Management server, image forming apparatus, system, management method, control method, and program

Abstract

To allow a user to use a normal consumable item in an image forming apparatus to which a flat-rate service is provided.SOLUTION: A management server has: receiving means that receives information indicating that a consumable item mounted in an image forming apparatus to which a service is provided has reached the replacement time, and information indicating whether the consumable item having reached the replacement time is a first consumable item delivered on the basis of the service or a second consumable item not delivered on the basis of the service; and delivery control means that, when the consumable item having reached the replacement time is the first consumable item, performs processing so that a new consumable item in place of the consumable item having reached the replacement time is delivered to a user of the image forming apparatus to which the service is provided, and when the consumable item having reached the replacement time is the second consumable item, does not perform the processing so that the new consumable item in place of the consumable item having reached the replacement time is delivered to the user of the image forming apparatus to which the service is provided.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 14

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to managing a service that provides consumables for a product. [Background technology]

[0002] There is known a flat-rate service in which an image forming apparatus and consumables for the image forming apparatus are provided to a user by paying a fixed monthly fee. A flat-rate service provider registers the image forming apparatuses and consumables that are the subject of the flat-rate service in a management server. After that, the management server and the image forming apparatus communicate with each other sequentially, and services such as automatic delivery of consumables are provided to the user.

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses that delivery management for automatically delivering consumables for an image forming device is performed by a server. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] JP 2017-54155 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] Incidentally, a flat-rate service may be a service in which consumables exclusive to the flat-rate service are delivered and the user uses the consumables exclusive to the flat-rate service. In this case, the user may already own normal consumables that are not exclusive consumables. For example, such a possibility may occur when a user subscribes to the flat-rate service after purchasing an image forming apparatus.

[0006] In Patent Document 1, a mechanism for enabling a user to use regular consumables that the user already owns when subscribing to a flat-rate service is not taken into consideration. It is required to enable regular consumables to be used in an image forming apparatus that is the subject of a flat-rate service. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The management server disclosed herein is a management server that manages a service for automatically delivering consumables for a target image forming device in exchange for paying a predetermined fee at a specified period of time, and is characterized in having a receiving means for receiving information indicating that a consumable attached to an image forming device that is the target of the service is due for replacement and information indicating whether the consumable due for replacement is a first consumable delivered based on the service or a second consumable not delivered based on the service, and a delivery control means for, if the consumable due for replacement is the first consumable, performing processing to have a new consumable delivered to a user of the image forming device that is the target of the service to replace the consumable due for replacement, and, if the consumable due for replacement is the second consumable, not performing processing to have a new consumable delivered to a user of the image forming device that is the target of the service to replace the consumable due for replacement. Effect of the Invention

[0008] According to the technology disclosed herein, it is possible to allow normal consumables to be used in an image forming apparatus that is the subject of a flat-rate service. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an image forming system. [Diagram 2] FIG. 4 is a sequence diagram for explaining the processing of each device included in the image forming system. [Diagram 3] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a notification screen. [Figure 4] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an explanation screen that displays an explanation of a flat-rate service plan. [Diagram 5] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an input screen for inputting the quantity of unused consumables. [Figure 6] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a screen for displaying an estimate result for a flat-rate service. [Figure 7] 10 is a flowchart showing details of a flat-rate service suitability assessment request judgment. [Figure 8] 13 is a flowchart showing details of flat-rate service suitability determination. [Figure 9] 13 is a flowchart showing details of flat-rate service quotation processing. [Figure 10] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a table that holds discount rates according to items. [Figure 11] 11 is a diagram showing an example of a table that holds discount rates according to remaining ink amounts. [Figure 12] 11 is a flowchart for explaining flat-rate service start determination processing. [Figure 13] 11 is a flowchart for explaining a process at the time of cartridge replacement. [Figure 14] 13 is a flowchart for determining whether or not a flat-rate service-specific cartridge is to be delivered. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0010] Hereinafter, the embodiments of the technology of the present disclosure will be described in detail. The components described in the following embodiments are examples of the technology of the present disclosure, and the scope of the technology of the present disclosure is not limited to these. In addition, the same reference numerals are used for corresponding components and processes in the following embodiments, and duplicated descriptions of the corresponding components and processes in each embodiment will be omitted.

[0011] <Embodiment 1> [About the flat-rate service] A flat-rate service is a service in which a flat-rate service provider (service provider) provides a user with a device or the like by lending the device to the user in exchange for a flat-rate fee paid at a predetermined period (e.g., monthly). In this embodiment, a flat-rate service related to an image forming device such as a printer will be described. There are a number of types (plans) of flat-rate services. In this embodiment, the types of flat-rate services will be described as including a flat-rate service including the device and a flat-rate service for consumables.

[0012] The flat-rate service including the main body is a flat-rate service in which the image forming device main body and consumables for the image forming device are provided to the user from the service provider. The consumables flat-rate service is a flat-rate service in which consumables for the image forming device are provided to the user from the service provider. The consumables provided by the flat-rate service will be described as being cartridges.

[0013] When a user introduces an image forming device by using a flat-rate service, the user can enjoy benefits such as automatic delivery of consumables for the image forming device, rapid response in the event of a problem, low total costs, etc. If the flat-rate service specifies the number of pages that can be printed, the user can use the service within the range of the number of pages that can be printed.

[0014] In addition, flat-rate service providers have a role to guarantee the operating environment of image forming devices in order to increase the satisfaction of users who use the flat-rate service. For this reason, service providers often provide image forming devices and consumables that are specialized for flat-rate services.

[0015] The image forming apparatuses and consumables exclusively for the flat-rate service are controlled by software (firmware) built into the products. Information for executing the control in the firmware is often stored in the management server of the service provider.

[0016] However, there may be a case where a user who has purchased an image forming apparatus and consumables in a one-time sale format at a mass retailer or the like and is using the image forming apparatus without using the flat-rate service wishes to continue using the image forming apparatus by using the flat-rate service. That is, there may be a case where the purchased image forming apparatus and consumables are newly registered in the management server as targets of the flat-rate service. By using the image forming apparatus by using the flat-rate service, the user can additionally enjoy the benefits of the flat-rate service described above.

[0017] [System Configuration] 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an image forming system 100 according to this embodiment. The image forming system 100 includes an image forming apparatus 200, a management server 500, and a host terminal 600.

[0018] The image forming apparatus 200 has an image forming apparatus main body 300 that performs printing operations using color materials such as ink and toner, and a cartridge 400 that can be attached to the image forming apparatus main body 300 and fills the image forming apparatus main body 300 with color materials.

[0019] Image forming apparatus main body 300 has a CPU 310, RAM 311, program memory 320, data memory 330, communication control unit 340, print control unit 350, print unit 360, connection unit 370, display unit 380, and operation unit 390. CPU 310 is a system control unit, and controls the entire image forming apparatus 200. Program memory 320 stores control programs executed by CPU 310, programs of an embedded operating system (OS), and the like. RAM 311 is a storage unit used as a work memory when CPU 310 executes the control programs.

[0020] The data memory 330 includes an image memory 331, a flat-rate service management storage unit 332, and a contract information storage unit 333. The data memory 330 stores program control variables and the like, and is provided with a buffer area for various operations used during processing by the print control unit 350. The image memory 331 accumulates image data processed by an image processing unit (not shown).

[0021] The flat-rate service management storage unit 332 stores a URL for accessing the management server 500 as management information related to the flat-rate service. In addition, a flat-rate service suitability determination request execution flag, the date and time of the most recently executed flat-rate service suitability determination, cartridge information, and printing information are stored.

[0022] The cartridge information will be described in detail later, but for example, it is identification information such as the serial number of the cartridge 400 for each color material installed in the image forming apparatus main body 300. The cartridge information also includes information on the expiration date of the cartridge 400. The expiration date information of the cartridge 400 may be information on the date a predetermined period (e.g., two years) has passed since the start date of use of the cartridge 400. Furthermore, the cartridge information includes information on the color material (ink color) and serial number of registered unused cartridges. Furthermore, the cartridge information includes the installation history of flat-rate service-only cartridges for each of multiple color materials (ink color).

[0023] The printing information includes counter information that accumulates the number of sheets printed by the image forming apparatus 200 for each month. That is, the counter information includes at least information indicating the total number of sheets printed since the image forming apparatus 200 started operating. The printing information is a log (hereinafter, printing result log) that summarizes the job mode such as copy or print, the number of sheets printed, and the printing results. The printing information is generated by the print control unit 350 for each job that involves a printing operation.

[0024] The contract information storage unit 333 stores information (contract information) on the contract status of the flat-rate service of the image forming apparatus main body 300. The contract status includes "flat-rate service not contracted status", "standby status with contract for flat-rate service including main body", "standby status with contract for consumables flat-rate service including main body", "contract for flat-rate service including main body", and "contract for flat-rate service including consumables". "standby status with contract for flat-rate service including main body" and "standby status with contract for flat-rate service including consumables" indicate a status in which the flat-rate service contract has been concluded but the flat-rate service has not yet been used. When a user purchases and installs the image forming apparatus main body 300 in a one-time sale format without using the flat-rate service, the "flat-rate service not contracted status" is stored in the contract information storage unit 333.

[0025] The communication control unit 340 controls data transmission and reception with the outside via the communication line 420 and various interfaces.

[0026] The print control unit 350 acquires print data from the image memory 331, and controls the print unit 360 to execute print processing based on the print data.

[0027] The printing unit 360 performs printing processing upon receiving a print command from the printing control unit 350. When the printing unit 360 executes printing processing, the printing control unit 350 updates counter information indicating the total number of printed sheets, which is among the printing information stored in the flat-rate service management storage unit 332 in the data memory 330. The printing unit 360 determines whether a flat-rate service-specific cartridge provided by the service provider of the flat-rate service is being used, and notifies the printing control unit 350 of this determination. The connection unit 370 connects the image forming apparatus main body 300 and the cartridge 400.

[0028] The display unit 380 is a unit for presenting various information to the user, and is realized by, for example, an LED (light emitting diode) or an LCD (liquid crystal display). In this embodiment, the display unit 380 is realized by an LCD display. The operation unit 390 is realized by a display having a touch panel function, or various hardware keys. The display of the operation unit 390 displays various operation screens. The user can input instructions and information to the image forming apparatus main body 300 via the operation unit 390.

[0029] The CPU 310 , program memory 320 , data memory 330 , communication control unit 340 , print control unit 350 , printing unit 360 , connection unit 370 , display unit 380 , and operation unit 390 are interconnected via a CPU bus 312 managed by the CPU 310 .

[0030] The cartridge 400 includes a memory 410. The memory 410 stores first cartridge information, second cartridge information, and third cartridge information.

[0031] The first cartridge information is information for identifying the cartridge 400, and is, for example, a serial number assigned to the cartridge when it is manufactured. It may also include information on the expiration date of the cartridge 400.

[0032] The second cartridge information is information that indicates the remaining amount of the color material contained in the cartridge. The remaining amount of the color material indicated by the second cartridge information may be expressed using a volume unit, or may be expressed as a remaining amount level divided by a predetermined value.

[0033] The third cartridge information is information for determining whether the cartridge 400 is a flat-rate service-only cartridge. For example, the third cartridge information is a parameter for determining whether the cartridge is a commercially purchased cartridge that is not a flat-rate service-only cartridge (hereinafter referred to as a normal cartridge) or a flat-rate service-only cartridge. A cartridge for the all-in-one flat-rate service-only cartridge and a cartridge for the consumable flat-rate service-only cartridge may be represented by different parameters or the same parameters.

[0034] The connection unit 370 of the image forming apparatus main body 300 is an example of an attachment unit that accepts attachment of consumables. The connection unit 370 of the image forming apparatus main body 300 reads each cartridge information from the memory 410, and provides the information of the cartridge 400 to the image forming apparatus main body 300 upon receiving a request for information from the printing unit 360. The cartridge 400 may be filled with color material used for printing by the image forming apparatus main body 300, and may be removable from the connection unit 370 and replaced. The cartridge 400 will be described as an ink cartridge. For this reason, the following description will be given assuming that the color material is ink. The cartridge 400 is not limited to an ink cartridge, and may be, for example, a toner cartridge.

[0035] The management server 500 is a server that manages the image forming apparatus 200 and the flat-rate service. The management server 500 registers the image forming apparatus introduced in a one-time sales form as an image forming apparatus that is a target of the flat-rate service to be used by using the flat-rate service, and performs processing related to the flat-rate service. The management server 500 has a CPU 510, a RAM 511, a program memory 520, a service information storage unit 530, and a communication control unit 540.

[0036] The CPU 510 is a system control unit. The CPU 510 controls the entire management server 500. The program memory 520 stores the control program executed by the CPU 510, the program of the built-in operating system (OS), etc. The communication control unit 540 controls data transmission and reception with the outside via the communication line 560.

[0037] The service information storage unit 530 stores a product list table that is a list of identification information (e.g., product serial numbers) of image forming devices that can be the target of the flat-rate service. Furthermore, the service information storage unit 530 stores, for each image forming device that can be the target of the flat-rate service, information on cartridges that can ensure print quality and a threshold number of printed sheets. Also stored are information on users who have signed up for the flat-rate service, identification information (e.g., serial numbers, etc.) of image forming devices that are the target of the flat-rate service, and printing information collected from print performance logs sent from the image forming devices.

[0038] The CPU 510 , program memory 520 , service information storage unit 530 , and communication control unit 540 are connected to one another via a CPU bus 550 managed by the CPU 510 .

[0039] The host terminal 600 is a general communication device such as a smartphone or a personal computer, and includes a CPU for executing a control program, a program memory for storing the control program, an operation unit for performing operations, a display unit for viewing information, a camera for capturing images, etc. The host terminal 600 also includes a communication control unit for communicating via a network, and is capable of communicating with the management server 500 and the image forming apparatus 200 via the network.

[0040] [Sequence] 2 is a sequence diagram for explaining the process of each device until a purchased image forming device that is not eligible for the flat-rate service becomes eligible for the flat-rate service. Image forming device 200 is assumed to be an image forming device that has been purchased by a user, installed and used, but is not registered as eligible for the flat-rate service at the start of FIG.

[0041] Of the series of processes shown in the sequence of Fig. 2, the processes executed by image forming apparatus 200 are performed by CPU 310 expanding program code stored in program memory 320 into RAM 311 and executing it. Moreover, the processes executed by management server 500 are performed by CPU 510 expanding program code stored in program memory 520 into RAM 511 and executing it. Moreover, some or all of the functions of the steps in Fig. 2 may be realized by hardware such as ASIC or electronic circuitry in each device. The symbol "S" in the explanation of each process in Fig. 2 indicates a step in the sequence, and the same applies to the subsequent flowcharts.

[0042] In S201, the CPU 310 of the image forming apparatus 200 determines whether or not to request a "flat-rate service suitability determination" from the management server 500. The process of S201 is performed when the CPU 310 of the image forming apparatus 200 detects a predetermined event that occurs in the image forming apparatus 200. Details of the process of S201 for determining whether or not to request a flat-rate service suitability determination will be described with reference to FIG. 7.

[0043] The predetermined trigger for executing S201 is, for example, when the following operations are performed: when the power button of the image forming apparatus 200 is pressed to start the image forming apparatus 200, when any of the cartridges in the image forming apparatus 200 is replaced, when the number of printed sheets exceeds a threshold, and when a firmware update is completed. The number of printed sheets is, for example, 300 sheets.

[0044] The determination process of S201 does not have to be executed immediately after these predetermined triggers are detected. For example, the CPU 310 of the image forming apparatus 200 may execute the determination process of S201 approximately 30 to 60 minutes after detecting the above-mentioned triggers. Immediately after the occurrence of any of the predetermined triggers, the image forming apparatus 200 is in a state where most of the hardware and software resources, such as the CPU 310, the RAM 311, the program memory 320, and the communication control unit 340, are in use. Even in such a state, the image forming apparatus 200 needs to execute a process to respond to a request from a user as a priority. For this reason, the CPU 310 of the image forming apparatus 200 may monitor a timer after detecting the above-mentioned predetermined triggers and execute the determination process of S201 approximately 30 to 60 minutes later so as not to interfere with the process of responding to a request from a user. Alternatively, the CPU 310 of the image forming apparatus 200 may execute the determination process of S201 when it detects an event in which the image forming apparatus 200 continues to be in a non-operated state after detecting the above-mentioned predetermined trigger.

[0045] The process of S202 is executed when the image forming apparatus 200 determines in S201 that the image forming apparatus 200 should request the management server 500 to determine suitability for the flat-rate service. In S202, the CPU 310 of the image forming apparatus 200 transmits a message for requesting the management server 500 to determine suitability for the flat-rate service and information about the image forming apparatus 200.

[0046] S203 is a process that is performed when the management server 500 receives a message indicating a flat-rate service suitability determination request from the image forming apparatus 200. In S203, the CPU 510 of the management server 500 performs flat-rate service suitability determination processing. Details of the flat-rate service suitability determination will be described later with reference to FIG.

[0047] If CPU 510 of management server 500 determines "unsuitable" in the flat-rate service suitability determination in S203, CPU 510 transmits a response message indicating unsuitable to image forming apparatus 200 as a process not shown in Fig. 2. Image forming apparatus 200 that receives the message indicating unsuitable ends the process without displaying anything.

[0048] By connecting the image forming device 200 to a network and communicating with the management server 500 via the Internet, the management server 500 can accumulate information such as the state of the image forming device 200 and the operating status, such as the number of pages printed by the image forming device 200. Therefore, the management server 500 can appropriately determine suitability of the image forming device 200 for the flat-rate service.

[0049] S204 is a process performed when the management server 500 determines that the flat-rate service eligibility is "eligible" in the flat-rate service eligibility determination in S203. In S204, the CPU 510 of the management server 500 returns a response message to the image forming apparatus 200 indicating eligibility.

[0050] S205 is a process performed when the image forming apparatus 200 receives a response message indicating that the flat-rate service suitability determination result is suitability. In S205, the CPU 310 of the image forming apparatus 200 displays a notification screen on the display unit 380 to notify the user that the installed image forming apparatus 200 is an image forming apparatus that can receive the flat-rate service.

[0051] 3 is a diagram showing an example of a notification screen displayed as a result of the process in S205. When the CPU 310 of the image forming apparatus 200 detects a user's pressing of the "Close this time" button 302 on the notification screen 304, the CPU 310 closes the notification screen 304 and returns to the original screen. When the CPU 310 detects a user's pressing of the "Don't show again" button 303 on the notification screen 304, the flat-rate service suitability determination request execution flag stored in the flat-rate service management storage unit 332 in the program memory 320 is stored as an invalid state. Therefore, when the CPU 310 detects a user's pressing of the "Don't show again" button 303, the notification screen 304 is controlled so that it will not be displayed in the future. The flat-rate service suitability determination request execution flag is stored as an valid state when the image forming apparatus 200 is installed. Details will be described later.

[0052] When the CPU 310 of the image forming device 200 detects pressing of the button 301 "View details of flat-rate service" on the notification screen 304 of FIG. 3, it executes processing of a request for a fee estimate if the image forming device 200 is subject to the flat-rate service.

[0053] In S206, CPU 310 of image forming apparatus 200 displays on display unit 380 an explanation screen for selecting a plan (type) of flat-rate service and displaying an explanation of the plan.

[0054] 4 is a diagram showing an example of an explanation screen that displays the selection of a flat-rate service plan and an explanation of the plan. The user operates the operation unit 390 to select a flat-rate service plan from a pull-down menu 401 on an explanation screen 404. The plans that can be selected from the pull-down menu 401 correspond to either a flat-rate service that includes the device or a flat-rate service for consumables.

[0055] When it is detected that the user has pressed the "Next" button 402 on the explanatory screen 404 in Fig. 4, the CPU 310 of the image forming apparatus 200 advances the process to S207. When it is detected that the user has pressed the "Cancel" button 403 on the explanatory screen 404 in Fig. 4, the CPU 310 of the image forming apparatus 200 performs a process of closing the explanatory screen 404 in Fig. 4 and returning to the original screen.

[0056] In S207, the CPU 310 of the image forming apparatus 200 displays on the display unit 380 a registration screen for registering an unused normal cartridge.

[0057] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a registration screen for registering an unused notification cartridge, which is displayed on the display unit 380 as a result of the process of S207. In the registration screen 503 in FIG. 5, the ink color and the serial number of an unused normal cartridge can be registered one by one. Specifically, the user selects the ink color of the normal cartridge to be registered from a pull-down list, inputs the serial number written on the product package of the cartridge to be registered, and presses the registration button. The user repeats this operation for the number of normal cartridges to be registered. When the pressing of the registration button is detected, the image forming apparatus 200 stores the information input via the registration screen 503 in FIG. 5 in the flat-rate service management storage unit 332.

[0058] When registration of information on unused normal cartridges is completed, a screen (not shown) including a "Start Estimate" button and a "Back" button is displayed. When CPU 310 of image forming apparatus 200 detects that the user has pressed the "Start Estimate" button, it advances the process to S208. When CPU 310 of image forming apparatus 200 detects that the user has pressed the "Back" button on registration screen 503 in Fig. 5 or the "Back" button on a screen (not shown), CPU 310 of image forming apparatus 200 performs a process of returning to the original screen.

[0059] In S208, CPU 310 of image forming apparatus 200 transmits a message to management server 500 requesting calculation of an estimate of the fee if image forming apparatus 200 becomes eligible for use of the flat-rate service. Furthermore, CPU 310 of image forming apparatus 200 transmits to management server 500 the flat-rate service plan selected on explanation screen 404 displayed in S206 and the quantity of unused cartridges input on registration screen 503 displayed in S207.

[0060] In S209, the CPU 510 of the management server 500 calculates an estimate of the fee for the flat-rate service in the case where the image forming apparatus 200 is the subject of the flat-rate service selected via the explanation screen 404.

[0061] The flat-rate service is a contract type in which the image forming device and consumables are provided to the user by the service provider if it is a device-inclusive flat-rate service. Also, if it is a consumables flat-rate service, the consumables are provided to the user by the service provider. When an image forming device 200 purchased by a user is newly registered as a target of the device-inclusive flat-rate service, the service provider purchases the image forming device, etc. purchased by the user from the user. Then, it is assumed that the purchased image forming device, etc. is provided to the user by the service provider. The process of S209 will be described in detail later. The purchase price, which is the current value of the purchased product, is appropriated for the number of days for which the flat-rate service is provided, and is allocated to the usage fee (monthly fee) for the flat-rate service.

[0062] In S210, the CPU 510 of the management server 500 transmits the estimate result of the monthly fee for the flat-rate service determined in S209 to the image forming apparatus 200. The CPU 510 of the management server 500 generates an identifier for identifying the currently determined estimate result. The CPU 510 of the management server 500 stores the estimate result for the flat-rate service in the program memory 520 for a certain period of time in association with the identifier. A hash function such as SHA-2 or MD5 is used to generate the identifier.

[0063] In S210, information necessary for signing up for the flat-rate service is transmitted to image forming apparatus 200 together with the estimate result of the flat-rate service. Specifically, information for connecting to a contract web page of management server 500 where the flat-rate service can be signed up for, and an identifier for identifying the estimate result stored in program memory 520 of management server 500 are transmitted. The information necessary for signing up for the flat-rate service includes a two-dimensional code that can be decoded to obtain the URL and identifier of the contract web page of management server 500.

[0064] In S211, the CPU 310 of the image forming apparatus 200 displays the flat-rate service quotation result received from the management server 500 on the display unit 380 to present it to the user.

[0065] Fig. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a screen for displaying the results of an estimate for a flat-rate service. As shown in Fig. 6, the purchase price of the image forming device 200, etc., is applied to the fee for the flat-rate service paid by the user, so the period during which the user can use the flat-rate service without being charged is displayed as the estimate result. When it is detected that the user has pressed a "Cancel" button 602 on the screen 603 in Fig. 6, the CPU 310 of the image forming device 200 performs a process of closing the screen 603 in Fig. 6 and returning to the original screen. If the user agrees with the estimate result, he or she presses the "Go to contract site" button 601 in Fig. 6.

[0066] S212 is a process performed when pressing of "Go to contract site" button 601 in Fig. 6 is detected. When CPU 310 of image forming apparatus 200 detects pressing of button 601 in S212, it displays a two-dimensional code for guiding the user to a contract website for the flat-rate service on display unit 380. The two-dimensional code displayed in S212 is included in the information required for the flat-rate service contract transmitted in S210.

[0067] In S213, the user photographs the two-dimensional code displayed as a result of the processing of S212 with the camera of the host terminal 600. The host terminal 600 decodes the photographed two-dimensional code to obtain the URL of the contract web page of the management server 500 and an identifier that identifies the quotation result.

[0068] In S214, the host terminal 600 accesses the URL of the contract web page of the management server 500 from a browser or the like. Then, the host terminal 600 notifies the management server 500 of an identifier for identifying the quotation result. In S212, a shortened URL that is valid for a certain period of time is displayed on the display unit 380, and in S213, the user may input the shortened URL into the browser of the host terminal 600 or the like to connect to the contract web page.

[0069] In S215, the CPU 510 of the management server 500 identifies the target quotation result from the notified identifier. The user inputs information required for the flat-rate service contract to the management server 500 via a browser or the like of the host terminal 600. Information required for the flat-rate service contract includes, for example, the subscriber's name, the consumable delivery address, the payment method, and the like.

[0070] S216 is a process performed when it is confirmed that all the user information required for signing up for the flat-rate service has been collected, and in S216 the CPU 510 of the management server 500 transmits a notification of completion of signing up for the flat-rate service to the host terminal 600. Then, signing up for the flat-rate service is completed.

[0071] In S217, the CPU 510 of the management server 500 transmits the flat-rate service contract information to the image forming apparatus 200.

[0072] In S218, CPU 310 of image forming apparatus 200 writes the contract information of the flat-rate service transmitted from management server 500 to contract information storage unit 333. As a result, the contract information of the flat-rate service in image forming apparatus 200 stored in contract information storage unit 333 becomes "standby state with main body-included flat-rate service contract made" or "standby state with consumables flat-rate service contract made." When image forming apparatus 200 is in "standby state with main body-included flat-rate service contract made" or "standby state with consumables flat-rate service contract made," it permits the use of normal cartridges that are not cartridges for the flat-rate service.

[0073] In S219, the management server 500 performs delivery control to request delivery so that the flat-rate service cartridges are delivered from the service provider to the user. When the flat-rate service contract is concluded, as a processing result of S219, the flat-rate service cartridges of all ink colors compatible with the image forming device 200 are sent from the service provider to the user.

[0074] When the flat-rate service dedicated cartridge delivered by the service provider is attached to the image forming apparatus main body 300, the flat-rate service contract information stored in the contract information storage unit 333 of the image forming apparatus 200 is changed by the connection unit 370. If the contract information is in the "main body-included flat-rate service contracted and standby state", it is changed to the "main body-included flat-rate service contracted state". If the contract information is in the "consumables flat-rate service contracted and standby state", it is changed to the "consumables flat-rate service contracted state". Then, the flat-rate service targeted at the image forming apparatus 200 is started to be provided. Either the "main body-included flat-rate service contracted state" or the "consumables flat-rate service contracted state" is called "flat-rate service contract information". The details of the process of changing the contract information to the flat-rate service contract information will be described in detail in FIG. 12 to be described later. The process of the image forming apparatus 200 and the management server 500 after the contract information is changed to the flat-rate service contracted state will be described in detail in FIG. 13 and FIG. 14.

[0075] In addition, when the image forming apparatus main body 300 is purchased in a one-time sale format without using the flat-rate service, a process for prompting the user to connect to a network may be performed so that the user can switch to the flat-rate service at an early stage after purchase. For example, a notice that the user can switch to the flat-rate service may be displayed as a notice on the display unit 380 at the final stage of installation of the image forming apparatus main body 300. Also, the user may be notified of the possibility of switching to the flat-rate service by a paper medium together with an operation manual.

[0076] [Request for flat-rate service suitability assessment] 7 is a flowchart showing details of the flat-rate service suitability determination request determination in S201. When the CPU 310 detects the occurrence of an opportunity to make a flat-rate service suitability determination request generated in the image forming apparatus 200, the flowchart in FIG.

[0077] 7 is performed by CPU 310 of image forming apparatus 200 expanding program code stored in program memory 320 into RAM 311 and executing the program code. In addition, some or all of the functions of the steps in FIG. 7 may be realized by hardware such as ASIC or electronic circuitry.

[0078] In S701, the CPU 310 of the image forming apparatus 200 inquires of the communication control unit 340 whether the network connection to the management server 500 is operating normally, and judges whether the network connection is operating normally. The judgment in S701 is for checking whether a connection to the management server 500 can be established and for checking whether the result of flat-rate service suitability judgment can be received from the management server 500. The communication control unit 340 provides an API for checking the connection with the management server 500, and is composed of a PING response using a host name or an IP address, and a program for checking communication between hosts by IP communication created individually. The CPU 310 executes this API to execute the judgment process in S301 based on whether the communication control unit 340 receives a signal indicating the establishment of network communication, such as a PING response, from the management server 500.

[0079] If the communication between the management server 500 and the image forming apparatus 200 is successful and the CPU 310 determines that the network connection is operating normally (YES in S701), the process proceeds to S702. If the communication fails and the CPU 310 determines that the network connection is not operating normally (NO in S701), the flat-rate service compatibility determination request determination is terminated.

[0080] In S702, the CPU 310 judges whether a certain period of time has passed since the flat-rate service suitability judgment request judgment last time. For example, the certain period of time is 30 days. The CPU 310 stores the execution date and time of the previous flat-rate service suitability judgment request judgment in the flat-rate service management storage unit 332 in the data memory 330. The CPU 310 obtains a value indicating the execution date and time of the previous flat-rate service suitability judgment request judgment from the data memory 330, and calculates a value equivalent to the elapsed time from the previous flat-rate service suitability judgment request judgment by subtracting a value indicating the current time from the obtained value. The CPU 310 judges whether the value equivalent to the elapsed time is a value indicating 30 days or more. The judgment in S702 aims to suppress the image forming apparatus 200 from frequently communicating with the management server 500, thereby reducing the load on the management server 500 and reducing the amount of communication on the network.

[0081] When CPU 310 determines that a certain period of time has passed since the last flat-rate service suitability determination request determination (YES in S702), it proceeds to S703. In addition, the execution date and time of the flat-rate service suitability determination request stored in flat-rate service management storage unit 332 in data memory 330 is updated with the current date and time. When CPU 310 determines that a certain period of time has not passed (NO in S702), it ends the flat-rate service suitability determination request determination.

[0082] In S703, the CPU 310 judges whether the flat-rate service suitability determination request execution flag is in an active state. The flat-rate service suitability determination request execution flag stored in the flat-rate service management storage unit 332 in the data memory 330 is referenced by various programs. If the CPU 310 judges that the flat-rate service suitability determination request execution flag is in an active state (YES in S703), the process proceeds to S704. If the flat-rate service suitability determination request execution flag is in an inactive state (NO in S703), the flat-rate service suitability determination request judgment is terminated.

[0083] When the image forming apparatus 200 is introduced in a one-time sale format, the flat-rate service suitability determination request execution flag is stored in an enabled state at the time of shipment. In this embodiment, there are two triggers for the flat-rate service suitability determination request execution flag to become disabled. One is when the notification screen 304 shown in FIG. 3 was previously displayed on the display unit 380, but the button 303 for "Do not display again" was pressed. As described above, when the button 303 is pressed, the flat-rate service suitability determination request execution flag is stored in an disabled state. The other trigger is when the image forming apparatus 200 is registered as a target of the flat-rate service and the use of the flat-rate service is started, and the flat-rate service suitability determination request execution flag is stored in an disabled state. When the flat-rate service suitability determination request execution flag becomes disabled, it will not become enabled unless the image forming apparatus 200 is initialized, or the setting value is reset.

[0084] If the process proceeds to S704 as a result of the determinations made in S701 to S703, the image forming apparatus 200 is in a state in which the conditions for making a flat-rate service suitability determination request to the management server 500 are met. Therefore, in S704, the CPU 310 generates a message for requesting the management server 500 to make a flat-rate service suitability determination. The generated message is transmitted to the management server in S202.

[0085] In S202, a connection with the management server 500 is established by HTTPS communication using the TCP communication protocol, and the image forming apparatus 200 transmits XML format data to the management server 500 using the Post method. The XML format data transmitted to the management server 500 includes information indicating the current status of the image forming apparatus 200. The information indicating the current status of the image forming apparatus 200 includes, for example, identification information (product serial number) of the image forming apparatus main body 300, information related to the installation date and time, cartridge information of the mounted cartridge 400, the total number of printed sheets, and the occurrence history of errors.

[0086] The cartridge information includes first cartridge information for identifying the cartridge 400, second cartridge information indicating the remaining amount of ink, and information such as the expiration date of each cartridge.

[0087] The communication protocol used in the transmission in S202 does not have to be HTTPS, and the data format of the transmitted message does not have to be XML. For example, other communication protocols may be used, and the data format of the message may be JSON format or comma-separated CSV format.

[0088] [Flat-rate service compatibility determination process] Fig. 8 is a flowchart showing details of flat-rate service suitability determination in S203. The series of processes in Fig. 8 are performed by CPU 510 of management server 500 expanding program code stored in program memory 520 into RAM 511 and executing it. In addition, some or all of the functions of the steps in Fig. 8 may be realized by hardware such as ASIC or electronic circuitry.

[0089] 8 starts when the management server 500 receives a message for requesting flat-rate service suitability determination. In the following explanation, it is assumed that the management server receives the message from the image forming apparatus 200. The HTTP message received by the management server 500 via the network is generated by the communication control unit 540 as an event indicating that the WEB service has received a Post method, and is notified to the program task that executes the flat-rate service reception that is running.

[0090] In step S801, the CPU 510 of the management server 500 determines whether the image forming apparatus 200 that has transmitted the message requesting a flat-rate service suitability determination is a product that can be used with the flat-rate service.

[0091] For example, CPU 510 searches for the product serial number of image forming apparatus 200 in a product list table stored in service information storage unit 530. If the product serial number of image forming apparatus 200 is found in the product list as a result of the search, CPU 510 determines that image forming apparatus 200 is a product that can be used for the flat-rate service. Alternatively, CPU 510 may make the determination by inquiring of another server that collects product information for determining whether a product can be used for the flat-rate service.

[0092] When CPU 510 determines that image forming apparatus 200 is a product that can be used for the flat-rate service (YES in S801), the process proceeds to S802. When CPU 510 determines that image forming apparatus 200 is not a product that can be used for the flat-rate service (NO in S801), the process proceeds to S805.

[0093] In S805, the CPU 510 executes a process of notifying the image forming apparatus 200 of a "non-conformity" message indicating that the image forming apparatus 200 is not conformed to the flat-rate service.

[0094] In S802, the CPU 510 judges whether the image forming apparatus 200 uses a cartridge capable of guaranteeing print quality. This judgment is a process for confirming whether the image forming apparatus 200 can guarantee print quality when the image forming apparatus 200 becomes a target of the flat-rate service, and is a process for the user who uses the flat-rate service. As described above, the service information storage unit 530 stores information of a cartridge capable of guaranteeing print quality in association with each image forming apparatus that can be a target of the flat-rate service. The information of the cartridge capable of guaranteeing print quality stored in the service information storage unit 530 is information corresponding to the first cartridge information, and indicates a serial number assigned when the cartridge is manufactured. In the service information storage unit 530, information of one or more cartridges capable of guaranteeing print quality is associated with a product corresponding to one image forming apparatus.

[0095] In S802, CPU 510 searches whether the first cartridge information received from image forming device 200 is included in the information on the cartridge capable of ensuring the print quality associated with the product compatible with image forming device 200. If the first cartridge information is found in service information storage unit 530 as a result of the search, CPU 510 determines that image forming device 200 is using a cartridge capable of ensuring the print quality. Alternatively, CPU 510 may refer to information on the expiration date of each cartridge attached to image forming device 200 and determine whether any cartridge has exceeded its expiration date.

[0096] When CPU 510 determines that a cartridge capable of ensuring print quality is being used (YES in S802), the process proceeds to S803. When CPU 510 determines that a cartridge capable of ensuring print quality is not being used (NO in S802), the process proceeds to S805 and notifies image forming apparatus 200 of a message indicating that the cartridge is not compatible with the flat-rate service.

[0097] In S803, CPU 510 determines whether the usage of image forming apparatus 200 is equal to or less than a threshold. The usage is, for example, the total number of printed sheets. The determination in S803 is for ensuring print quality when the flat-rate service is applied, similar to the determination in S802. The determination in S803 is a process for checking whether the number of printed sheets has exceeded the number expected by the service provider of the flat-rate service, so that the quality of image forming apparatus 200 itself does not affect the print quality.

[0098] The service information storage unit 530 holds a threshold value of the expected total number of printed sheets for each product that can be the target of the flat-rate service. This threshold value is a value obtained by the flat-rate service provider by assuming the wear of durable parts such as the leading edge coating parts for printing and the dedicated cartridges used for maintenance that are installed in each product. This threshold value is not a value that will suddenly affect the print quality when the total number of printed sheets exceeds the threshold value. In this embodiment, the threshold value is 40,000 sheets converted to A4 size, but it may be expressed, for example, by the printed area instead of the number of sheets. Alternatively, the threshold value may be a score calculated by multiplying them by a weight.

[0099] The total number of printed sheets since image forming apparatus 200 was installed and started to operate is stored in flat-rate service management storage unit 332 in data memory 330, and the total number of printed sheets is transmitted to management server 500. In the following description, CPU 510 of management server 500 acquires the total number of printed sheets received from image forming apparatus 200 and performs the determination in S803. That is, in S803, CPU 510 determines whether the total number of printed sheets of image forming apparatus 200 is equal to or less than a threshold value.

[0100] If CPU 510 determines that the total number of printed sheets is equal to or less than the threshold (YES in S803), the process proceeds to S804. If CPU 510 determines that the total number of printed sheets exceeds the threshold (NO in S803), the process proceeds to S805, and notifies image forming apparatus 200 of a message indicating that the flat-rate service is not applicable.

[0101] In S804, CPU 510 generates a response message that is compatible with the flat-rate service, and in S204, CPU 510 executes processing to notify image forming apparatus 200 of the generated message. As a response to the flat-rate service compatibility determination request message sent from image forming apparatus 200, management server 500 generates an HTTP response to Post, and sets in the response message a status code of 200 indicating that processing has been executed normally. The result of the flat-rate service compatibility determination is also set in the body of the response message, and in this embodiment, a character string of "VALID" is set if the result is compatible, and "INVALID" is set if the result is incompatible.

[0102] In the image forming apparatus 200 that has received the response message including the fact that the flat-rate service suitability judgment is suitability, in S205 of Fig. 2, the notification screen 304 shown in Fig. 5 is displayed on the display unit 380, and the image forming apparatus 200 waits for the user to press any of the buttons 301 to 303. When the user presses the button 301 thereafter, the image forming apparatus 200 transmits a message requesting an estimate to the management server 500. This message is transmitted as XML format data using the Post method after establishing a connection with the management server 500 by HTTPS communication using the TCP communication protocol, similar to the method described in S704 above.

[0103] [Quotation processing for subscription services] Fig. 9 is a flowchart showing details of the flat-rate service quotation process in S209. The series of processes in Fig. 9 are performed by CPU 510 of management server 500 expanding program code stored in program memory 520 into RAM 511 and executing it. In addition, some or all of the functions of the steps in Fig. 9 may be realized by hardware such as ASIC or electronic circuitry.

[0104] In S901, the CPU 510 of the management server 500 determines whether the flat-rate service plan selected by the user is a plan corresponding to the all-in-one flat-rate service. Information indicating the plan selected by the user via the explanation screen 404 in Fig. 4 is transmitted in S208 and received by the management server 500. The CPU 510 can determine whether the received plan is a plan corresponding to the all-in-one flat-rate service.

[0105] When CPU 510 determines that the plan selected by the user corresponds to a flat-rate service that includes the main body 300 (YES in S901), the process proceeds to S902 to determine the purchase price of image forming device 200. When CPU 510 determines that the plan selected by the user corresponds to a flat-rate service that includes consumables, the purchase price, which is the current value of image forming device main body 300, is not determined, and so S902-S903 are skipped and the process proceeds to S904.

[0106] S902 and S903 are steps for calculating the current value (purchase price) of the image forming device body 300 of the image forming device 200 to be estimated. In S902, the CPU 510 determines the price when the image forming device 200 is unused. The price of the image forming device body 300 when unused is determined from either the list price of the image forming device body 300, the average selling price of the image forming device body 300 in the area where the user lives, or the price at which the user purchased the image forming device body 300. When the value of the cartridge is included, the price of the image forming device body 300 when unused is determined by subtracting the value of the cartridge 400 installed in the image forming device 200. The price of the cartridge 400 is, for example, any one of the list price, the average selling price in the area where the user lives, or a price independently set by the flat-rate service provider.

[0107] In S903, the CPU 510 subtracts the deduction amount based on the current usage state of the image forming apparatus 200 from the price of the image forming apparatus main body 300 determined in S902, to determine the purchase price, which is the current value of the image forming apparatus 200. The deduction amount based on the current usage state is an amount corresponding to the degree of wear of the image forming apparatus main body 300. The deduction amount is determined using the values ​​of items related to the operation of the image forming apparatus 200 accumulated in the management server 500 as the degree of wear of the image forming apparatus 200. For example, the items related to the operation are the number of days since the image forming apparatus 200 started operating, the total number of printed sheets, the waste ink usage rate, and the number of hardware errors that have occurred. Information on these items is transmitted from the image forming apparatus 200 to the management server 500.

[0108] 10 is a diagram showing an example of a table that holds discount rates according to operation-related items. CPU 510 determines a discount rate for each item from the number of days since the start of operation of image forming apparatus 200, the total number of printed sheets, the waste ink usage rate, and the hardware error occurrence record, and determines to use the largest discount rate among the discount rates for each item. CPU 510 then determines the value obtained by multiplying the price of image forming apparatus 200 determined in S902 by the determined discount rate as the discount amount based on the current usage status of image forming apparatus 200.

[0109] In this embodiment, the discount rate is calculated from the number of days since the start of operation, the total number of printed sheets, the waste ink usage rate, and the number of hardware errors, but the discount rate may be calculated by other methods. For example, the number of operations for each part that wears out in the image forming apparatus 200 may be stored in the data memory 330, and the wear rate may be calculated from the durability of the part and the number of operations, and converted into a discount rate.

[0110] In S904, CPU 510 determines whether a cartridge is installed in image forming apparatus main body 300 that is the subject of the estimate. If CPU 510 determines that a cartridge is installed (YES in S904), it proceeds to the process of S905. If CPU 510 determines that a cartridge is not installed (NO in S904), it skips S905 and S906 and proceeds to S907.

[0111] S905 and S906 are steps for calculating the current value (purchase price) of the cartridge 400 attached to the image forming apparatus main body 300. In S905, the CPU 510 determines the price of the cartridge 400 attached to the image forming apparatus main body 300 when it is unused. The price of the cartridge 400 when it is unused is determined from, for example, the list price of the cartridge 400, the average selling price of the cartridge 400 in the area where the user lives, or the price at which the user purchased the cartridge 400.

[0112] In S906, the CPU 510 subtracts the amount based on the current usage state of the cartridge 400 from the price of the cartridge 400 determined in S905 to calculate a purchase price, which is the current value of the cartridge 400. The amount based on the current usage state of the cartridge 400 is determined based on information on the degree of wear of the cartridge 400 accumulated in the management server 500. In this embodiment, the remaining amount of ink, which is the second cartridge information, will be described as being used as the degree of wear of the cartridge 400. The remaining amount of ink in the cartridge 400 is transmitted to the management server 500 from the image forming apparatus 200.

[0113] 11 is a diagram showing an example of a table that holds discount rates according to the amount of ink remaining in a cartridge. When the amount of ink remaining is unused, it is shown as 100%.

[0114] 11, CPU 510 determines the discount rate from the current usage state (remaining ink amount) of cartridge 400 installed in image forming apparatus main body 300. CPU 510 multiplies the price of cartridge 400 determined in S905 by the determined discount rate to calculate the value obtained as the discount amount based on the current usage state of cartridge 400. When cartridges of multiple ink colors are installed, the discount rate is applied to each ink color.

[0115] In S907, CPU 510 determines a promotion price, which is an amount for promoting the introduction of the flat-rate service. The promotion price may be a fixed amount, or a different value may be set for each region. The promotion price may be zero. In this case, S907 may be skipped. When a promotion price for each region is set, CPU 510 identifies the region from destination information set in image forming apparatus 200 or an IP address used when image forming apparatus 200 communicates with management server 500, and determines the promotion price.

[0116] A coupon containing a code for promoting the use of flat-rate services may be distributed at a retail store or the like when the image forming apparatus 200 is sold as a one-time purchase. A code input screen for inputting the code contained in the coupon may be displayed before the "Start Estimate" button is pressed. If the correct code is entered on the code input screen, a fixed amount may be added to the promotion amount.

[0117] In S908, the CPU 510 obtains a total amount by adding up the purchase price of the image forming apparatus main body 300, the purchase price of the cartridge in use, and the promotion price calculated in the steps up to this point. The CPU 510 then determines the period during which the user can use the flat-rate service without paying a fee, based on the value obtained by dividing the total amount by the flat-rate fee (e.g., monthly fee) of the flat-rate service. That is, the period during which the fee will not be charged after the flat-rate service is started is determined. For example, if the flat-rate service is a service for which a fixed monthly fee is paid each month, the number of months during which the fee will not be charged when the flat-rate service is started is determined.

[0118] If the image forming device 200 is made eligible for the all-inclusive flat-rate service immediately after the purchase of the image forming device 200 when its value has not yet decreased, the period during which the flat-rate fee for the all-inclusive flat-rate service is not charged is determined to be long. On the other hand, if the image forming device 200 is made eligible for the all-inclusive flat-rate service after some time has passed since the purchase of the image forming device 200 or after a large amount of printing has been performed, the period during which the fee for the all-inclusive flat-rate service is not charged is determined to be short.

[0119] The purchase price of the image forming device 200, the purchase price of the cartridge in use, and the promotion amount may be converted into the number of pages that can be printed in the flat-rate service. Then, the number of pages that can be printed by the user in the flat-rate service may be increased.

[0120] [Processing after the completion of the flat-rate service contract] As mentioned in the description of the process of S219 in FIG. 2, when the conclusion of the contract for the flat-rate service is completed, the service provider sends the user cartridges for the flat-rate service of all ink colors that are compatible with the image forming device 200. The image forming device 200 of this embodiment is assumed to be compatible with five ink colors, C, M, Y, BK, and PGBK. Therefore, when the conclusion of the contract for the flat-rate service is completed, the user of the image forming device 200 is sent five cartridges for the flat-rate service, C, M, Y, BK, and PGBK.

[0121] In addition, a user who has introduced image forming apparatus 200 by purchasing it may have unused normal cartridges in stock. Therefore, after completing the conclusion of a flat-rate service contract, the user may end up in a state where they have both flat-rate service-exclusive cartridges and normal cartridges as unused cartridges.

[0122] When image forming device 200 enters into a flat-rate service contract state, if the service provider receives a warning that the ink level in the cartridge installed in image forming device 200 is low, the service provider will arrange for delivery of a new flat-rate service cartridge. Therefore, if an unused normal cartridge is installed in image forming device 200 that is in a flat-rate service contract state, an unnecessary flat-rate service cartridge will be sent to the user. To avoid this, it is conceivable to request the user to install only flat-rate service cartridges in image forming device 200 after the flat-rate service contract state is entered.

[0123] On the other hand, users often want to use up unused regular ink cartridges that they have already purchased. If unused regular cartridges cannot be used after a flat-rate service contract is made, the user must use up all regular cartridges of all ink colors before signing up for the flat-rate service. In this case, it is a hassle for the user to manage the cartridges of all ink colors so that they are used up exactly. Therefore, in this embodiment, a method of controlling each device will be described so that unused regular cartridges that have been purchased can be used even in the image forming device 200 that has entered into a flat-rate service contract.

[0124] Fig. 12 is a flowchart for explaining flat-rate service start determination processing executed by image forming apparatus 200 after completion of the conclusion of a flat-rate service contract. That is, the flowchart in Fig. 12 is processing executed by image forming apparatus 200 when the contract information stored in contract information storage unit 333 is either "main body-included flat-rate service contract completed, standby state" or "consumables flat-rate service contract completed, standby state".

[0125] In S1201, CPU 310 of image forming apparatus 200 determines whether a new cartridge has been attached to connection unit 370 of image forming apparatus main body 300 and the cartridge has been replaced. When the attached cartridge has been removed and a new cartridge has been attached, CPU 310 determines that the cartridge has been replaced. When CPU 310 detects that a new cartridge has been attached and that the cartridge has been replaced (YES in S1201), it proceeds to S1202.

[0126] Since the image forming apparatus 200 supports five ink colors, C, M, Y, BK, and PGBK, the user can replace cartridges for up to five colors at once. That is, in S1201, it may be detected that cartridges for up to five colors have been newly installed.

[0127] In S1202, the connection unit 370 that connects the image forming apparatus main body 300 and the cartridge reads the third cartridge information from the memory 410 of the newly installed cartridge. If it is detected in S1201 that cartridges of multiple ink colors have been replaced, the third cartridge information is read from the memory 410 of each of the cartridges that have been replaced this time. The third cartridge information is information (parameters) for determining whether the cartridge is a normal cartridge or a cartridge exclusively for flat-rate service.

[0128] In S1203, CPU 310 judges whether any of the cartridges newly installed in image forming apparatus main body 300 is a flat-rate service cartridge. As described above, after the flat-rate service contract is concluded, the unused cartridges owned by the user include normal cartridges and flat-rate service cartridges. Therefore, when cartridges of multiple ink colors are replaced, a normal cartridge may be installed for some ink colors and a flat-rate service cartridge may be installed for other ink colors. If it is detected that a flat-rate service cartridge is installed for at least one ink color of the replaced cartridges, in S1203, it is judged that a flat-rate service cartridge has been newly installed.

[0129] If the CPU 310 determines that the newly installed cartridges do not include a flat-rate service cartridge (S1203: NO), the process ends. On the other hand, if the CPU 310 determines that the newly installed cartridges include a flat-rate service cartridge (S1203: YES), the process proceeds to S1204.

[0130] In S1204, CPU 310 writes information to contract information storage unit 333 so that the contract information for the flat-rate service becomes "flat-rate service contract including main unit" or "flat-rate service contract for consumables". As a result, the flat-rate service for image forming apparatus 200 is started, whereby a flat-rate service is started, in which automatic delivery of a cartridge exclusively for the flat-rate service is available.

[0131] In S1205, CPU 310 transmits the flat-rate service contract information to management server 500. Management server 500 stores the flat-rate service contract information transmitted in S1205 in service information storage unit 530. As a result, management server 500 stores that image forming apparatus 200 is in a state of a device-included flat-rate service contract or a consumables flat-rate service contract.

[0132] In S1206, the CPU 310 stores in the flat-rate service management storage unit 332 that there is a mounting history of the flat-rate service dedicated cartridge. When a flat-rate service dedicated cartridge is mounted, the flat-rate service management storage unit 332 stores "there is a mounting history" indicating that a flat-rate service dedicated cartridge was mounted in the past. The presence of a mounting history is stored for each ink color of the cartridge. In the case of the image forming apparatus 200 of the present embodiment, the mounting history of each of the flat-rate service dedicated cartridges for the five ink colors C, M, Y, BK, and PGBK is stored. Before the start of this flowchart, since the flat-rate service dedicated cartridge is not mounted yet, the presence of the mounting history of the flat-rate service dedicated cartridge is not stored for all ink colors. In S1206, the presence of the mounting history of the flat-rate service dedicated cartridge is stored only for the ink color that was a flat-rate service dedicated cartridge among the newly mounted cartridges this time. By storing the presence of the mounting history, the CPU 310 can check whether a flat-rate service dedicated cartridge has been mounted in the past.

[0133] In S1207, the CPU 310 notifies the user that the flat-rate service has started by displaying on the display unit 380 that the flat-rate service has started. Then, the flow chart ends.

[0134] In this way, after the flat-rate service contract has been concluded, when at least one ink color cartridge dedicated to the flat-rate service is installed in image forming device 200, the contract information in contract information storage unit 333 is rewritten to a flat-rate service contract state. In addition, management server 500 is also notified of the contract information of image forming device 200, and flat-rate services such as automatic delivery of cartridges to image forming device 200 are started.

[0135] 12, it has been described that after the flat-rate service contract is concluded, when at least one flat-rate service dedicated cartridge of an ink color is mounted in image forming device 200, the flat-rate service contract state is changed to start the flat-rate service. Alternatively, for example, when a flat-rate service dedicated cartridge of an ink color equal to or greater than a predetermined number of ink colors that can be mounted in image forming device 200 is mounted, the contract information may be rewritten to the flat-rate service contract state.

[0136] Fig. 13 is a flowchart for explaining the process at the time of cartridge replacement executed by image forming apparatus 200 that has entered into a flat-rate service contract state. That is, the flowchart in Fig. 13 illustrates the process executed by image forming apparatus 200 when the contract information of image forming apparatus 200 is either a "main body-included flat-rate service contract state" or a "consumables flat-rate service contract state."

[0137] In S1301, CPU 310 of image forming apparatus 200 determines whether a new cartridge has been attached to connection unit 370 of image forming apparatus main body 300 and the cartridge has been replaced. As in S1201, when the attached cartridge is removed and a new cartridge is attached, CPU 310 determines that the cartridge has been replaced. When CPU 310 detects that a new cartridge has been attached and that the cartridge has been replaced (YES in S1301), the process proceeds to S1302.

[0138] In S1302, the connection unit 370 that connects the image forming apparatus main body 300 and the cartridges reads the first cartridge information and the third cartridge information from the memory 410 of each newly installed cartridge of each ink color. The first cartridge information is a serial number assigned when the cartridge is manufactured. The third cartridge information is information (parameters) for determining whether the cartridge is a normal cartridge or a cartridge exclusively for flat-rate service.

[0139] In S1303, if replacement of cartridges of multiple ink colors was detected in S1301, CPU 310 selects an ink color to be processed from the ink colors of the newly installed cartridges. Then, CPU 310 performs the processes of S1304 to S1309 on the cartridge of the ink color to be processed.

[0140] In S1304, CPU 310 determines whether the newly installed cartridge of the ink color to be processed is a normal cartridge based on the third cartridge information stored in memory 410 of the cartridge of the ink color to be processed. If CPU 310 determines that the cartridge of the ink color to be processed is a flat-rate service-only cartridge (NO in S1304), CPU 310 proceeds to S1305.

[0141] In S1305, CPU 310 stores the presence of a mounting history of a flat-rate service dedicated cartridge for the ink color to be processed in flat-rate service management storage unit 332. If the presence of a mounting history of a flat-rate service dedicated cartridge for the ink color to be processed has already been stored in flat-rate service management storage unit 332, storage of the mounting history in flat-rate service management storage unit 332 may be omitted. Then, processing proceeds to S1309.

[0142] On the other hand, if the CPU 310 determines that the currently mounted cartridge of the ink color that is the processing target is a normal cartridge (YES in S1304), the CPU 310 advances the process to S1306.

[0143] In S1306, the CPU 310 determines whether or not the flat-rate service management storage unit 332 stores therein information indicating that a flat-rate service dedicated cartridge has been attached for the ink color to be processed.

[0144] If CPU 310 determines that there is no record of a flat-rate service dedicated cartridge installation history for the ink color to be processed (NO in S1306), CPU 310 proceeds to S1307. In S1307, CPU 310 determines whether the currently installed cartridge of the ink color to be processed is a registered normal cartridge. In this embodiment, this determination is made because only registered, unused normal cartridges are usable among unused normal cartridges.

[0145] Specifically, in S1307, CPU 310 searches flat-rate service management storage unit 332, in which registered normal cartridges are registered, for a serial number that matches the serial number of the cartridge of the ink color to be processed acquired in S1302. If a serial number that matches the serial number of the cartridge of the ink color to be processed is stored in flat-rate service management storage unit 332, CPU 310 determines that the currently installed cartridge of the ink color to be processed is a registered normal cartridge.

[0146] A user can register an unused normal cartridge that has already been purchased via a registration screen 503 in FIG. 5. The serial number of the normal cartridge registered via the registration screen 503 is stored in the flat-rate service management storage unit 332. When subscribing to the flat-rate service, the registration screen 503 is displayed in S207 in FIG. 2, so that the user can register an unused normal cartridge. Even after the flat-rate service contract is established, the user can cause the registration screen 503 in FIG. 5 to be displayed on the display unit 380 by performing a predetermined operation via the operation unit 390 of the image forming apparatus 200. In this case, the user can also register an unused normal cartridge that has already been purchased from the registration screen 503.

[0147] When the CPU 310 determines that the cartridge of the ink color to be processed is a registered normal cartridge (YES in S1307), the process proceeds to S1309. S1309 is a process for making the cartridge of the ink color to be processed usable. For example, a process is performed to fill the image forming apparatus main body 300 with ink from the cartridge of the ink color to be processed.

[0148] On the other hand, if a serial number matching the serial number of the cartridge of the ink color to be processed is not stored in flat-rate service management storage unit 332, the currently installed cartridge of the ink color to be processed is not a registered normal cartridge. When CPU 310 determines that the cartridge is not a registered normal cartridge (NO in S1307), it advances the process to S1308. S1308 is a process for disabling the currently installed cartridge of the ink color to be processed.

[0149] Furthermore, if the CPU 310 determines that the installation history of a flat-rate service dedicated cartridge for the ink color being processed is stored (YES in S1306), the process proceeds to S1308. If the installation history of a flat-rate service dedicated cartridge for a certain ink color is present, the process proceeds to S1308 because a normal cartridge for that ink color cannot be used.

[0150] In the image forming system 100 of this embodiment, for ink colors for which there is no history of a flat-rate service dedicated cartridge being attached, a normal cartridge that has been registered in advance can be used.

[0151] On the other hand, if a regular cartridge is installed after a flat-rate service cartridge is installed, the calculation of the monthly fee becomes complicated. Therefore, if a flat-rate service cartridge is installed even once for a certain ink color, control is performed so that a regular cartridge cannot be used for that ink color. Therefore, in this embodiment, the calculation of the monthly fee is prevented from becoming complicated.

[0152] In S1308, CPU 310 notifies the user by displaying on display unit 380 that the currently installed cartridge of the ink color to be processed is "unusable." If it is notified in S1308 that the cartridge is unusable, when a flat-rate service dedicated cartridge is installed, the display of the cartridge "unusable" for the ink color to be processed disappears. Then, image forming apparatus 200 is controlled so that it becomes usable. Note that for an ink color that has no history of a flat-rate service dedicated cartridge being installed, the display of the cartridge "unusable" disappears and image forming apparatus 200 is controlled so that it becomes usable even if a registered normal cartridge is installed.

[0153] When the processes of S1308 and S1309 are completed, the process proceeds to S1310. In S1310, CPU 310 determines whether all of the ink colors of the newly installed cartridge have been selected as the processing target. If there are any ink colors that have not been selected as the processing target (YES in S1310), the process returns to S1303, and the next ink color to be processed is selected from the ink colors of the newly installed cartridge. If all of the ink colors of the newly installed cartridge have been selected as the processing target (NO in S1310), the process of this flowchart ends.

[0154] It is possible that a user who has an unused normal cartridge may install a flat-rate service cartridge without knowing that control such as that in S1306 is performed. Once a flat-rate service cartridge of a certain ink color is installed, the unused normal cartridge that has been purchased for that ink color cannot be used. For this reason, for example, when the CPU 310 detects that a newly installed cartridge is a flat-rate service cartridge, the CPU 310 may display a UI screen to prompt the user to install an unused normal cartridge first.

[0155] FIG. 14 is a flowchart of a process for determining a delivery request for a flat-rate service-specific cartridge, which is executed by the management server 500 after the contract information stored in the contract information storage unit 333 of the image forming apparatus 200 becomes a flat-rate service contract state.

[0156] When the remaining ink level in a cartridge of any ink color among the cartridges attached to the connection portion 370 of the image forming device main body 300 falls below a predetermined level, the image forming device 200 transmits a warning indicating that the remaining ink level is below the predetermined level.

[0157] In S1401, CPU 510 of management server 500 determines whether a warning indicating that the remaining amount of ink in the cartridge is below a predetermined amount has been received from image forming apparatus 200. If CPU 510 has received a warning indicating that the remaining amount of ink in the cartridge is below a predetermined amount (YES in S1401), it proceeds to S1402.

[0158] The predetermined amount is an amount that indicates that the ink in the cartridge is low and that it is time (timing) to replace the cartridge. When image forming apparatus 200 transmits a warning that the remaining ink level in a cartridge is below the predetermined level, image forming apparatus 200 transmits to management server 500 information on the ink color of the cartridge whose remaining ink level is below the predetermined level and third cartridge information of the cartridge whose remaining ink level is below the predetermined level. Therefore, in S1401, when CPU 510 receives a warning from image forming apparatus 200, it also receives the ink color information and the third cartridge information. In the following description, a cartridge whose remaining ink level is below the predetermined level is referred to as a cartridge that is the subject of a warning.

[0159] In S1402, when CPU 510 receives a warning about cartridges of multiple ink colors, it selects an ink color to be processed from among the ink colors of the cartridges that are the subject of the current warning. CPU 510 then performs the processes of S1403 to S1405 on the cartridge of the ink color to be processed. In the following explanation of S1403 to S1405, it is assumed that the cartridge that is the subject of the warning is the cartridge of the ink color to be processed.

[0160] In S1403, CPU 510 of management server 500 determines whether the cartridge that is the subject of the warning is a cartridge exclusively for the flat-rate service. CPU 510 of management server 500 determines whether the cartridge that is the subject of the warning is a cartridge exclusively for the flat-rate service based on the received third cartridge information of the cartridge that is the subject of the warning. If CPU 510 determines that the cartridge that is the subject of the warning is a cartridge exclusively for the flat-rate service (YES in S1403), the process proceeds to S1404.

[0161] In S1404, the management server 500 performs delivery control for the ink color of the cartridge that is the subject of the warning so that a new cartridge for flat-rate service of that ink color is delivered to the user. For example, the management server 500 performs processing to request the service provider to deliver a flat-rate service cartridge of the ink color of the cartridge that is the subject of the warning to the user.

[0162] On the other hand, if the CPU 510 determines that the cartridge for which the warning is issued is a normal cartridge (S1403 is NO), the process of having a new cartridge for the flat-rate service delivered to the user for the ink color of the cartridge for which the warning is issued is not performed. In Fig. 14, for the sake of convenience, the step is set to S1405 when S1403 is NO, but the CPU 510 does not need to perform the process in S1405. For example, in S1405, even if a cartridge low remaining amount warning is received, it is controlled to be ignored.

[0163] When the processing of S1404 and S1405 is completed, the process proceeds to S1406. In S1406, CPU 510 determines whether all ink colors of the cartridge that is the subject of the current warning have been selected as the object of processing. If there is an ink color of a cartridge that is the subject of a warning that has not been selected as the object of processing (YES in S1406), the process returns to S1402, and the next ink color to be processed is selected from the ink colors of the cartridge that is the subject of the current warning. If all ink colors of the cartridge that is the subject of the current warning have been selected as the object of processing (NO in S1406), the process of this flowchart ends.

[0164] In this embodiment, the management server 500 performs a delivery request process for a new cartridge dedicated to the flat-rate service when a flat-rate service dedicated cartridge is installed in the image forming device 200 and the ink remaining in the cartridge becomes low. On the other hand, when a normal cartridge is installed in the image forming device 200 and the ink remaining in the normal cartridge becomes low, the management server 500 controls so that a new cartridge dedicated to the flat-rate service is not delivered.

[0165] The fact that a normal cartridge is installed for a certain ink color indicates that a flat-rate service cartridge has never been installed for that ink color. In this case, the flat-rate service cartridge delivered at the time of the completion of the flat-rate service contract in S219 of FIG. 2 is in the user's possession in an unused state. Therefore, even if the remaining ink level of the installed normal cartridge falls below a predetermined level, it is not necessary to deliver a new flat-rate service cartridge. In this way, according to this embodiment, even if a normal cartridge is used after the flat-rate service contract state is established, it is possible to prevent an unnecessary flat-rate service cartridge from being sent to the user. Therefore, in this embodiment, even if the contract information of the image forming device 200 is in a flat-rate service contract state, the image forming device 200 can accept the installation of a normal cartridge.

[0166] In this embodiment, the image forming apparatus 200 is configured to perform the process of the flowchart in Fig. 12 and the process of the flowchart in Fig. 13, but the process of the flowcharts in Fig. 12 and 13 may be performed by the management server 500, etc. When the management server 500 performs the process of the flowcharts in Fig. 12 and 13, for example, necessary information may be transmitted from the image forming apparatus 200 to the management server 500.

[0167] In addition, in this embodiment, when a user registers an unused regular cartridge, information on the unused regular cartridge is input to the image forming apparatus 200, and the information is stored in the image forming apparatus 200. Alternatively, for example, information on the unused regular cartridge may be input to the host terminal 600. Then, information on the unused regular cartridge may be transmitted from the host terminal 600 to the management server 500 and the image forming apparatus 200.

[0168] In the present embodiment, the normal cartridges that can be used after the contract information of the image forming apparatus 200 becomes the flat-rate service contract state are only the registered normal cartridges. Alternatively, for example, the registration of unused normal cartridges may be unnecessary. In that case, in the flowchart of FIG. 13, if it is determined in S1306 that there is no history of mounting a flat-rate service dedicated cartridge (NO in S1306), S1307 in FIG. 13 may be skipped and the process may proceed to S1309. In this way, a normal cartridge may be used for a certain ink color until a flat-rate service dedicated cartridge is mounted. On the other hand, by displaying the registration screen 503 that allows the user to register a normal cartridge in advance, the user can be made aware that the purchased normal cartridge can be used and that no more normal cartridges need be purchased. In addition, the user can be made aware that only registered normal cartridges can be used.

[0169] As described above, according to this embodiment, by controlling each device constituting image forming system 100, it is possible to effectively utilize purchased consumables when switching a purchased image forming device to a flat-rate service.

[0170] Note that the consumables that are automatically delivered in the flat-rate service are not limited to ink cartridges or toner cartridges. Other consumables of this embodiment may include replacement maintenance cartridges for absorbing ink used in maintenance such as head cleaning, print heads, and replacement cutters for cutting roll paper.

[0171] <Other embodiments> The present disclosure can also be realized by a process in which a program for implementing one or more functions of the above-described embodiments is supplied to a system or device via a network or a storage medium, and one or more processors in a computer of the system or device read and execute the program. It can also be realized by a circuit (e.g., ASIC) that implements one or more functions.

[0172] The disclosure of the above-described embodiment includes the following configurations.

[0173] (Configuration 1) A management server that manages a service for automatically delivering consumables for a target image forming device by paying a predetermined fee at a predetermined time interval, Information indicating that a consumable item installed in the image forming apparatus that is the subject of the service is due for replacement; and a receiving means for receiving information indicating whether the consumable item due for replacement is a first consumable item delivered based on the service or a second consumable item not delivered based on the service; When the consumable item due for replacement is the first consumable item, a process is performed to have a new consumable item to replace the consumable item due for replacement delivered to a user of the image forming apparatus that is a target of the service; a delivery control means for not performing a process of delivering a new consumable to replace the consumable due for replacement to a user of the image forming apparatus that is a target of the service, when the consumable due for replacement is the second consumable; A management server comprising:

[0174] (Configuration 2) The image forming apparatus that is the object of the service is an image forming apparatus that has been purchased but is not the object of the service and has become the object of the service. 2. The management server according to configuration 1.

[0175] (Configuration 3) The image forming apparatus further includes a first delivery control means for performing a process for delivering consumables to the user based on the service when a purchased image forming apparatus that is not eligible for the service becomes eligible for the service. 3. The management server according to configuration 2.

[0176] (Configuration 4) the consumable is a cartridge; The image forming apparatus that is the subject of the service is an image forming apparatus in which cartridges of color materials of multiple colors can be mounted. 4. The management server according to configuration 3.

[0177] (Configuration 5) The first delivery control means When a purchased image forming apparatus that is not eligible for the service becomes eligible for the service, a process is performed to deliver cartridges for each of the color materials of the plurality of colors to the user as the service. 5. The management server according to configuration 4.

[0178] (Configuration 6) The receiving means includes: Receive information on a cartridge that needs to be replaced among the cartridges of the color materials of the plurality of colors that are installed in the image forming apparatus that is the object of the service. 6. The management server according to configuration 4 or 5.

[0179] (Configuration 7) The information indicating that it is time to replace the consumable is information indicating that the remaining amount of the consumable is equal to or less than a predetermined amount. 7. The management server according to any one of configurations 1 to 6.

[0180] (Configuration 8) The first consumable is provided with information indicating that the consumable is the first consumable. 8. The management server according to any one of configurations 1 to 7.

[0181] (Configuration 9) An image forming apparatus that is a target of a service in which consumables for the image forming apparatus are automatically delivered by paying a predetermined fee at a predetermined period, a mounting portion to which the consumable is mounted; a management means for managing whether or not the first consumable delivered based on the service has been attached to the attachment unit; a determination means for determining whether a consumable item newly attached to the attachment unit is the first consumable item or a second consumable item that is not delivered based on the service; If the newly installed consumable is the first consumable, control is performed so that the newly installed consumable can be used; When the newly attached consumable is the second consumable, and when there is no history of the first consumable being attached to the attachment unit, control is performed so that the newly attached consumable can be used; a control means for controlling the newly attached consumable item so as to be unusable when the newly attached consumable item is the second consumable item and there is a history of the first consumable item being attached to the attachment portion; An image forming apparatus comprising:

[0182] (Configuration 10) The device further includes a registration means for registering a consumable item, The control means When the newly attached consumable is the second consumable, and even if there is no history of the first consumable being attached to the attachment unit, if the newly attached consumable is an unregistered consumable, control is performed so that the newly attached consumable cannot be used. 10. The image forming apparatus according to claim 9,

[0183] (Configuration 11) The control means When the newly installed consumable item is controlled so as to be unusable, the user is notified that the newly installed consumable item is unusable. 11. The image forming apparatus according to configuration 9 or 10.

[0184] (Configuration 12) the consumable is a cartridge; The image forming apparatus is capable of mounting cartridges of multiple colors. 12. The image forming apparatus according to any one of configurations 9 to 11.

[0185] (Configuration 13) The control means determining whether the first consumable is attached for each of the plurality of colors; When it is determined that the first consumable of at least one of the color materials of the plurality of colors is installed, control is performed so that the service is started. 13. The image forming apparatus according to claim 12,

[0186] (Configuration 14) The control means controls so that the second consumable can be used for a color that has not had a history of the first consumable being attached to the attachment portion. 14. The image forming apparatus according to claim 13,

[0187] (Configuration 15) A management server according to any one of configurations 1 to 8; An image forming apparatus according to any one of configurations 9 to 14, A system having

[0188] (Configuration 16) A method for managing a service for automatically delivering consumables for a target image forming device by paying a predetermined fee at a predetermined time interval, comprising: Information indicating that a consumable item installed in the image forming apparatus that is the subject of the service is due for replacement; and receiving information indicating whether the consumable item due for replacement is a first consumable item delivered based on the service or a second consumable item not delivered based on the service; When the consumable item due for replacement is the first consumable item, a process is performed to have a new consumable item to replace the consumable item due for replacement delivered to a user of the image forming apparatus that is a target of the service; a delivery control step of not performing a process of delivering a new consumable to replace the consumable due for replacement to a user of the image forming apparatus that is a target of the service, when the consumable due for replacement is the second consumable; A management method comprising the steps of:

[0189] (Configuration 17) 1. A method for controlling an image forming apparatus that is a target of a service in which consumables for the image forming apparatus are automatically delivered by paying a predetermined fee at a predetermined time interval, the image forming apparatus having an attachment unit in which the consumables are attached, comprising: a management step of managing whether or not there is a history of the first consumable delivered based on the service being attached to the attachment unit; a determining step of determining whether a consumable item newly attached to the attachment unit is the first consumable item or a second consumable item that is not delivered based on the service; If the newly installed consumable is the first consumable, control is performed so that the newly installed consumable can be used; When the newly attached consumable is the second consumable, and when there is no history of the first consumable being attached to the attachment unit, control is performed so that the newly attached consumable can be used; a control step of controlling the newly attached consumable item so as to be unusable when the newly attached consumable item is the second consumable item and there is a history of the first consumable item being attached to the attachment portion; A control method comprising the steps of:

[0190] (Configuration 18) A program for causing a computer to execute each of the means of the management server according to any one of configurations 1 to 8.

[0191] (Configuration 19) A program for causing a computer to execute each of the means of the image forming apparatus according to any one of configurations 9 to 14. [Explanation of symbols]

[0192] 500 Management Server 510 CPU

Claims

1. A management server that manages a service for automatically delivering consumables for a target image forming device by paying a predetermined fee at a predetermined time interval, a receiving means for receiving information indicating that a consumable installed in an image forming apparatus that is the subject of the service is due for replacement, and information indicating whether the consumable due for replacement is a first consumable delivered based on the service or a second consumable not delivered based on the service; a delivery control means for, when the consumable item due for replacement is the first consumable item, performing a process to have a new consumable item to replace the consumable item due for replacement delivered to a user of the image forming device that is a target of the service, and, when the consumable item due for replacement is the second consumable item, not performing a process to have a new consumable item to replace the consumable item due for replacement delivered to the user; A management server comprising:

2. The image forming apparatus that is the object of the service is an image forming apparatus that has been purchased but is not the object of the service and has become the object of the service.

2. The management server according to claim 1.

3. The image forming apparatus further includes a first delivery control means for performing a process for delivering consumables to the user based on the service when a purchased image forming apparatus that is not eligible for the service becomes eligible for the service.

3. The management server according to claim 2.

4. the consumable is a cartridge; The image forming apparatus that is the subject of the service is an image forming apparatus in which cartridges of color materials of multiple colors can be mounted.

4. The management server according to claim 3.

5. The first delivery control means When a purchased image forming apparatus that is not eligible for the service becomes eligible for the service, a process is performed in which cartridges for each of the plurality of color materials are delivered to the user as the service.

5. The management server according to claim 4.

6. The receiving means includes: Receive information on a cartridge that needs to be replaced among the cartridges of the color materials of the plurality of colors that are installed in the image forming apparatus that is the object of the service.

5. The management server according to claim 4.

7. The information indicating that it is time to replace the consumable is information indicating that the remaining amount of the consumable is equal to or less than a predetermined amount.

2. The management server according to claim 1.

8. The first consumable is provided with information indicating that the consumable is the first consumable.

2. The management server according to claim 1.

9. An image forming apparatus that is a target of a service in which consumables for the image forming apparatus are automatically delivered by paying a predetermined fee at a predetermined period, A mounting portion to which the consumable is mounted; a management means for managing whether or not the first consumable delivered based on the service has been mounted on the mounting unit; a determination means for determining whether a consumable item newly attached to the attachment portion is the first consumable item or a second consumable item that is not delivered based on the service; When the newly installed consumable is the first consumable, control is performed so that the newly installed consumable is usable; When the newly attached consumable is the second consumable, and when there is no history of the first consumable being attached to the attachment unit, control is performed so that the newly attached consumable can be used; a control means for controlling the newly attached consumable item so as to be unusable when the newly attached consumable item is the second consumable item and there is a history of the first consumable item being attached to the attachment portion; An image forming apparatus comprising:

10. The device further includes a registration means for registering the consumables, The control means When the newly attached consumable is the second consumable and even if there is no history of the first consumable being attached to the attachment unit, if the newly attached consumable is an unregistered consumable, control is performed so that the newly attached consumable cannot be used.

10. The image forming apparatus according to claim 9,

11. The control means When the newly installed consumable item is controlled so as to be unusable, the user is notified that the newly installed consumable item is unusable.

10. The image forming apparatus according to claim 9,

12. the consumable is a cartridge; The image forming apparatus is capable of mounting cartridges of multiple colors.

10. The image forming apparatus according to claim 9,

13. The control means determining whether the first consumable is attached for each of the plurality of colors; When it is determined that the first consumable of at least one of the color materials of the plurality of colors is installed, control is performed so that the service is started.

13. The image forming apparatus according to claim 12.

14. The control means controls so that the second consumable can be used for a color that has not had a history of the first consumable being attached to the attachment portion.

14. The image forming apparatus according to claim 13.

15. A management server according to any one of claims 1 to 8; An image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 9 to 14, A system having

16. A method for managing a service for automatically delivering consumables for a target image forming device by paying a predetermined fee at a predetermined time interval, comprising the steps of: a receiving step of receiving information indicating that a consumable installed in an image forming apparatus that is the subject of the service is due for replacement and information indicating whether the consumable due for replacement is a first consumable delivered based on the service or a second consumable not delivered based on the service; a delivery control step of performing a process to have a new consumable item to replace the consumable item due for replacement delivered to a user of the image forming device that is a target of the service, when the consumable item due for replacement is the first consumable item, and not performing a process to have a new consumable item to replace the consumable item due for replacement delivered to a user of the image forming device that is a target of the service, when the consumable item due for replacement is the second consumable item; A management method comprising the steps of:

17. 1. A method for controlling an image forming apparatus that is a target of a service in which consumables for the image forming apparatus are automatically delivered by paying a predetermined fee at a predetermined time interval, the image forming apparatus having an attachment unit in which the consumables are attached, comprising: a management step of managing whether or not there is a history of the first consumable delivered based on the service being attached to the attachment unit; a determining step of determining whether a consumable item newly installed in the installation unit is the first consumable item or a second consumable item that is not delivered based on the service; When the newly installed consumable is the first consumable, control is performed so that the newly installed consumable is usable; When the newly attached consumable is the second consumable, and when there is no history of the first consumable being attached to the attachment unit, control is performed so that the newly attached consumable can be used; a control step of controlling the newly attached consumable item so as to be unusable when the newly attached consumable item is the second consumable item and there is a history of the first consumable item being attached to the attachment portion; A control method comprising the steps of:

18. A program for causing a computer to execute each of the means of the management server according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

19. A program for causing a computer to execute each unit of the image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 9 to 14.

Images