Information processing apparatus, method for controlling information processing apparatus, and storage medium

Abstract

To enable a user to easily grasp the choice of a suitable number of sheets when adding the number of printable sheets in a printer.SOLUTION: The printer includes a display control unit configured to display a plurality of different displayed options for adding the number of printable sheets in the printer, wherein the display control unit displays information indicating that the one option is a recommended option together with information on the predetermined period in association with one option displayed among the plurality of options, the one option being estimated to be printed within the predetermined period in the printer.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a display for adding the number of printable sheets in a printer. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, the Internet of Things (IoT) has become widespread, with many devices now connected to the Internet, controlling various devices and sending their operational data to the cloud for use on the cloud. Printers are also now connecting to cloud services.

[0003] Furthermore, the business model for printers is changing. For example, a new service is emerging that manages the number of pages printed by a printer via a cloud service, allowing users to print within a pre-purchased number of pages.

[0004] In Patent Document 1, the fees for multiple plans within a service are simulated based on the accumulated job execution history, and the cheapest plan is presented to the user. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2011-35779 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] However, Patent Document 1 does not take into consideration the fact that a user can select from options that display the number of sheets and add the number of sheets that can be printed on the printer.

[0007] The present invention aims to make it easier for a user to understand options for an appropriate number of sheets when adding the number of sheets that can be printed on a printer. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] In order to achieve the above object, the information processing device of the present invention has a display control means for displaying multiple options with different numbers of pages to add to the number of pages that can be printed on a printer, and the display control means associates one option from the multiple options with the number of pages estimated to be printed on the printer within a specified period of time, and displays information indicating that the one option is a recommended option along with information about the specified period. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a mechanism that allows a user to easily grasp options for an appropriate number of printable sheets when adding the number of printable sheets to a printer. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram illustrating an overall configuration of a system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a hardware configuration diagram of an image forming apparatus, a client terminal, and a print service. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a software configuration diagram of each device constituting the system. [Figure 4] 10 is an example of a screen for purchasing a print count charge in the first embodiment. [Figure 5] 1A and 1B are a sequence diagram and a flowchart according to a first embodiment; [Figure 6] 10 is an example of a screen in the second embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram of the entire system according to the second embodiment. [Figure 8] 10 is a flowchart according to a second embodiment. [Figure 9] 10 is a sequence diagram and a flowchart according to a third embodiment. [Figure 10] 13 is an example of a screen in the third embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] Hereinafter, the best mode for carrying out the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0012] First Embodiment An embodiment of the present invention will now be described.

[0013] Fig. 1 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of an information processing system according to an embodiment of the present invention. In Fig. 1, networks 100-101 are so-called communication networks realized by, for example, a LAN such as the Internet, a WAN, a telephone line, a dedicated digital line, an ATM or frame relay line, a cable television line, a wireless line for data broadcasting, etc. Networks 100-101 may be any network as long as they are capable of transmitting and receiving data. In this specification, network 100 is the Internet. Network 101 is a local network, etc.

[0014] An image forming apparatus 102 , an image forming apparatus 103 , and a client terminal 104 can access the Internet 100 via a local network 101 and access a print service 105 .

[0015] The image forming apparatus 102 and the image forming apparatus 103 are multifunction machines or printers that have a copy function, a scanner function, a fax transmission function, etc. in addition to a printing function. The image forming apparatus 102 and the image forming apparatus 103 are examples of the printer of the present invention. For example, they may be printers that have only a printing function.

[0016] The client terminal 104 is a data processing device such as a personal computer, a smartphone, or a mobile terminal for using cloud services. The client terminal 104 transmits print jobs to the image forming apparatus 102 and the image forming apparatus 103, and issues print instructions to the print service 105.

[0017] The network 101 is a LAN to which the image forming apparatus 102, the image forming apparatus 103, and the client terminal 104 are connected. The image forming apparatus 102, the image forming apparatus 103, the client terminal 104, and the print service 105 communicate with each other via the LAN.

[0018] The print service 105 is a server for providing print services, and provides functions related to print service contract management and printing. The print service 105 stores contract information for each user. In this embodiment, a user registers a service plan, user information, image forming device 102, and image forming device 103 in the print service 105 via a client terminal 104, and the print service 105 stores the contract information.

[0019] The print service 105 issues print instructions to devices registered in the contract information. When the print service 105 receives data from a device registered in the registration information, it performs various processes corresponding to the received data.

[0020] Here, the print service 105 is published on the Internet as a cloud service with multiple redundant servers. Furthermore, the functions of each service may be realized by a single server or a single virtual server, or may be realized by multiple servers or multiple virtual servers. Alternatively, multiple virtual servers may be executed on a single server.

[0021] 2A is a diagram showing the hardware configuration of the image forming apparatus 102 and the image forming apparatus 103 according to the embodiment of the present invention. Each of the hardware components is connected to a system bus 200.

[0022] Reference numeral 201 denotes a CPU that controls the entire device and comprehensively controls access to various blocks connected to a system bus 200. This control is based on a control program stored in a ROM 202 or a control program and resource data (resource information) stored in an external memory 206 connected via a disk controller (DKC 205). Reference numeral 203 denotes a RAM that functions as the CPU 201's main memory, work area, etc., and is configured so that memory capacity can be expanded using an optional RAM connected to an expansion port (not shown). Reference numeral 210 denotes a storage device that functions as a large-capacity memory. Reference numeral 209 denotes an operation panel (operation unit) that displays screens and accepts user instructions via the screen. It also includes buttons and a display unit such as an LCD panel for setting the operation modes of the image forming apparatus 102 and the image forming apparatus 103, displaying the operating status of the image forming apparatus 102 and the image forming apparatus 103, and performing operations such as copying. Reference numeral 204 denotes a network interface card (NIC) that exchanges data with external devices via the interface 204. The print engine 208 shown in this diagram uses known printing technology, and suitable implementations include, for example, electrophotography (laser beam), inkjet, and dye sublimation (thermal transfer). The raster controller 207 is a controller that converts print data written in PDL or PDF language into image data. The device I / F 211 is a connection I / F for connecting to external devices connectable via USB or the like.

[0023] FIG. 2B is a diagram showing the hardware configuration of the client terminal 104 and the print service 105 according to the embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] Unless otherwise specified, the present invention can be applied to a single device or a system consisting of multiple devices, as long as the functions of the present invention can be executed. Furthermore, unless otherwise specified, the present invention can be applied to a system in which processing is performed by connections via a network such as a LAN or WAN, as long as the functions of the present invention can be executed. In this embodiment, the components are described as being connected via a system bus 219.

[0025] Reference numeral 220 denotes a CPU, which is a control device of the information processing device, and executes application programs, an operating system, etc. stored in a storage device 225, and controls temporary storage of information, files, etc. required for program execution in a RAM 222. Reference numeral 221 denotes a ROM, which is a storage means, and stores programs such as a basic I / O program and various data therein. Reference numeral 222 denotes a RAM, which is a temporary storage means, and functions as the main memory, work area, etc. of the CPU 220. Reference numeral 224 denotes an input control unit. The information processing device exchanges data with external devices via the input control unit 224. Reference numeral 225 is one of external storage means, and is a storage device that functions as a large-capacity memory, and stores application programs, an OS, etc. Reference numeral 226 denotes a display means, which displays program results, information required for input operations, etc. Furthermore, 226 may also be a device that has a function to receive operation instructions from a user, such as a touch panel.

[0026] 3 illustrates the software configuration of the image forming apparatus 102, image forming apparatus 103, client terminal 104, and print service 105 according to this embodiment, extracting functions related to the present invention. Note that each software module is stored in the storage devices 210 and 225 shown in FIG. 2, and is loaded into RAMs 203 and 222 by CPUs 201 and 220 and executed as described above.

[0027] The image forming apparatus 102 is composed of a data transmission / reception unit 301, a data storage unit 302, a data management unit 303, a print control unit 304, a scan control unit 305, and a user interface unit 306. The image forming apparatus 103 has the same configuration as the image forming apparatus 102 and is composed of a data transmission / reception unit 311, a data storage unit 312, a data management unit 313, a print control unit 314, a scan control unit 315, and a user interface unit 316. The data transmission / reception units 301 and 311 transmit print result information and the like of the image forming apparatus 102 and the image forming apparatus 103 to the print service 105 and receive data such as print instructions from the print service 105. The data storage units 302 and 312 store data entered by the user and device information and the like. The data management units 303 and 313 store data in the data storage unit 302 and manage data such as updating and deleting the stored data. User interface units 306 and 316 accept input from the user, and perform printing by print control units 304 and 314 and scanning by scan control units 305 and 315 according to the input content.

[0028] The client terminal 104 is composed of a data transmission / reception unit 321, a data storage unit 322, a print driver unit 323, and a user interface unit 324. The data transmission / reception unit 321 transmits data such as print instructions to the image forming apparatuses 102 and 103, and receives data such as scan data from the image forming apparatuses 102 and 103. The data transmission / reception unit 321 also transmits data such as information registration instructions and print instructions to the print service 105, and receives data such as contract information and print history information from the print service 105. The data storage unit 322 stores data related to the image forming apparatuses 102 and 103, and user information related to the print service 105. The print driver unit 323 issues print instructions to the image forming apparatuses 102 and 103 directly or via the print service 105.

[0029] A user interface unit 324 accepts input from the user, and in accordance with the input, the client terminal 104 issues instructions to the image forming apparatuses 102 and 103, instructions to the print service 105, and the like.

[0030] The print service 105 comprises a data storage unit 331 , a user management unit 332 , a contract management unit 333 , a contract history management unit 334 , a print history management unit 335 , an electronic image forming unit 336 , a user interface unit 337 , and a data transmission / reception unit 337 .

[0031] The data storage unit 331 stores contract data registered with the print service, user data, device data, print history, and the like.

[0032] The user management unit 332 manages users by storing data of users who use the print service in the data storage unit 331, and by updating and deleting the stored user data. Table 1 below shows an example of data managed by the user management unit 332.

[0033] [Table 1]

[0034] The user ID column is an ID that uniquely identifies a user. The password column is the basic authentication password used when logging in with the user ID. The user management unit 332 compares the user ID and password combination included in the login request from the client terminal 104 with Table 1, and if they match, returns a login result of success to each client terminal. The login status column indicates the user's login status, with on indicating a logged-in status and off indicating a logged-out status. The login expiration date column indicates the expiration date of the authentication status of the logged-in user. The 18 years or older column indicates the number of people aged 18 or older who share an account for a certain user ID. The junior high school / high school student column indicates the number of junior high school / high school students who share an account for a certain user ID. The elementary school student or younger column indicates the number of people elementary school student or younger who share an account for a certain user ID.

[0035] The contract management unit 333 manages print count charge plans, such as saving data on print count charge plans provided by the print service in the data storage unit 331 and updating or deleting saved print count charge plans. It also manages the remaining print count charges for users and devices, and calculates the expected number of prints for the user to select a recommended print count charge plan.

[0036] Here, the print count charge plan will be explained. Image forming apparatus 102 and image forming apparatus 103 are capable of printing an allowed number of sheets. Image forming apparatus 102 and image forming apparatus 103 are controlled so that printing beyond the allowed number of sheets is not possible. A user can add the number of prints allowed by the image forming apparatus via client terminal 104. Adding the number of prints is called a print count charge. The number of prints that can be added at one time is determined by the plan shown in Table 2. Client terminal 104 displays multiple options showing different print counts, as shown in Plans A to G in Table 2. Details will be explained using Figure 4. A user can add the number of prints by selecting one of the multiple options and paying the corresponding price.

[0037] Table 2 below shows an example of a print count charge plan managed by the contract management unit 333.

[0038] [Table 2]

[0039] The plan ID column is an ID that uniquely identifies the print count charge plan provided by the print service 105. The paper column indicates whether the paper used for printing with each print count charge plan is plain paper, photo paper, or postcards. The number of sheets column indicates the number of prints that can be purchased with each print count charge plan. The price column indicates the purchase price for each print count charge plan.

[0040] Table 3 below shows an example of the remaining print count and charge for users and devices managed by the contract management unit 333.

[0041] [Table 3]

[0042] The User ID column indicates the user ID. The User ID is an ID that uniquely identifies a user, and is a user managed in the user management table in Table 1. The Device ID column is an ID that uniquely identifies a device, and indicates the device used in the contract. The Model column indicates the model name of the device used by the user in the contract, which is managed in the Device ID column. The Remaining Plain Paper Count column indicates the remaining number of sheets of plain paper in the print count charge. The Remaining Photo Paper Count column indicates the remaining number of sheets of photo paper in the print count charge. The Remaining Postcard Count column indicates the remaining number of postcards in the print count charge.

[0043] Table 4 below shows an example of the average number of printed sheets per month for each model of device managed by the contract management unit 333.

[0044] [Table 4]

[0045] The Model column indicates the same device model name as that managed in the contract status management table in Table 3. The Plain Paper Print Count column indicates the average number of plain paper prints made per month by the model in the Model column. The Photo Paper Print Count column indicates the average number of photo paper prints made per month by the model in the Model column. If the model does not support printing on photo paper, the value will be None. The Postcard Print Count column indicates the average number of postcard paper prints made per month by the model in the Model column. If the model does not support printing on postcard paper, the value will be None.

[0046] The contract history management unit 334 manages the purchase history of print count charge plans by users. Table 5 below shows an example of the purchase history of print count charge plans managed by the contract history management unit.

[0047] [Table 5]

[0048] The User ID column indicates the user ID. The User ID is an ID that uniquely identifies a user, and is a user managed in the User Management Table in Table 1. The Plan ID column indicates the plan ID. The Plan ID is an ID that uniquely identifies a print quantity charge plan, and is a plan managed in the Print Quantity Charge Plan Management Table in Table 2. The Number of Pages column indicates the details of the print quantity charge plan purchased by the user. The Payment Amount column indicates the amount paid by the user to purchase the print quantity charge plan. The Date and Time column indicates the date and time when the user purchased the print quantity charge plan.

[0049] The print history management unit 335 manages print histories by storing data of print results received from the image forming apparatus 102 and the image forming apparatus 103 in the data storage unit 331, and creating print histories from the stored print results. Table 6 below shows an example of print histories managed by the print history management unit 335.

[0050] [Table 6]

[0051] The Device ID column is an ID that uniquely identifies the device and indicates the device that performed the printing. The Document column indicates the name of the document that was printed. The Page column indicates the page number of the document that was printed in the numerator, and the total number of pages in the document in the denominator. The Print Paper column indicates whether the printing paper was plain paper, photo paper, or postcard. The Date and Time column indicates the date and time that the printing was performed.

[0052] Table 7 below shows the print performance values ​​and the estimated number of printed sheets for each past month managed by the print history management unit 335.

[0053] [Table 7]

[0054] The Device ID column is an ID that uniquely identifies the device and indicates the device that printed. The Year column indicates the year the printing was performed. The Month column indicates the month the printing was performed. The Plain Paper Predicted column indicates the predicted number of plain paper prints. The Plain Paper Actual column indicates the actual number of plain paper prints. The Photo Paper Predicted column indicates the predicted number of photo paper prints. The Photo Paper Actual column indicates the actual number of photo paper prints. The Postcard Predicted column indicates the predicted number of postcards printed. The Postcard Actual column indicates the predicted number of postcards printed.

[0055] When the print service 105 issues a print instruction to the image forming apparatus 102 or 103, the electronic image forming unit 336 creates electronic data of a print job to be sent as a print instruction. By sending the electronic data to the image forming apparatus 102 or 103, the image forming apparatus that receives the electronic data executes printing. The user interface unit 337 accepts user input and issues instructions to the data transmission / reception unit 337 according to the input content.

[0056] The data transmission / reception unit 337 transmits data such as print instructions to the image forming apparatus 102 and the image forming apparatus 103, and receives data such as operation data from the image forming apparatus 102 and the image forming apparatus 103. The data transmission / reception unit 337 also receives data such as information registration instructions and print instructions from the client terminal 104, and transmits data on the recommended print count charge plan selected by the contract management unit 333 to the client terminal 104. The data transmission / reception unit 337 also transmits screen images to the client terminal 104.

[0057] 4 and 5, a method for presenting an optimal print count charge plan to a user in a prepaid service in which the user purchases the number of prints in advance in the information processing system and program that are the object of the present invention will be described.

[0058] Fig. 4 shows an example of a UI displayed on the display 226 of the client terminal 104, generated by the contract management unit 333 of the print service 105 in this embodiment. Fig. 5 shows a sequence diagram and a flowchart illustrating the process up to when the user acquires information about a print count charge plan recommended for the user on the print count charge plan purchase screen.

[0059] In this embodiment, the explanation will be given assuming that the user operating the client terminal 104 is a user whose user ID column in Tables 1 and 3 is userA. The userA is a user who uses the image forming apparatus 102 and the image forming apparatus 103, and the image forming apparatus 102 is a device whose device ID column in Table 3 is DeviceA, and the image forming apparatus 103 is a device whose device ID column in Table 3 is DeviceD.

[0060] First, let's start with FIG. 4(a). Reference numeral 401 denotes the display of the client terminal 104 used by user A, which displays an example UI for a screen where user A purchases a print count charge provided by the print service 105 in this embodiment. Reference numeral 402 denotes an example UI for a screen where user A purchases a print count charge provided by the print service 105. The UI shown in 402 is called the charge screen. The charge screen is a screen for adding the number of prints that can be made on the image forming device. The number of prints that can be made refers to the number of prints permitted on the image forming device. Reference numeral 403 displays the image and model name of the image forming device 102 used by the user, whose device ID column in Tables 3 and 4 is Device A, as well as the device's online status and energy-saving mode status. Reference numeral 404 denotes a button with the message "Show other printers." Reference numeral 405 denotes the user's remaining print count, i.e., the remaining number of prints that can be made on the image forming device 102. Reference numeral 406 is a pie chart showing the current remaining print charge number shown in 405 as a percentage of the remaining print charge number at the time of the previous print charge purchase. If the print charge plan pricing structure differs depending on the print type, multiple graphs 405 and 406 are displayed for each print type. Reference numeral 407 is a bar graph showing the remaining ink level for each ink type in the device displayed in 403. Reference numeral 408 indicates the date and time when the information in 403, 405, 406, and 407 was last obtained from the image forming apparatus displayed in 403. Furthermore, by pressing 404, information on other devices for which the user has subscribed to a service plan can be displayed in 403, 405, 406, and 407. In this embodiment, by pressing 404, information on the image forming apparatus 103 can be displayed in 403, 405, 406, and 407. Alternatively, by pressing 404, a screen may be displayed that allows the user to select another device.

[0061] Numerals 409, 410, 411, 412, 413, 414, and 415 indicate print quantity charge purchase buttons. These are multiple options displaying different print quantities for increasing the number of prints available on the image forming apparatus. The options (buttons) display the number of prints. They also display the amount the user will pay to charge for that number of prints. Furthermore, the price per page calculated based on the amount and the number of prints is also displayed. The paper type is also displayed. Pressing one of the multiple options allows the user to proceed to the print quantity charge purchase procedure screen (not shown) indicated on the button. The number of print quantity charge purchase buttons displayed in 402 may be more or less than seven. Numeral 416 indicates a button for selecting a recommended print quantity charge plan. Pressing this button causes the recommended print quantity charge plan to be displayed on the UI. Alternatively, a UI displaying the recommended print quantity charge plan can be displayed on 401. This UI is the UI shown in FIG. 4(b).

[0062] A button 420 indicates a button for instructing switching of the paper type for the print count charge, and when pressed, the print count charge plan displayed on the print count charge purchase buttons 409, 410, 411, 412, 413, 414, and 415 can be switched to another paper type.

[0063] Next, we will explain Figure 4(b). Figure numbers and explanations for content that overlaps with Figure 4(a) will be omitted. 422 shown in Figure 4(b) is a UI that is displayed when button 416 in Figure 4(a) is pressed. This UI is called the recommended charge screen.

[0064] Numerals 417, 418, and 419 indicate a frame displaying the recommended print quantity charge plan and a message including the usage period. Numerals 417, 418, and 419 are displayed on the screen after 416 is pressed. Pressing 416 selects the recommended print quantity charge plan. Then, 417, 418, and 419 highlight one of plans 409, 410, 411, 412, 413, 414, and 415 selected as the recommended print quantity charge plan. This causes the recommended print quantity charge plan to be displayed on the UI.

[0065] The recommended print count charge plan is a charge plan for the number of sheets estimated to be printed in a predetermined period on the image forming apparatus 102. Among the multiple options 409 to 415, one option that displays the number of sheets estimated to be printed in a predetermined period displays information about the predetermined period and information indicating that the option is a recommended option. In FIG. 4B, for example, the words "1-Month Recommended Plan" are displayed in association with button 411 that displays the number of sheets estimated to be printed in one month (50 sheets). Furthermore, the words "3-Month Recommended Plan" are displayed in association with button 413 that displays the number of sheets estimated to be printed in three months (200 sheets). Furthermore, the words "6-Month Recommended Plan" are displayed in association with button 413 that displays the number of sheets estimated to be printed in six months (500 sheets).

[0066] The estimated number of pages printed within a specified period varies depending on whether the specified period is, for example, one month, three months, or six months. The price per page varies depending on the charge plan. For example, a plan for 1,000 pages costs 4 yen per page. A plan for 10 pages costs 20 yen per page. In this embodiment, the price per page generally decreases with the plan for purchasing more pages at one time. Therefore, the period over which users want to charge the number of prints at one time varies. For example, some users may want to charge a month's worth of prints at a time while monitoring the printing status, while other users may want to charge a six-month's worth of prints at one time for a low price. Displaying recommended charge plans for multiple specified periods can accommodate a variety of users.

[0067] Next, the overall sequence will be described with reference to FIG.

[0068] In S521, the client terminal 104 transmits an instruction requesting the charge screen 402 to the print service 105. In S522, the print service transmits the charge screen 402 to the client terminal. In S523, the client terminal displays the received charge screen 402.

[0069] Next, in S524, the client terminal 104 transmits an instruction to select a recommended print count charge plan to the print service 105. In S525, the print service 105 creates a recommended charge screen 422. Detailed processing will be explained with reference to FIG. 5(b). In S526, the print service 105 transmits the created recommended charge screen 422 to the client terminal 104. In S527, the client terminal 104 displays the received recommended charge screen 422.

[0070] 5A illustrates a configuration in which the print service 105 creates a screen and transmits the screen to the client terminal 104. However, this is not limiting. For example, a screen may not be created in S525, and information about the recommended charge plan may be transmitted to the client terminal 104 in S526. The client terminal 104 may receive the information, create a recommended charge screen 422 based on the information, and display it. Alternatively, the information about the recommended charge plan may be displayed superimposed on the charge screen 402. The information about the recommended charge plan transmitted from the print service 105 to the client terminal 104 may be, for example, information about a predetermined period and information about a charge plan for the number of sheets estimated to be printed within the predetermined period.

[0071] Next, the processing flow of the print service 105 in S524 to S525 will be described using FIG. 5(b). Before this flow, a button 416 is pressed on the screen 402 for purchasing print quantity charges, which is displayed on user A's client terminal 104, to instruct the selection of a recommended print quantity charge plan. This flow starts when an instruction to select a recommended print quantity charge plan is sent from the data transmitter / receiver 321 of user A's client terminal 104 to the data transmitter / receiver 337. This flow is processing performed by each unit of the print service.

[0072] In step S501 , the data transmission / reception unit 337 receives an instruction to select a recommended print count charge plan, and transmits this to the contract management unit 333 .

[0073] In S502, the contract management unit 333 refers to the contract status management table (Table 3) stored in the data storage unit 331, and checks the print paper that can be printed on with the device models owned by the user. Because the device models owned by user A are Model A and Model D, only plain paper can be printed on.

[0074] In S503, the contract management unit 333 calculates the expected number of prints for multiple periods of one month, three months, and six months. Specifically, the calculation of the expected number of prints is performed as follows: For each print paper that can be printed on user A's devices, the contract status management table (Table 3) and the average number of prints per month management table (Table 4) for each model are referenced in the data storage unit 331. Then, the total average usage of the user's subscribed devices is multiplied by the period. For example, the formula for calculating user A's expected number of prints on plain paper is as follows: the total average usage of user A's subscribed devices (100 sheets per month (Model A) + 50 sheets per month (Model D)) multiplied by the period (one month, three months, six months). The calculated results for user A's expected number of prints are 150 sheets per month, 450 sheets per three months, and 900 sheets per six months. Note that the expected number of prints on photo paper and postcard paper, which cannot be printed on user A's devices, are not calculated.

[0075] In S504, the contract management unit 333 references the calculation result of the estimated number of prints in S503 and the print number charge plan management table (Table 2) stored in the data storage unit 331. Then, the print number charge plan closest to the value of the estimated number of prints for each period calculated in S503 is selected as the recommended print number charge plan for that period. Note that, of the charge plans with a value equal to or greater than the estimated number of prints, the print number charge plan closest to the value of the estimated number of prints may be selected as the recommended print number charge plan.

[0076] In S505, the contract management unit 333 generates a UI that highlights the recommended print count charge plan selected in S504. Specifically, the contract management unit 333 generates a UI that highlights the recommended print count charge plan using a frame that displays the recommended print count charge plan and a message that includes the matching usage period. An example of the screen is shown in FIG. 4(b). The generated UI is then returned to the data transmission / reception unit 321.

[0077] Next, the processing flow of the client terminal 104 shown in the sequence diagram of FIG. 5(a) will be described with reference to FIG. 5(c).

[0078] In S531, the user interface unit 324 of the client terminal 104 detects an instruction to display the charge screen 402. Specifically, it detects that the user has pressed a predetermined button on a screen (not shown) displayed on the client terminal 104. The predetermined button is a button for transitioning to the charge screen 402. When the user interface unit 324 detects the instruction, in S532 the data transmission / reception unit 321 of the client terminal 104 requests the charge screen 402 from the print service 105. Then, in S533, the data transmission / reception unit 321 receives the charge screen 402 from the print service 105. In S534, the user interface unit 324 performs display control to display the received charge screen 402.

[0079] Next, in S535, the user interface unit 324 detects pressing of the "Select recommended plan" button. When the user interface unit 324 detects this pressing, in S536 the data transmission / reception unit 321 requests the recommended charge screen 422 from the print service 105. Then, in S537, the data transmission / reception unit 321 receives the recommended charge screen 422 from the print service 105. In S538, the user interface unit 324 performs display control to display the received recommended charge screen 422.

[0080] As described above, this embodiment has described a method for automatically presenting the optimal print quantity charge plan to a user in a prepaid service where the user purchases the number of prints in advance. This method makes it easy for the user to select the most cost-optimal plan to suit their usage, even in a prepaid service where the user purchases the number of prints in advance.

[0081] While the client terminal 104 receives and displays a screen from the print service 105 via a network as described above with reference to FIGS. 5(a) to 5(c), the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the image forming apparatus 102 and the image forming apparatus 103 may create a charge screen or a recommended charge screen and display it via a web browser on the client terminal 104. That is, the charge screen or the recommended charge screen may be displayed on the remote UI of the image forming apparatus 102 and the image forming apparatus 103. Alternatively, a mobile app installed on the client terminal 104 may create and display the charge screen or the recommended charge screen. In this case, the recommended charge plan required to create the recommended charge screen may be selected by each device that creates the screen, or each device may receive the selection result from the print service 105. FIG. 5(d) shows a flowchart of the process performed by the image forming apparatus and the mobile app, including the selection of the recommended charge plan.

[0082] 5D starts when the image forming apparatus or the mobile app receives an instruction to display the charge screen. In the following description, the image forming apparatus 102 will be mainly described, but the mobile app may also be mainly described.

[0083] In S510, the user interface unit 306 of the image forming apparatus 102 displays the charge screen 402. Then, in S511, the user interface unit 306 detects that the "Select a recommended plan" button has been pressed. When this is detected in S511, the image forming apparatus 102 proceeds to S512. In the processes of S512 to S515, the entity performing the processes changes from the print service 105 to the image forming apparatus 102, but the process contents are the same as those of S502 to S505. Note that each table that was managed by the print service 105 is also saved and managed in the image forming apparatus 102. Then, in S516, the user interface unit 306 displays the recommended charge screen 422.

[0084] <Second embodiment> In the first embodiment, a method was described for automatically presenting an optimal print charge plan to a user based on the average number of prints made by the user's device in a prepaid service where the user purchases the number of prints in advance. However, there may be cases where it is desired to present a plan that reflects the usage of each user.

[0085] In the second embodiment, a method will be described in which an optimal print count charge plan is automatically presented, taking into consideration not only the average number of prints made by the devices owned by the user, but also items related to the user's usage input by the user.

[0086] 6(a), 6(b), 6(c), 6(d), 6(e), 6(f), 6(g), 6(h), and 6(i) show examples of UIs displayed on the display 226 of the client terminal 104 in the second embodiment and generated by the contract management unit 333 of the print service 105 in the second embodiment. FIG. 7 shows a sequence illustrating the processing for acquiring information on the print count charge plan recommended to the user on the print count charge plan purchase screen in the second embodiment.

[0087] In this embodiment, the user who operates the client terminal 104 is assumed to be the user whose user ID column in Tables 1 and 3 is userA. The userA is a user who uses the image forming apparatus 102 and the image forming apparatus 103, and the image forming apparatus 102 is assumed to be the device whose device ID column in Table 3 is DeviceA, and the image forming apparatus 103 is assumed to be the device whose device ID column in Table 3 is DeviceD.

[0088] First, let us begin with FIG. 6. 104, 401 to 416, and 420 in FIG. 6(a) are the same as those in FIG. 4, 104, 401 to 416, and 420. 601 indicates a frame and message displaying a recommended print quantity charge plan. While only the "recommended plan" is displayed in FIG. 6(a), this is not limiting. As with FIG. 4(b), information about a predetermined period may also be displayed. For example, information about a predetermined period entered on the screen shown in FIG. 6(b), which will be described later, may also be displayed. 601 is displayed on the charge screen after pressing 416 and accepting input from the user on the screens shown in FIGS. 6(b) to (i), which will be described later. A recommended print quantity charge plan is selected based on pressing 416 and the input values ​​of the items related to user usage, which will be described later. Then, one of plans 409, 410, 411, 412, 413, 414, and 415 selected as the recommended print quantity charge plan in 601 is highlighted. This will display recommended print quantity charge plans on the UI.

[0089] Reference numeral 611 in FIG. 6(b) is the display of the client terminal 104 used by userA. This example shows a UI example of a screen where userA in this embodiment inputs the period used to select a print quantity charge plan recommended for userA and provided by the print service 105. Reference numeral 612 is a UI example of a screen where userA inputs the period used to select a print quantity charge plan recommended for userA and provided by the print service 105. Reference numeral 613 is a message for specifying the input content to userA, instructing the userA to input the period for which the print quantity charge is desired in months. Reference numeral 614 is a text box where userA inputs the content specified in 613. Reference numeral 615 is a button for confirming the content input by userA in 614, and pressing this button transitions to screen 622 where userA inputs a charge budget.

[0090] Reference numeral 621 in FIG. 6(c) is the display of the client terminal 104 used by userA. This example shows a UI example of a screen on which userA in this embodiment inputs a charge budget used to select a print count charge plan recommended for userA and provided by the print service 105. Reference numeral 622 is a UI example of a screen on which userA inputs a charge budget used to select a print count charge plan recommended for userA and provided by the print service 105. Reference numeral 623 is a message for specifying input content to userA, instructing the userA to input a print count charge budget in yen units. Reference numeral 624 is a text box on which userA inputs the content specified in 623. Reference numeral 625 is a button for confirming the content entered by userA in 624, and pressing this button transitions to screen 632 on which userA inputs the frequency of use.

[0091] In FIG. 6D, 631 is the display of the client terminal 104 used by user A. In this embodiment, a UI example of a screen is displayed on which user A inputs a target frequency of use to select a print quantity charge plan recommended for user A by the print service 105. 632 is a UI example of a screen on which user A inputs a target frequency of use to select a print quantity charge plan recommended for user A by the print service 105. 633 is a message for specifying input content to user A, instructing the user A to specify a target frequency of use. 634, 635, and 636 are check boxes for user A to input the content specified in 633. By selecting the check box for the corresponding frequency of use, user A can specify the frequency of use. User A can select only one of check boxes 634, 635, or 636. 637 is a button for confirming the content entered by user A in any of 634, 635, or 636. Pressing this button transitions to screen 642 on which user A inputs a usage scenario.

[0092] Reference numeral 641 in FIG. 6( e) denotes the display of the client terminal 104 used by user A. This example shows a UI example of a screen for inputting the usage scenarios of user A's device, which user A uses to select a print quantity charge plan recommended for user A and provided by the print service 105. Reference numeral 642 denotes a UI example of a screen for inputting the usage scenarios of user A's device, which user A uses to select a print quantity charge plan recommended for user A and provided by the print service 105. Reference numeral 643 denotes a message for specifying the input content to user A, instructing user A to specify the device to be used by user A. Reference numerals 644, 645, 646, and 647 denote check boxes for user A to input the content specified in 633, and by selecting the check box for the usage scenario of the corresponding device, user A can specify the usage scenarios of the device. User A can also select multiple check boxes from 644, 645, 646, and 647. A button 648 is used to confirm the information entered by user A in 643, 644, 645, and 646. Pressing this button transitions to a screen 652 where user A can enter the device to be used.

[0093] In FIG. 6(f), 651 is the display of the client terminal 104 used by user A. This example shows a UI screen for user A to input the device used by user A when selecting a print quantity charge plan recommended for user A by the print service 105. 652 is a UI example for user A when inputting the device used by user A when selecting a print quantity charge plan recommended for user A by the print service 105. 653 is a message for user A to specify the input content, instructing user A to specify the usage scenario for user A's device. 654 and 655 are images of the image forming device 102 and the image forming device 103, which are used by the user and have Device A and Device D in the device ID columns in Tables 3 and 4, respectively. 656 and 657 are checkboxes for user A to input the content specified in 653. By selecting the checkbox containing the model name of the corresponding device, the device used by user A can be specified. User A can also select multiple checkboxes from 656 and 657. 658 is a button for confirming the information entered by user A in 656 and 657. When 658 is pressed, if the device being used allows multiple print types with different billing systems to be used, the screen transitions to input screen 662 for the print type that user A will use. If not, the screen transitions to input screen 672 for whether or not to change the user information.

[0094] In FIG. 6( g), 661 is the display of the client terminal 104 used by user A. In this embodiment, a UI example of a screen is displayed, in which user A inputs the print type to be used when selecting a print quantity charge plan recommended for user A provided by the print service 105. 662 is a UI example of a screen, in which user A inputs the print type to be used when selecting a print quantity charge plan recommended for user A provided by the print service 105. 663 is a message for specifying the input content to user A, instructing user A to specify the print type to be used. 664 and 665 are check boxes into which user A inputs the content specified in 653. By selecting the check box containing the print type to be used, user A can specify the print type to be used. User A can also select multiple check boxes from 664 and 665. 666 is a button for confirming the content entered by user A in 664 and 665. Pressing this button transitions to screen 672, in which the user A inputs whether or not to change the user information of user A.

[0095] In FIG. 6( h), 671 is the display of the client terminal 104 used by user A. This example shows a UI example of a screen on which user A in this embodiment inputs whether or not to change the user information used to select a print quantity charge plan recommended for user A by the print service 105. 672 is a UI example of a screen on which user A inputs whether or not to change the user information used to select a print quantity charge plan recommended for user A by the print service 105. 673 is a message for specifying the input content to user A, instructing the user to specify whether or not to change the user information. 674 and 675 are check boxes in which user A inputs the content specified in 673. By selecting the corresponding check box, user A can specify whether or not to change the user information of user A. Furthermore, user A can select only one of check boxes 674 and 675. 676 is a button for confirming the content entered by user A in either 674 or 675. Pressing 676 transitions to a user information registration screen 682 if there are any changes to the user information. If there are no changes, the estimated number of prints for user A is calculated and a recommended print number charge plan is selected, and the screen transitions to a screen 402 where User A purchases a print number charge provided by the print service 105 .

[0096] In FIG. 6(i), 681 is the display of the client terminal 104 used by userA, which displays an example UI of a screen on which userA in this embodiment inputs user information about userA provided by the print service 105. 682 is an example UI of a screen on which userA inputs user information to userA provided by the print service 105. 683 is a message for specifying input content to userA, instructing the user to specify user information. 684, 686, and 688 are text specifying the item names to be input by userA, and 685, 687, and 689 are text boxes for inputting the items specified in 683, 684, 686, and 688. User information about userA can be specified by inputting information into the text boxes. UserA can also input information into one or more of the text boxes 685, 687, and 689. 676 is a button for confirming the content input by userA in 685, 687, and 689. The user information of user A is saved, the predicted number of prints for user A is calculated, and a recommended print number charge plan is selected, and the screen transitions to a screen 402 where User A purchases a print number charge provided by the print service 105.

[0097] Next, the overall processing flow will be explained using the sequence diagram in FIG.

[0098] In S701, the client terminal 104 detects that the button 416, which instructs selection of a recommended print quantity charge plan on the screen 402 for purchasing print quantity charges, has been pressed. The data transmission / reception unit 321 of user A's client terminal 104 transmits the instruction to select the recommended print quantity charge plan entered in the user interface unit 324 to the data transmission / reception unit 327. In S702, the data transmission / reception unit 327 transmits the instruction to select the recommended print quantity charge plan to the contract management unit 333, and returns a result indicating that the instruction to select the print quantity charge plan was successful and an instruction to display the screen 612.

[0099] In S703, userA's client terminal 104 displays screen 612. UserA's client terminal 104 accepts input of the period to be used for selecting a recommended print quantity charge plan in text box 614 on screen 612. Then, it detects that the period has been entered and a button 615 for confirming the input has been pressed. The data transmitter / receiver 321 of userA's client terminal 104 transmits the period to be used for selecting a recommended print quantity charge plan, which has been input via the user interface unit 324, to the data transmitter / receiver 327. In S704, the data transmitter / receiver 327 transmits the period to be used for selecting a recommended print quantity charge plan to the contract management unit 333, and returns a result indicating that the print quantity charge plan selection period was successfully entered, along with an instruction to display screen 622.

[0100] In S705, userA's client terminal 104 displays screen 622. UserA's client terminal 104 accepts input of a budget to be used for selecting a recommended print quantity charge plan in text box 624 on screen 622. Then, it detects that the budget has been input and a button 625 for confirming the input has been pressed. The data transmitter / receiver 321 of userA's client terminal 104 transmits the budget to be used for selecting a recommended print quantity charge plan, input accepted by the user interface unit 324, to the data transmitter / receiver 327. In S706, the data transmitter / receiver 327 transmits the budget to be used for selecting a recommended print quantity charge plan to the contract management unit 333, and returns a result indicating that the print quantity charge plan selection budget input was successful and an instruction to display screen 632.

[0101] In S707, user A's client terminal 104 displays screen 632. User A's client terminal 104 selects one of check boxes 634, 635, or 636 on screen 632 to accept input of an approximate usage frequency to be used in selecting a recommended print quantity charge plan. Then, the client terminal 104 detects that the approximate usage frequency has been entered and that button 637, which confirms the input, has been pressed. The data transmitter / receiver 321 of user A's client terminal 104 transmits the approximate usage frequency to be used in selecting a recommended print quantity charge plan, input accepted by the user interface unit 324, to the data transmitter / receiver 327. In S708, the data transmitter / receiver 327 transmits the approximate usage frequency to be used in selecting a recommended print quantity charge plan to the contract management unit 333, and returns a result indicating successful input of the approximate usage frequency to be used in selecting a print quantity charge plan, along with an instruction to display screen 642.

[0102] In S709, user A's client terminal 104 displays screen 642. User A's client terminal 104 detects that one of check boxes 644, 645, 646, and 647 on screen 642 has been selected. That is, it accepts input of a usage scenario to be used in selecting a recommended print quantity charge plan. It then detects that the usage scenario has been entered and button 648, which confirms the input, has been pressed. The data transmitter / receiver 321 of user A's client terminal 104 transmits the usage scenario to be used in selecting a recommended print quantity charge plan, which has been input by the user interface unit 324, to the data transmitter / receiver 327. In S710, the data transmitter / receiver 327 transmits the usage scenario to be used in selecting a recommended print quantity charge plan to the contract management unit 333 and returns a result indicating that the usage scenario to be used in selecting a print quantity charge plan was successfully entered and an instruction to display screen 652.

[0103] In S711, user A's client terminal 104 displays screen 652. User A's client terminal 104 accepts the selection of either check box 656 or 657 on screen 652. That is, it accepts input of the device model to be used to select the recommended print quantity charge plan. Then, it detects that the model has been entered and button 658, which confirms the input, has been pressed. The data transmission / reception unit 321 of user A's client terminal 104 transmits the device model to be used to select the recommended print quantity charge plan, input accepted by the user interface unit 324, to the data transmission / reception unit 327. In S712, the data transmission / reception unit 327 transmits the device model to be used to select the recommended print quantity charge plan to the contract management unit 333. Furthermore, the contract management unit 333 checks the print type supported by the device selected in S706. It references the management table for average print counts per month by model (Table 4), stored in the data storage unit 331. If the device selected in S711 supports multiple print types with different billing systems, a message indicating that device input was successful and an instruction to display screen 662 is returned. Specifically, a message indicating that device input was successful and an instruction to display screen 662 is returned to the data transmission / reception unit 104 of the client terminal 104 via the data transmission / reception unit 327. If the device selected in S706 does not support multiple print types with different billing systems, a message indicating that device input was successful and an instruction to display screen 672 is returned to the data transmission / reception unit 104 of the client terminal 104 via the data transmission / reception unit 327.

[0104] S713 is executed only if an instruction to display screen 662 is received in S707. In S713, userA's client terminal 104 displays screen 662. UserA's client terminal 104 accepts the selection of either check box 664 or 665 on screen 662. That is, it accepts input of the print type to be used in selecting a recommended print quantity charge plan. Then, it detects that the print type has been input and a button 666 for confirming the input has been pressed. The data transmitter / receiver 321 of userA's client terminal 104 transmits the print type to be used in selecting a recommended print quantity charge plan, input accepted by the user interface unit 324, to the data transmitter / receiver 327. In S714, the data transmitter / receiver 327 transmits the print type to be used in selecting a recommended print quantity charge plan to the contract management unit 333. Then, it returns the result indicating that the input of the print type to be used in selecting a print quantity charge plan was successful, along with an instruction to display screen 672.

[0105] In S715, userA's client terminal 104 displays screen 672. UserA's client terminal 104 accepts the selection of either check box 674 or 675 on screen 672. That is, it accepts input of whether or not to change the device user information. Then, it detects that the change or no change has been entered and that button 676, which confirms the input, has been pressed. The data transmitter / receiver 321 of userA's client terminal 104 transmits the change or no change in the device user information input accepted by the user interface unit 324 to the data transmitter / receiver 327. In S716, the data transmitter / receiver 327 transmits the change or no change in the device user information to the user management unit 332. If the device user information has changed, the user management unit 332 returns a notification of successful input of whether or not to change the user information and an instruction to display screen 682 to the data transmitter / receiver 321 of the client terminal 104 via the data transmitter / receiver 327. If the device user information has not changed, it returns a notification of successful input of whether or not to change the user information. If there is no change in the device user information, the user management unit 332 transmits the device user information to the contract management unit 333 .

[0106] S717 is executed only when an instruction to display screen 682 is received in S716. In S717, userA's client terminal 104 displays screen 682. UserA's client terminal 104 accepts input of the number of users who will share userA in text boxes 685, 687, and 689 on screen 682. It then detects that the number of users has been entered and that button 690, which confirms the input, has been pressed. The data transmitter / receiver unit 321 of userA's client terminal 104 transmits the device user information, input of which has been accepted by the user interface unit 324, to the data transmitter / receiver unit 327. In S718, the data transmitter / receiver unit 327 transmits the device user information to the user management unit 332. The user management unit 332 updates the user management table in Table 1 with the transmitted device user information, and also notifies the contract management unit 333 of the updated device user information. Furthermore, the user management unit 332 transmits a notification that the device user information update has been successful to the data transmission / reception unit 321 of the client terminal 104 via the data transmission / reception unit 327 .

[0107] Regarding the user information input process from S702 to S718, this flowchart describes an example in which each item is input on a separate screen, but multiple pieces of information may be input on the same screen, and there may also be items that do not require input.

[0108] In S719, the contract management unit 333 calculates the expected number of pages to be printed. If a print type was specified in S711, the contract management unit 333 calculates the expected number of pages to be printed for each specified print type; otherwise, it calculates the expected number of pages to be printed for only one printable print type. The contract management unit 333 calculates the expected number of pages to be printed by referencing the contract status management table (Table 3) and the average number of pages printed per month by model management table (Table 4), both of which are stored in the data storage unit 331. The calculation is then performed using the following formula: A x B x C x D + E. A is the total average usage of the devices selected in S706. B is the period entered in S701. C is a correction parameter based on frequency of use (1.2 for high usage, 1 for normal usage, and 2 for low usage). D is a correction parameter based on user attributes (0.8 per person for junior high and high school students, and 0.5 per person for elementary school students and younger). E is the additional number of pages based on the purpose of use. For document printing, the additional number of pages is +100 for office use, +50 for telecommuting, and +20 for study use. For photo printing, it is +10 for office use, and +5 for telecommuting and study use. If period information is not entered, the expected number of pages to be printed over multiple periods is calculated as in Example 1. If information about the device to be used is not entered, the expected number of pages to be printed is calculated using the total average usage of all devices under user A's contract, as in Example 1. If there are any items other than the period and the device to be used that have not been entered, the correction parameter for the relevant item is set to 1 and the calculation is performed.

[0109] Furthermore, for users who have been using the service continuously for more than one year, the contract management unit 333 refers to the Actual Print Volume Table 7 managed by the print history management unit 335. The contract management unit 333 then calculates how many times the actual print volume for the past year is multiplied by the estimated number of printed sheets, and multiplies this by the estimated number of printed sheets as a user-specific correction parameter. The contract management unit 333 divides the calculated estimated number of printed sheets by the period entered in S701, and saves the result in the Actual Print Volume Table 7 managed by the print history management unit 335 as the estimated number of printed sheets per month for the period entered in S701, starting from the current month.

[0110] In S720, the contract management unit 333 references the calculation result of the estimated number of prints in S719 and the print number charge plan management table (Table 2) stored in the data storage unit 331. The print number charge plan closest to the estimated number of prints calculated in S719 is selected as the recommended print number charge plan, provided that the total print number charge amount is within +10% of the budget specified in S705. Note that, of the charge plans with a value equal to or greater than the estimated number of prints, the print number charge plan closest to the estimated number of prints may also be selected as the recommended print number charge plan.

[0111] In S721, the contract management unit 333 generates a screen 402 that highlights the recommended print quantity charge plan selected in S719, using a frame that displays the recommended print quantity charge plan and a message 601. The screen 402 displayed here is the screen 402 shown in FIG. 6(a).

[0112] In S722, the contract management unit 333 returns the generated screen 402 to the data transmission / reception unit 321 of the client terminal 104 via the data transmission / reception unit 327.

[0113] As described above, this embodiment has described a method for automatically presenting optimal print quantity charge plans to users in a prepaid service where users purchase the number of prints in advance, and a method for presenting plans that reflects each user's usage. This method makes it easy for users to select the most cost-optimal plan for their individual circumstances, even in a prepaid service where users purchase the number of prints in advance.

[0114] Although the flowchart of the client terminal 104 in the second embodiment is not shown, it is the same as Fig. 5(c) described in the first embodiment. In the second embodiment, the processes of S702 to S718 and the display processes of Fig. 6(b) to (i) are additionally performed between S536 and S537. Furthermore, although the flowchart of the print service 105 in the second embodiment is not shown, the print service 105 performs the processes as described using the sequence diagram in Fig. 7.

[0115] 7 illustrates an example in which the print service 105 creates a screen and transmits the screen to the client terminal 104. However, this is not limiting. For example, a screen may not be created in S721, and information about recommended charge plans may be transmitted to the client terminal 104 in S722. The client terminal 104 may then receive the information, and create and display the recommended charge screen 402 based on the information. The information about recommended charge plans transmitted from the print service 105 to the client terminal 104 is, for example, information about a predetermined period and information about a charge plan for the number of sheets estimated to be printed within the predetermined period.

[0116] 7, in steps S701 to S718, the input results for each screen are transmitted for each screen. When the input results for the previous screen are transmitted, an instruction to display the next screen is transmitted from the print service 105. However, this is not limiting. The screens in FIGS. 6(b) to 6(i) may be displayed on the client terminal 104 without communicating with the print service 105 each time. In this case, the data for each screen shown in FIG. 6 is saved in advance in the client terminal 104. Then, after all screens are displayed, the input data may be transmitted collectively to the print service 105. The print service 105 calculates the expected number of prints in step S719 based on the transmitted data.

[0117] Although the embodiment in which the client terminal 104 receives and displays a screen from the print service 105 via a network has been described with reference to FIG. 7 , this is not limiting. For example, the image forming apparatus 102 and the image forming apparatus 103 may create a charge screen or a recommended charge screen and display it via a web browser on the client terminal 104. That is, the charge screen or the recommended charge screen may be displayed on the remote UI of the image forming apparatus 102 and the image forming apparatus 103. Alternatively, a mobile app installed on the client terminal 104 may create and display the charge screen or the recommended charge screen. In this case, the recommended charge plan required to create the recommended charge screen may be selected by each device that creates the screen, or each device may receive the selection result from the print service 105. FIG. 8 shows a flowchart of the process performed by the image forming apparatus and the mobile app, including the selection of the recommended charge plan.

[0118] The flowchart in Fig. 8 describes processes that replace the processes of S511 to S515 in the flowchart in Fig. 5(d) described in the first embodiment. S801 is the same as S511.

[0119] In S802 to S806, the screens shown in FIGS. 6(b) to 6(f) are displayed, input on the screen is detected, and the process proceeds to the next step. In S807, it is determined whether multiple print types with different billing systems are available on the device being used. If available, the process proceeds to S808; if not, the process proceeds to S809. In S808 to S809, the screens shown in FIGS. 6(g) and 6(h) are displayed, input on the screen is detected, and the process proceeds to the next step. In S810, it is determined whether there has been a change in the user information. If there has been a change, the process proceeds to S811. In S811, the screen shown in FIG. 6(i) is displayed, input on the screen is detected, and the process proceeds to the next step. In S812 to S814, the same process as in S719 to S721 is performed. Note that the tables used in the determinations in S807 and S810 are also saved and managed in the image forming apparatus 102.

[0120] <Third embodiment> In the first and second embodiments, information such as a "recommended plan" is displayed in association with an option displayed for the estimated number of sheets to be printed in a predetermined period. In this embodiment, when an option is selected on the recommended charge screen, information on the estimated period required to print the number of sheets displayed in the selected option is displayed.

[0121] The processing of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 9(a) to 9(d). Note that the same processes as those in Figure 5 are given the same numbers, and detailed descriptions will be omitted. First, the overall sequence will be described with reference to Figure 9(a).

[0122] Steps S521 to S523 are the same processes as those in FIG. 5. Next, in step S924, the client terminal 104 transmits information about the number of sheets to be printed specified by the user to the print service 105. In step S925, the print service 105 creates a screen (not shown) that includes the time required to print the specified number of sheets. Detailed processing will be described with reference to FIG. 9(b). In step S926, the print service 105 transmits the created screen to the client terminal 104. In step S927, the client terminal 104 displays the received screen.

[0123] 9A, the print service 105 creates a screen and transmits the screen to the client terminal 104. However, this is not limiting. For example, a screen may not be created in S925, and information on the time required to print the specified number of sheets may be transmitted to the client terminal 104 in S926. The client terminal 104 may receive the information, create a screen based on the information, and display it. Alternatively, the information may be displayed superimposed on the charge screen 402.

[0124] Next, the processing flow of the print service 105 in steps S924 and S925 will be described using Figure 9(b). Before this flow, one of the print quantity charge plan options 409 to 416 on the screen 402 for purchasing print quantity charge displayed on userA's client terminal 104 is pressed. This flow starts when information about the print quantity displayed on the pressed option is sent from the data transmitter / receiver 321 of userA's client terminal 104 to the data transmitter / receiver 337. This flow is processing performed by each part of the print service.

[0125] In S901, the data transmission / reception unit 337 receives information on the number of prints designated by the user and transmits this to the contract management unit 333. Note that in S901, the type of print paper designated by the user is also received.

[0126] In S902, the contract management unit 333 calculates the period required to print the received number of sheets. Specifically, the calculation of the expected number of sheets to print is performed as follows: For the received print paper type, the contract status management table in Table 3 and the average number of sheets printed per month management table for each model in Table 4, both of which are stored in the data storage unit 331, are referenced. Then, the received number of sheets to print divided by the average number of sheets printed per month is calculated. This calculation yields the estimated period required to print the received number of sheets to print. Note that processing such as rounding up, down, or to the nearest integer may be performed.

[0127] In S903, the contract management unit 333 generates a UI including information about the period calculated in S902. FIG. 10 shows an example of the generated UI. For example, on the screen 402, in association with option 1000 that displays the specified number of prints, the following message may be displayed: "If you charge this number, you can print for approximately N months." Or, the following message may be displayed: "It will take N months to print this number of sheets." Note that N is replaced with the number of the period calculated in S902. The message is not limited to these messages. For example, any message that suggests that it will take N months to consume the specified number of prints may be displayed. Alternatively, the message may be displayed as a pop-up on the screen 402.

[0128] Next, the processing flow of the client terminal 104 shown in the sequence diagram of Fig. 9(a) will be described with reference to Fig. 9(c). Steps S531 to S534 are the same as those in Fig. 5.

[0129] Next, in S935, the user interface unit 324 detects pressing of any of the print quantity charge plan options 409 to 416 on the screen 402. When the user interface unit 324 detects this pressing, in S936 the data transmission / reception unit 321 requests a screen including the time required to print the specified number of sheets from the print service 105. Then, in S937, the data transmission / reception unit 321 receives the screen including the time required to print the specified number of sheets from the print service 105. In S938, the user interface unit 324 performs display control to display the received screen.

[0130] As described above, in this embodiment, a display that allows a user to select the optimal print quantity charge plan for a prepaid service in which the user purchases the number of prints in advance has been described. This method makes it easy for the user to select the most cost-optimal plan for their usage, even for a prepaid service in which the user purchases the number of prints in advance.

[0131] 9(a) to 9(c) have been used to describe a configuration in which the client terminal 104 receives and displays a screen from the print service 105 via a network, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the image forming apparatus 102 and the image forming apparatus 103 may create a screen including a charge screen and a period and display it via a web browser on the client terminal 104. That is, the remote UIs of the image forming apparatus 102 and the image forming apparatus 103 may display the screen including the charge screen and the period. Alternatively, a mobile app installed on the client terminal 104 may create and display the screen including the charge screen and the period. In this case, the charge plan selection required to create the screen including the period may be performed by each device that creates the screen, or each device may receive the selection result from the print service 105. FIG. 9(d) shows a flowchart of the process performed by the image forming apparatus and the mobile app, including the selection of a charge plan.

[0132] 9D starts when the image forming apparatus or the mobile app receives an instruction to display the charge screen. In the following description, the image forming apparatus 102 will be mainly described, but the mobile app may also be mainly described.

[0133] In S510, the user interface unit 306 of the image forming apparatus 102 displays the charge screen 402. Then, in S911, the user interface unit 306 detects pressing of any of the print count charge plan options 409 to 416 on the screen 402. If this is detected in S911, the image forming apparatus 102 proceeds to S912. In the processes of S912 to S914, the entity performing the processes changes from the print service 105 to the image forming apparatus 102, but the process contents are the same as those of S901 to S903. Note that each table that was managed by the print service 105 is also saved and managed in the image forming apparatus 102. Then, in S916, the user interface unit 306 displays a screen including the calculated period.

[0134] <Other embodiments> The present invention can also be realized by supplying a program that realizes one or more functions of each of the above-described embodiments to a system or device via a network or a storage medium, and having one or more processors in the computer of the system or device read and execute the program. It can also be realized by a circuit (e.g., ASIC or FPGA) that realizes one or more functions. [Explanation of symbols]

[0135] 102 Image forming device 103 Image forming device 104 client terminals 105 Print Service

Claims

1. a display control means for displaying a plurality of options for adding the number of printable sheets in the printer, each option showing a different number of sheets; The display control means associates one of the plurality of options, which indicates the number of sheets estimated to be printed by the printer within a predetermined period, with information indicating that the one option is a recommended option, along with information about the predetermined period.

1. An information processing device comprising:

2. The display control means displays information about a first period in association with a first option that displays the number of sheets estimated to be printed by the printer within a first period, and displays information about a second period in association with a second option that displays the number of sheets estimated to be printed by the printer within a second period.

2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein:

3. The predetermined period is a period designated by the user.

2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein:

4. A receiving means for receiving input of at least one of the following information from a user: a budget for increasing the number of printable sheets on the printer; a frequency of use of the printer; a situation in which the printer is used; a model of the printer; a type of printing to be performed on the printer; and information on the user of the printer.

2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising:

5. The number of sheets that are estimated to be printed by the printer within the predetermined period is estimated based on the information input by the receiving means.

5. The information processing apparatus according to claim 4,

6. The information indicating that the one option is a recommended option is displayed when a predetermined button displayed on the screen including the plurality of options displayed in different numbers is pressed.

2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein:

7. The plurality of options for different numbers of sheets each display an amount to be paid by the user to add the number of sheets displayed in each of the plurality of options to the number of sheets that can be printed by the printer.

2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein:

8. The plurality of options displaying different numbers of sheets display an amount to be paid by the user to add the number of sheets displayed in each of the plurality of options to the number of sheets that can be printed by the printer, and an amount per sheet calculated based on the amount and the number of sheets.

2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein:

9. The amount per card varies for each of the plurality of options, The more options displayed, the lower the price per item.

2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein:

10. The information processing device is a smartphone or a personal computer.

2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein:

11. the information processing device is the printer, The display control means performs display via a web browser of a personal computer.

2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein:

12. 1. A control method for an information processing device having a display control step of displaying a plurality of options showing different numbers of sheets to increase the number of sheets that can be printed in a printer, In the display control step, information indicating that one option is a recommended option is displayed together with information about the predetermined period in association with one option that displays the number of sheets estimated to be printed by the printer within a predetermined period of time. A control method comprising:

13. A program for causing a computer to function as a display control means for displaying a plurality of options showing different numbers of sheets to be printed on a printer, the program comprising: The display control means associates one of the plurality of options, which indicates the number of sheets estimated to be printed by the printer within a predetermined period, with information indicating that the one option is a recommended option, along with information about the predetermined period. A program characterized by:

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