Management system and method for controlling management device
Patent Information
- Application Number
- JP2023148391
- Authority / Receiving Office
- JP · JP
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2023-09-13
- Publication Date
- 2025-03-26
Smart Images
Figure 2025041223000001_ABST
Abstract
Description
[Technical field]
[0001] The present invention relates to a management system and a control method for a management device. [Background technology]
[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, as disclosed in Patent Document 1, there has been known a method of individually collecting storage containers that contain consumables used in a printing device and reusing the collected storage containers. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]
[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2003-039708 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]
[0004] However, when collecting containers individually and reusing them as in the conventional technology, there was a problem that the environmental burden associated with collecting the containers was large. For this reason, there was room for improvement in the conventional technology with regard to, for example, Goal 12 "Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns" out of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals adopted by the United Nations General Assembly on September 25, 2015.
[0005] The above-mentioned problem is not limited to the situation where containers that contain consumables used in printing devices are collected, but also applies to the general situation where reusable members are collected, for example. [Means for solving the problem]
[0006] In order to solve the above problems, the control method of the management device of the present invention is a control method of a management device that manages storage containers that contain consumables used in a printing device, and is characterized in that the processor of the management device functions as an awarding unit that awards a first amount of a reward to a user when the user brings a first number of storage containers in a collection action of bringing the storage containers to a collection facility for collecting the storage containers, and that awards a second amount of a reward to the user when the user brings a second number of storage containers in the collection action that is greater than the first number, and the value obtained by dividing the second amount by the second number is greater than the value obtained by dividing the first amount by the first number.
[0007] In addition, the management system of the present invention is a management system for managing reusable specific components, and is characterized in that it has an awarding unit that awards a first amount of a reward to the user when the user brings a first number of specific components in a collection action of bringing the specific components to a collection facility for collecting the specific components, and awards a second amount of a reward to the user when the user brings a second number of specific components that is greater than the first number in the collection action, and the value obtained by dividing the second amount by the second number is greater than the value obtained by dividing the first amount by the first number. [Brief description of the drawings]
[0008] [Figure 1] 1 is a block diagram showing an example of a configuration of a management system Sys according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a cartridge 7. FIG. [Diagram 3] 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a user card 8. FIG. [Figure 4] 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a collection box 3. FIG. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of a configuration of a management server 1. [Figure 6]It is an explanatory diagram for explaining an example of point giving information D21. [Figure 7] It is an explanatory diagram for explaining another example of point giving information D21. [Figure 8] It is a sequence chart showing an example of the operation of management system Sys. [Figure 9] It is a sequence chart showing an example of the operation of management system Sys.
Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention
[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments for carrying out the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. However, in each figure, the dimensions and scales of each part are appropriately different from the actual ones. Further, the embodiments described below are preferred specific examples of the present invention, so various technically preferable limitations are imposed. However, the scope of the present invention is not limited to these embodiments unless otherwise specified in the following description to limit the present invention.
[0010] <<A. Embodiment>> In the present embodiment, a management system Sys for managing a cartridge 7 that stores ink used in a printing apparatus PR will be described by way of example.
[0011] <<1. Configuration of the Management System>> Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 1 to 5, an example of the configuration of the management system Sys according to the present embodiment will be described.
[0012] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the management system Sys.
[0013] As shown in FIG. 1, the management system Sys includes a management server 1, one or more collection boxes 3, one or more collection reception terminals 5, and a recycling factory 9, and manages a cartridge 7 that stores ink used in the printing apparatus PR.
[0014] The management server 1 is a server device for managing the cartridges 7. Here, the cartridges 7 are containers that contain ink used in the printing device PR and are containers that can be attached to the printing device PR. In this embodiment, the management server 1 is an example of a "management device", the ink is an example of a "consumable item", and the cartridge 7 is an example of a "container".
[0015] The collection box 3 is a facility for collecting used cartridges 7 from users UP of the printing apparatus PR. Here, a used cartridge 7 is, for example, a cartridge 7 with only a small amount of ink remaining therein, or a cartridge 7 with deteriorated ink contained therein. That is, in this embodiment, the collection box 3 can collect the cartridge 7 even if ink remains inside the cartridge 7. In this embodiment, the collection box 3 is installed in a commercial facility FS. Here, the commercial facility FS refers to a commercial facility such as a home appliance retailer that sells the printing device PR or a shopping mall that sells various products, a public facility such as a community center, or a medical facility such as a hospital. In this embodiment, the collection box 3 is an example of the "collection facility."
[0016] The collection reception terminal 5 is a terminal device provided in the collection center FE. Specifically, when a user UP of the printing device PR mails a used cartridge 7 to the collection center FE, the collection reception terminal 5 is a terminal device through which a staff member UE of the collection center FE inputs information on the cartridge 7 mailed by the user UP. Here, the collection center FE is a facility for collecting used cartridges 7 from the user UP of the printing device PR. In this embodiment, the collection center FE is another example of a "collection facility."
[0017] The recycling factory 9 is a facility for recycling used cartridges 7 collected from users UP at the collection box 3 or collection center FE into recycled products. Specifically, the recycling factory 9 is a facility that manufactures recycled cartridges 7 by cleaning the used cartridges 7 and refilling the cleaned cartridges 7 with ink. However, the recycling factory 9 may also disassemble the used cartridges 7 into materials and use the disassembled materials to manufacture recycled cartridges 7. The recycling factory 9 may also disassemble the used cartridges 7 into materials and use the disassembled materials to manufacture products different from the cartridges 7 as recycled products.
[0018] In this embodiment, it is assumed that the printing apparatus PR is installed in a user facility FU. Here, the user facility FU is a facility where the user UP uses the printing apparatus PR, such as the home or office of the user UP.
[0019] In the present embodiment, as an example, it is assumed that there are two collection routes for the used cartridges 7: a user-carrying collection route RT1 and a mail-in collection route RT2.
[0020] The user-brought collection route RT1 is a route for collecting used cartridges 7 from a user UP by the user UP bringing the cartridges 7 that have been used at a user facility FU to a collection box 3 provided at a commercial facility FS. In this embodiment, when collecting used cartridges 7 via the user-brought collection route RT1, it is assumed, as an example, that the user UP authenticates the user UP using a user card 8 owned by the user UP when inserting the used cartridge 7 into the collection box 3. In this embodiment, the act of the user UP bringing the cartridge 7 to the collection box 3 in the commercial facility FS is an example of a "collection act."
[0021] The mail collection route RT2 is a route for collecting the used cartridge 7 from the user UP by mailing the used cartridge 7 from the user facility FU to the collection center FE. In this embodiment, it is assumed, as an example, that when collecting the used cartridge 7 via the mail collection route RT2, the user UP mails a mailing ML enclosing the used cartridge 7 and a collection application form AP to the collection center FE. In this embodiment, the act of the user UP mailing the cartridge 7 to the collection center FE is another example of a "collection act."
[0022] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the cartridge 7.
[0023] 2, the cartridge 7 includes a storage device 70. The cartridge 7 also includes an ink storage chamber (not shown) for storing ink.
[0024] The storage device 70 is, for example, an IC chip, and stores cartridge model number information D71, cartridge manufacturing date information D72, and cartridge reuse information D73.
[0025] The cartridge model number information D71 is information that indicates the product model number of the cartridge 7. In this embodiment, the cartridge model number information D71 is an example of "container information."
[0026] The cartridge manufacturing date information D72 is information that indicates the date on which the cartridge 7 was manufactured.
[0027] The cartridge reuse information D73 is information indicating the number of times the cartridge 7 has been recycled as a recycled product. Specifically, the cartridge reuse information D73 indicates "0" when the cartridge 7 is a new product before recycling, and indicates a value of "1" or more when the cartridge 7 is a recycled product.
[0028] FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the user card 8. As shown in FIG.
[0029] As shown in FIG. 3, the user card 8 includes a storage device 80 that stores information about points that the user UP can use. In this embodiment, it is assumed that when the user UP purchases a recycled cartridge 7, the user UP can replace part or all of the purchase price with points. In addition, in this embodiment, it is assumed that when the user UP purchases a product at a commercial facility FS, the user UP can replace part or all of the purchase price with points. That is, in this embodiment, as an example, it is assumed that the points are exchangeable for recycled cartridges 7, and that the points are exchangeable for products that can be purchased at the commercial facility FS. However, the present invention is not limited to such an embodiment. It is sufficient that the points are exchangeable at least for recycled cartridges 7. Furthermore, in this embodiment, points are awarded to user UP when user UP brings a used cartridge 7 to the collection box 3, when user UP mails a used cartridge 7 to collection center FE, and when user UP purchases a product at a commercial facility FS. However, the present invention is not limited to this aspect. Points should be awarded to user UP at least when user UP brings a used cartridge 7 to the collection box 3 and when user UP mails a used cartridge 7 to collection center FE. In other words, points should be awarded to user UP at least when user UP performs a collection action. In this embodiment, points are an example of a "benefit."
[0030] The storage device 80 is, for example, an IC chip, and stores user identification information D81, user owned point information D82, user accumulated point information D83, and point history information D84.
[0031] The user identification information D81 is information indicating a user ID for uniquely identifying each user from among multiple users who possess a user card 8. In this embodiment, it is assumed that the user who possesses the user card 8 is a user UP who uses a printing device PR. However, the present invention is not limited to this aspect. The user who possesses the user card 8 may be a user UP who uses a printing device PR and also a user who uses a commercial facility FS. The user who possesses the user card 8 may also be a user who uses a cartridge 7.
[0032] The user point information D82 is information indicating the number of points owned by the user UP. Here, the number of points refers to the quantity of points.
[0033] The user accumulated point information D83 is information that indicates the accumulated number of points that the user UP has acquired since the management system Sys started managing the user UP to the present. Here, the management of the user UP by the management system Sys may be started, for example, when the user UP purchases a printing device PR. Also, the management of the user UP by the management system Sys may be started, for example, when the user UP purchases a cartridge 7.
[0034] The point history information D84 is information indicating the history of points given to the user UP and the history of points used by the user UP from the time when the management system Sys started managing the user UP to the present.
[0035] FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the collection box 3. As shown in FIG.
[0036] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 4, the collection box 3 includes a cartridge insertion port 30, a cartridge information reader 31, a user card information reader 32, a communication device 33, and a control device 40.
[0037] The cartridge insertion port 30 is an opening through which the user UP inserts the cartridge 7 into a cartridge storage space (not shown) provided inside the collection box 3.
[0038] When the cartridge 7 is inserted into the cartridge insertion port 30, the cartridge information reading device 31 reads, from the storage device 70 provided in the cartridge 7, the cartridge model number information D71, the cartridge manufacturing date information D72, and the cartridge reuse information D73 stored in the storage device 70. However, the present invention is not limited to this embodiment. When the cartridge 7 is inserted into the cartridge insertion port 30, the cartridge information reading device 31 only needs to read, from the storage device 70 provided in the cartridge 7, at least the cartridge model number information D71 stored in the storage device 70. In this embodiment, the cartridge information reader 31 is an example of a "reader."
[0039] When the user UP touches the user card 8 to the user card information reading device 32, the user card information reading device 32 reads, from the storage device 80 provided on the user card 8, the user identification information D81, the user's owned point information D82, the user's accumulated point information D83, and the point history information D84 stored in the storage device 80. However, the present invention is not limited to this embodiment. When the user UP touches the user card 8 to the user card information reading device 32, it is sufficient for the user card information reading device 32 to read at least the user identification information D81 from the storage device 80 provided on the user card 8.
[0040] The communication device 33 is hardware for communicating with an external device located outside the collection box 3 via one or both of a wired network and a wireless network.
[0041] The control device 40 includes a cartridge collection determination unit 41, a cartridge number counting unit 42, and a user card authentication unit 43.
[0042] The cartridge recycling determination unit 41 determines whether or not the object inserted into the cartridge insertion port 30 corresponds to a cartridge 7 that can be collected by the collection box 3, based on the reading result by the cartridge information reading device 31. Specifically, the cartridge recycling determination unit 41 determines whether or not the model number indicated by the cartridge model number information D71 read by the cartridge information reading device 31 corresponds to a cartridge 7 that can be collected by the collection box 3. In this embodiment, the cartridge collection determination unit 41 is an example of an "item determination unit."
[0043] Then, when the model number indicated by the cartridge model number information D71 read by the cartridge information reader 31 is a model number corresponding to the cartridge 7 collectable by the collection box 3, the cartridge collection determination unit 41 determines that the object inserted into the cartridge insertion port 30 corresponds to the cartridge 7 collectable by the collection box 3. When the model number indicated by the cartridge model number information D71 read by the cartridge information reader 31 is not a model number corresponding to the cartridge 7 collectable by the collection box 3, the cartridge collection determination unit 41 determines that the object inserted into the cartridge insertion port 30 does not correspond to the cartridge 7 collectable by the collection box 3. When the cartridge information reader 31 cannot read the cartridge model number information D71, the cartridge collection determination unit 41 determines that the object inserted into the cartridge insertion port 30 does not correspond to the cartridge 7 collectable by the collection box 3.
[0044] When the result of the determination by the cartridge collection determination unit 41 is positive, i.e., when the object inserted into the cartridge insertion port 30 corresponds to a cartridge 7 collectable by the collection box 3, the collection box 3 stores the cartridge 7 in the cartridge storage space in the collection box 3. On the other hand, when the result of the determination by the cartridge collection determination unit 41 is negative, i.e., when the object inserted into the cartridge insertion port 30 does not correspond to a cartridge 7 collectable by the collection box 3, the collection box 3 ejects the object to the outside of the collection box 3.
[0045] The cartridge number counting section 42 generates cartridge number information DK indicating the number of cartridges 7 inserted into the cartridge insertion port 30 based on the result of the determination by the cartridge collection determination section 41. In this embodiment, the cartridge number counting unit 42 is an example of a "number information generating unit", and the cartridge number information DK is an example of "number information".
[0046] Here, the cartridge number information DK is information indicating the number of cartridges 7 inserted by the user UP into the cartridge insertion port 30 in one collection action in which the user UP brings the cartridges 7 to the commercial facility FS to insert the cartridges 7 into the collection box 3. For example, the cartridge number information DK may be information indicating the number of cartridges 7 inserted by the user UP into the cartridge insertion port 30 during a period from when the user UP authenticates the user UP with the user card 8 until the user UP finishes inserting the cartridges 7 by pressing an insertion completion button (not shown) installed in the collection box 3, for example. Also, for example, the cartridge number information DK may be information indicating the number of cartridges 7 inserted by the user UP into the cartridge insertion port 30 during a period from when the user UP visits the commercial facility FS until when the user UP leaves the commercial facility FS. Hereinafter, the number of cartridges 7 indicated by the cartridge number information DK, that is, the number of cartridges 7 inserted by the user UP into the cartridge insertion port 30 in one collection action, may be referred to as the collection number KK.
[0047] In this embodiment, one collection action refers to a single visit by the user UP to the commercial facility FS, where the user UP brings one or more cartridges 7 to a collection box 3 provided in the commercial facility FS. Also, in this embodiment, one collection action may refer to a single mailing action by the user UP to the collection center FE, where the user UP mails one or more cartridges 7 to the collection center FE as mailings ML.
[0048] When the user card 8 is touched to the user card information reading device 32, the user card authentication unit 43 identifies the user ID of the user UP who owns the user card 8 based on the user identification information D81 stored in the memory device 80 equipped with the user card 8.
[0049] The management server 1 according to this embodiment will be described below with reference to FIGS.
[0050] FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the management server 1. As shown in FIG.
[0051] As shown in FIG. 5, the management server 1 includes a control device 10, a storage device 20, and a communication device 29.
[0052] The communication device 29 is hardware for communicating with an external device located outside the management server 1 via one or both of a wired network and a wireless network.
[0053] The storage device 20 includes a volatile memory such as a random access memory (RAM) that functions as a working area for the control device 10, and a non-volatile memory such as an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM) that stores various information. In this embodiment, the storage device 20 stores point allocation information D21, user management information D22, accumulated point information D23, and a control program PG-K for controlling each part of the management server 1.
[0054] The control device 10 includes a processor. The processor of the control device 10 includes, for example, one or more central processing units (CPUs). In this embodiment, the processor of the control device 10 executes a control program PG-K stored in the storage device 20 and operates according to the control program PG-K, thereby functioning as a number information acquisition unit 11, a point number determination unit 12, a point granting unit 13, and a user management unit 14. The processor of the control device 10 may include hardware such as a graphics processing unit (GPU), a digital signal processor (DSP), or a field programmable gate array (FPGA) in addition to one or more CPUs, or in place of a part or all of the one or more CPUs. In this case, a part or all of the functions realized by the processor of the control device 10 may be realized by hardware such as a DSP.
[0055] The number information acquisition unit 11 acquires cartridge number information DK from the collection box 3. In this embodiment, the number information acquiring unit 11 is an example of an "acquiring unit."
[0056] The point number determination unit 12 determines the number of points to be given to the user UP based on the cartridge number information DK acquired by the number information acquisition unit 11 and the point assignment information D21 stored in the storage device 20.
[0057] FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram for explaining an example of the point-granting information D21.
[0058] As shown in FIG. 6, the point-granting information D21 is information that defines the relationship between the number of collected items KK and the number of unit points PT. Here, the unit point number PT is the number of points given to the user UP in response to one of the one or more cartridges 7 inserted into the cartridge insertion port 30 by the user UP. That is, in this embodiment, when the number of cartridges 7 inserted into the cartridge insertion port 30 by the user UP in one collection action is the collection number KK, it is assumed that the management system Sys gives the user UP the number of points "KK*PT" obtained by multiplying the unit point number PT by the collection number KK.
[0059] In addition, in the present embodiment, as shown by the relationship line LP1 in FIG. 6, when the value KK1 and the value KK2 are natural numbers satisfying "1 ≦ KK1 < KK2", the number of recovery KK corresponding to "KK1 pieces" has the unit point number PT as "PT1", and the number of recovery KK corresponding to "KK2 pieces" has the unit point number PT as "PT2". And in the present embodiment, the relationship between the number of recovery KK and the unit point number PT is defined so that "0 < PT1 < PT2" holds between the unit point number PT1 and the unit point number PT2. However, the relationship between the number of recovery KK and the unit point number PT indicated by the point giving information D21 is not limited to the mode having the relationship shown by the relationship line LP1 in FIG. 6. For example, as shown by the relationship line LP2 in FIG. 7, when the value KK1 and the value KK2 are natural numbers satisfying "1 ≦ KK1 < KK2", the unit point number PT1 corresponding to the number of recovery KK being "KK1 pieces" and the unit point number PT2 corresponding to the number of recovery KK being "KK2 pieces" may be defined so that the relationship between the number of recovery KK and the unit point number PT satisfies "0 < PT1 ≦ PT2".
[0060] In addition, in FIGS. 6 and 7, when the number of recovery KK is "KK1 pieces", the number of points given to the user UP is "KK1 * PT1", and when the number of recovery KK is "KK2 pieces", the number of points given to the user UP is "KK2 * PT2". Here, "KK1 pieces" is an example of "the first number", "KK2 pieces" is an example of "the second number", "KK1 * PT1" is an example of "the first amount", "KK2 * PT2" is an example of "the second amount", the unit point number PT1 is an example of "the value obtained by dividing the first amount by the first number", and the unit point number PT2 is an example of "the value obtained by dividing the second amount by the second number".
[0061] The point giving unit 13 shown in FIG. 5 gives the number of points determined by the point determination unit 12 to the user UP. In addition, hereinafter, the information indicating the number of points given by the point giving unit 13 to the user UP may be referred to as the given point information DP. In this embodiment, the point giving unit 13 is an example of an "giving unit."
[0062] The user management unit 14 updates the user management information D22 when the point allotting unit 13 awards points to the user UP and when the user UP uses the points.
[0063] Here, the user management information D22 includes information indicating a user ID for identifying the user UP, information indicating the number of points owned by the user UP, information indicating a history of points granted to the user UP, information indicating a history of points used by the user UP, and information indicating an accumulated value of points granted to the user UP. In other words, the user management information D22 is information indicating the same contents as the user identification information D81, the user owned point information D82, the user accumulated point information D83, and the point history information D84. In this embodiment, the user management information D22 is an example of "history information."
[0064] In this embodiment, as an example, it is assumed that the storage device 80 stores the user identification information D81, the user's point information D82, the user's accumulated point information D83, and the point history information D84, and the storage device 20 stores the user management information D22, but the present invention is not limited to such an embodiment. For example, the storage device 80 only needs to store at least the user identification information D81 indicating the user ID, and does not need to store the user's point information D82, the user's accumulated point information D83, and the point history information D84.
[0065] In this embodiment, in addition to the management system Sys awarding points to user UP when user UP performs a collection action, it is also assumed that the management system Sys awards points to user UP when the cumulative value of the number of points acquired by user UP satisfies certain conditions. In the following, the cumulative value of the number of points acquired by user UP may be referred to as the "accumulated acquired points." In addition, in the following, the points granted to user UP when the cumulative value of the number of points acquired by user UP satisfies a specific condition may be referred to as the "accumulated granted points."
[0066] In this embodiment, the point number determination unit 12 determines the number of accumulated points to be granted to the user UP based on the accumulated earned points of the user UP and the accumulated point information D23. Then, the point granting unit 13 grants points corresponding to the number of accumulated points to be granted to the user UP determined by the point number determination unit 12.
[0067] Here, the cumulative point information D23 is information that specifies the relationship between the cumulative earned points held by user UP and the quantity of cumulative awarded points to be awarded to user UP. In this embodiment, as described above, it is assumed that the cumulative awarded points are awarded to user UP when the cumulative earned points held by user UP satisfy a specific condition. In addition, in this embodiment, it is assumed that the cumulative awarded points are not awarded to user UP when the cumulative earned points held by user UP do not satisfy a specific condition. For this reason, the cumulative point information D23 may be information that indicates a specific condition that the cumulative earned points must satisfy. Here, the specific condition may be, for example, that the cumulative earned points become a specific value, or that the cumulative earned points become a multiple of a specific value.
[0068] <<2. Operation of the management system>> An example of the operation of the management system Sys according to this embodiment will be described below with reference to FIGS.
[0069] 8 is a sequence chart showing an example of the processing of the management system Sys when the user UP performs a collection action by the user-brought collection route RT1. In the following, the processing of the management system Sys when the user UP performs a collection action by the user-brought collection route RT1 is referred to as a user-brought collection process.
[0070] As shown in Figure 8, in the user-brought collection process, when the user UP touches the user card 8 to the user card information reading device 32 and the user card information reading device 32 reads user identification information D81 from the memory device 80 provided on the user card 8, the user card authentication unit 43 of the collection box 3 identifies the user ID of the user UP who owns the user card 8 based on the user identification information D81 (S101).
[0071] Next, when the user UP inserts the cartridge 7 into the cartridge insertion port 30, the control device 40 of the collection box 3 controls the cartridge information reading device 31 to read information such as the cartridge model number information D71 stored in the memory device 70 provided in the cartridge 7 (S103).
[0072] Next, the cartridge collection determination unit 41 of the collection box 3 determines whether or not the object inserted into the cartridge insertion port 30 corresponds to a cartridge 7 that can be collected by the collection box 3, based on the reading result by the cartridge information reading device 31 in step S103 (S105).
[0073] Next, the cartridge number counting section 42 of the collection box 3 generates cartridge number information DK indicating the number of cartridges 7 inserted into the cartridge insertion port 30 based on the determination result by the cartridge collection determination section 41 in step S105 (S107).
[0074] Next, the cartridge number counting unit 42 of the collection box 3 controls the communication device 33 to transmit the user identification information D81 that identifies the user UP specified in step S101 and the cartridge number information DK generated in step S107 to the management server 1 (S109).
[0075] Thereafter, the number information acquisition unit 11 of the management server 1 acquires the cartridge number information DK and the user identification information D81 transmitted by the cartridge number counting unit 42 in step S109 (S111).
[0076] Next, the point number determination unit 12 of the management server 1 determines the number of points to be awarded to the user UP based on the cartridge number information DK acquired by the number information acquisition unit 11 in step S111 and the point awarding information D21 stored in the storage device 20 (S113).
[0077] Next, the user management unit 14 of the management server 1 updates the user management information D22 corresponding to the user UP indicated by the user identification information D81 acquired by the number information acquisition unit 11 in step S111 based on the result of the determination by the point number determination unit 12 in step S113 (S115). Specifically, in step S115, the user management unit 14 updates the number of points owned by the user UP indicated by the user identification information D81, the history of points granted to the user UP indicated by the user identification information D81, and the accumulated value of points granted to the user UP indicated by the user identification information D81, among the user management information D22.
[0078] Next, the point granting unit 13 of the management server 1 issues a point granting notification (S117). Here, the point granting notification is a notification indicating that the number of points determined by the point number determination unit 12 in step S113 has been granted to the user UP indicated by the user identification information D81 acquired by the number information acquisition unit 11 in step S111. Specifically, the point granting notification is information including the user identification information D81 acquired by the number information acquisition unit 11 in step S111 and granted point information DP indicating the number of points determined by the point number determination unit 12 in step S113.
[0079] Thereafter, the control device 40 of the collection box 3 receives the point allocation notification sent by the point allocation unit 13 in step S117 (S119).
[0080] Next, the control device 40 of the collection box 3 reflects the point allocation result on the user card 8 (S121). Specifically, in step S121, the control device 40 controls the user card information reader 32 to update the user owned point information D82, the user accumulated point information D83, and the point history information D84 stored in the storage device 80 provided in the user card 8 of the user UP based on the point allocation notification, thereby reflecting the point allocation result on the user card 8.
[0081] 9 is a sequence chart showing an example of the processing of the management system Sys when the user UP performs a collection action via the mail collection route RT2. In the following, the processing of the management system Sys when the user UP performs a collection action via the mail collection route RT2 is referred to as a mail collection process. In addition, in this embodiment, it is assumed that the collection reception terminal 5 provided in the collection center FE has the same functions as the cartridge information reading device 31, the communication device 33, and the control device 40 provided in the collection box 3. In addition, in this embodiment, it is assumed that when the user UP performs a collection action via the mail collection route RT2, a user ID for uniquely identifying the user UP is written in the collection application form AP enclosed with the mailing ML to the collection center FE.
[0082] As shown in FIG. 9, when an attendant UE at collection center FE inputs the user ID listed on the collection application form AP enclosed with the mailing ML from user UP into the collection reception terminal 5, the collection reception terminal 5 accepts the user ID and generates user identification information D81 indicating the user ID (S201).
[0083] Next, a staff member UE at the collection center FE uses a reading device (not shown) to read the cartridge model number information D71 stored in the storage device 70 provided in the cartridge 7 enclosed with the mailing ML from the user UP. The collection reception terminal 5 then accepts the cartridge model number information D71 read by the reading device (S203).
[0084] Next, the collection reception terminal 5 determines whether or not the cartridge 7 enclosed in the mailing ML from the user UP is a cartridge 7 that can be collected by the collection center FE, based on the cartridge model number information D71 received in step S203 (S205).
[0085] Next, a staff member UE at the collection center FE inputs the number of cartridges 7 enclosed with the mailing ML from the user UP into the collection reception terminal 5. Then, the collection reception terminal 5 generates cartridge number information DK indicating the input number of cartridges 7 (S207).
[0086] Next, the collection reception terminal 5 transmits the user identification information D81 indicating the user ID received in step S201, and the cartridge number information DK generated in step S207 to the management server 1 (S209).
[0087] Thereafter, the management server 1 executes the processes of steps S111 to S117 described above.
[0088] Thereafter, the collection acceptance terminal 5 acquires the point allocation notification sent by the point allocation unit 13 in step S117 (S219).
[0089] Then, the collection reception terminal 5 notifies the user UP of the point allocation result by using a communication means such as email (S221).
[0090] <<3. Conclusion of the embodiment>> As described above, the management server 1 of this embodiment is a management server 1 that manages cartridges 7 that contain ink used in the printing device PR, and is equipped with a point allocating unit 13 that, when a user UP brings "KK1" cartridges 7 into a collection box 3 for collecting cartridges 7 in a collection action, awards points of "KK1*PT1" to the user UP, and, when the user UP brings "KK2" cartridges 7, which is more than "KK1", in the collection action, awards points of "KK2*PT2" to the user UP, and is characterized in that the unit point number PT2 is greater than the unit point number PT1.
[0091] Thus, according to this embodiment, when the user UP brings many cartridges 7 to the collection box 3 in one collection action, the management server 1 increases the unit point number PT, thereby increasing the number of points per cartridge 7 given to the user UP. Therefore, according to this embodiment, the user UP is encouraged to bring more cartridges 7 to the collection box 3 in one collection action, thereby making it possible to increase the number of cartridges 7 brought to the collection box 3 in one collection action, thereby reducing the environmental burden associated with the collection of one cartridge 7, compared to the conventional mode in which cartridges 7 are collected one by one. Therefore, according to this embodiment, compared to the conventional method of collecting the cartridges 7 individually, it is possible to make a greater contribution to the SDGs target 12.4, which states, "Substantially reduce release of chemicals and waste to air, water and soil to minimize their adverse impacts on human health and the environment."
[0092] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the user UP is encouraged to bring more cartridges 7 to the collection box 3 in one collection session, thereby enabling an increase in the number of cartridges 7 brought to the collection box 3 in one collection session. Therefore, compared to the conventional manner in which the cartridges 7 are collected one by one, the total amount of cartridges 7 collected can be increased and the number of used cartridges 7 that are not collected can be reduced. Therefore, according to this embodiment, compared to the conventional method of collecting the cartridges 7 individually, it is possible to make a greater contribution to "significantly reduce waste generation through prevention, reduction, recycling and reuse" as stated in Target 12.5 of the SDGs.
[0093] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the user UP is given points according to the number of cartridges 7 brought to the collection box 3 in one collection session, so that the user UP can be motivated to bring in a larger number of cartridges 7 to the collection box 3 in one collection session. That is, according to this embodiment, compared to the conventional mode in which the cartridges 7 are collected one by one, the user UP can be strongly educated about reducing the environmental load by increasing the number of cartridges 7 brought in one collection session. Therefore, according to this embodiment, compared to the conventional method of collecting the cartridges 7 one by one, it is possible to make a greater contribution to "improve education, awareness, human capacity and institutional capacity on climate change mitigation, adaptation, impact reduction and early warning" as stated in Target 13.3 of the SDGs.
[0094] In addition, in this embodiment, the management server 1 is equipped with a number information acquisition unit 11 that acquires cartridge number information DK indicating the number of cartridges 7 brought into the collection box 3 during the collection action, the cartridge 7 is equipped with a storage device 70 that stores cartridge model number information D71 relating to the cartridge 7, the collection box 3 is equipped with a cartridge information reading device 31 that reads the cartridge model number information D71 from the storage device 70, a cartridge collection determination unit 41 that determines whether the item brought into the collection box 3 is a cartridge 7 that can be collected by the collection box 3 based on the reading result of the cartridge model number information D71 by the cartridge information reading device 31, and a cartridge number counting unit 42 that generates cartridge number information DK based on the determination result of the cartridge collection determination unit 41, and the number information acquisition unit 11 acquires the cartridge number information DK generated by the cartridge number counting unit 42 from the collection box 3.
[0095] Thus, according to this embodiment, the collection box 3 determines whether an item brought into the collection box 3 is a cartridge 7 that should be collected by the collection box 3 based on the cartridge model number information D71, making it easier to identify the cartridge 7 compared to conventional methods such as deploying personnel with specific skills who can identify the type of cartridge 7, and deploying a specific sensor device that can identify the type of cartridge 7. Therefore, according to this embodiment, compared to the conventional approach of deploying personnel with specific skills or specific sensor devices, it is possible to make a greater contribution to "promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization and increase employment" in the recycling-related industrial sector, as described in Target 9.2 of the SDGs.
[0096] Furthermore, this embodiment is characterized in that the points can be exchanged for the right to obtain a recycled cartridge 7 that has been remanufactured using the cartridge 7 brought to the collection box 3.
[0097] Therefore, according to this embodiment, it is possible to reduce the amount of cartridges 7 that are discarded, compared to a case in which the used cartridges 7 are not reused. Therefore, according to this embodiment, compared to the conventional method of collecting the cartridges 7 individually, it is possible to make a greater contribution to "significantly reduce waste generation through prevention, reduction, recycling and reuse" as stated in Target 12.5 of the SDGs.
[0098] In addition, in this embodiment, the management server 1 is equipped with a user management unit 14 that manages user management information D22 relating to the history of collection actions by user UP, and the point allocation unit 13 determines the number of accumulated allocation points to be allocated to user UP based on the user management information D22.
[0099] Thus, according to this embodiment, points are awarded to user UP based on the history of collection actions by user UP, and therefore user UP can be continuously motivated for a longer period of time to increase the number of cartridges 7 that he or she brings into the collection box 3 in one collection action, compared to a configuration in which the history of collection actions by user UP is not taken into consideration when awarding points to user UP. Therefore, according to this embodiment, it is possible to make a greater contribution to "improve education, awareness, human capacity and institutional capacity on climate change mitigation, adaptation, impact reduction and early warning" as stated in Target 13.3 of the SDGs, compared to a configuration in which the history of collection activities by User UP is not taken into consideration when awarding points to User UP.
[0100] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the recovery box 3 is characterized in that it is possible to recover the recovery box 3 both when there is no ink remaining in the ink chamber of the cartridge 7 and when there is ink remaining in the ink chamber of the cartridge 7.
[0101] Therefore, according to this embodiment, the possibility of environmental pollution due to inappropriate disposal of ink by user UP can be reduced, compared to an embodiment in which the collection box 3 can collect the cartridge 7 only if there is no ink remaining inside the cartridge 7. Therefore, according to this embodiment, compared to an embodiment in which the collection box 3 can collect the cartridge 7 only if there is no ink remaining inside the cartridge 7, it is possible to make a greater contribution to "reducing the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water and soil pollution" as stated in Target 3.9 of the SDGs.
[0102] In addition, according to this embodiment, compared to an embodiment in which the collection box 3 can collect the cartridge 7 only if no ink remains inside the cartridge 7, it is possible to make a greater contribution to "improving water quality by minimizing the release of harmful chemicals" as stated in Target 3.9 of the SDGs.
[0103] <<B. Modification Example>> Each of the above forms can be variously modified. Specific modification modes are exemplified below. Two or more modes arbitrarily selected from the following examples can be appropriately combined within a range where they do not conflict with each other. In addition, for elements whose actions and functions are equivalent to those of the embodiment in the modification examples exemplified below, the reference numerals referred to in the above description are reused, and the detailed description of each is appropriately omitted.
[0104] <<Modification Example 1>> In the above-described embodiment, the case where the cartridge 7 includes the storage device 70 that stores the cartridge model number information D71 has been exemplified and described, but the present invention is not limited to such a mode. For example, the cartridge 7 may include a symbol for representing the cartridge model number information D71. Here, the symbol may be a display having a pattern for representing the cartridge model number information D71. More specifically, the symbol may be a two-dimensional code for representing the cartridge model number information D71, or may be a one-dimensional code for representing the cartridge model number information D71.
[0105] In addition, when the cartridge 7 includes a symbol, the cartridge information reading device 31 may be an imaging device that images the symbol, or may be an image processing device for reading the cartridge model number information D71 from the symbol.
[0106] That is, in this modified example, the management server 1 is equipped with a number information acquisition unit 11 that acquires cartridge number information DK indicating the number of cartridges 7 brought into the collection box 3 during the collection action, the cartridge 7 is equipped with a symbol representing cartridge model number information D71 relating to the cartridge 7, the collection box 3 is equipped with a cartridge information reading device 31 that reads the cartridge model number information D71 from the symbol, a cartridge collection determination unit 41 that determines whether the item brought into the collection box 3 is a cartridge 7 that can be collected by the collection box 3 based on the reading result of the cartridge model number information D71 by the cartridge information reading device 31, and a cartridge number counting unit 42 that generates cartridge number information DK based on the determination result of the cartridge collection determination unit 41, and the number information acquisition unit 11 acquires the cartridge number information DK generated by the cartridge number counting unit 42 from the collection box 3.
[0107] In addition, in this modified example, the management server 1 is equipped with a number information acquisition unit 11 that acquires cartridge number information DK indicating the number of cartridges 7 brought into the collection box 3 during the collection action, the cartridge 7 is equipped with a symbol representing cartridge model number information D71 relating to the cartridge 7, the collection box 3 is equipped with a cartridge information reading device 31 that reads the symbol, a cartridge collection determination unit 41 that determines whether the item brought into the collection box 3 is a cartridge 7 that can be collected by the collection box 3 based on the reading result by the cartridge information reading device 31, and a cartridge number counting unit 42 that generates cartridge number information DK based on the determination result of the cartridge collection determination unit 41, and the number information acquisition unit 11 may be characterized as acquiring the cartridge number information DK generated by the cartridge number counting unit 42 from the collection box 3.
[0108] Thus, according to this modified example, the collection box 3 determines whether an item brought to the collection box 3 is a cartridge 7 that should be collected by the collection box 3 based on the symbol on the cartridge 7, making it easier to identify the cartridge 7 compared to conventional methods such as deploying personnel with specific skills who can identify the type of cartridge 7 and deploying a specific sensor device that can identify the type of cartridge 7. Therefore, according to this embodiment, compared to the conventional approach of deploying personnel with specific skills or specific sensor devices, it is possible to make a greater contribution to "promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization and increase employment" in the recycling-related industrial sector, as described in Target 9.2 of the SDGs.
[0109] <<Variation 2>> In the above-described embodiment and modified example 1, the cartridge information reader 31 reads the cartridge model number information D71 from the cartridge 7, but the present invention is not limited to this embodiment.
[0110] For example, the cartridge information reading device 31 may be an image analysis device that reads the shape of the cartridge 7. In this case, the cartridge collection determination unit 41 may determine whether or not the article brought to the collection box 3 is a cartridge 7 that can be collected by the collection box 3, based on the shape of the cartridge 7 read by the cartridge information reading device 31. Also, for example, the cartridge information reading device 31 may be an imaging device that images the cartridge 7. In this case, the cartridge collection determination unit 41 may determine whether or not the article brought to the collection box 3 is a cartridge 7 that can be collected by the collection box 3, based on the imaging result by the cartridge information reading device 31.
[0111] <<Variation 3>> In the above-described embodiment and variants 1 and 2, an example has been given in which the management server 1 awards points to user UP when user UP performs a collection action, and also awards points to user UP when the accumulated points earned by user UP satisfy certain conditions, but the present invention is not limited to such an embodiment.
[0112] For example, when the user UP performs a collection action, the management server 1 may determine the points to be given to the user UP based on the number of times that the cartridge 7 that is the subject of the collection action has been regenerated as a recycled product. Furthermore, for example, when the user UP performs a collection action, the management server 1 may determine the points to be given to the user UP based on the manufacturing date of the cartridge 7 that is the subject of the collection action.
[0113] <<Variation 4>> In the above-described embodiment and variants 1 to 3, the management server 1 grants points to the user UP when the user UP performs a collection action, etc., but the present invention is not limited to such an embodiment. For example, the management server 1 may increase the rate at which points are granted to the user UP when the user UP performs a collection action, etc. In other words, in this variant, an increase in the point grant rate is an example of a "benefit."
[0114] In the present invention, the "benefit" is not limited to points and an increase in the point allocation rate, etc. The "benefit" may be, for example, a tangible or intangible thing that is valuable to the user UP, such as money or a gift certificate, or may be something that motivates the user UP to perform a collection action, or may be something that motivates the user UP to bring more cartridges 7 to the collection box 3 in one collection action.
[0115] <<Variation 5>> In the above-described embodiment and modified examples 1 to 4, the cartridge 7 is exemplified as the specific member that is the target of the collection action, but the present invention is not limited to this embodiment. The target of the collection action in the management system Sys may be any reusable specific member.
[0116] Here, the specific member may be, for example, a container for storing consumables used in the printing device PR, such as a cartridge 7 that stores ink as a consumable, or a toner bottle that stores toner as a consumable. The specific member may also be, for example, a container for storing waste generated in accordance with the use of the printing device PR, such as a waste ink box that stores waste ink as waste, and a waste toner box that stores waste toner as waste.
[0117] Furthermore, the specific member is not limited to a member related to the printing device PR. For example, the specific member may be a member that can be reused by replacing consumables, such as a projector equipped with a lamp as a consumable item, or a smartphone equipped with a battery as a consumable item. It is preferable that the specific member is provided with a storage device that stores component information related to the specific member, or a symbol that represents the component information related to the specific member. Here, in the above-mentioned embodiment, the container information exemplified as the cartridge model number information D71 is an example of "component information" for identifying the specific member.
[0118] Furthermore, the specific member is not limited to a member that can be reused by replacing a consumable product. For example, the specific member may be a member that can be reused by disassembling it into its components, such as clothing made of fabric and printing paper made of fiber. [Explanation of symbols]
[0119] 1...management server, 3...collection box, 5...collection reception terminal, 7...cartridge, 8...user card, 9...recycling factory, 10...control device, 11...number information acquisition unit, 12...point number determination unit, 13...point awarding unit, 14...user management unit, 30...cartridge input port, 31...cartridge information reading device, 32...user card information reading device, 40...control device, 41...cartridge collection determination unit, 42...cartridge number counting unit, 43...user card authentication unit, 70...storage device, 80...storage device, PR...printing device, Sys...management system.
Claims
1. A method for controlling a management device that manages a container that contains consumables used in a printing device, comprising: A processor of the management device When a user brings a first number of storage containers in a collection action of bringing the storage containers to a collection facility for collecting the storage containers, a first amount of a benefit is given to the user; an awarding unit that awards a second amount of a privilege to the user when the user brings in a second number of storage containers that is greater than the first number during the collection action; Function as a the second amount divided by the second number is greater than the first amount divided by the first number; A control method comprising:
2. A processor of the management device an acquisition unit that acquires number information indicating the number of storage containers brought to the collection facility in the collection action; The container comprises: A storage device is provided for storing container information relating to the storage container, The recovery facility includes: a reading device that reads the container information from the storage device; an item determination unit that determines whether an item brought to the collection facility is the storage container based on a result of reading the container information by the reading device; a quantity information generating unit that generates the quantity information based on a judgment result of the product evaluation unit; Equipped with The acquisition unit acquires the number information generated by the number information generation unit from the collection facility.
2. The control method according to claim 1 .
3. A processor of the management device an acquisition unit that acquires number information indicating the number of storage containers brought to the collection facility in the collection action; The container comprises: a symbol indicating container information relating to the storage container; The recovery facility includes: A reader for reading the symbol; an item determination unit that determines whether the item brought to the collection facility is the storage container based on a reading result by the reading device; a quantity information generating unit that generates the quantity information based on a judgment result of the product evaluation unit; Equipped with The acquisition unit acquires the number information generated by the number information generation unit from the collection facility.
2. The control method according to claim 1 .
4. The above benefits include: The right to obtain remanufactured containers using the containers brought to the recovery facility.
2. The control method according to claim 1 .
5. A processor of the management device a user management unit that manages history information relating to the history of collection actions by the user; The applying unit is determining an amount of a reward to be granted to the user based on the historical information; 2. The control method according to claim 1 .
6. The recovery facility includes: When no consumables are left in the storage container, In both cases, when consumables are left in the storage container, The container is retrievable.
2. The control method according to claim 1 .
7. A management system for managing a reusable specific member, When a user brings a first number of specific components into a recovery facility for recovering the specific components in a recovery action of the specific components, a first amount of a privilege is granted to the user; a granting unit that grants a second amount of a benefit to the user when the user brings in a second number of specific members, the second number being greater than the first number, in the collection action; the second amount divided by the second number is greater than the first amount divided by the first number; 1. A management system comprising:
8. an acquisition unit that acquires number information indicating the number of specific components brought to the recovery facility in the recovery action, The specific member is a storage device for storing component information relating to the specific component; The recovery facility includes: a reading device that reads the member information from the storage device; a product determination unit that determines whether or not an item brought to the collection facility is the specified component based on a result of reading the component information by the reading device; a quantity information generating unit that generates the quantity information based on a judgment result of the product evaluation unit; Equipped with The acquisition unit acquires the number information generated by the number information generation unit from the collection facility. The management system according to claim 7 .
9. an acquisition unit that acquires number information indicating the number of specific components brought to the recovery facility in the recovery action, The specific member is A symbol indicating component information relating to the specific component is provided, The recovery facility includes: A reader for reading the symbol; an item determination unit that determines whether an item brought to the collection facility is the specified component based on a reading result by the reading device; a quantity information generating unit that generates the quantity information based on a judgment result of the product evaluation unit; Equipped with The acquisition unit acquires the number information generated by the number information generation unit from the collection facility. The management system according to claim 7 .
10. The above benefits include: The right to obtain specific parts remanufactured using the specific parts brought to the recovery facility. The management system according to claim 7 .
11. a user management unit for managing history information relating to a history of collection actions by the user; The applying unit is determining an amount of a reward to be granted to the user based on the historical information; The management system according to claim 7 .
Citation Information
Patent Citations
Filling unit of cartridge
JP2003039708A