing medium using the printing consumables in the tank. The balance management device is configured to perform the following processes: a print volume acquisition process for acquiring print volume information of the printing consumables based on the image formed by the printing unit; and a first determination process for determining, based on the detection by the level sensor that the level of the printing consumables in the tank has increased from below the intermediate reference level to above the intermediate reference level, that the remaining amount of printing consumables has been added from the storage body. The can has been filled with the printing consumables; a second determination process, based on the case where the liquid level sensor detects that the liquid level of the printing consumables in the can has decreased due to the formation of the image and has become lower than the intermediate reference liquid level, determines whether the difference between the current estimated balance and the current detected balance is greater than or equal to a predetermined amount. The current estimated balance is the balance calculated using the printing volume information obtained in the printing volume acquisition process, which is considered to have been filled with the printing consumables corresponding to the predetermined capacity when the filling was determined to have been carried out in the first determination process. The current detected balance is the balance based on the liquid level sensor detecting that the liquid level of the printing consumables has become lower than the intermediate reference liquid level; and a filling guidance process, in which, if the second determination process determines that the difference is greater than or equal to the predetermined amount, outputs filling guidance information to guide the filling of the printing consumables into the can.

[0014] In this invention, a level sensor is provided that can detect the level of printing consumables in a container within a printing apparatus. Based on the detection that the level of printing consumables in the container has increased from below a reference level to above a reference level, a first determination process executed by a level management device determines that printing consumables have been added from the storage tank to the container. When an image is formed by the printing unit, the printing consumables in the container are consumed, and the level of the printing consumables decreases. A print volume acquisition process is performed by the level management device to obtain print volume information based on the image formation, such as the ink dot count.

[0015] In this invention, ideally, the estimated remaining amount is calculated using the print volume information obtained through the print volume acquisition process, assuming that the user has added all the printing consumables from the storage unit into the container. On the other hand, the current detected remaining amount is obtained based on the fact that the level of the printing consumables detected by the level sensor in the container is below the aforementioned intermediate reference level. The remaining amount management device determines whether the difference between the estimated remaining amount and the current detected remaining amount is greater than or equal to a predetermined amount by performing a second determination process. If the difference is less than the predetermined amount, it can be considered as the ideal situation described above, i.e., the user has added all the printing consumables from the storage unit into the container.

[0016] If the discrepancy exceeds a specified amount, it is considered that the user has not added the full amount of printing consumables to the can, and the remaining consumables management device performs a feeding guidance process. During this process, feeding guidance information is output to guide the user to add printing consumables to the can. This allows the user to be requested to add any remaining printing consumables from the storage compartment to the can, thus preventing the delivery of printing consumables to the user in this state of surplus and minimizing any adverse effects on the service provider.

[0017] Invention Effects

[0018] According to the present invention, it is possible to prevent the delivery of printing consumables to users while the storage body still contains printing consumables. Attached Figure Description

[0019] Figure 1 This is a functional block diagram illustrating the overall schematic structure of a printing processing system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] Figure 2 It is a schematic diagram of the printer set up in the printing processing system.

[0021] Figure 3 This is an explanatory diagram showing the relationship between the amount of liquid ink in the tank and the ON / OFF state of the liquid level sensor.

[0022] Figure 4 This is an external view showing the printer with the cover on the casing open, exposing the ink inlets of the four ink tanks to the outside.

[0023] Figure 5 This is an explanatory diagram showing the incrementing counting action of the input counter and sensor counter.

[0024] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the control steps performed by the printer.

[0025] Figure 7 This is a flowchart showing the detailed process of printer initialization for the S100.

[0026] Figure 8 This is a flowchart showing the detailed process of checking and processing the liquid level sensor of S120.

[0027] Figure 9 This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of screen display.

[0028] Figure 10 This is a flowchart showing the detailed process of ink consumption in the S200.

[0029] Figure 11 This is a flowchart showing the details of the counting and adding process in S210.

[0030] Figure 12 This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of screen display.

[0031] Figure 13 This is a flowchart showing the details of the point count correction process in S240.

[0032] Figure 14 This is a flowchart showing the detailed process of opening and closing the cover of the S300.

[0033] Figure 15 This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of screen display.

[0034] Figure 16 This is a flowchart showing the detailed process of opening and closing the cover of the S400. Detailed Implementation

[0035] Embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0036] Figure 1 This invention illustrates a printing processing system according to one embodiment of the present invention. This embodiment is a printing processing system 1 that provides printing services based on a printing contract with a fee corresponding to the number of print jobs requested in printer 200. In this printing processing system 1, when the printing consumables used in printer 200 (details will be described later) are consumed to a certain extent, new printing consumables are delivered and replenished from the service provider without incurring any financial burden on the user.

[0037] <Overview of the Printing Processing System>

[0038] exist Figure 1The printing processing system 1 includes an information management server 100, a printer 200, a mobile terminal 300, and a delivery management server 400. These information management servers 100, printers 200, mobile terminals 300, and delivery management servers 400 are connected to a network NT and can communicate with each other. The printer 200 is an example of a printing device and also an example of a stock management device.

[0039] <Printer Structure>

[0040] pass Figure 2 This describes the settings for printer 200 in print processing system 1. For example... Figure 2 As shown, printer 200 includes a carriage 2, an inkjet head 3, a table 4, and transport rollers 5 and 6. The side containing transport roller 6 is the front side of printer 200, and the side containing transport roller 5 is the rear side of printer 200. Furthermore, the direction from the rear to the front is the transport direction, and the left-right direction is the main scanning direction.

[0041] Carriage 2 is connected to carriage motor 56 via a belt (not shown) Figure 1 The carriage is connected and moved along the guide rails 11 and 12 in the main scanning direction by being driven by the carriage motor 56.

[0042] The inkjet head 3 is connected to four tubes 31. The four tubes 31 are respectively connected to four reservoirs 32 arranged along the main scanning direction at the right front end of the printer 200. The black, yellow, cyan, and magenta liquid ink stored in the four reservoirs 32 are supplied to the inkjet head 3 through the tubes 31.

[0043] The printer 200 in this embodiment is, for example, a relatively low-cost model, used by dispensing liquid ink from corresponding bottles (not shown) into each container 32. The bottle is an example of a storage container. That is, each container 32 is provided with a cap 32a, and with the cap 32a removed, liquid ink is manually dispensed from the bottle, thereby filling the container 32 with liquid ink. The capacity of the bottle is, for example, a fixed value, i.e., a predetermined capacity. In the aforementioned delivery service, the bottle is delivered to the user, and through a single dispensing operation by the user, all the liquid ink in the bottle can be supplied to the container 32 in the predetermined capacity unit. Liquid ink is an example of a printing consumable.

[0044] The inkjet head 3 is mounted on the carriage 2, which moves the inkjet head 3 along the main scanning direction and ejects liquid ink, thereby forming an image, i.e., printing. The inkjet head 3 has a flow path unit 13. The inkjet head 3 and the carriage 2 are an example of a printing unit.

[0045] In the flow path unit 13, four rows of nozzles 9, each containing multiple nozzles 10, are arranged along the main scanning direction. For example, black, yellow, cyan, and magenta inks are ejected from the multiple nozzles 10 in a right-to-left order. A single color of ink is supplied to each of the multiple nozzles 10 within a single nozzle row via a shared pipe 31 and a shared ink flow path. That is, ink from a tank 32 is supplied via a path of pipe 31 → ink flow path of flow path unit 13 → each nozzle 10.

[0046] The printing platen 4 is located below the inkjet head 3 and faces the nozzle during printing. The printing platen 4 extends along the main scanning direction over the entire width of the recording paper P, supporting the recording paper P from below. The recording paper P is an example of the printing medium. Transport rollers 5 and 6 are located upstream and downstream of the printing platen 4 in the transport direction, respectively. The transport rollers 5 and 6 are connected to the transport motor 57 via gears (not shown) or the like (see reference). Figure 1 ), and rotates under the drive of the conveyor motor 57 to convey the recording paper P in the conveying direction.

[0047] According to the above structure, each time the printer 200 uses the conveyor rollers 5 and 6 to convey the recording paper P a specified distance, it moves the carriage 2 along the main scanning direction and ejects liquid ink from the multiple nozzles 10 of the inkjet head 3, thereby printing the recording paper P.

[0048] <Liquid Level Sensor>

[0049] Furthermore, each tank 32 is equipped with a level sensor 90 for detecting whether the liquid level inside is above an intermediate reference level corresponding to the middle part of the vertical direction of the tank 32. The level sensor 90 detects the liquid level using a known method and outputs a corresponding detection signal. For example, the detection signal of the level sensor 90 is in an ON state when the liquid level is above the aforementioned intermediate reference level, and in an OFF state when the liquid level is below the aforementioned intermediate reference level.

[0050] exist Figure 3 This diagram illustrates the relationship between the amount of ink in tank 32 and the ON / OFF state of the level sensor 90. The simplified, blackened triangles in the diagram represent the aforementioned level sensor 90, which detects the presence or absence of ink at the intermediate reference level ML. In this example, the distance from the intermediate reference level ML to the bottom surface of tank 32 is approximately one-third of the vertical height of tank 32.

[0051] Figure 3 (a) indicates that the tank 32 is empty and there is no liquid ink inside, and the liquid level sensor 90 is in the OFF state. Figure 3(b) indicates the state where ink is added from the bottle into the container 32 and the liquid level I rises slightly. In this state, the liquid level I has not yet reached the intermediate reference level ML, so the liquid level sensor 90 remains in the OFF state.

[0052] Figure 3 (c) indicates from Figure 3 In state (b), liquid ink is further added, and the liquid level I reaches the intermediate reference level ML. When this state is reached, the liquid level sensor 90 switches from the aforementioned off state to the on state. This process, through further addition of liquid ink, causes the liquid level I to rise. Figure 3 The state of (d) means that the liquid ink in container 32 is essentially full. Figure 3 The state of (e). In Figure 3 (c) to Figure 3 In (e), the liquid level sensor 90 remains in the ON state.

[0053] On the other hand, for example, when from Figure 3 As shown in (e), when the ink is fully charged and printing is performed by the inkjet head 3, the ink level I drops slightly, becoming... Figure 3 The state shown in (f) is such that the level sensor 90 remains on. Figure 3 (g) indicates that the liquid ink is further consumed and the liquid level I drops. In this state, the liquid level I is still above the intermediate reference liquid level ML, so the liquid level sensor 90 remains in the ON state.

[0054] Figure 3 (h) indicates from Figure 3 The state of (g) further consumes liquid ink, and the liquid level I drops below the intermediate reference level ML. When this state is reached, the liquid level sensor 90 switches from the aforementioned ON state to the OFF state. This process is repeated as the liquid level I drops due to further ink consumption. Figure 3 The state of (i) means that the liquid ink in container 32 is empty (meaning that the usable liquid ink is empty; in reality, it could also mean that some liquid ink remains in container 32). Figure 3 The state of (j). In Figure 3 (h) to Figure 3 In (i), the liquid level sensor 90 remains in the OFF state.

[0055] Figure 4This indicates that the opening / closing cover 200B of the printer 200, located in the housing 200A, is open. By opening the opening / closing cover 200B, the ink inlets (not shown) of each of the four ink tanks 32 located within the housing 200A are exposed to the outside. In this example, from left to right, the magenta ink tank 32M, cyan ink tank 32C, yellow ink tank 32Y, and black ink tank 32K are arranged sequentially. Each of the ink tanks 32M, 32C, 32Y, and 32K is equipped with a level sensor 90 that detects whether the ink level I in the tank has reached the intermediate reference level ML. Furthermore, although not shown in the diagram, for example, an opening / closing sensor 80 is provided in the housing 200A that detects the opening / closing state of the opening / closing cover 200B using a known method (see [reference]). Figure 1 The opening / closing sensor 80 detects whether the opening / closing cover 200B is in an open or closed state and outputs a corresponding detection signal. The opening / closing cover 200B is an example of an opening / closing mechanism.

[0056] <Electrical Structure of the Printing Processing System>

[0057] return Figure 1 The electrical structure of the printing processing system 1 will be described.

[0058] Information Management Server

[0059] The information management server 100 is a server set up and managed by a service provider, such as the manufacturer of printer 200 or the operating company of the aforementioned printing service, and has a processor 110, a storage device 115, and an interface 190. These processors 110, storage devices 115, and interfaces 190 are interconnected via a bus 105.

[0060] Storage device 115 includes volatile storage device 120 and non-volatile storage device 130.

[0061] The volatile storage device 120, for example, is DRAM, and has a user ID storage area 121, a device number storage area 122, a printer ID storage area 124, an ink level storage area 125, etc. The information stored in these storage areas is used for the management of printing services for each printer and each user. The non-volatile storage device 130, for example, is a hard disk drive or a solid-state drive, and has a program storage area 131.

[0062] The processor 110 is a data processing device, such as a CPU. The processor 110 executes various processes, including data communication with the mobile terminal 300, printer 200, and delivery management server 400 connected to the network NT, by executing programs stored in the program storage area 131. Furthermore, the program storage area 131 of the non-volatile storage device 130 and the processor 110 using it are examples of a control unit.

[0063] Interface 190 is a wired LAN interface or wireless interface used for communication with other devices and for connecting to a network NT.

[0064] <Distribution Management Server>

[0065] The delivery management server 400, for example, is set up in a delivery service company that provides delivery services for various items including the aforementioned bottles, and has a processor, storage device, and an interface for connecting to a network NT (illustration omitted).

[0066] <Mobile Terminal>

[0067] Mobile terminal 300 is a user-owned smartphone or other mobile terminal that connects to network NT via wireless communication. Mobile terminal 300 includes a processor 310, a storage device 315, an interface 390 for connecting to network NT, a display unit 301, and an operation unit 350. Various programs are stored in the program storage area of ​​the storage device.

[0068] Alternatively, other information terminals such as tablet computers and personal computers may be used instead of mobile terminal 300. These information terminals will be referred to collectively as "mobile terminals" below.

[0069] <Printer>

[0070] The printer 200 includes a control device 50 for controlling the operation of the printer 200, a carriage motor 56, a conveyor motor 57, a liquid level sensor 90, an opening / closing sensor 80, and a suitable display unit 201.

[0071] The control device 50 includes a CPU 51, ROM 52, RAM 53, EEPROM 54, an ASIC (application-specific integrated circuit) 55, and an interface 60. An insertion counter 126 and a sensor counter 127 (details described later) are provided in RAM 53. The insertion counter 126 and sensor counter 127 are appropriately backed up in non-volatile memory such as EEPROM 54 so that control can continue even when the power to the printer 200 is turned on or off. ROM 52 has a program storage area 52A. The program stored in program storage area 52A includes programs that can be executed (described later). Figures 6 to 8 , Figure 10 , Figure 11 , Figure 13 , Figure 14 , Figure 16The flowchart illustrates the processing procedure. The control device 50, equipped with these structures, controls the carriage motor 56, the conveyor motor 57, and the like. Additionally, detection signals from the aforementioned level sensor 90 and on / off sensor 80 are input to the control device 50. Then, the operation of the margin management device, described later, is performed.

[0072] Interface 60 is a wired LAN interface or wireless interface used for communication with other devices and is connected to the aforementioned network NT.

[0073] In addition, Figure 1 The diagram only shows one CPU 51, but the control device 50 could also have multiple CPUs 51, with these multiple CPUs 51 sharing the processing. Additionally, in... Figure 1 The diagram shows only one ASIC 55, but the control device 50 could also have multiple ASICs 55, which would share the processing.

[0074] <Background of this implementation method>

[0075] As described above, in the printing processing system 1 of this embodiment, when the ink in the canister 32 is consumed, the user does not incur any financial burden, and a new bottle is delivered to the user free of charge. The user manually inserts ink from the bottle to refill the canister 32. At this time, as described above, by means of a single insertion operation by the user, the entire amount of ink in the bottle can be supplied to the canister 32.

[0076] For example, liquid ink is consumed by performing printing, such as... Figure 3 As in (a), with the container 32 empty, pour all the liquid ink from the bottle into the container 32, thus... Figure 3 (b)→ Figure 3 (c)→ Figure 3 As in (d), the liquid level I rises. And eventually, as... Figure 3 As shown in (e), the ink in tank 32 is essentially full. By performing printing again from this state, the ink is consumed, and the ink level I is as shown. Figure 3 (e) → Figure 3 (f) → Figure 3 (g)→ Figure 3 (h)→ Figure 3 (i)→ Figure 3 It moves in that manner (j). After that, can 32 becomes empty, and the bottles are delivered again.

[0077] However, if the user, intentionally or unintentionally, for some reason, does not fill the bottle with the full amount of liquid ink, the rise in liquid level I will be, for example, by... Figure 3 (a)→ Figure 3 (b)→ Figure 3 (c)→ Figure 3 (d) and stop. If printing is performed again from this state and ink is consumed, the ink level I will be as follows. Figure 3 (d)→ Figure 3 (h)→ Figure 3 (i)→ Figure 3 As in (j). That is, in this case, even though there is still liquid ink left in the bottle, a new bottle will be delivered in a short period of time, and the adverse impact on the service provider side is greater.

[0078] <Features of the Implementation Method>

[0079] The feature of this embodiment is that it avoids adverse effects on the service provider by preventing the delivery of new bottles to users while there is still ink remaining in the bottles, as described above. For this purpose, as an example, the aforementioned dispensing counter 126 and sensor counter 127 are provided. Furthermore, in this embodiment, detection is performed based on the detection result of the liquid level sensor 90 and the count values ​​of the dispensing counter 126 and sensor counter 127 (details will be described later) to determine if the user has not fully dispensed the ink from the bottle into the container 32.

[0080] <Incrementing Counting Action>

[0081] Figure 5 (a) to (c) represent the incrementing counting action based on input counter 126 and sensor counter 127.

[0082] The input counter 126 is a counter that increments the count as the liquid ink is added from the bottle into the can 32 from a state where the liquid ink in the can 32 is empty. The initial value is set to, for example,

[000] .

[0083] The sensor counter 127 is a counter that sets an initial value

[000] to the state where the detection signal of the liquid level sensor 90 switches from ON to OFF as described above when the liquid level I in the tank 32 drops, and increments the count from there as the liquid level I drops.

[0084] When printing is performed, the amount of liquid ink ejected from the multiple nozzles 10 of the inkjet head 3, equivalent to the print volume, is detected by a known method. The control device 50 of the printer 200 obtains the amount of liquid ink consumed based on this amount of liquid ink ejected using a known method. Then, the value corresponding to the obtained amount of liquid ink consumed is added to the count values ​​of the injection counter 126 and the sensor counter 127, respectively.

[0085] like Figure 5As shown in (a), after liquid ink is added to can 32, it is consumed by printing, thereby incrementing the count value of the ink addition counter 126 starting from

[000] . In this example, as... Figure 5 As shown in (b), when the liquid level I of the liquid ink drops to the intermediate reference level ML, the count value of the input counter 126 increases to [xxx]. At this time, the count value of the sensor counter 127 starts to increment from

[000] .

[0086] Moreover, in this case, such as Figure 5 As shown in (c), when the liquid ink in tank 32 is consumed and becomes empty, the count value of input counter 126 increases to [yyy], and the count value of sensor counter 127 increases to [zzz].

[0087] <Detection principle when not all quantities are used>

[0088] On the other hand, as mentioned above, the capacity of the bottle is known, therefore... Figure 5 As shown in (d), the above-mentioned input count value, which corresponds to the dimension in the height direction up to the liquid surface I when the liquid ink of one bottle is fully added to the tank 32, is known in the design.

[0089] Therefore, if we assume an ideal state where all the ink in the bottle is added from an empty ink container 32, then in the above... Figure 5 When the liquid ink level I shown in (b) drops to the intermediate reference level ML, that is, when the detection signal of the liquid level sensor 90 switches from ON to OFF, the count value [xxx] (=[yyy]-[zzz]) of the dispensing counter 126 should be equal to the known AB. If the liquid ink in the bottle is not fully dispensed, the count value when the detection signal of the liquid level sensor 90 switches from ON to OFF will be less than [xxx]. In this embodiment, the determination of whether the user has dispensed all the liquid ink in the bottle into the tank 32 is based on this principle.

[0090] <Control Steps>

[0091] The following is through Figure 6 The flowchart illustrates an example of the control steps performed by the control device 50 of the printer 200 to implement the above method.

[0092] <Main Process>

[0093] exist Figure 6In the main process shown, first in S10, it is determined whether this is the first time the printer 200 has been powered on. If it is not the first time the printer has been powered on, the process is determined to be no, and the process moves to S20 (described later). If it is the first time the printer has been powered on, the process is determined to be yes, and the printer initialization process in S100 is executed (details are described later). After that, the process ends.

[0094] In S20, it is determined whether there is a print job from the mobile terminal 300, etc. If there is no print job, it is determined as no, and the process proceeds to S30 (described later). If there is a print job, it is determined as yes, and the ink consumption processing in S200 is executed (details are described later), after which the process ends.

[0095] In S30, based on the detection result of the opening / closing sensor 80 in the printer 200, it is determined whether the opening / closing cover 200B is open. If the opening / closing cover 200B is not open, it is determined to be no, and the process is transferred to S40 (described later). If the opening / closing cover 200B is open, it is determined to be yes, and the cover opening / closing processing in S300 (details described later) is executed. After that, the process ends.

[0096] In S40, it is determined whether a new liquid ink, or in other words a new bottle, has been ordered from the appropriate operating unit (not shown) of the mobile terminal 300 or printer 200. If no order has been placed, the process is determined to be no, and the process proceeds to S500, which will be described later. If an order has been placed, the process is determined to be yes, and the order processing in S400 (details will be described later) is executed. After that, the process ends.

[0097] In S500, perform other appropriate processing that does not belong to any of S100, S200, S300, or S400, and then end the process.

[0098] <Printer Initialization Process>

[0099] Figure 7 This shows the details of the printer initialization process for the S100. Figure 7 In step S110, a predetermined initialization is performed on all moving parts, display devices, and other devices within the printer 200. Afterward, the liquid level sensor check process in S120 is executed, ending the routine. The reason for including the liquid level sensor check process in S120 within the printer initialization process in S100 is that, depending on the user, there may be instances where liquid ink is added to the ink tank 32 during a power outage.

[0100] <Liquid Level Sensor Inspection and Troubleshooting>

[0101] Figure 8 This describes the detailed process of checking and handling the S120 level sensor.

[0102] First, in S125, it is determined whether the liquid level sensor 90 is in the ON state. That is, it is determined whether the liquid level I in the tank is at the same level as or higher than the intermediate reference liquid level ML. If it is in the OFF state (lower than the intermediate reference liquid level ML), it is determined to be no, and the process proceeds to S160 as described later. If it is in the ON state (at the same level as or higher than the intermediate reference liquid level ML), it is determined to be yes, and the process proceeds to S130. The process performed in S125 is an example of the first determination process.

[0103] In S130, the count value of sensor counter 127 (hereinafter appropriately referred to as "sensor count"; the same applies in the illustration) is reset to 0.

[0104] In S135, it is determined whether the ordered flag of the bottle indicating that the ink has been ordered is ON. If the ordered flag is OFF, it is determined to be no, and the routine ends. If the ordered flag is ON, it is determined to be "yes," and the process proceeds to S140. The case where the liquid level sensor 90 is ON when the power is on and the ordered flag is ON is the scenario where the ordered bottle is delivered to the user, and the ink is added to the tank 32 during the power-off period.

[0105] In S140, a count value A equivalent to one bottle's volume is subtracted from the count value of the input counter 126 at that moment (hereinafter appropriately referred to as "dot count," as is the case in the illustration). This is the process of considering the entire volume of one bottle of liquid ink as being input into the container 32. The process performed in S140 is an example of the initialization process.

[0106] In S145, the aforementioned ordered flag is set to OFF.

[0107] In S150, the implemented correction flag, which indicates that the correction in the point count correction process described later has been performed, is set to OFF.

[0108] In S155, a "Request for Full Data Supplementation" attention screen is displayed on the display unit 301 of the mobile terminal 300 or the display unit 201 of the printer 200. For example, by installing an embedded web server (EWS) in the printer 200 and sending the data for display to the browser of the mobile terminal 300, the display can be shown on the display unit 301 of the mobile terminal 300. Figure 9 (a) shows a display example. Although the ink filling is considered complete when the power is turned on, this display guides users who have not filled the bottle to a full level. As shown in the figure, in this example, the message "Please note that the ink in the bottle should be fully replenished" is displayed on the full level replenishment notice screen 301A on the display unit 301 of the mobile terminal 300.

[0109] After executing S155, the routine ends.

[0110] In S160, it is determined whether the ordered flag is ON. If the ordered flag is OFF, it is determined to be no, and the process proceeds to S170 as described later. If the ordered flag is ON, it is determined to be yes, and the process proceeds to S165. The case where the liquid level sensor 90 is in the OFF state when the power is on and the ordered flag is ON is an assumption that the liquid ink in the ordered bottle has not yet been added to the tank 32.

[0111] In S165, a full quantity replenishment guide screen is displayed on the display unit 301 of the mobile terminal 300 or the display unit 201 of the printer 200. Figure 9 (b) shows a display example. As shown in the figure, in this example, the message "Please replenish all ink after the bottle arrives" is displayed on the full replenishment guide screen 301B displayed on the display unit 301 of the mobile terminal 300. The process performed in S155 is an example of the full replenishment guide process.

[0112] After executing S165, the routine ends.

[0113] In S170, it is determined whether the value obtained by subtracting the sensor count from the dot count based on the injection counter 126 is less than the sensor threshold. Therefore, it is determined whether the ink has been fully replenished. The sensor threshold is the value corresponding to the intermediate reference ink level ML when the level sensor 90 switches from ON to OFF, and is obtained by subtracting the margin from the count value AB. The dot count is merely a software count; even with the same dot count, the actual ink consumption may vary. This variation depends on individual printer differences, printing environment such as temperature, and whether the printed image is text or an image. The margin value is set to prevent false detection even with this variation. The value obtained by subtracting the sensor count from the dot count is used because, after the level sensor 90 switches from ON to OFF, even if ink is consumed during printing, the value obtained by subtracting the sensor count from the dot count maintains the state of the level sensor 90 when it switched from ON to OFF. Therefore, the timing for determining whether the liquid ink has been fully replenished can also be performed after the liquid level sensor 90 changes from ON to OFF. If the level is above the sensor threshold, it is determined to be no, and the process proceeds to S180 (described later). If the level is below the sensor threshold, it is determined to be yes, and the process proceeds to S175.

[0114] In S175, a "Request for full quantity replenishment and warning" screen is displayed on the display unit 301 of the mobile terminal 300 or the display unit 201 of the printer 200. Figure 9(c) shows a display example. As shown in the figure, in this example, the full replenishment notice / warning screen 301C displayed on the display unit 301 of the mobile terminal 300 displays the message "Please replenish all the ink in the bottle." and "If the ink is not replenished after more than 3 warnings, printing cannot be performed."

[0115] After executing S175, the routine ends.

[0116] In S180, it is determined whether the orderability flag, indicating that the user can order bottles, is ON. If the orderability flag is OFF, the process is deemed no, and the routine ends. If the orderability flag is ON, the process is deemed yes, and the procedure proceeds to S185.

[0117] In S185, an orderable notification screen is displayed on the display unit 301 of the mobile terminal 300 or the display unit 201 of the printer 200, indicating that the user can order the notification. Figure 9 (d) shows a display example. As shown in the figure, in this example, the message "Can order liquid ink." is displayed on the order notification screen 301D of the display unit 301 of the mobile terminal 300.

[0118] After executing S185, the routine ends.

[0119] <Ink Consumption Handling>

[0120] Figure 10 This shows the detailed processing during ink consumption in S200. Figure 10 First, the counting and addition process is performed in S210.

[0121] Figure 11 The details of the count addition process in S210 are shown.

[0122] First, in S211, the ink consumption amount based on the amount of ink ejected from the aforementioned inkjet head 3 is obtained, and a count value corresponding to this ink consumption amount is incremented by adding it to the dot count of the input counter 126. The process performed in S211 is an example of the print volume acquisition process, and the obtained ink consumption amount is an example of print volume information.

[0123] In S212, it is determined whether the liquid level sensor 90 is in the OFF state. If it is in the ON state, it is determined to be no, and in S213, the sensor count of the sensor counter 127 is maintained at 0, and the routine ends. If it is in the OFF state, it is determined to be yes, and the process transfers to S214. In the same way as in S211, the count value is added to the sensor count of the sensor counter 127 and incremented, and the routine ends.

[0124] return Figure 10In step S215, it is determined whether the liquid level sensor 90 is in the OFF state. If it is in the ON state, it is determined to be no, and the routine ends. If it is in the OFF state, it is determined to be yes, and the process proceeds to step S220.

[0125] In S220, it is determined whether the sensor count of sensor counter 127 is above a first threshold. The first threshold is a preset threshold corresponding to the situation where the liquid ink in tank 32 is decreasing and about to empty. If it is below the first threshold, it is determined to be no, and the process proceeds to S230 as described later. If it is above the first threshold, it is determined to be yes, and the process proceeds to S225.

[0126] In S225, the display unit 301 of the mobile terminal 300 or the display unit 201 of the printer 200 displays an InkLow screen indicating that the ink level is low. Figure 12 (a) shows a display example. In this example, the InkLow screen 301E is equipped with an ink display unit 321a that displays the ink color when the ink level is low and a message display unit 321b that displays "Ink level is low." This message display is an example of first level information, and the process performed in S225 is an example of first level information output processing.

[0127] Return to Figure 10 In S230, it is determined whether the value obtained by subtracting the sensor count from the dot count of the dot counter 126 (which is the dot count value of the dot counter 126 when the liquid level sensor 90 changes from ON to OFF, and this value remains constant until the liquid level sensor 90 is turned on again after replenishment of liquid ink) is greater than or equal to the aforementioned sensor threshold. If it is greater than or equal to the sensor threshold, it is determined to be yes, and the process proceeds to S240 as described later. If it is less than the sensor threshold, it is determined to be no, and the process proceeds to S235. The process performed in S230 is an example of the second determination process.

[0128] In S235, the display unit 301 of the mobile terminal 300 or the display unit 201 of the printer 200 displays an injection guidance screen showing the total amount of liquid ink in the guide bottle being injected. Figure 12(b) shows a display example. As shown in the figure, in this example, the ink insertion guidance screen 301F displays the messages "Please insert the remaining ink in the bottle." and "If there is no ink to insert, please contact ○○○." The process performed in S235 is an example of insertion guidance processing and non-insertion guidance processing. The message "Please insert the remaining ink in the bottle." is an example of insertion guidance information, and the message "If there is no ink to insert, please contact ○○○." is an example of non-insertion guidance information. In addition, the processing of S235 is repeatedly executed by printing, but the next display can also be performed if the value of the sensor count has increased by a predetermined amount since the last display. Thus, the ink insertion guidance screen 301F is displayed every time a predetermined amount of printing is performed. Alternatively, for example, in the display of S235 after the third time, instead of the ink insertion guidance screen 301F, the following message can be displayed: Figure 9 The full replenishment warning / notification screen 301C shown in (c) displays the message "Please replenish the full amount of ink in the bottle." and "If the warning is not replenished after 3 warnings, printing cannot proceed." Furthermore, printing can be disabled if the full replenishment warning / notification screen 301C displays 3 warnings.

[0129] After S235 is executed, the process is transferred to S270, which will be described later.

[0130] In S240, point count correction processing is performed. Figure 13 The details of the dot count correction process are shown. The dot count is corrected because, as mentioned above, there is a discrepancy between the dot count and the actual ink consumption. This discrepancy is absorbed by setting the liquid level sensor 90 to a known value by setting it to OFF.

[0131] First, in S241, it is determined whether the aforementioned implemented correction flag is OFF. If it is ON, it is determined to be no, and the routine ends. If it is OFF, it is determined to be yes, and the process transfers to S242.

[0132] In S242, the point count of input counter 126 is corrected to AB. The process performed in S242 is an example of a correction process.

[0133] In S243, the implemented correction flag is set to ON. Afterwards, the routine ends, and processing is transferred to... Figure 10 S245.

[0134] In S245, it is determined whether the ordered flag is OFF. If the ordered flag is OFF, it is determined to be yes, and the process proceeds to S255 (described later). If the ordered flag is ON, it is determined to be no, and the process proceeds to S250.

[0135] In S250, an order notification screen indicating that a bottle has been ordered is displayed on the display unit 301 of the mobile terminal 300 or the display unit 201 of the printer 200. Figure 12 (c) shows a display example. As shown in the figure, in this example, the message "Ink cartridge order has been completed. Please wait for a while" is displayed on the ordered notification screen 301G.

[0136] After S205 is executed, the process is transferred to S270, which will be described later.

[0137] In step S255, it is determined whether the sensor count of sensor counter 127 is above a third threshold. The third threshold is a preset threshold for determining whether a user can place a bottle order. Alternatively, the third threshold can be set to the same value as the first threshold mentioned above. If the sensor count is less than the third threshold, it is determined to be no, and the process proceeds to step S270 described later. If the sensor count is above the third threshold, it is determined to be yes, and the process proceeds to step S260.

[0138] In S260, the display unit 301 of the mobile terminal 300 or the display unit 201 of the printer 200 displays an ordering guide screen indicating that the remaining ink level is low and the printer is ready to order a bottle. Figure 12 (d) shows a display example. In this example, the order guidance screen 301H is equipped with the same ink display unit 321a as the screen 301E described above, a message display unit 321b stating "Ink level is low. You can order a bottle now," and an "Order" button 321c. The display of the message display unit 321b is an example of order guidance information, and the processing performed in S260 is an example of order guidance output processing.

[0139] By using the "Order" button 321c on the operation screen 301H, the corresponding order instruction signal is sent to the distribution management server 400 to order the bottles.

[0140] In S265, the orderable flag is set to ON.

[0141] In step S270, it is determined whether the sensor count of sensor counter 127 is above a second threshold. The second threshold is a preset threshold corresponding to the empty state of the liquid ink in tank 32. If it is below the second threshold, it is determined to be no, and the routine ends. If it is above the second threshold, it is determined to be yes, and the process proceeds to step S275.

[0142] In S275, the display unit 301 of the mobile terminal 300 or the display unit 201 of the printer 200 displays an InkEmpty screen indicating that the ink level is low. Figure 12(e) shows a display example. In this example, the InkEmpty screen 301I is equipped with an ink display unit 321a that displays the ink color as the ink is depleted and a message display unit 321b that says "Ink is depleted. Printing is not possible without replenishing ink." This message display is an example of second reserve information, and the processing performed in S275 is an example of second reserve information output processing.

[0143] After executing S275, the routine ends.

[0144] <Handling when the cover is opened and closed>

[0145] Figure 14 This describes the detailed procedures for opening and closing the S300's cover.

[0146] First, in S310, a warning screen for opening the cover 200B is displayed on the display unit 301 of the mobile terminal 300 or the display unit 201 of the printer 200. Figure 15 (a) shows a display example. In this example, the message "Open / Close Cover Open" is displayed on the cover opening warning screen 301J.

[0147] In S320, based on the detection result of the opening / closing sensor 80 in the printer 200, it is determined whether the opening / closing cover 200B is closed. If the opening / closing cover 200B is not closed, it is determined to be no, and the process returns to S310. If the opening / closing cover 200B is closed, it is determined to be yes, the liquid level sensor check process of S120 is executed as described above, and then the routine ends.

[0148] <Order Processing>

[0149] Figure 16 This indicates the details of the ordering process for the S400.

[0150] First, in S410, it is determined whether the orderable flag is ON. If the orderable flag is OFF, the process is deemed no and the routine ends. If the orderable flag is ON, the process is deemed yes and the operation proceeds to S420.

[0151] In S420, an order inquiry screen is displayed on the display unit 301 of the mobile terminal 300 or the display unit 201 of the printer 200. Figure 15 (b) shows a display example on the mobile terminal 300. In this example, the order inquiry screen 301K is equipped with the same liquid ink display 321a, "Order a bottle?" message display 321b, and "Order" button 321c as the screens 301E and 301H described above. By operating the "Order" button 321c on the screen 301K, a corresponding order instruction signal is sent to the delivery management server 400 to order bottles (see S430 and S440 described later).

[0152] In S430, it is determined whether the "Order" button 321c was pressed and an order was indicated. If no order was indicated, the result is determined to be no, and the routine ends. If an order was indicated, the result is determined to be yes, and processing proceeds to S440.

[0153] In S440, the delivery management server 400 is notified that the order has been accepted by the user.

[0154] In S450, the ordered flag is set to ON.

[0155] In S460, the orderable flag is set to OFF, ending the routine.

[0156] Alternatively, the order instruction signal may not be sent directly to the delivery management server 400, but may be temporarily sent to the information management device 100, which will centrally issue delivery instructions for the bottles corresponding to the delivery management server 400.

[0157] <Effects of the Implementation Method>

[0158] As explained above, this embodiment includes a level sensor 90 capable of detecting the ink level in the ink reservoir 32 of the printer 200. Based on the detection that the ink level in the reservoir 32 has increased from below the intermediate reference level ML to above the intermediate reference level ML, the printer 200 executes step S125 (see reference). Figure 8 The system determined that liquid ink was poured from the bottle into can 32.

[0159] When an image is formed through the inkjet head 3, the liquid ink in the ink tank 32 is consumed, and the liquid ink level decreases. Printer 200 executes S211 (see reference). Figure 11 ), to obtain the ink consumption of the liquid ink formed based on the above image, such as the ink dot count.

[0160] In this embodiment, by using S211 (refer to...) Figure 11 The input counter 126 is calculated based on the amount of liquid ink consumed in the bottle to obtain the current estimated balance when the user puts all the liquid ink in the bottle into the canister 32, assuming an ideal situation.

[0161] On the other hand, based on the fact that the liquid level of the ink detected by the liquid level sensor 90 in tank 32 is lower than the aforementioned intermediate reference level ML, the current detection margin is obtained, i.e. Figure 5 AB in the middle.

[0162] Printer 200 executes S230 (refer to...) Figure 10 ), determine whether the point count value based on input counter 126 is less than the sensor threshold, i.e. Figure 5The value obtained by subtracting the remaining amount from AB. In other words, it determines whether the difference between the current estimated remaining amount (based on the dot count value of the input counter 126) and the current detected remaining amount (AB) is greater than or equal to the specified amount (remaining amount). If the difference is less than the specified amount, it can be considered as the ideal situation described above, that is, the user puts the entire amount of liquid ink in the bottle into the container 32.

[0163] If the difference exceeds the specified amount, S230 determines it as no, indicating that the user has not filled the entire amount of liquid ink into container 32, and printer 200 executes S235 (see reference). Figure 10 In S235, a message is displayed to guide the addition of liquid ink to container 32: "Please add the remaining liquid ink from the bottle" (see reference). Figure 12 (b)). Thus, it is possible to request the user to add the remaining liquid ink in the bottle to the container 32, thereby preventing the delivery of liquid ink to the user in the aforementioned remaining state and suppressing any adverse effects on the service provider side.

[0164] As described above in S230 (refer to) Figure 10 ) Exceptions to the case where the difference is above the specified value may include situations where a portion of the ink overflows due to a processing error when the user adds liquid ink from the bottle, making it impossible to add more.

[0165] In this embodiment, the above-mentioned situation is also taken into account in particular, and the printer 200 executes S235 (see reference). Figure 10 It displays the message, "If there is no ink to add, please contact ○○○." (See reference) Figure 12 (b)). Thus, it is possible to provide relief to users who have no malicious intent.

[0166] Furthermore, in this embodiment, especially in S230 (refer to...) Figure 10 If the difference is determined to be greater than or equal to a specified amount, S235 is repeatedly executed at a specified time after the ink level falls below the intermediate reference level ML. This reliably allows the user to be requested to add the remaining ink to tank 32.

[0167] In addition, in this embodiment, a first threshold for the amount of liquid ink consumed is specifically set, corresponding to the situation where the remaining liquid ink in the container 32 becomes less and immediately empties.

[0168] After the ink level falls below the aforementioned intermediate reference level ML, if ink is consumed and the consumption reaches the first threshold, then S225 (refer to step S225) executed by printer 200 will occur. Figure 10 The message displayed is "Liquid ink level is low". (Refer to...) Figure 12 (a) This allows the user to be notified that the remaining ink level is low.

[0169] In addition, in this embodiment, a second threshold is specifically set for the amount of liquid ink consumed in a situation that corresponds to the empty state of the can 32.

[0170] If the ink is consumed and the consumption reaches the second threshold, then S275 is executed in printer 200 (refer to...). Figure 10 The message displayed is "Ink depleted. Printing will not be possible without replenishing ink." This notifies the user that the ink tank 32 is empty.

[0171] If it is determined that the difference is not greater than the specified amount, S230 determines that it is, thus considering that the user has poured the entire amount of liquid ink in the bottle into the container 32. In this embodiment, correspondingly, in S242 (refer to...) Figure 13 In this process, the count value of input counter 126 is corrected to AB. In other words, the count value corresponding to the current estimated margin and the count value corresponding to the current detection margin are made consistent.

[0172] Therefore, it is possible to correct the errors caused by individual deviations that are actually present to some extent in the dot count values ​​of the liquid ink mentioned above, thereby making the subsequent margin detection more accurate.

[0173] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a third threshold for the amount of ink consumed is specifically set, corresponding to, for example, the prediction that the ink level in the ink reservoir 32 is decreasing and about to empty. If ink is consumed and the consumption reaches the third threshold, then S260 (see reference) is executed by the printer 200. Figure 10 The message "Ink level is low. You can order a bottle" is displayed. This notifies the user that a bottle should be ordered because the ink level in container 32 is expected to be low.

[0174] Furthermore, in this embodiment, in particular, when the aforementioned difference is greater than or equal to a predetermined amount, it is considered that the user has not poured the entire amount of liquid ink from the bottle into container 32, S230 (refer to...). Figure 10 The result is no. Furthermore, in this embodiment, it is anticipated that the user will subsequently pour the liquid ink from the bottle into the container 32. By not executing S240, the aforementioned correction of the count value can be avoided.

[0175] In order to add the new liquid ink from the delivered bottle into the container 32, the dot count value of the addition counter 126 corresponding to the current estimated balance mentioned above needs to be initialized.

[0176] Correspondingly, in this embodiment, the opening and closing actions of the opening / closing cover 200B are detected by the opening / closing sensor 80. If the liquid ink level in the tank 32 rises above the intermediate reference level ML, then the printer 200 executes S140 (see reference). Figure 14 , Figure 8 Additionally, during startup based on power-on, even if the ink level in tank 32 is above the intermediate reference level ML and ink has been ordered, S140 is executed (see reference). Figure 7 , Figure 8 ).

[0177] Therefore, by subtracting from the point count in S140 Figure 5 The value A shown can reliably initialize the remaining amount of liquid ink in the bottle before it is filled with liquid ink.

[0178] Although the liquid ink has been ordered, there is still liquid ink remaining in the existing bottle even though the liquid ink in the can 32 is below the intermediate reference level ML.

[0179] In this embodiment, specifically, if the opening / closing sensor 80 detects an opening action of the opening / closing cover 200B in the above-described state, then the printer 200 executes S155 (see reference). Figure 8 The system displays the message "Please note that you must replenish the remaining ink in the bottle." This reliably requests the user to add the remaining ink from the bottle to container 32.

[0180] <Variation Example>

[0181] Furthermore, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments; for example, the following variations are also included within the scope of the invention.

[0182] For example, in the above, the control device 50 of the printer 200 is used for execution. Figures 6 to 16 The steps described above are an example of a capacity management device, but the information management server 100 can also perform the same steps as described above and operate as a capacity management device. When the information management server 100 operates as a capacity management device, the display can also be shown on the display unit 301 of the portable terminal 300 using a browser. Furthermore, the mobile terminal 300 can also perform the same steps as described above and operate as a capacity management device.

[0183] Alternatively, it is not necessary for a single device to operate as a margin management device; the above can be performed collaboratively by multiple devices, including the information management server 100, printer 200, mobile terminal 300, and other devices. Figures 6 to 16 The steps shown constitute the margin management system.

[0184] Furthermore, the above example, using liquid ink as a printing consumable, is not limited to this. For example, in the case of using a laser printer 200 instead of an inkjet printer, toner becomes an example of a printing consumable.

[0185] in addition, Figures 6 to 16 The flowchart shown does not limit the invention to the steps illustrated. Steps can be added, deleted, or their order changed without departing from the spirit and technical concept of the invention. Specifically, the above embodiment uses an injection counter 126 and a sensor counter 127, but other counting methods can also be used. For example, only the injection counter 126 can be used. Alternatively, a counter that decreases in count value along with ink consumption can be used.

[0186] Regarding the constituent elements illustrated in the above embodiments and drawings, the construction of numerical values ​​or multiple constituent elements, or the interrelationship of time series, can be arbitrarily changed and improved within the scope of the technical concept of the present invention.

[0187] In addition to the above, the methods of the above embodiments and various modifications can also be appropriately combined and utilized.

[0188] The problems to be solved by the invention and the effects of the invention are not limited to those described above. That is, according to the present invention, problems not described above or effects not described above can be solved, and there are cases where only a part of the described problems are solved or only a part of the described effects are achieved.

[0189] Furthermore, although not all examples are provided, the invention can be implemented with various modifications without departing from its spirit.

[0190] Explanation of icon numbers

[0191] 1. Printing processing system; 2. Carriage; 3. Inkjet head; 32 cans; 80 Opening / closing sensors; 90 Liquid level sensor; 100 Information Management Servers; 110 processor; 200 Printer (an example of a printing device, an example of a margin management device); 200B Opening and closing cover (an example of an opening and closing part); 300 mobile terminals; 310 processor; ML intermediate reference level; P represents the recording paper (an example of the printing medium).

Claims

1. A balance management device for managing the balance of printing consumables in a printing device, the printing device comprising: The container stores the printing consumables inside a storage body containing the printing consumables in predetermined capacity units; A liquid level sensor is used to detect whether the liquid level of the printing consumables in the container is above the intermediate reference liquid level corresponding to the middle part of the container in the vertical direction; and The printing unit uses the printing consumables within the can to form an image on the printing medium. in, The margin management device is configured to perform the following processing: Print volume acquisition processing obtains print volume information of the printing consumables based on the image of the printing unit; The first determination process involves determining that, based on the situation detected by the liquid level sensor that the level of the printing consumables in the tank has increased from below the intermediate reference level to above the intermediate reference level, the printing consumables have been added to the tank from the storage body. The second determination process, based on the case where the liquid level sensor detects that the liquid level of the printing consumable in the tank has become lower than the intermediate reference liquid level due to the formation of the image, determines whether the difference between the current estimated margin and the current detected margin is greater than or equal to a predetermined amount. The current estimated margin is the margin calculated using the printing volume information obtained in the printing volume acquisition process, which is considered to have been used when the first determination process determined that the input was carried out, and is considered to have been used with the printing consumable corresponding to the predetermined capacity. The current detected margin is the margin based on the liquid level sensor detecting that the liquid level of the printing consumable has become lower than the intermediate reference liquid level. as well as In the input guidance process, if the second determination process determines that the difference is greater than or equal to the specified amount, input guidance information is output to guide the input of the printing consumable into the container.

2. The balance management device according to claim 1, wherein, The remaining quantity management device is further configured to perform an unfeedable guidance process when the second determination process determines that the difference is greater than or equal to the specified amount. In the unfeedable guidance process, unfeedable guidance information is outputting a situation where there is an unfeedable portion of the printing consumable due to an incorrect insertion when inserting the printing consumable into the container.

3. The margin management device according to claim 1, wherein, The remaining amount management device is further configured such that, when it is determined in the second determination process that the difference is greater than or equal to the specified amount, after the liquid level of the printing consumable becomes lower than the intermediate reference liquid level, the input guidance process is repeatedly performed at a specified time interval.

4. The margin management device according to claim 1, wherein, The remaining amount management device is further configured to perform a first remaining amount information output process when it is determined in the second determination process that the difference is not above the specified amount. In the first remaining amount information output process, after a time when the liquid level of the printing consumable becomes lower than the intermediate reference liquid level, and after a time when the consumption of the printing consumable corresponding to the printing amount information obtained in the printing amount acquisition process reaches a specified first threshold, the device outputs first remaining amount information indicating that the remaining amount of the printing consumable in the tank has decreased.

5. The margin management device according to claim 1, wherein, The remaining quantity management device is further configured to perform a second remaining quantity information output process when it is determined in the second determination process that the difference is not above the specified amount. In the second remaining quantity information output process, when the consumption of the printing consumables corresponding to the printing quantity information obtained through the printing quantity acquisition process reaches a specified second threshold, the device outputs second remaining quantity information indicating that the remaining quantity of the printing consumables in the can has been exhausted.

6. The margin management device according to claim 1, wherein, The margin management device is further configured to, in the second determination process, if it is determined that the difference is not above the specified amount, perform a correction process to correct the count value corresponding to the current estimated margin to the count value corresponding to the current detection margin.

7. The margin management device according to claim 1, wherein, The remaining quantity management device is further configured to perform an order guidance output process, in which, at a timed point when the consumption of the printing consumables corresponding to the printing quantity information obtained through the printing quantity acquisition process reaches a predetermined third threshold, the order guidance information for the printing consumables is output.

8. The balance management device according to claim 6, wherein, The margin management device is further configured such that, if the difference is determined to be greater than or equal to the specified amount in the second determination process, the correction process of correcting the count value corresponding to the current estimated margin to the count value corresponding to the current detection margin is not performed.

9. The margin management device according to claim 1, wherein, The printing device also includes an opening / closing sensor that detects the opening and closing of the opening / closing portion of the can into which the printing consumable is inserted. The balance management device is configured to consider that printing consumables corresponding to the specified capacity have been added when the opening and closing actions of the opening and closing parts are detected, the liquid level of the printing consumables in the tank rises above the intermediate reference liquid level, and the printing consumables have been ordered, and to perform initialization processing to initialize the count value corresponding to the current estimated balance.

10. The margin management device according to claim 1, wherein, The printing device, The balance management device is configured such that, upon startup based on power-on, if the level of the printing consumables in the tank is above the intermediate reference level and the printing consumables have been ordered, it is considered that the printing consumables corresponding to the specified capacity were added during the power-off period, and an initialization process is performed to initialize the count value corresponding to the current estimated balance.

11. The margin management device according to claim 1, wherein, The printing device also includes an opening / closing sensor that detects the opening and closing of the opening / closing portion of the can into which the printing consumable is inserted. The remaining quantity management device is configured to perform a full quantity input guidance process when it detects the opening action of the opening and closing part and an order for printing consumables has been placed when the liquid level of the printing consumables in the tank is lower than the intermediate reference liquid level. In this full quantity input guidance process, full quantity input guidance information is output to prompt the printing consumables in the storage body to be fully input into the tank.

Images