Consumable cartridge recycling system, consumable cartridge recycling method, and printing device

Abstract

This application discloses a system for reusing consumable boxes, a method for reusing consumable boxes, and a printing apparatus. The system considers terminal variations to determine whether a consumable box can be reused. The reuse system includes: a printing apparatus equipped with a first type of terminal; a consumable box capable of being attached to and detached from the printing apparatus; and a determining device for determining whether a used consumable box can be reused. The consumable box includes: a storage section for storing information; and a second type of terminal electrically connected to the storage section and connected to the first type of terminal when the consumable box is attached to the printing apparatus. The printing apparatus records the number of times the consumable box has been attached to the printing apparatus as installation information in the storage section of the attached consumable box. The determining device determines whether the consumable box can be reused by comparing parameters obtained using installation information read from the storage section of the consumable box removed from the printing apparatus with a threshold value.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a system for reusing consumable boxes, a method for reusing consumable boxes, and a printing apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] In existing printing apparatuses, consumable cartridges are reused. In the technology of Patent Document 1, the toner cartridge is equipped with a memory and a memory interface for recording regeneration information of the toner cartridge's components. The memory stores regeneration information indicating the number of times each component of the toner cartridge has been regenerated. During the toner cartridge regeneration process, the number of times a component has been regenerated is read from the toner cartridge's memory. A pre-defined number of regenerations for that component is compared with the read number of regenerations. If the number of regenerations does not exceed the pre-defined number of regenerations, the component is reused as a regenerated component along with the memory and memory interface, and assembled into a new cartridge. The value of the number of regenerations for that component in the memory is incremented by 1.

[0003] On the other hand, if the number of regenerations exceeds the regeneration limit, the component is discarded and a new component is used to assemble a new box. The regeneration count value of that component in memory is cleared. To manage the regeneration count of components, the memory and memory interface are reused during the assembly of the new box.

[0004] Existing technical documents

[0005] Patent documents

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2003-167486

[0007] The technical problem that the invention aims to solve

[0008] The cartridge, configured to be removable from the printing apparatus and containing a memory, has terminals that form part of the circuitry containing the memory, and these terminals are connected to terminals of the circuitry on the printing apparatus side. Each time the cartridge is removed or installed, the terminals repeatedly come into contact with and disconnect from the terminals of the circuitry on the printing apparatus side. In the technology of Patent Document 1, the premise is that the memory and memory interface will not be replaced, and the degradation of the terminals caused by such contact and disconnection is not taken into account. Summary of the Invention

[0009] This disclosure is made to solve at least some of the above-mentioned technical problems, and can be implemented in the following manner.

[0010] According to one aspect of this disclosure, a system for reusing consumable boxes is provided. The system includes: a printing apparatus having a first terminal; a consumable box configured to be detached from and attached to the printing apparatus; and a determining device for determining whether a used consumable box can be reused. The consumable box includes: a storage section for storing information; and a second terminal electrically connected to the storage section and connected to the first terminal when the consumable box is attached to the printing apparatus. The printing apparatus is configured to record the number of times the consumable box is attached to the printing apparatus as installation information in the storage section of the consumable box attached to the printing apparatus. The determining device determines whether the consumable box can be reused based on a comparison of parameters obtained using the installation information read from the storage section of the consumable box removed from the printing apparatus with a threshold value. Attached Figure Description

[0011] Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional diagram showing the hardware configuration of the printing system 1000.

[0012] Figure 2 This is an explanatory diagram showing the schematic configuration of the printing system 1000.

[0013] Figure 3 This is a perspective view showing the structure of the liquid storage container 100.

[0014] Figure 4 This is an explanatory diagram showing the structure of the substrate 120.

[0015] Figure 5 This diagram shows the liquid storage container 100 assembled on the bracket 30.

[0016] Figure 6 This is an enlarged illustration showing the vicinity of the connecting mechanism 400.

[0017] Figure 7 The figure shows the functional parts of the printing device 20 together with a liquid storage container 100.

[0018] Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating the process in the printing apparatus 20.

[0019] Figure 9 The figure shows the functional part of the determination device 10 together with a liquid collection container 100.

[0020] Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating the processing in the determination device 10.

[0021] Figure 11 This is a flowchart showing a new part of the processing in the determination device 10.

[0022] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0023] 1: Reuse system; 4: Storage unit; 5: Print head; 6: Liquid inlet unit; 10: Judgment device; 20: Printing device; 22: Motor; 26: Roller; 30: Bracket; 31: Cable; 32: Bracket motor; 34: Sliding shaft; 36: Drive belt; 38: Pulley; 40: Main control unit; 45: Connecting bus; 46: Bus; 50: Secondary control unit; 60: Operation unit; 65: Assembly chamber; 70: Main control unit; 80: Connector; 90: Secondary control unit; 100: Liquid storage container; 100A: Liquid storage container; 100B: Liquid storage container; 100C: Liquid storage container; 100D: Liquid storage container; 101: Liquid storage body; 101wb: Third wall; 101wf: First wall 101wr: Second wall; 101wsa: Fifth wall; 101wsb: Sixth wall; 101wu: Fourth wall; 104: Liquid supply section; 104f: Membrane; 104op: Liquid supply port; 120: Substrate; 120bd: Substrate material; 120fa: Front surface; 120fb: Back surface; 130: Equipment; 136: Processing section; 138: Storage section; 139: Resin; 210: Data terminal; 220: Clock terminal; 230: Power terminal; 240: Reset terminal; 250: Ground terminal; 290: Terminal group; 400: Connection mechanism; 403: Contact forming member; 403A: Contact forming member; 403B: Contact forming member; 403C: Contact forming member. 403D: Contact forming member; 403E: Contact forming member; 405: Terminal holding part; 410: Device-side terminal; 411: Determination part; 412: Assembly determination part; 413: Recording part; 415: CPU; 416: Device-side first storage part; 420: Device-side terminal; 430: Device-side terminal; 431: Relay terminal; 432: Relay terminal; 433: Relay terminal; 434: Relay terminal; 435: Relay terminal; 439: Relay terminal; 440: Device-side terminal; 441: Power supply; 450: Device-side terminal; 490: Device-side terminal group; 495: Display panel; 500: Sub-control board; 510: Sub-control board terminal; 511: Switching part; 520: Sub-control... Substrate terminal block, 530: Sub-control board terminal block, 540: Sub-control board terminal block, 550: Sub-control board terminal block, 590: Sub-control board terminal block group, 711: Determination unit, 712: Assembly determination unit, 714: Reuse determination unit, 715: CPU, 716: Device-side first storage unit, 741: Power supply, 795: Display panel, 900: Sub-control board, 910: Sub-control board terminal block, 911: Switching unit, 920: Sub-control board terminal block, 930: Sub-control board terminal block, 940: Sub-control board terminal block, 950: Sub-control board terminal block, 1000: Printing system, FD: First direction, ID: Identification information, Ini: Installation information, LSDA: Data cable, MD: Assembly direction.PA: Printing media; PC: Computer; Pd: Parameter; RS: Request signal; SD: Second direction; Thrp1: First threshold; Thrp2: Second threshold; VDD: Power supply voltage. Detailed Implementation

[0024] A. First implementation method: A1. Hardware Components of the Printing System: based on Figure 1 and Figure 2 Let me explain. Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional diagram showing the hardware configuration of the printing system 1000. Figure 2 This is an explanatory diagram showing the schematic configuration of the printing system 1000. The printing system 1000, including the liquid collection container 100, together with the judging device 10, constitutes the recycling system 1 for the liquid collection container 100. For ease of understanding of the technology, in... Figure 1 and Figure 2 The determination device 10 is not shown in the text. The determination device 10 will be described later.

[0025] exist Figure 1 The X, Y, and Z axes are labeled as mutually orthogonal. The arrows pointing along the X, Y, and Z axes indicate the positive directions along the X, Y, and Z axes, respectively. The positive directions along the X, Y, and Z axes are designated as +X, +Y, and +Z directions, respectively. The negative directions along the X, Y, and Z axes are designated as -X, -Y, and -Z directions, respectively. Regardless of their sign, the directions along the X, Y, and Z axes are referred to as the X direction, Y direction, and Z direction, respectively. The X, Y, and Z axes plotted in other figures are... Figure 1 The X, Y, and Z axes correspond to each other. Figure 1 In the normal operating position of the printing system 1000, the front direction of the printing system 1000 is taken as the +Y direction. The +Z direction is taken as the gravity direction.

[0026] The printing system 1000 includes a printing device 20 and multiple liquid storage containers 100. Specifically, the printing device 20 is an inkjet printer. Specifically, the liquid storage containers 100 are ink cartridges. The printing device 20 includes a head drive mechanism, a main scanning feed mechanism, and a secondary scanning feed mechanism. Printing is performed using the multiple liquid storage containers 100 assembled in the printing device 20 via the head drive mechanism, the main scanning feed mechanism, and the secondary scanning feed mechanism.

[0027] The head drive mechanism includes a bracket 30. The bracket 30 includes a storage section 4 and a printing head 5. The liquid storage container 100 is configured to be detachable from the printing apparatus 20. The storage section 4 is configured to detachably assemble four liquid storage containers 100. In this disclosure, "liquid storage container 100 assembled to printing apparatus 20" means that the liquid storage container 100 is physically mounted to the printing apparatus 20, and the terminal group 290 of the liquid storage container 100 is electrically connected to the device-side terminal group 490 of the printing apparatus 20. The terminal group 290 and the device-side terminal group 490 will be described later. The four liquid storage containers 100 are each stored in a predetermined position in the storage section 4. In this disclosure, the four liquid storage containers 100 store liquids of different colors. Specifically, the liquid is ink, hereinafter referred to as ink. When showing the four liquid storage containers 100 separately, they are referred to as liquid storage containers 100A to 100D.

[0028] The printhead 5 is located on the +Z direction side of the bracket 30. Multiple nozzles for ejecting ink droplets are provided on the +Z direction side facing the printhead 5. Each nozzle is connected to any one of the liquid collection containers 100A to 100D assembled in the collection section 4 via a flow path within the bracket 30.

[0029] The receiving section 4 is provided with a liquid inlet section 6 and a connecting mechanism 400. The liquid inlet section 6 is configured to be detachably connected to the liquid supply port 104op of the liquid receiving container 100. The liquid inlet section 6 guides the ink supplied from the liquid receiving container 100 through the flow path in the bracket 30 to the print head 5. The connecting mechanism 400 has a plurality of device-side terminal groups 490. The liquid inlet section 6 and the device-side terminal groups 490 will be described later.

[0030] The main scanning feed mechanism includes a drive belt 36, a bracket motor 32, a sliding shaft 34, and pulleys 38. The drive belt 36 is a seamless belt and is stretched between the bracket motor 32 and the pulleys 38. A bracket 30 is fixed to the drive belt 36. The sliding shaft 34 is arranged parallel to the shaft of the paper feed roller 26 of the secondary scanning feed mechanism, and keeps the bracket 30 slidable. By rotating the bracket motor 32, the bracket 30 fixed to the drive belt 36 moves along the sliding shaft 34 in the +X and -X directions.

[0031] The auxiliary scanning feeder includes a paper feed motor 22 and a paper feed roller 26. By rotating the paper feed motor 22, the paper feed roller 26 transports the printing medium PA in the Y direction.

[0032] The printing apparatus 20 also includes a main control unit 40. The main control unit 40 is connected to the bracket 30 via a cable 31. A bus 46 is formed on the cable 31, and the main control unit 40 is electrically connected to the sub-control board 500 provided on the bracket 30 via the bus 46.

[0033] The main control unit 40 controls the aforementioned mechanisms to realize the printing process. For example, the main control unit 40 receives a user's printing job from a computer PC via a connector 80 and performs printing based on the content of the received printing job. The printing medium PA is transported in the +Y direction by the paper feed roller 26, and the print head 5, located on the carrier 30, moves in the +X and -X directions by the drive belt 36, thereby allowing ink ejected from the print head 5 in the +Z direction to land anywhere on the printing medium PA. Multiple ink droplets are formed on the printing medium PA by the multiple ink droplets landing on the printing medium PA. These multiple ink droplets form an image. In this disclosure, "image" includes text and symbols. In this disclosure, the +X and -X directions in which the carrier 30 moves are collectively referred to as the "main scanning direction". The -Y and +Y directions in which the printing medium PA is transported are collectively referred to as the "sub-scanning direction".

[0034] The printing apparatus 20 also includes an operation unit 60. The user uses the operation unit 60 to make various settings for the printing apparatus 20 or to check the status of the printing apparatus 20.

[0035] Figure 3 This is a perspective view showing the configuration of the liquid storage container 100. Regarding the orientation of the X, Y, and Z axes of the liquid storage container 100, it is related to... Figure 1 Similarly, the printing device 20 is positioned on a horizontal plane parallel to the X and Y directions, and the liquid collection container 100 is assembled on the printing device 20, as a reference.

[0036] The liquid storage container 100 has a generally rectangular shape. The liquid storage container 100 includes: a liquid storage body 101, which can store ink as a liquid; a liquid supply part 104, which has a liquid supply port 104op; and a substrate 120.

[0037] The liquid receiving body 101 forms the outer shell of the liquid receiving container 100. The liquid receiving body 101 includes a first wall 101wf, a second wall 101wr, a third wall 101wb, a fourth wall 101wu, a fifth wall 101wsa, and a sixth wall 101wsb. Through these six walls 101wf, 101wr, 101wb, 101wu, 101wsa, and 101wsb, the ink chamber liquid containing the ink is divided within the receiving body 101. The first wall 101wf is the wall on the +Y direction side, forming the front wall. The front wall faces the front side of the printing system 1000. The second wall 101wr is opposite the first wall 101wf. The second wall 101wr is the wall on the -Y direction side, forming the rear wall. The rear wall faces the rear side of the printing system 1000. The third wall 101wb is the wall on the +Z direction side, forming the bottom wall. The fourth wall 101wu is opposite to the third wall 101wb. The fourth wall 101wu is the wall on the -Z direction side, forming the upper wall. The fifth wall 101wsa is the wall on the -X direction side, forming the right wall. The sixth wall 101wsb is opposite to the fifth wall 101wsa. The sixth wall 101wsb is the wall on the +X direction side, forming the left wall.

[0038] The liquid supply section 104 is a cylindrical member protruding from the third wall 101wb. The liquid supply port 104op is located at the front end of the liquid supply section 104. The liquid supply port 104op communicates with the ink chamber of the liquid reservoir 101. When the liquid reservoir 100 is mounted on the bracket 30 of the printing apparatus 20, ink is supplied to the liquid inlet 6 of the bracket 30. The liquid supply port 104op is sealed by a membrane 104f. The liquid supply port 104op is configured to be detachable from the liquid inlet 6 of the reservoir 4. When the liquid reservoir 100 is mounted on the bracket 30, the membrane 104f is broken by the liquid inlet 6. The ink stored in the ink chamber is supplied to the print head 5 of the printing apparatus 20 via the liquid inlet 6. As the ink in the ink chamber is consumed, air is introduced into the ink chamber through an atmospheric opening (not shown).

[0039] The direction in which the liquid receiving container 100 is assembled onto the bracket 30 of the printing apparatus 20 is designated as the assembly direction MD. The assembly direction MD is also the direction in which the substrate 120 is assembled onto the bracket 30 of the printing apparatus 20. In this embodiment, the assembly direction MD is the +Z direction. Two mutually orthogonal directions are designated as the first direction FD and the second direction SD. The first direction FD is the direction that includes a component of the assembly direction MD. In this embodiment, the first direction FD is the Z direction, and the second direction SD is the X direction. The first direction FD is actually along the front surface 120fa of the substrate 120.

[0040] The substrate 120 is mounted on the liquid receiving container 100. In this embodiment, the substrate 120 is disposed on the second wall 101wr of the liquid receiving body 101. Details regarding the substrate 120 will be described later.

[0041] Figure 4 This is an explanatory diagram showing the structure of the substrate 120. The substrate 120 includes a substrate 120bd, a terminal group 290, a device 130, and wiring (not shown). The substrate 120bd has a front surface 120fa and a back surface 120fb. In this disclosure, "surface" refers to the surface of the liquid receiving container 100 in the substrate 120bd that faces the device-side terminal group 490 when the substrate 120 is mounted on the printing apparatus 20. In this embodiment, "surface" is the front surface 120fa.

[0042] Terminal group 290 is electrically connected to storage unit 138 within device 130. When liquid storage container 100 is assembled to printing apparatus 20, terminal group 290 is connected to device-side terminals 410-450. Terminal group 290 is formed of a conductive material such as gold foil. Terminal group 290 includes data terminal 210, clock terminal 220, power terminal 230, reset terminal 240, and ground terminal 250 (see reference). Figure 4 The right side of the middle part and Figure 3 (The lower left part).

[0043] Data terminal 210 is used to transmit and receive data signals between device 130 and printing apparatus 20. For example, the signals transmitted and received via data terminal 210 include signals showing various data stored in storage unit 138 provided on substrate 120; signals stored in storage unit 138 controlled by processing unit 136 provided on substrate 120; and signals not stored in storage unit 138 controlled by main control unit 40 and sub-control unit 50 of printing apparatus 20. Data terminal 210 is used to detect whether liquid collection container 100 is assembled on printing apparatus 20.

[0044] Clock terminal 220 is used to send a clock signal from printing apparatus 20 to device 130. Power terminal 230 is used to supply power voltage VDD from printing apparatus 20 to device 130. Reset terminal 240 is used to send a reset signal from printing apparatus 20 to device 130. Ground terminal 250 is grounded via device-side terminal 450 of printing apparatus 20.

[0045] When the liquid collection container 100 is assembled into the collection part 4, each terminal 210, 220, 230, 240, and 250 contacts the corresponding device side terminals 410, 420, 430, 440, and 450 in the plurality of device side terminal groups 490 of the connection mechanism 400 of the printing device 20.

[0046] The device 130 is disposed on the substrate 120bd. The device 130 is sealed by resin 139. The device 130 includes a processing unit 136 and a storage unit 138.

[0047] For example, the processing unit 136 is composed of circuits. The processing unit 136 is connected to terminals 210-250 and controls the signals and voltages input to and output to terminals 210-250. The processing unit 136 may also be a circuit with high-speed computing and processing functions, such as a CPU.

[0048] For example, the storage unit 138 is composed of non-volatile memory such as flash memory. The storage unit 138 stores information related to the liquid storage container 100. For example, the information related to the liquid storage container 100 includes the amount of ink consumed, the color of the ink, the manufacturing date of the liquid storage container 100, the identification information ID of the liquid storage container 100, and the installation information Ini. The amount of ink consumed is recorded as the number of ink droplets ejected from the liquid storage container 100 in use. The identification information ID of the liquid storage container 100 is specified for each liquid storage container 100. In this embodiment, "1" to "4" are assigned to the liquid storage containers 100A to 100D as identification information IDs respectively. The installation information Ini indicates the number of times the liquid storage container 100 is assembled into the printing apparatus 20.

[0049] Figure 5 This diagram shows the liquid storage container 100 assembled on the bracket 30. Figure 6 This is an enlarged illustration showing the vicinity of the connecting mechanism 400. (See diagram below.) Figure 1 As shown, the bracket 30 has a storage section 4 and a printing head 5.

[0050] The printhead 5 includes multiple nozzles and multiple piezoelectric elements. The printhead 5 ejects ink droplets from each nozzle according to the voltage applied to each piezoelectric element, forming dots on the printing medium PA.

[0051] The storage section 4 is positioned above the printhead 5 and is configured to accommodate multiple liquid storage containers 100. An assembly chamber 65 for assembling the liquid storage containers 100 is formed inside the storage section 4. In this embodiment, four assembly chambers 65 are provided corresponding to the number of liquid storage containers 100A to 100D. The storage section 4 includes a liquid inlet section 6, a sub-control board 500, and a connecting mechanism 400.

[0052] In the normal operating configuration of the printing system 1000, the liquid introduction unit 6 is positioned above the print head 5, introducing ink from the liquid supply port 104op of the liquid collection container 100 into the print head 5. Four liquid introduction units 6 are provided corresponding to the number of liquid collection containers 100A to 100D.

[0053] A plurality of sub-control board terminals 510, 520, 530, 540, and 550, as well as a sub-control unit 50, are mounted on the sub-control board 500. When using the plurality of sub-control board terminals 510, 520, 530, 540, and 550 without distinction, reference numeral 590 is used as a sub-control board terminal group. Sub-control board terminal groups 590 are provided in each assembly chamber 65. The sub-control board terminal groups 590 are electrically connected to the sub-control unit 50 via wiring from the sub-control board 500. For example, the sub-control unit 50 is configured as a bracket circuit and cooperates with the main control unit 40 to perform control associated with the liquid receiving container 100.

[0054] The connecting mechanism 400 includes a terminal holding portion 405 and a plurality of contact forming members 403 held in the terminal holding portion 405. The connecting mechanism 400 is provided in each liquid receiving container 100A-100D, i.e., each assembly chamber 65. The contact forming members 403 are conductive and elastic. In this embodiment, for each connecting mechanism 400, five contact forming members 403 are provided, the same number as the terminal group 290. When distinguishing between the five contact forming members 403, reference numerals "403A", "403B", "403C", "403D", and "403E" are used.

[0055] The contact forming member 403 is a member electrically connected to the terminal group 290 of the liquid receiving container 100 and the sub-control board terminal group 590 of the sub-control board 500. The portion of the contact forming member 403 facing the assembly chamber 65 forms the device-side terminal group 490. The device-side terminal group 490 and... Figure 3 The terminal group 290 shown is in contact. In this embodiment, the portion of the contact forming member 403 that faces the assembly chamber 65 the most, i.e., the portion that protrudes most towards the assembly chamber 65, is in contact with the terminal group 290. The portion of the contact forming member 403 that protrudes towards the sub-control board 500 is in contact with the sub-control board terminal group 590.

[0056] When distinguishing between the device-side terminal group 490 and other components, reference numerals "410", "420", "430", "440", and "450" ​​are used. When distinguishing between the relay terminal 439 and other components, reference numerals "431", "432", "433", "434", and "435" are used. Device-side terminal 410 and relay terminal 431 are formed on contact forming member 403A. Device-side terminal 420 and relay terminal 432 are formed on contact forming member 403B. Device-side terminal 430 and relay terminal 433 are formed on contact forming member 403C. Device-side terminal 440 and relay terminal 434 are formed on contact forming member 403D. Device-side terminal 450 and relay terminal 435 are formed on contact forming member 403E.

[0057] The liquid storage container 100 is assembled into the storage section 4 of the printing apparatus 20 by inserting it along the assembly direction MD. The liquid storage container 100 is removed from the storage section 4 by pulling it out in the opposite direction to the assembly direction MD. In this way, the liquid storage container 100 is detachably assembled into the printing apparatus 20.

[0058] When the liquid receiving container 100 is assembled into the printing apparatus 20, the terminal group 290 of the liquid receiving container 100 causes the contact forming member 403 of the printing apparatus 20 to elastically deform and simultaneously presses down on the contact forming member 403. When the liquid receiving container 100 is removed from the printing apparatus 20, the contact forming member 403 of the terminal group 290 of the liquid receiving container 100, which has elastically deformed, is pressed down and simultaneously pulled up relative to the contact forming member 403. As a result, each time the liquid receiving container 100 is assembled into and removed from the printing apparatus 20, the terminal group 290 of the liquid receiving container 100 is subjected to frictional force with the contact forming member 403. When frictional wear occurs to a certain extent, and the electroplated layer on the surface of the terminal group 290 peels off due to frictional wear, poor contact will occur between the terminal group 290 of the liquid receiving container 100 and the contact forming member 403 of the printing apparatus 20.

[0059] When the liquid collection container 100 is assembled into the collection section 4, the device 130 is connected via the terminal group 290, the connection mechanism 400, the sub-control board 500, and... Figure 2 The bus 46 shown is electrically connected to the main control unit 40. Specifically, when the liquid receiving container 100 is assembled into the receiving unit 4, the terminals 210, 220, 230, 240, and 250 of the substrate 120 are electrically connected to the device-side terminals 410, 420, 430, 440, and 450 through contact. The device-side terminals 410, 420, 430, 440, and 450 of the connecting mechanism 400 are electrically connected to the sub-control substrate terminal group 590 on the sub-control substrate 500 through contact. The sub-control substrate terminal group 590 of the sub-control substrate 500 is electrically connected to the sub-control unit 50 of the printing apparatus 20 through wiring. Thus, each terminal 210, 220, 230, 240, and 250 is electrically connected to the sub-control unit 50.

[0060] A2. Electrical configuration of the printing apparatus and liquid storage container: Figure 7 This figure shows the functional parts of the printing apparatus 20 together with a liquid collection container 100. The printing apparatus 20 includes a display panel 495, a power supply 441, a main control unit 40, and a secondary control unit 50.

[0061] Display panel 495 is used to notify the user, including the operating status of the printing apparatus 20, errors in liquid storage containers 100A-100D, ink consumption in device 130, ink color, manufacturing date, etc. When liquid storage container 100 is in the assembled state, display panel 495 displays, for example, that liquid storage container 100 is assembled, that printing system 1000 is in a printable state, and the remaining ink in liquid storage container 100. Display panel 495 is a liquid crystal display. For example, display panel 495 is provided on... Figure 2 The operating unit 60 shown.

[0062] Power supply 441 is a standard power supply used in logic circuits, rated at 3.3V. The voltage of power supply 441 is supplied to the secondary control unit 50, and may also be supplied to other circuits as needed.

[0063] The main control unit 40 includes a CPU 415 and a device-side first storage unit 416. The CPU 415 controls the operation of the printing apparatus 20 by executing various programs stored in the device-side first storage unit 416. For example, the main control unit 40 controls the operation of the display panel 495 or the operation of the sub-control unit 50. The CPU 415 functions as a determination unit 411 and a recording unit 413 by executing various programs stored in the device-side first storage unit 416. The determination unit 411 includes an assembly determination unit 412. The assembly determination unit 412 determines whether the liquid collection container 100 is assembled. The recording unit 413 records information from the storage unit 138 of the liquid collection container 100.

[0064] The sub-control unit 50 includes a switching unit 511. The switching unit 511 switches between a connected state of the CPU 415 of the main control unit 40 and a disconnected state of the CPU 415 and the substrate 120. The sub-control unit 50 sends a request signal RS to each device 130 of the liquid storage containers 100A-100D via the connection bus 45. For each device 130, the request signal RS contains an instruction that the liquid storage containers 100A-100D, which are the recipients of the request signal RS, can recognize. The determination unit 411 uses the voltage output from each data terminal 210 of the liquid storage containers 100A-100D in response to the request signal RS to determine the connection status of the liquid storage containers 100A-100D.

[0065] The processing unit 136 of the device 130 communicates with the printing apparatus 20 via the data line LSDA. The processing unit 136 is electrically connected to the storage unit 138 via terminals 210-250.

[0066] A3. Processing in printing equipment: Figure 8This is a flowchart illustrating the process in the printing apparatus 20. Figure 1 As shown, in step S110, four liquid collection containers 100 are assembled on the printing device 20.

[0067] In step S120, the main control unit 40 of the printing apparatus 20 confirms the assembly of the liquid receiving container 100 into the printing apparatus 20. Specifically, by Figure 7 The assembly determination unit 412 of the main control unit 40 determines that each liquid storage container 100 is physically mounted on the printing apparatus 20, and that the terminal group 290 of the liquid storage container 100 is electrically connected to the device-side terminal group 490 of the printing apparatus 20. Additionally, the identification information ID of each liquid storage container 100 is read from the storage unit 138 of each liquid storage container 100.

[0068] In step S130, the main control unit 40 of the printing apparatus 20 determines the number of times the liquid collection container 100 is assembled into the printing apparatus 20. Figure 7 The installation information Ini shown is recorded in the storage unit 138. Specifically, the recording unit 413 of the main control unit 40 reads the installation information Ini from the storage unit 138 via the data line LSDA and the processing unit 136. The recording unit 413 increments the number of times the liquid storage container 100, indicated by the installation information Ini, is assembled onto the printing device 20 by one. Afterward, the recording unit 413 of the main control unit 40 records the installation information Ini indicating the increased number of assembly times in the storage unit 138 via the data line LSDA and the processing unit 136.

[0069] Based on the identification information ID read from the storage unit 138 of the liquid storage container 100 assembled in the printing device 20, the recording unit 413 updates and records the installation information Ini for each of the four liquid storage containers 100.

[0070] By performing this process, the installation information Ini stored in the storage section 138 of the liquid storage container 100 can be used to determine whether the liquid storage container 100 can be reused, taking into account the variation of the terminal group 290 of the liquid storage container 100 that comes into physical contact with the terminals of the printing device 20 and is subjected to pressure each time the printing device 20 is assembled. The process for determining the reuse of the liquid storage container 100 will be explained later.

[0071] In step S140, the main control unit 40 of the printing apparatus 20 executes printing according to instructions from a user via a computer PC. More specifically, in step S142, ink droplets are ejected from the print head 5 using ink from the liquid collection container 100, thereby printing... Figure 2An image is formed on the printing medium PA shown. Alongside this process, the number of ink droplets ejected from the liquid storage container 100 is counted. In step S144, the recording unit 413 of the main control unit 40 sums only the portion corresponding to the counted number of ink droplets ejected, which is the number of ink droplets ejected from the liquid storage container 100. Based on the identification information ID read from the storage unit 138 of the liquid storage container 100 mounted on the printing apparatus 20, the recording unit 413 updates and records the ink consumption for each of the four liquid storage containers 100. The process of updating the ink consumption is the same as the process of updating the installation information Ini, including reading from the storage unit 138, performing calculations, and writing to the storage unit 138.

[0072] In step S150, for each liquid collection container 100, the main control unit 40 of the printing apparatus 20 determines whether the ink consumption is greater than a predetermined threshold. For liquid collection containers 100 where the ink consumption is greater than the predetermined threshold, the process of step S160 is performed. For liquid collection containers 100 where the ink consumption is less than the predetermined threshold, the process of step S170 is performed.

[0073] In step S160, a message is output to the liquid storage container 100 indicating that the amount of ink consumed exceeds a predetermined threshold. Specifically, the message is displayed on the monitor of the computer PC via the main control unit 40 of the printing apparatus 20. Then, the processing in step S170 is executed.

[0074] In step S170, the main control unit 40 of the printing apparatus 20 determines whether the termination condition is met. Specifically, the main control unit 40 determines whether an instruction to terminate the printing process has been input via the input device of the computer PC. If the termination condition is not met, the process returns to step S140. If the termination condition is met, the process ends.

[0075] A4. Composition and processing of the determination device: Figure 9 This diagram shows the functional parts of the judging device 10 together with a liquid storage container 100. The judging device 10, together with the printing apparatus 20 and the liquid storage container 100, constitutes a recycling system 1 for the liquid storage container 100. The judging device 10 determines whether the used liquid storage container 100 can be reused. Except for lacking the components for performing printing, the judging device 10 has all the same components as... Figure 7 The printing apparatus 20 shown is identical. Figure 9In this document, configurations that perform the same functions as the printing apparatus 20 are indicated by reference numerals according to the following rules. Where the printing apparatus 20 has a reference numeral starting with "4", the corresponding determination device 10 uses a reference numeral starting with "7" instead of "4", and is labeled with the same name. For example, the main control unit is shown as reference numeral 70. Where the printing apparatus 20 has a reference numeral starting with "5", the corresponding determination device 10 uses a reference numeral starting with "9" instead of "5", and is labeled with the same name. However, in the determination device 10, the determination unit 711 replaces the recording unit 413 with a reuse determination unit 714. The reuse determination unit 714 determines whether the used liquid storage container 100 can be reused.

[0076] The determination device 10 includes a display panel 795, a power supply 741, a main control unit 70, and a secondary control unit 90. The structure and function of the display panel 795 are the same as those of the display panel 495. The structure and function of the power supply 741 are the same as those of the power supply 441.

[0077] The main control unit 70 includes a CPU 715 and a device-side first storage unit 716. The configuration and function of the device-side first storage unit 716 are the same as those of the device-side first storage unit 416. The CPU 715 functions as a decision unit 711 by executing various programs stored in the device-side first storage unit 716. The decision unit 411 includes an assembly decision unit 712 and a reuse decision unit 714. The function of the assembly decision unit 712 is the same as that of the assembly decision unit 412. The function of the reuse decision unit 714 will be explained later.

[0078] Multiple sub-control board terminals 910, 920, 930, 940, and 950, as well as a sub-control unit 90 (see reference), are mounted on the sub-control board 900. Figure 9 (Central part). The sub-control board terminals 910, 920, 930, 940, and 950 have the same structure and function as the sub-control board terminals 510, 520, 530, 540, and 550. The sub-control unit 90 includes a switching unit 911. The sub-control unit 90 and the switching unit 911 have the same structure and function as the sub-control unit 50 and the switching unit 511.

[0079] Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating the processing in the determination device 10. (By...) Figure 10 The system determines whether the used liquid storage container 100 can be reused. Liquid storage containers 100 that are determined to be reusable are reused. Liquid storage containers 100 that are determined to be unreusable are discarded.

[0080] In step S210, the liquid collection container 100 is assembled into the determination device 10.

[0081] In step S220, the main control unit 70 of the determining device 10 confirms the assembly of the liquid storage container 100 into the determining device 10. Specifically, the assembly determining unit 712 of the main control unit 70 determines that each liquid storage container 100 is physically installed in the determining device 10, and that the terminal group 290 of the liquid storage container 100 is electrically connected to the device-side terminal group 490 of the determining device 10 (see reference). Figure 9 (The left side of the middle part). Also, from... Figure 9 The storage unit 138 shown reads the identification information of each liquid storage container 100.

[0082] In step S230, the main control unit 70 of the determination device 10 reads from the storage unit 138. Figure 9 The installation information Ini is shown. The reuse determination unit 714 of the main control unit 70 reads the installation information Ini from the storage unit 138 via the data line LSDA and the processing unit 136. The installation information Ini indicates the number of times the liquid storage container 100 is assembled into the printing device 20.

[0083] In step S240, the reuse determination unit 714 of the main control unit 70 of the determination device 10 determines whether the used liquid storage container 100 can be reused. More specifically, in step S242, the parameter Pd used for determination is determined. The parameter Pd is obtained using the installation information Ini read from the storage unit of the liquid storage container 100 taken from the printing device 20. In this embodiment, the parameter Pd is the number of times the liquid storage container 100, as indicated by the installation information Ini, has been assembled into the printing device 20.

[0084] In step S244, based on a comparison between parameter Pd and a first threshold Thp1, it is determined whether the liquid storage container 100 can be reused. The first threshold Thp1 is predetermined and stored in the device-side first storage unit 716 of the determination device 10. If parameter Pd is greater than the first threshold Thp1, the process proceeds to step S250. Proceeding to step S250 is equivalent to the liquid storage container 100 being determined to be unreusable. If parameter Pd is less than the first threshold Thp1, the process proceeds to step S260. Proceeding to step S260 is equivalent to the liquid storage container 100 being determined to be reusable.

[0085] In step S250, the main control unit 70 of the determination device 10 displays an output indicating that the liquid collection container 100 is no longer usable. Figure 9 On the display panel 795 of the determination device 10 shown. After step S250, the process ends. After the process of step S250 and Figure 10 If the treatment has been completed, the liquid collection container 100 is discarded.

[0086] In step S260, the main control unit 70 of the determining device 10 displays an output indicating that the liquid storage container 100 can be reused. Figure 9 On the display panel 795 of the determination device 10 shown. After step S260, the process ends. After the process of step S260 and Figure 10 If the treatment has been completed, the liquid storage container 100 is reused.

[0087] By performing this process, it is possible to determine whether the liquid storage container 100 can be reused, taking into account the variation in the terminal group 290 of the liquid storage container 100, which comes into physical contact with and is subjected to pressure during each assembly of the printing apparatus 20. As a result, in the reused liquid storage container 100, it is possible to prevent poor contact between the terminal group 290 of the liquid storage container 100 and the device-side terminal group 490 of the printing apparatus 20.

[0088] The head drive mechanism, main scanning feed mechanism, and auxiliary scanning feed mechanism of the printing apparatus 20 in this embodiment are also referred to as the "printing unit". The liquid storage container 100 is also referred to as the "consumable box". The device-side terminal group 490 is also referred to as the "first type terminal". The terminal group 290 is also referred to as the "second type terminal".

[0089] B. Second implementation method: In the second embodiment, Figure 10 The processing in the determination device 10 shown includes additional processing. Other aspects of the liquid storage container reuse system of the second embodiment are the same as those of the liquid storage container reuse system 1 of the first embodiment.

[0090] Figure 11 This is a flowchart illustrating a new part of the processing in the determination device 10. In the second embodiment, after step S260, the processing of step S270 is performed.

[0091] In step S270, the reuse determination unit 714 of the main control unit 70 determines the intended use of the liquid storage container 100 for reuse based on parameter Pd. More specifically, the intended use of the liquid storage container 100 is determined based on a comparison between parameter Pd and a second threshold Thp2. The second threshold Thp2 is predetermined and stored in the device-side first storage unit 716 of the determination device 10. The second threshold Thp2 is less than the first threshold Thp1. If parameter Pd is greater than the second threshold Thp2, the process proceeds to step S280. If parameter Pd is less than or equal to the second threshold Thp2, the process ends.

[0092] In step S280, the main control unit 70 of the determining device 10 displays an output indicating the purpose of restricting the liquid storage container 100. Figure 9 On the display panel 795 of the determination device 10 shown. After step S280, the process ends. After the process of step S280 and Figure 11 Once the processing is complete, the use of the reused liquid container 100 is limited. Limited uses include, for example, use in areas where the burden on the liquid container 100 is expected to be minimal; specifically, use in a defined target area where the ambient temperature and humidity are within a predetermined range; or use in a printing apparatus 20 where the frequency of liquid container 100 removal is low or where removal of the liquid container 100 is not possible.

[0093] By performing this process, the likelihood of malfunctions occurring in the reused liquid storage container 100 can be reduced. Specifically, for liquid storage containers 100 that are reused multiple times, the target area can be set to an environment where the burden on the liquid storage container 100 is expected to be minimal, or the applicable printing apparatus 20 can be limited to a printing apparatus 20 where the frequency of removing the liquid storage container 100 is low or where removing the liquid storage container 100 is not possible. As a result, the likelihood of malfunctions occurring in the reused liquid storage container 100 can be reduced.

[0094] C. Other implementation methods: C1. Other implementation methods 1: (1) such as Figure 8 As shown, in step S110 of the above embodiment, after the liquid storage container 100 is assembled into the printing apparatus 20, printing is performed in step S140. However, after the liquid storage container 100 is assembled into the printing apparatus 20, there is a possibility that the liquid storage container 100 may be removed from the printing apparatus 20 without performing printing. Even in this case, in step S130, the main control unit 40 of the printing apparatus 20 records the number of times the liquid storage container 100 assembled in the preceding step S110 is installed as installation information Ini in the storage unit 138.

[0095] In step S160, removing the liquid storage container 100 from the printing apparatus 20 is not limited to displaying a message prompting the replacement of the liquid storage container 100. For example, a user might replace all liquid storage containers 100 with unused ones before performing a large volume of color printing, regardless of the ink remaining in each liquid storage container 100. Similarly, a user might replace the liquid storage container 100 containing black ink with unused ones before performing a large volume of monochrome printing, regardless of the ink remaining. In this case, the printable liquid storage containers 100 removed from the printing apparatus 20 can be reinstalled into the printing apparatus 20 for printing during subsequent small-volume printing. Therefore, the installation information Ini indicating the number of times the liquid storage container 100 is installed in the printing apparatus 20 is a more appropriate indicator of terminal deterioration than the number of times the liquid storage container 100 is reused, and thus a more appropriate indicator of whether the liquid storage container 100 can be reused.

[0096] (2) For example Figure 10 As shown, in the above embodiment, the parameter Pd is the number of times the liquid storage container 100, as indicated by the installation information Ini, is assembled into the printing device 20. In step S244, if the parameter Pd is greater than the first threshold Thrp1, it is determined that the liquid storage container 100 cannot be reused. However, the parameter Pd used to determine whether the liquid storage container 100 can be reused can also be other values.

[0097] For example, the parameter Pd used to determine whether the liquid storage container 100 can be reused can be a weighted sum of the number of times the liquid storage container 100 is assembled into the printing apparatus 20 and the number of times the liquid storage container 100 is reused. The parameter Pd used to determine whether the liquid storage container 100 can be reused can also be a parameter indicating whether printing is possible, determined by referring to a table based on the number of times the liquid storage container 100 is assembled into the printing apparatus 20 and the number of times the liquid storage container 100 is reused. Through the same function as the recording unit 413 of the printing apparatus 20 based on the determination device 10, the number of times the liquid storage container 100 is reused increases each time the liquid storage container 100 is reused, and can be recorded in the storage unit 138 of the liquid storage container 100.

[0098] Furthermore, the parameter Pd used to determine whether the liquid storage container 100 can be reused can be a parameter that is increased until it is determined that it cannot be reused, or it can be a parameter that is decreased until it is determined that it cannot be reused. However, the parameter Pd used to determine whether the liquid storage container 100 can be reused is preferably a parameter obtained using information read from the storage section of the consumable box taken from the self-printing device.

[0099] (3) such as Figure 11As shown, in the second embodiment described above, the purpose of the liquid storage container 100 is determined based on a comparison between the parameter Pd and the second threshold Thrp2. However, the determination of the purpose of the liquid storage container 100 may also be based on parameters different from the parameter Pd used to determine whether it can be reused, such as the number of times the liquid storage container 100 has been reused to date. However, the parameter used to determine the purpose of the liquid storage container 100 is preferably a parameter obtained using the installation information Ini read from the storage unit 138 of the liquid storage container 100.

[0100] (4) In the above embodiment, it is determined whether the liquid storage container 100, which serves as a consumable box, can be reused. However, the consumable box determined to be reusable can be a toner cartridge that supplies toner to a laser printer, or a tape box that supplies tape, which serves as a printing medium, to a label printer, or other consumable boxes. However, the consumable box determined to be reusable is preferably a consumable box in which the terminals come into contact with and separate from each other during installation and removal.

[0101] C2. Other implementation methods 2: In the above embodiment, the storage section 4 of the printing apparatus 20 is configured to detachably assemble four liquid storage containers 100. The recording section 413 records each of the four liquid storage containers 100 based on the identification information ID read from the storage section 138 of each liquid storage container 100. Figure 7 The installation information Ini shown is updated and recorded. However, the printing apparatus can also be configured to assemble other numbers of consumable boxes, such as 2, 6, or 8, and the installation information Ini is updated and recorded for each of the liquid storage containers 100. Alternatively, if the printing apparatus is configured to assemble only one consumable box, the installation information Ini for the liquid storage container 100 can be updated and recorded without relying on identification information.

[0102] C3. Other implementation methods 3: In the second embodiment described above, based on Figure 11 The purpose of the liquid storage container 100 is determined by comparing the parameter Pd shown with the second threshold Thp2. However, as shown in the first embodiment, it is also possible to configure the liquid storage container 100 that is determined to be reusable without determining its purpose.

[0103] D. Other methods: This disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above, and can be implemented in various ways without departing from its spirit. For example, this disclosure can also be implemented in the following ways. In order to solve part or all of the technical problems of this disclosure, or to achieve part or all of the effects of this disclosure, the technical features in the above embodiments corresponding to the technical features in the various methods described below can be appropriately replaced or combined. In addition, if a technical feature is not described as an essential technical feature in this specification, it can be appropriately deleted.

[0104] (1) According to one aspect of this disclosure, a system for reusing consumable boxes is provided. The system includes: a printing apparatus having a first terminal; a consumable box configured to be detached from and attached to the printing apparatus; and a determining device for determining whether the used consumable box can be reused. The consumable box includes: a storage section for storing information; and a second terminal electrically connected to the storage section and connected to the first terminal when the consumable box is attached to the printing apparatus. The printing apparatus is configured to record the number of times the consumable box is attached to the printing apparatus as installation information in the storage section of the consumable box attached to the printing apparatus. The determining device determines whether the consumable box can be reused based on a comparison of a parameter obtained using the installation information read from the storage section of the consumable box removed from the printing apparatus with a threshold.

[0105] In this way, it is possible to determine whether a consumable box can be reused by taking into account the deterioration of the terminals that come into physical contact with and are subjected to pressure each time the printing device is assembled.

[0106] (2) In the above-described recycling system, it can be configured such that: the consumable box stores identification information specified for each consumable box in the storage unit, the printing device is configured to assemble multiple consumable boxes, and the printing device records installation information for each of the more than one consumable boxes based on the identification information read from the storage unit of one or more consumable boxes assembled in the printing device.

[0107] In this way, the printing device is able to perform processing corresponding to the identification information.

[0108] (3) In the above-described recycling system, it can be configured such that, when the consumable box can be reused, the determining device determines the purpose of the consumable box based on parameters obtained using the installation information read from the storage unit.

[0109] In this way, for example, by taking the following measures, the likelihood of malfunctions occurring in reusable consumable boxes can be reduced. That is, for consumable boxes that are reused many times, the target area is set in an area where the burden on the liquid storage container is expected to be less, or the printing apparatus that can be installed is limited to a printing apparatus that removes the consumable box less frequently or cannot remove the consumable box at all.

[0110] (4) According to other aspects of this disclosure, a method for reusing a consumable box is provided. This method includes: a recording step of recording the number of times the consumable box has been assembled with a printing apparatus as installation information in a storage unit provided with the consumable box, the consumable box being configured to be detached from and assembled with the printing apparatus; and a determination step of determining whether the consumable box can be reused based on a comparison of a parameter obtained using the installation information read from the storage unit of the consumable box removed from the printing apparatus with a threshold.

[0111] (5) In the above-described reuse method, it can be configured as follows: a determination step is provided, in which, if the consumable box can be reused, the purpose of the consumable box is determined based on parameters obtained by using the installation information read from the storage unit.

[0112] (6) A printing apparatus is provided according to a further embodiment of the present disclosure. The printing apparatus comprises: a printing unit that performs printing using a consumable box fitted to the printing apparatus, the consumable box being detachable from the printing apparatus and having a storage unit for storing information; and a recording unit that records the number of times the consumable box is fitted to the printing apparatus as installation information in the storage unit of the consumable box fitted to the printing apparatus.

[0113] (7) In the printing apparatus of the above manner, the consumable box stores identification information specified for each consumable box in the storage unit, the printing apparatus is configured to assemble a plurality of the consumable boxes, and the recording unit records the installation information for each of the more than one consumable box based on the identification information read from the storage unit of the consumable box assembled in the printing apparatus.

[0114] This disclosure can also be achieved through various means other than consumable box recycling systems, consumable box recycling methods, and printing apparatus. For example, it can be achieved through consumable box management methods, consumable box management systems, etc.

Claims

1. A reuse system, characterized in that, It is a consumable box recycling system, including: The printing apparatus is equipped with a first type of terminal; A consumable box, configured to be detachable from and attachable to the printing apparatus; and The determining device determines whether the used consumable box can be reused. The consumable box includes: Storage department, storing information; and The second type of terminal is electrically connected to the storage unit, and is connected to the first type of terminal when the consumable box is assembled into the printing device. The printing apparatus is configured to record, as installation information, the number of times the consumable box is assembled into the printing apparatus in the storage unit of the consumable box assembled into the printing apparatus. The determining device determines whether the consumable box can be reused based on a comparison of parameters obtained using installation information read from the storage section of the consumable box taken from the printing device with a threshold.

2. The reuse system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The consumable box stores the identification information specified for each consumable box in the storage unit. The printing apparatus is configured to assemble multiple of the aforementioned consumable boxes. The printing apparatus records installation information for each of the one or more consumable boxes based on the identification information read from the storage unit of the consumable box assembled in the printing apparatus.

3. The reuse system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, If the consumable box can be reused, the determining device determines the purpose of the consumable box based on parameters obtained using the installation information read from the storage unit.

4. A method for reusing a consumable box, characterized in that, have: The process records the number of times the consumable box is assembled into the printing apparatus as installation information in the storage section of the consumable box, which is configured to be able to be assembled and disassembled into the printing apparatus. as well as The determination process involves comparing parameters obtained using installation information read from the storage unit of the consumable box removed from the printing apparatus with a threshold value to determine whether the consumable box can be reused.

5. The method for reusing consumable boxes according to claim 4, characterized in that, have: In the process of determining the use of the consumable box, if the consumable box can be reused, the purpose of the consumable box is determined based on parameters obtained using the installation information read from the storage unit.

6. A printing apparatus, characterized in that, have: The printing unit uses a consumable box assembled with a printing apparatus to perform printing. The consumable box is configured to be detachable from the printing apparatus and has a storage unit for storing information. as well as The recording unit records the number of times the consumable box is assembled into the printing apparatus as installation information in the storage unit of the consumable box assembled into the printing apparatus.

7. The printing apparatus according to claim 6, characterized in that, The consumable box stores the identification information specified for each consumable box in the storage unit. The printing apparatus is configured to assemble multiple of the aforementioned consumable boxes. The recording unit records the installation information for each of the one or more consumable boxes based on the identification information read from the storage unit of the consumable box assembled in the printing apparatus.

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