Consumable-component consumption apparatus, external terminal, and system

Abstract

To reduce the possibility that, when a user subscribes to a privilege granting service in which a privilege is granted in accordance with recycling collection of consumable components, the user is dissatisfied with the consumable components collected by the user before subscribing to the privilege granting service.SOLUTION: The consumable component consumption apparatus includes an attachment section to which a consumable component is detachably attached, a display section, and a control section. The control unit causes a display unit to display pre-subscription privilege information indicating a privilege that can be granted in accordance with a consumable component collected before a user subscribes to a privilege granting service in which a privilege is granted in accordance with collection of the consumable component for recycling.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a consumable part consumption device, an external terminal, and a system. [Background technology]

[0002] As an example of a consumable parts consumption device, Patent Document 1 discloses an inkjet printer that consumes ink in an ink cartridge to record an image on a recording medium. In recent years, consumable parts such as ink cartridges used in such inkjet printers are collected and recycled by recycling companies such as manufacturers when they are used. In addition, from the perspective of promoting recycling, a system has been provided that provides benefits to users who cooperate in the collection of consumable parts.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a system in which incentives are given to registered users who have accessed a collection center system and registered in advance, in response to the collection of consumable parts owned by the registered users. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2003-203186 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] Here, users do not necessarily have consumable parts collected after completing user registration. Furthermore, users may have consumable parts collected without registering, unaware that user registration will grant benefits in accordance with the collection of consumable parts. However, in Patent Document 1, incentives (benefits) are not granted for consumable parts collected by users before user registration. Therefore, users are unable to receive benefits in accordance with consumable parts collected by users before user registration, which may lead to dissatisfaction.

[0006] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to reduce dissatisfaction with consumable parts that a user had collected before subscribing to a special benefit service that provides special benefits in response to the collection of consumable parts for recycling when the user subscribes to the special benefit service. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In order to solve the above problems, the consumable parts consumption device of the present invention comprises an attachment unit for detachably attaching consumable parts, a display unit, and a control unit, and is characterized in that the control unit displays pre-membership benefit information on the display unit indicating benefits that can be granted in accordance with the consumable parts collected before the user joins a benefit granting service in which benefits are granted in accordance with the collection of the consumable parts for recycling.

[0008] In addition, the external terminal of the present invention is an external terminal that can be connected to a consumable part consumption device that has an attachment part for detachably attaching consumable parts, and is characterized in that it is equipped with a terminal display part and a terminal control part, and the terminal control part displays pre-subscription benefit information on the terminal display part that indicates benefits that can be granted in accordance with the consumable parts collected before the user joins a benefit granting service that grants benefits in accordance with the collection of the consumable parts for recycling.

[0009] The system of the present invention is a system including a consumable part consumption device and a server, wherein the consumable part consumption device comprises an attachment unit for detachably attaching a consumable part, a device control unit, and a device storage unit, and the server comprises a server control unit and a server storage unit, and the device control unit stores first unique identification information of the consumable part attached to the attachment unit in the device storage unit, and the server control unit grants the benefit to a user who has subscribed to a benefit granting service in which a benefit is granted in response to collection of the consumable part for recycling if second unique identification information of the consumable part collected for recycling is unique identification information of the consumable part linked to the consumable part consumption device of the user who has subscribed to the benefit granting service, and If the second unique identification information is not the unique identification information of the consumable part linked to the user's consumable part consumption device, the second unique identification information is stored in the server memory unit, and after the consumable part consumption device and the server are connected so as to be able to communicate, the first unique identification information stored in the device memory unit is acquired from the consumable part consumption device, and if the acquired first unique identification information matches the second unique identification information stored in the server memory unit, the consumable part of the first unique identification information is determined to be a consumable part that the user of the consumable part consumption device has collected for recycling, and when the user subscribes to the benefit granting service, pre-subscription benefit information indicating a benefit that can be granted in response to the recycling of the consumable part is stored in the server memory unit.

[0010] In another aspect of the present invention, a system includes a consumable part consumption device and a server, wherein the consumable part consumption device includes an attachment unit for detachably attaching a consumable part having a consumable part memory unit that stores unique consumable part identification information, and a device control unit, and the server includes a server control unit and a server memory unit, and when the consumable part is attached to the attachment unit, the device control unit stores the unique device identification information of the consumable part consumption device in the consumable part memory unit of the consumable part, and the server control unit acquires the consumable part identification information and the device identification information stored in the consumable part memory unit of the consumable part collected for recycling, and the acquired device identification information is used to identify the consumable part according to the collection of the consumable part for recycling. If the acquired device identification information is device identification information linked to the consumable part consuming device of a user who is subscribed to a benefit-granting service to which a benefit is granted, the benefit is granted to the user, and if the acquired device identification information is not device identification information linked to the consumable part consuming device of a user who is subscribed to the benefit-granting service, the acquired consumable part identification information and the device identification information are stored in the server memory unit, and pre-subscription benefit information indicating a benefit that can be granted in response to the recycling of the consumable part when the user subscribes to the benefit-granting service is stored in the server memory unit, assuming that the consumable part in the consumable part identification information is a consumable part that the user of the consumable part consuming device in the device identification information has collected for recycling. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] According to the present invention, it is possible to reduce dissatisfaction with consumable parts that users have collected before subscribing to the special benefit service. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] 10A is a diagram illustrating a subscriber user database, FIG. 10B is a diagram illustrating a non-subscriber user database, and FIG. 10C is a diagram illustrating a collection database. [Figure 3] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating a screen displayed on a touch panel of a printer. [Figure 4] 10A is a flowchart illustrating the flow of processing related to the transmission of a cartridge list of a printer, and FIG. 10B is a flowchart illustrating the flow of processing related to the granting of recycle points by a server. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram illustrating the sequence of a printer, a server, and an external terminal when a user subscribes to a point-giving service. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram illustrating a sequence of a printer, a server, and an external terminal when a user subscribes to a point-giving service according to a modification of the first embodiment. [Figure 7] (a) is a flowchart illustrating the processing flow related to the printer writing the printer ID to the cartridge memory in the second embodiment, and (b) is a flowchart illustrating the processing flow related to the server awarding recycling points in the second embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 11 is a sequence diagram illustrating the sequence of a printer, a server, and an external terminal when a user subscribes to a points-giving service according to the second embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 11 is a sequence diagram illustrating a sequence of a printer, a server, and an external terminal when a user subscribes to a point-giving service according to a modification of the second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0013] (First embodiment) <System Overview> The following describes a schematic configuration of the system 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0014] 1, the system 1 includes a printer 2, a server 3, and an external terminal 4. The printer 2, the server 3, and the external terminal 4 are communicably connected to each other via a network NT such as the Internet. The printer 2 and the external terminal 4 may be communicably connected via a wired connection such as a USB cable, or may be communicably connected wirelessly via wireless LAN communication such as WiFi or short-range wireless communication such as Bluetooth (registered trademark). The printer 2 and the external terminal 4 may also be connected to each other via the server 3.

[0015] <Printer Overview> Printer 2 (corresponding to a "consumable part consumption device") is an inkjet printer that records (prints) images on paper using ink, and is equipped with a cartridge holder 21, a recording unit 22, a touch panel 23, an input device 24, a communication interface 25, a printer control unit 201, and a printer memory unit 202, etc.

[0016] The cartridge holder 21 (corresponding to the "mounting section") removably mounts an ink cartridge C (corresponding to the "consumable part"). The ink cartridge C comprises a cartridge housing (not shown) capable of storing ink, and a cartridge memory CM (corresponding to the "consumable part storage section"). The cartridge memory CM is a non-volatile memory or the like, and stores various information such as unique cartridge identification information (corresponding to the "consumable part identification information"; hereinafter referred to as the "cartridge ID") that identifies each individual ink cartridge C.

[0017] Ink cartridges C specifically include ink cartridges C that store yellow ink, ink cartridges C that store magenta ink, ink cartridges C that store cyan ink, and ink cartridges C that store black ink, but for convenience, they will not be distinguished from one another and will be collectively referred to as "ink cartridges C."

[0018] The recording unit 22 is an inkjet recording mechanism that consumes ink from an ink cartridge C attached to the cartridge holder 21 to record an image on paper, which is a recording medium.

[0019] The touch panel 23 (corresponding to a "display unit" or "device display unit") has a function of accepting various inputs from the user and a display function of displaying various setting screens, operating status, etc. to the user. The input device 24 accepts user inputs. The communication interface 25 is a wired or wireless network interface for communicating with other devices and is connected to the network NT.

[0020] The printer control unit 201 (corresponding to a "control unit" or "device control unit") controls the operation of each unit of the printer 2 to manage the operation of the printer 2, and includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a ROM (Read Only Memory) in which programs executed by the CPU are stored, a RAM (Random Access Memory) in which data required for program execution is temporarily stored, etc. The printer control unit 201 executes various processes using the CPU in accordance with the programs stored in the ROM.

[0021] The printer memory unit 202 (corresponding to the "device memory unit") is a non-volatile memory or the like, and stores unique identification information that identifies the printer 2 (corresponding to the "device identification information"; hereinafter referred to as the "printer ID"), as well as various data such as the cartridge list described below.

[0022] The cartridge holder 21 is provided with an installation detection sensor 21a and a connection terminal 21b. The installation detection sensor 21a is a sensor for detecting installation of the ink cartridge C in the cartridge holder 21. The connection terminal 21b is a terminal that is electrically connected to the cartridge memory CM of the ink cartridge C when the ink cartridge C is installed in the cartridge holder 21. The printer control unit 201 can read and write data from and to the cartridge memory CM of the ink cartridge C via the connection terminal 21b.

[0023] <Server Overview> The server 3 is installed and managed by a vendor such as a manufacturer, and includes a communication interface 31, a server control unit 301, and a server storage unit 302. The communication interface 31 is a network interface similar to the communication interface 25.

[0024] The server control unit 301 controls the operation of each unit of the server 3 and manages the operation of the server 3, and includes a CPU, ROM, RAM, etc. The server control unit 301 executes various processes using the CPU in accordance with programs stored in the ROM. The server storage unit 302 is a non-volatile memory or the like, and stores various data such as a subscribed user database, a non-subscribed user database, and a collection database, which will be described later.

[0025] <External terminal overview> In this embodiment, the external terminal 4 is a mobile terminal such as a smartphone owned by the user, but is not limited to this and may be, for example, a personal computer.

[0026] The external terminal 4 includes a touch panel 41, a communication interface 42, a terminal control unit 401, and a terminal storage unit 402. The touch panel 41 (corresponding to the "terminal display unit") has the same function as the touch panel 23. The communication interface 42 is a network interface similar to the communication interface 25.

[0027] The terminal control unit 401 controls the operation of each unit of the external terminal 4 and manages the operation of the external terminal 4, and includes a CPU, ROM, RAM, etc. The terminal control unit 401 executes various processes using the CPU in accordance with programs stored in the ROM. The terminal storage unit 402 is a non-volatile memory or the like, and stores various information such as the printer ID of the printer 2 owned by the user.

[0028] Here, the ink inside the ink cartridge C attached to the cartridge holder 21 is consumed when recording is performed on paper by the recording unit 22. Therefore, when the ink in the ink cartridge C is consumed and runs out, the user must replace the ink cartridge C attached to the cartridge holder 21.

[0029] In recent years, from the viewpoint of environmental protection and ecology, there has been a growing demand for the recycling of consumable parts such as the ink cartridge C. "Recycling" is a concept that includes the recycling of used consumable parts as resources or raw materials, as well as remanufacturing.

[0030] Ink cartridges C are recycled, for example, as follows: A user sends a used ink cartridge C that has run out of ink to a recycling company via mail or other means. The recycling company then performs a recycling process on the collected ink cartridge C. For example, the collected ink cartridge C is refilled with ink, making it a recycled product that can be used again. The recycled ink cartridge C is then delivered to the user via a retailer or other means.

[0031] Furthermore, in order to promote recycling, the system 1 of this embodiment provides users with a points-granting service (corresponding to a "benefit-granting service") that grants recycling points in response to the collection of ink cartridges C for recycling. With this points-granting service, when a user who has subscribed to the service has their ink cartridge C collected for recycling, the user is granted recycling points. Recycling points are points that can be returned in some form as a benefit to the user, and can be used, for example, to purchase ink cartridges C.

[0032] A subscriber user database for each subscriber who has subscribed to the point-granting service is stored in the server storage unit 302 of the server 3. As shown in Fig. 2(a), the subscriber user database stores a user ID for identifying the subscriber user, the printer ID of the printer 2 owned by the subscriber user, the cartridge ID of each ink cartridge C used in the subscriber user's printer 2, and owned points indicating the total number of recycling points currently owned by the subscriber user, all of which are linked to one another.

[0033] When an ink cartridge C is collected, the recycler inputs cartridge collection information into the server 3. The cartridge collection information includes cartridge-related information, collection date information, collection method information, etc., related to the collected ink cartridge C. The cartridge-related information includes information about the collected ink cartridge C, such as the cartridge ID, product model number, type of ink stored (such as color), and the condition of the ink cartridge C. The collection date information is information indicating the date the ink cartridge C was collected. The collection method information is information related to the collection method of the ink cartridge C, and is information indicating, for example, whether the ink cartridge was collected by mail or via a retailer.

[0034] The server control unit 301 of the server 3 calculates recycling points according to the collection of the ink cartridges C based on the acquired cartridge collection information. Here, the server control unit 301 may calculate recycling points so that the number of points per collected ink cartridge C is the same regardless of the type or condition of the collected ink cartridge C, or may calculate recycling points so that the number of points varies depending on the type and condition of the collected ink cartridge C. For example, the better the condition of the collected ink cartridge C, the more recycling points may be assigned. Furthermore, the more times an ink cartridge C has been collected for recycling in the past, the more recycling points may be assigned.

[0035] If the cartridge ID included in the acquired cartridge collection information is registered in the subscribed user database, the server control unit 301 determines that the ink cartridge C indicated by the cartridge ID is the ink cartridge C collected by the subscribed user indicated by the user ID linked to that cartridge ID. The server control unit 301 then adds the calculated recycle points to the owned points linked to that cartridge ID in the subscribed user database. This grants the subscribed user recycling points corresponding to the collection of the ink cartridge C. When the subscribed user uses recycling points, the server control unit 301 subtracts the used recycling points from the owned points linked to the user ID of that subscribed user in the subscribed user database.

[0036] As described above, by giving recycling points to users in accordance with the collection of ink cartridges C for recycling, it is possible to further strengthen users' awareness of recycling.

[0037] However, users do not necessarily have their ink cartridges C collected after subscribing to a point-granting service. Furthermore, users may have their ink cartridges C collected without subscribing to the point-granting service, unaware that subscribing to the point-granting service gives them recycling points in accordance with the collection of ink cartridges for recycling. For this reason, if the system is configured so that recycling points are not awarded to users for ink cartridges C that the user collected before subscribing to the point-granting service, there is a risk that the users will become dissatisfied.

[0038] Therefore, the system 1 of this embodiment is configured to allow users who have subscribed to the point-giving service to additionally receive recycling points corresponding to the ink cartridges C that were collected before subscribing to the point-giving service. This will be explained in detail below.

[0039] The server storage unit 302 stores a non-subscriber user database (see FIG. 2(b)) and a collection database (see FIG. 2(c)).

[0040] As shown in Figure 2(b), the non-subscriber user database is a database related to non-subscriber users who have not subscribed to the point-giving service. The non-subscriber user database stores, linked together, the printer ID of the printer 2 owned by the non-subscriber user, the cartridge ID of each ink cartridge C used in the printer 2 of the non-subscriber user, and pre-subscription points (corresponding to "pre-subscription benefit information") indicating the total number of additional recycling points that will be awarded when the non-subscriber user subscribes to the point-giving service.

[0041] As shown in Figure 2(c), the collection database is a database related to ink cartridges C collected by non-subscriber users among the collected ink cartridges C. If the cartridge ID included in the cartridge collection information obtained from the recycler is not registered in the subscriber user database, the server control unit 301 links the cartridge collection information with the calculated recycle points and registers them in the collection database. Therefore, the collection database stores the cartridge IDs of ink cartridges C collected by non-subscriber users.

[0042] When an ink cartridge C is installed in the cartridge holder 21, the printer control unit 201 of the printer 2 reads the cartridge ID stored in the cartridge memory CM of the installed ink cartridge C and registers it in the cartridge list of the printer storage unit 202. The cartridge list is a list showing the cartridge ID of each ink cartridge C that has been installed in the cartridge holder 21 in the past.

[0043] Then, after the printer 2 and the server 3 are connected so that they can communicate with each other, the server control unit 301 acquires from the printer 2 the printer ID and the cartridge list stored in the printer storage unit 202. If the acquired printer ID is registered in the subscribing user database, the server control unit 301 links the cartridge IDs in the acquired cartridge list to the registered printer ID and registers them in the subscribing user database. On the other hand, if the acquired printer ID is not registered in the subscribing user database, the server control unit 301 links the cartridge IDs in the acquired cartridge list to the same acquired printer ID and registers them in the non-subscribing user database.

[0044] Furthermore, if the cartridge ID (corresponding to "first unique identification information") in the acquired cartridge list matches the cartridge ID (corresponding to "second unique identification information") in any of the cartridge collection information in the collection database, the server control unit 301 determines that the ink cartridge C indicated by the matching cartridge ID is an ink cartridge that has previously been collected for recycling by a non-subscriber user who owns the printer 2 indicated by the acquired printer ID (the printer 2 that sent the cartridge list). The server control unit 301 calculates the total value of recycling points linked to the matching cartridge ID in the collection database. The server control unit 301 then registers the calculated total value of recycling points as pre-subscription points in the non-subscriber user database, linked to the printer ID of the non-subscriber user's printer 2.

[0045] With the above configuration, pre-subscription points indicating the recycle points that can be awarded according to the ink cartridges C collected before the user joined the points awarding service can be accurately stored in the server storage unit 302.

[0046] However, even if the system is configured to award the pre-subscription points to the user when subscribing to the point-granting service, if the user is not aware of the pre-subscription points, there is still a risk that the user will be dissatisfied with the ink cartridge C that the user had collected before subscribing to the point-granting service.

[0047] Therefore, after the printer 2 of the non-subscribed user and the server 3 are connected so as to be able to communicate with each other, the printer control unit 201 of the printer 2 of the non-subscribed user acquires, from the server 3, pre-subscription points linked to the printer ID of the printer 2 and cartridge collection information linked to the cartridge ID in the cartridge list sent from the printer 2. Then, before the user subscribes to the points-giving service, the printer control unit 201 displays, based on the acquired information, a subscription guidance screen 230 including guidance information 230a, pre-subscription point information 230b, cartridge collection information 230c, and a QR code (registered trademark) 230d on the touch panel 23, as shown in FIG. 3(a).

[0048] The guidance information 230a is information for encouraging the user to join the point-granting service. The pre-subscription point information 230b is information indicating the pre-subscription points that are additionally awarded when joining the point-granting service. The cartridge collection information 230c is cartridge collection information acquired from the server 3, and includes cartridge-related information (equivalent to "consumable part information"), collection date information, collection method information, etc. The QR code 230d is a QR code indicating a URL for user registration in the point-granting service.

[0049] As described above, by displaying the subscription information screen 230 on the touch panel 23, the user can understand that when the user subscribes to the points-giving service, they will be given additional recycling points corresponding to the ink cartridges C that the user had collected before subscribing. This reduces the possibility that the user will be dissatisfied with the ink cartridges C that the user had collected before subscribing to the points-giving service.

[0050] Thereafter, when the user subscribes to the point-giving service, the server control unit 301 updates the database stored in the server storage unit 302. Specifically, the server control unit 301 newly registers in the subscribed user database the user ID of the user who subscribed to the point-giving service, the printer ID of the printer 2 owned by the user, and the cartridge ID linked to that printer ID in the non-subscribed user database. In addition, the server control unit 301 registers the pre-subscription points linked to the printer ID of the printer 2 of the user in the non-subscribed user database as owned points, linked to the printer ID of the printer 2 of the user, in the subscribed user database.

[0051] The server control unit 301 also deletes the cartridge ID and the owned points linked to the printer ID of the printer 2 of the user who has subscribed to the point-giving service from the non-subscriber database. The server control unit 301 also deletes the cartridge collection information and recycle points linked to the cartridge ID of the ink cartridge C of the user from the collection database.

[0052] After the user joins the points-granting service, the printer control unit 201 causes the touch panel 23 to display a joining completion screen 240 including joining completion information 240a, pre-joining point information 240b, and cartridge collection information 240c, as shown in FIG. 3(b).

[0053] The subscription completion information 240a is information for informing the user that subscription to the point-giving service has been completed. The pre-subscription point information 240b is information indicating pre-subscription points that will be additionally awarded to a user who has subscribed to the point-giving service. The cartridge collection information 240c is information similar to the cartridge collection information 230c on the subscription information screen 230.

[0054] As described above, after a user subscribes to the point-granting service, by displaying the subscription completion screen 240 on the touch panel 23, the user can understand that additional recycling points have been awarded in accordance with the ink cartridges C that the user had collected before subscribing to the point-granting service.

[0055] <Process flow related to sending the printer cartridge list> Next, the flow of processing related to the transmission of the cartridge list of the printer 2 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0056] Based on a signal from installation detection sensor 21a, printer control unit 201 determines (A1) whether an ink cartridge C has been newly installed in cartridge holder 21 (whether the state of cartridge holder 21 has transitioned from an ink cartridge C not installed to an installed state). If it determines that an ink cartridge C has been newly installed (A1: YES), printer control unit 201 reads the cartridge ID stored in cartridge memory CM of the installed ink cartridge C via connection terminal 21b (A2).

[0057] Next, printer control unit 201 registers the read cartridge ID in the cartridge list of printer storage unit 202 (A3). When the process of A3 ends, the process returns to the process of A1.

[0058] If it is determined in the process of A1 that a new ink cartridge C has not been installed (A1: NO), the printer control unit 201 determines whether or not it is connected to the server 3 so as to be able to communicate (A4). If it is determined that it is not connected to the server 3 so as to be able to communicate (A4: NO), the process returns to A1.

[0059] On the other hand, if it is determined that the printer is connected to the server 3 so that it can communicate with the server 3 (A4: YES), the printer control unit 201 transmits the cartridge list stored in the printer storage unit 202 and its own printer ID to the server 3 (A5). Note that if the cartridge list stored in the printer storage unit 202 has not been updated since the cartridge list was last transmitted, the process of A5 does not need to be executed. When the process of A5 is completed, the process returns to the process of A1.

[0060] <Process flow related to granting server recycling points> Next, the flow of processing related to the awarding of recycle points by the server 3 will be described with reference to FIG. 4(b).

[0061] The server control unit 301 determines whether or not cartridge collection information has been acquired from a recycler (B1). If it is determined that cartridge collection information has been acquired (B1: YES), the server control unit 301 calculates recycle points based on the acquired cartridge collection information (B2).

[0062] Next, the server control unit 301 refers to the subscribing user database stored in the server storage unit 302 and determines whether the cartridge ID included in the cartridge collection information is linked to the printer ID of the subscribing user's printer 2 (B3). If it determines that the cartridge ID is linked to the printer ID of the subscribing user's printer 2 (B3: YES), the server control unit 301 adds the recycle points calculated in the processing of B2 to the owned points linked to the printer ID of the subscribing user's printer 2 in the subscribing user database of the server storage unit 302 (B4), and returns to processing B1.

[0063] On the other hand, if it is determined that the cartridge ID is not linked to the printer ID of the subscribed user's printer 2 (B3: NO), the server control unit 301 links the acquired cartridge collection information to the recycle points calculated in the processing of B2, registers it in the collection database stored in the server memory unit 302 (B5), and returns to the processing of B1.

[0064] If it is determined in the process of B1 that cartridge collection information has not been acquired (B1: NO), the server control unit 301 determines whether it is connected to the printer 2 so as to be able to communicate (B6).If it is determined that it is not connected to the printer 2 so as to be able to communicate (B6: NO), the process returns to B1.

[0065] On the other hand, if it is determined that the server is connected to the printer 2 so that it can communicate with the printer 2 (B6: YES), the server control unit 301 receives the cartridge list and printer ID from the printer 2 (B7). Next, the server control unit 301 registers the cartridge IDs in the received cartridge list in the subscribed user database or the non-subscribed user database (B8). Specifically, if the received printer ID is registered in the subscribed user database, the server control unit 301 links the cartridge IDs in the received cartridge list to the received printer ID and registers them in the subscribed user database. On the other hand, if the received printer ID is not registered in the subscribed user database, the server control unit 301 links the cartridge IDs in the received cartridge list to the received printer ID and registers them in the non-subscribed user database.

[0066] Next, the server control unit 301 compares (B9) each cartridge ID in the received cartridge list with each cartridge ID in the collection database stored in the server storage unit 302. If the server control unit 301 determines that none of the cartridge IDs in the cartridge list match the cartridge IDs in the collection database (B10: NO), it returns to the process of B1.

[0067] On the other hand, if the server control unit 301 determines that at least one cartridge ID in the cartridge list matches one of the cartridge IDs in the collection database (B10: YES), the server control unit 301 updates the non-subscriber user database stored in the server storage unit 302 (B11). Specifically, the server control unit 301 adds recycling points to the pre-subscription points associated with the printer ID received in the processing of B7 in the non-subscriber user database. The added recycling points are the total value of recycling points associated with each cartridge ID in the collection database that matches a cartridge ID in the cartridge list. When processing of B11 is completed, the process returns to processing of B1.

[0068] <Sequence of the printer, server, and external terminal when a user subscribes to a points-granting service> Next, a series of sequences among the printer 2, server 3, and external terminal 4 when a user who has not yet subscribed to the point-granting service subscribes to the point-granting service will be described with reference to Fig. 5. At the start of the sequence in Fig. 5, the printer 2, server 3, and external terminal 4 are connected to each other so that they can communicate with each other.

[0069] First, the printer control unit 201 of the printer 2 receives a request from the user via the touch panel 23 to display information about registering for the point-granting service (C1), and then transmits a request to issue a registration URL to the server 3 (C2). Next, the server control unit 301 of the server 3 that has received the issuance request transmits the registration URL to the printer 2 (C3). Thereafter, the printer control unit 201 generates a QR code from the received registration URL (C4).

[0070] Next, the printer control unit 201 transmits the cartridge list and printer ID stored in the printer storage unit 202 to the server 3 (C5). Thereafter, the server control unit 301 updates the non-subscribed user database stored in the server storage unit 302 based on the received cartridge list (C6). More specifically, the server control unit 301 performs the same processes as those in B7 to B11 described with reference to FIG. 3(b). This allows the non-subscribed user database to reflect the latest cartridge list stored in the printer storage unit 202 of the user's printer 2.

[0071] Next, the server control unit 301 extracts the cartridge collection information and pre-subscription points linked to the printer ID of the user's printer 2 from the non-subscriber user database in the server storage unit 302, and transmits this extracted information to the printer 2 (C7). After that, the printer control unit 201 displays the subscription information screen 230 shown in Fig. 3(a) on the touch panel 23 based on the received information and the QR code generated in the process of C4 (C8).

[0072] Next, the terminal control unit 401 of the external terminal 4 reads the QR code displayed on the touch panel 23 of the printer 2 based on operation input from the user via the touch panel 41 (C9), and sends a page information acquisition request to the server 3 based on the registration URL indicated by the read QR code (C10). Thereafter, the server control unit 301 generates page information for the user to register with the point-granting service (C11), and sends the generated page information to the external terminal 4 (C12).

[0073] Based on the received page information, the terminal control unit 401 of the external terminal 4 generates a guide screen that prompts the user to input user information required for user registration in the point-granting service, and displays the generated screen on the touch panel 41 (C13). Next, if the input of user information is not accepted (C14: NO), the terminal control unit 401 determines that the user will not register in the point-granting service, and ends this process.

[0074] On the other hand, if input of user information is accepted (C14: YES), the terminal control unit 401 transmits the accepted user information to the server 3 (C15). Thereafter, the server control unit 301 performs registration processing for user registration for the point-granting service based on the received user information (C16). At this time, the server control unit 301 also updates the non-subscriber user database, the subscriber user database, and the collection database stored in the server storage unit 302. That is, the server control unit 301 registers the user ID of the user who has registered in the subscriber database. The server control unit 301 also transfers the printer ID of the printer 2 of the user who has registered in the non-subscriber user database and the cartridge ID associated with this printer ID to the subscriber user database. The server control unit 301 also adds the pre-subscription points associated with the printer ID of the printer 2 of the user who has registered in the non-subscriber user database to the owned points associated with the printer ID in the subscriber user database. The server control unit 301 deletes various data linked to the printer ID of the printer 2 of the user who has completed user registration and various data linked to the cartridge ID of the ink cartridge C of the user from the non-subscriber user database and the collection database.

[0075] Thereafter, the server control unit 301 transmits registration completion information indicating that user registration for the point-granting service has been completed to the printer 2 (C17). The printer control unit 201 displays the subscription completion screen 240 shown in FIG. 3(b) on the touch panel 23. When the processing of C17 is completed, this sequence ends.

[0076] As described above, according to the first embodiment, before the user subscribes to the point-granting service, the subscription guide screen 230 (see FIG. 3(a)) including pre-subscription point information 230b is displayed on the touch panel 23 of the printer 2. This allows the user to understand that when the user subscribes to the point-granting service, they will be awarded additional recycling points corresponding to the ink cartridges C that the user had collected before subscribing. This reduces the possibility that the user will be dissatisfied with the ink cartridges C that the user had collected before subscribing to the point-granting service. Furthermore, the subscription guide screen 230 includes guide information 230a that encourages the user to subscribe to the point-granting service, which further increases the user's desire to subscribe to the point-granting service.

[0077] The subscription information screen 230 also includes cartridge collection information 230c. This cartridge collection information 230c includes cartridge-related information, collection date information, collection method information, and the like, relating to the collected ink cartridges C. The cartridge-related information includes the cartridge ID, product model number, and type of ink stored therein, etc., of the collected ink cartridges C. This allows the user to confirm that recycling points have been accurately awarded for each ink cartridge C that was collected before subscribing to the points-awarding service.

[0078] Furthermore, even after the user subscribes to the point-giving service, a subscription completion screen 240 (see FIG. 3(b)) including pre-subscription point information 240b is displayed on the touch panel 23 of the printer 2. This allows the user to understand that additional recycling points have been awarded in accordance with the ink cartridges C that the user had collected before subscribing to the point-giving service.

[0079] Here, if the user is not accurately awarded recycling points corresponding to the ink cartridges C that the user had collected before subscribing to the point-granting service, there is a risk that the user will become dissatisfied. However, in this embodiment, the server storage unit 302 stores a collection database and a non-subscriber database. That is, cartridge collection information and pre-subscription points related to the ink cartridges C that the user had collected before subscribing to the point-granting service are stored in the server storage unit 302. This makes it possible to accurately award the user recycling points corresponding to the ink cartridges C that the user had collected before subscribing to the point-granting service when the user subscribes to the point-granting service. As a result, it is possible to reduce the likelihood that the user will be dissatisfied with the ink cartridges C that the user had collected before subscribing to the point-granting service.

[0080] Although the first embodiment of the present invention has been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the claims. Modifications will be described below, but descriptions of the same parts as in the first embodiment will be omitted as appropriate.

[0081] (Modification of the first embodiment) A modified example of the first embodiment will be described below. In the above embodiment, the membership guide screen 230 including the pre-membership point information 230b and the membership completion screen 240 including the pre-membership point information 240b are displayed on the touch panel 23 of the printer 2. However, in this modified example, they are displayed on the touch panel 41 of the external terminal 4.

[0082] <Sequence of the printer, server, and external terminal when a user subscribes to a points-granting service> Hereinafter, the sequence of the printer 2, server 3, and external terminal 4 when a user subscribes to a points-giving service according to this modification will be described with reference to FIG.

[0083] First, the printer control unit 201 and server control unit 301 of the user's printer 2 execute processes D1 to D3 similar to the processes C1 to C3 described above with reference to Fig. 5. After this, the printer control unit 201 generates a QR code from the received registration URL and displays the generated QR code on the touch panel 23 (D4).

[0084] Next, the terminal control unit 401 of the external terminal 4 reads the QR code displayed on the touch panel 23 of the printer 2 based on the user's operation input via the touch panel 41 (D5), and then sends a page information acquisition request to the server 3 based on the registration URL indicated by the read QR code (D6).

[0085] Next, the server control unit 301 transmits a cartridge list transmission instruction to the printer 2 to instruct the printer 2 to transmit the cartridge list stored in the printer storage unit 202 (D7). After that, the printer control unit 201 transmits the cartridge list stored in the printer storage unit 202 and the printer ID to the server 3 (D8). Next, the server control unit 301 updates the non-subscribed user database stored in the server storage unit 302 based on the received cartridge list, similar to the process of C6 described above (D9).

[0086] Next, the server control unit 301 generates page information for the user to register for the point-granting service (D10). This page information includes cartridge collection information linked to the printer ID of the user's printer 2 and pre-subscription points extracted from the non-subscriber user database in the server storage unit 302.

[0087] The server control unit 301 transmits the generated page information to the external terminal 4 (D11). Next, the terminal control unit 401 generates a membership information screen based on the received page information and displays it on the touch panel 41 (D12). This membership information screen includes information such as guidance information, pre-subscription point information, and cartridge collection information, similar to the membership information screen 230 shown in Fig. 3(a).

[0088] Thereafter, printer control unit 201 and server control unit 301 execute processes D13 to D15, which are similar to the processes C14 to C16 described above.

[0089] Next, the server control unit 301 transmits registration completion information to the external terminal 4 (D16). Then, the terminal control unit 401 displays a subscription completion screen similar to the subscription completion screen 240 shown in Fig. 3(b) on the touch panel 41 (D17). When the processing of D17 ends, this sequence ends.

[0090] As described above, in this modified example, a subscription guide screen including pre-subscription point information and a subscription completion screen including pre-subscription point information are displayed on the touch panel 41 of the external terminal 4. As a result, similar to the first embodiment, the user can understand that additional recycling points will be awarded according to the ink cartridges C that the user had collected before subscribing. As a result, it is possible to reduce the possibility that the user will be dissatisfied with the ink cartridges C that the user had collected before subscribing to the points-granting service.

[0091] (Second embodiment) Next, a second embodiment will be described. In the second embodiment, unlike the first embodiment described above, the printer control unit 201 does not transmit a cartridge list to the server 3, but instead writes its own printer ID into the cartridge memory CM of the ink cartridge C attached to the cartridge holder 21. Therefore, the cartridge memory CM of the ink cartridge C that the user has collected for recycling stores the printer ID of the user's printer 2 in addition to the cartridge ID.

[0092] The cartridge collection information input to the server 3 by the recycler includes the printer ID stored in the cartridge memory CM of the ink cartridge C, in addition to the above-mentioned cartridge-related information, collection date information, and collection method information. When the server control unit 301 of the server 3 acquires the cartridge collection information, if the printer ID included in the cartridge collection information is not registered in the subscriber user database, it registers the printer ID and cartridge ID included in the cartridge collection information in the non-subscriber user database. In addition, the server control unit 301 adds the calculated recycle points to the pre-subscription points in the non-subscriber user database.

[0093] In the above configuration, the recycle points corresponding to the ink cartridges C collected by the user before subscribing to the point-giving service can also be accurately stored in the server storage unit 302 as pre-subscription points.

[0094] <Printer processing flow related to writing the printer ID to the cartridge memory> The flow of processing by the printer 2 relating to writing the printer ID to the cartridge memory CM according to the second embodiment will be described below with reference to FIG. 7(a).

[0095] Based on a signal from installation detection sensor 21a, printer control unit 201 determines whether a new ink cartridge C has been installed in cartridge holder 21 (E1). If it determines that an ink cartridge C has not been installed (E1: NO), the process returns to E1. On the other hand, if it determines that an ink cartridge C has been installed (E1: YES), printer control unit 201 writes its own printer ID, which is stored in printer storage unit 202, into the cartridge memory CM of the installed ink cartridge C via connection terminal 21b (E2). When this E2 process is completed, the process returns to E1.

[0096] <Process flow related to granting server recycling points> Next, the flow of processing related to the awarding of recycle points by the server 3 will be described with reference to FIG. 7(b).

[0097] The server control unit 301 determines whether or not cartridge collection information has been acquired (F1). If it is determined that cartridge collection information has not been acquired (F1: NO), the process returns to F1.

[0098] On the other hand, if it is determined that the cartridge collection information has been acquired (F1: YES), the server control unit 301 calculates recycle points based on the acquired cartridge collection information (F2).

[0099] Next, the server control unit 301 determines (F3) whether the printer ID included in the cartridge collection information is registered in the subscribed user database stored in the server storage unit 302. If it determines that the printer ID is registered in the subscribed user database (F3: YES), the server control unit 301 adds the recycle points calculated in the process of F2 to the owned points linked to the printer ID of the printer 2 of the subscribed user in the subscribed user database of the server storage unit 302 (F4), and returns to the process of F1.

[0100] On the other hand, if it is determined that the printer ID is not registered in the subscribed user database (F3: NO), the server control unit 301 links the cartridge ID and printer ID of the acquired cartridge collection information and registers them in the non-subscribed user database stored in the server storage unit 302 (F5).The server control unit 301 also adds the recycle points calculated in the process of F2 to the pre-subscription points linked to the cartridge ID of the acquired cartridge collection information in the non-subscribed user database of the server storage unit 302.

[0101] Next, the server control unit 301 links the acquired cartridge collection information with the recycle points calculated in the process of F2, registers them in the collection database stored in the server storage unit 302 (F6), and returns to the process of F1.

[0102] <Sequence of the printer, server, and external terminal when a user subscribes to a points-granting service> Next, a series of sequences among the printer 2, server 3, and external terminal 4 when a user subscribes to the point-granting service will be described with reference to Fig. 8. At the start of the sequence in Fig. 8, the printer 2, server 3, and external terminal 4 are connected to each other so that they can communicate with each other.

[0103] First, the printer control unit 201 and server control unit 301 of the user's printer 2 execute processes G1 to G4 similar to the processes C1 to C4 described above with reference to FIG. 5. After this, the printer control unit 201 transmits its own printer ID to the server 3 (G5). After this, the server control unit 301 extracts cartridge collection information and recycle points linked to the received printer ID from the collection database in the server storage unit 302, and extracts pre-subscription points linked to the received printer ID from the non-subscriber user database (G6). Then, the server control unit 301 transmits the information extracted in the process of G6 to the printer 2 (G7). After this, the printer control unit 201 displays the subscription guide screen 230 shown in FIG. 3(a) on the touch panel 23 based on the received information and the QR code generated in the process of C4 (G8).

[0104] Thereafter, the printer control unit 201, server control unit 301, and terminal control unit 401 execute the processes of G9 to G18, which are similar to the processes of C9 to C18 described above, and then this sequence ends.

[0105] As described above, in the second embodiment, as in the first embodiment, a membership guide screen 230 (see FIG. 3(a)) including pre-subscription point information 230b and a membership completion screen 240 including pre-subscription point information 240b are displayed on the touch panel 23 of the printer 2. This reduces the possibility that the user will be dissatisfied with the ink cartridge C that the user had collected before subscribing to the point-granting service.

[0106] Furthermore, cartridge collection information and pre-subscription points relating to ink cartridges C collected by non-subscribed users who are not subscribed to the point-giving service are stored in the server storage unit 302. This allows the user, when they subscribe to the point-giving service, to be accurately awarded recycling points corresponding to the ink cartridges C collected by the user before subscribing to the point-giving service. As a result, it is possible to reduce the possibility that the user will be dissatisfied with the ink cartridges C collected by the user before subscribing to the point-giving service.

[0107] (Modification of the second embodiment) Next, we will explain a modified example of the second embodiment. In this modified example, as with the modified example of the first embodiment, a membership guidance screen including pre-membership point information and a membership completion screen including pre-membership point information are displayed on the touch panel 41 of the external terminal 4.

[0108] <Sequence of the printer, server, and external terminal when a user subscribes to a points-granting service> Hereinafter, the sequence of the printer 2, server 3, and external terminal 4 when a user subscribes to a points-giving service according to this modification will be described with reference to FIG.

[0109] First, the printer control unit 201, server control unit 301, and terminal control unit 401 of the user's printer 2 execute steps H1 to H6, which are similar to the steps D1 to D6 described above with reference to FIG. 6. After this, the server control unit 301 sends a printer ID transmission command to the printer 2, instructing it to transmit its printer ID (H7). Next, the printer control unit 201 sends its own printer ID to the server 3 (H8). The server control unit 301 extracts cartridge collection information and recycle points associated with the received printer ID from the collection database stored in the server storage unit 302, and extracts pre-subscription points associated with the received printer ID from the non-subscriber user database (H9). The server control unit 301 then generates page information based on the extracted information (H10).

[0110] Thereafter, the printer control unit 201, server control unit 301, and terminal control unit 401 execute the processes H11 to H17, which are the same as the processes D11 to D17 described above, and then this sequence ends.

[0111] As described above, in this modified example, a membership guide screen including pre-subscription point information and a membership completion screen including pre-subscription point information are displayed on the touch panel 41 of the external terminal 4. As a result, as in the second embodiment, the user can understand that additional recycling points will be awarded according to the ink cartridges C that the user had collected before subscribing. As a result, it is possible to reduce the possibility that the user will be dissatisfied with the ink cartridges C that the user had collected before subscribing to the points-granting service.

[0112] Other modifications will be described below.

[0113] In the above-described embodiment, the consumable part consumption device is an inkjet printer, but this is not limiting. For example, the consumable part consumption device may be a laser printer. In this case, a toner cartridge or drum that stores toner is an example of a consumable part. Consumable parts may also be parts that need to be replaced due to deterioration, such as a cutter, roller, or waste liquid tank that is equipped in a printer. The consumable part consumption device may also be a device other than a printer. For example, the consumable part consumption device may be a scanner or a transport device that transports paper. In this case, a transport roller that transports paper is an example of a consumable part. The consumable part consumption device may also be an electronic device such as a PC or a smartphone. In this case, a battery or parts that constitute the electronic device are examples of consumable parts.

[0114] In the first and second embodiments described above, the benefit given to the user in response to collection of the ink cartridge C for recycling was recycling points, but this is not limited to this and may also be a benefit that is beneficial to the user, such as a coupon that can be used when purchasing an ink cartridge.

[0115] In the above-described embodiment, the pre-subscription point information is displayed on the touch panel 23 of the printer 2 and the touch panel 41 of the external terminal 4 both before and after the user subscribes to the point-granting service, but this is not limited to this. For example, the pre-subscription point information may be displayed only either before or after the user subscribes to the point-granting service.

[0116] While recycling of used ink cartridges has traditionally been carried out by recycling companies, this is not a limited process. For example, ink refilling devices capable of refilling ink cartridges with ink may be installed at retail stores, etc., and users may bring their used ink cartridges to the retail stores themselves for collection, where they may be refilled with ink using the ink refilling device, thereby recycling the ink cartridges. In this case, cartridge collection information is provided to the server from the ink refilling device. [Explanation of symbols]

[0117] 1 System 2. Printer 3 Server 4 External terminal 21 Cartridge holder 23 Touch Panel 41 Touch Panel 201 Printer control unit 202 Printer memory unit 301 Server control unit 302 Server Storage 401 Terminal control unit C Ink cartridge CM Cartridge Memory

Claims

1. a mounting portion for detachably mounting a consumable part; A display unit; Control unit and Equipped with The control unit A consumable part consumption device characterized in that the display unit displays pre-subscription benefit information indicating benefits that can be granted in accordance with the consumable parts collected before the user subscribes to a benefit granting service in which benefits are granted in accordance with the collection of the consumable parts for recycling.

2. The consumable part consumption device according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit causes the display unit to display the pre-subscription benefit information before the user subscribes to the benefit-granting service.

3. The control unit The consumable part consumption device described in claim 2, characterized in that before a user subscribes to the privilege-granting service, guidance information urging the user to subscribe to the privilege-granting service is displayed on the display unit together with the pre-subscription privilege information.

4. The control unit The consumable part consumption device according to claim 1 , wherein the pre-subscription benefit information is displayed on the display unit after the user subscribes to the benefit-granting service.

5. The control unit The consumable part consumption device described in claim 1, characterized in that, together with the pre-subscription benefit information, collection date information regarding the collection date of the consumable parts that were recycled before the user subscribed to the benefit granting service is displayed on the display unit.

6. The control unit The consumable part consumption device described in claim 1, characterized in that, together with the pre-subscription benefit information, the display unit displays consumable part information regarding at least one of the model number and type of the consumable parts that were recycled before the user subscribed to the benefit-granting service.

7. The control unit The consumable parts consumption device described in claim 1, characterized in that, together with the pre-subscription benefit information, collection method information regarding the collection method for the consumable parts that were recycled before the user subscribed to the benefit granting service is displayed on the display unit.

8. An external terminal connectable to a consumable part consumption device having a mounting part for detachably mounting a consumable part, A terminal display unit; Terminal control unit and Equipped with The terminal control unit An external terminal characterized by displaying pre-subscription benefit information on the terminal display unit, which indicates benefits that can be granted in accordance with the consumable parts collected before the user subscribes to a benefit granting service in which benefits are granted in accordance with the collection of the consumable parts for recycling.

9. A system including a consumable part consumption device and a server, the consumable part consumption device, a mounting portion for detachably mounting a consumable part; a device control unit; Device memory unit and Equipped with The server a server control unit; Server storage unit Equipped with The device control unit storing first unique identification information of the consumable part attached to the attachment unit in the device storage unit; The server control unit If the second unique identification information of the consumable part collected for recycling is unique identification information of the consumable part linked to the consumable part consuming device of a user who has subscribed to a special benefit service that provides a special benefit in response to collection for recycling of the consumable part, the special benefit is provided to the user; If the second unique identification information is not unique identification information of the consumable part associated with the consumable part consumption device of the user who has subscribed to the benefit granting service, the second unique identification information is stored in the server storage unit; After the consumable part consumption device and the server are communicatively connected, the first unique identification information stored in the device storage unit is acquired from the consumable part consumption device; When the acquired first unique identification information matches the second unique identification information stored in the server memory unit, the system determines that the consumable part of the first unique identification information is a consumable part that the user of the consumable part consumption device has collected for recycling, and when the user subscribes to the bonus granting service, stores pre-subscription bonus information in the server memory unit indicating bonuses that can be granted in response to the recycled collection of the consumable part.

10. the consumable part consumption device further includes a device display unit; The device control unit If the user of the consumable part consumption device has not subscribed to the benefit providing service, After the consumable part consumption device and the server are communicatively connected, the pre-subscription benefit information stored in the server storage unit is acquired from the server; The system according to claim 9, wherein the acquired pre-subscription benefit information is displayed on the display unit of the device.

11. Further comprising an external terminal; The external terminal A terminal control unit; Terminal display and Equipped with The terminal control unit If the user of the consumable part consumption device has not subscribed to the benefit providing service, After the external terminal and the server are communicably connected, the pre-subscription benefit information stored in the server storage unit is acquired from the server; 10. The system according to claim 9, wherein the acquired pre-subscription benefit information is displayed on the terminal display unit.

12. A system including a consumable part consumption device and a server, the consumable part consumption device, a mounting unit for detachably mounting a consumable part having a consumable part storage unit for storing unique consumable part identification information; Device control unit and Equipped with The server a server control unit; Server storage unit Equipped with The device control unit When the consumable part is attached to the attachment section, storing unique device identification information of the consumable part consuming device in the consumable part storage section of the consumable part; The server control unit Acquire the consumable part identification information and the device identification information stored in the consumable part storage unit of the consumable part collected for recycling; If the acquired device identification information is device identification information linked to the consumable part consumption device of a user who has subscribed to a benefit granting service that grants a benefit in response to collection for recycling of the consumable part, granting the benefit to the user; If the acquired device identification information is not device identification information linked to the consumable part consumption device of a user who is subscribed to the benefit-granting service, the acquired consumable part identification information and the device identification information are stored in the server memory unit, and pre-subscription benefit information indicating benefits that can be granted in response to the recycled collection of the consumable part when the user subscribes to the benefit-granting service is stored in the server memory unit, assuming that the consumable part of the consumable part identification information is a consumable part that the user of the consumable part consumption device of the device identification information has collected for recycling.

13. the consumable part consumption device further includes a device display unit; The device control unit After the consumable part consumption device and the server are communicatively connected, the device identification information is transmitted to the server, and the pre-subscription benefit information associated with the device identification information stored in the server storage unit is acquired from the server. The system according to claim 12, wherein the acquired pre-subscription benefit information is displayed on the display unit of the device.

14. Further comprising an external terminal; The external terminal A terminal control unit; Terminal display and Equipped with The terminal control unit After the external terminal and the server are communicably connected, the device identification information is transmitted to the server, and the pre-subscription benefit information associated with the device identification information stored in the server storage unit is acquired from the server.

13. The system according to claim 12, wherein the acquired pre-subscription benefit information is displayed on the terminal display unit.

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