Image forming system, server apparatus, and image forming apparatus

Abstract

To reduce the number of analysis times of an image forming system.SOLUTION: The image forming system acquires an operation history of the image forming apparatus and data related to a state or a type of the image forming apparatus, and accumulates the operation history and the data. The image forming system determines whether or not to execute analysis using the operation history stored in the storage means on the basis of the data. If analysis is to be performed, the imaging system analyzes the accumulated operating history and reports the results of the analysis on the operating history.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an image forming system, a server device, and an image forming device. [Background technology]

[0002] Image forming devices have consumables that require maintenance, so it is necessary to notify printer users or administrators of the need for maintenance at appropriate times. Patent Document 1 proposes changing the timing of outputting notifications urging maintenance by improving the analysis method based on the analysis results of operation history. Patent Document 2 proposes determining whether maintenance is required by taking into account the fault tolerance level of each image forming device. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication No. 2021-071657 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2017-049759 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] Prior art focuses on determining whether maintenance is necessary based on the operation history collected from the printer. In other words, the aim is to improve the accuracy of notifications. However, depending on the collected operation history, there are cases where analysis itself is unnecessary. For example, if an image forming device is new, consumables have not yet deteriorated, and there is almost no need for notifications regarding consumables. In other words, analysis of the operation history is unnecessary. In such cases, sending the operation history from the printer to an analysis server and having the analysis server analyze the operation history would be a waste of energy. Furthermore, storing operation history that does not need to be analyzed on the server would unnecessarily occupy the server's storage space. Therefore, an object of the present invention is to reduce the number of analyses performed by an image forming system that performs analysis of operation history. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The present invention is, for example, an acquisition means for acquiring data relating to the operation history of an image forming apparatus and the state or type of the image forming apparatus; a storage means for storing the operation history and the data acquired by the acquisition means; a determination means for determining whether or not to perform an analysis using the operation history stored in the storage means based on the data; analysis means for performing the analysis when the determination means determines that the analysis should be performed, and for not performing the analysis when the determination means determines that the analysis should not be performed; a notification means for notifying an analysis result that is a result of the analysis by the analysis means; An image forming system having the following is provided. [Effects of the Invention]

[0006] According to the present invention, the number of analyses performed by an image forming system that performs analysis of an operational history is reduced. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] Cross-sectional view of an image forming apparatus [Figure 2] Cross-sectional view of the feeding section [Figure 3] Graph showing the variation in feeding time [Figure 4] Diagram explaining the hardware [Figure 5] Functionality diagram [Figure 6] Diagram explaining tables [Figure 7] Flowchart showing a control method for an image forming apparatus [Figure 8] Flowchart showing a control method for a server device [Figure 9] Diagram explaining the function [Figure 10] Diagram explaining the user interface [Figure 11] Diagram explaining the database [Figure 12] Flowchart showing a control method for an image forming apparatus [Figure 13] Flowchart showing a control method for a server device [Figure 14] Diagram explaining the function [Figure 15] Flowchart showing a method for controlling an image forming apparatus and a server apparatus [Figure 16] Diagram explaining the function DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the following embodiments do not limit the scope of the invention claimed. Although multiple features are described in the embodiments, not all of these multiple features are necessarily essential to the invention, and multiple features may be combined arbitrarily. Furthermore, in the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals are used to designate the same or similar components, and redundant explanations will be omitted.

[0009] First Embodiment 1. Image forming device As shown in FIG. 1, printer 100 is an electrophotographic image forming apparatus. However, electrophotography is merely an example, and other recording methods such as inkjet recording and thermal transfer may also be used. Printer 100 outputs color images by overlaying four colors of toner: yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K). In FIG. 1, the letters YMCK are added to the end of the reference numbers, but when matters common to all four colors are explained, the letters YMCK are omitted from the reference numbers.

[0010] The process cartridge 5 has a toner container 6 that contains toner. The process cartridge 5 also has a photosensitive drum 1 that is an image carrier. The process cartridge 5 also has a charging roller 2, a developing roller 3, a cleaning blade 4, and a waste toner container 7.

[0011] The photosensitive drum 1 rotates in the direction of the arrow. A predetermined negative voltage (charging voltage) is applied to the charging roller 2, which charges the surface of the photosensitive drum 1 to a predetermined negative potential. A laser unit 8 is disposed below the process cartridge 5. The laser unit 8 is an exposure device or optical scanning device that irradiates the photosensitive drum 1 with light based on an image signal to form an electrostatic latent image. The developing roller 3 deposits developer (toner) supplied from a toner container 6 onto the image carrier, forming a toner image corresponding to the electrostatic latent image. A predetermined negative voltage (developing voltage) is applied to the developing roller 3 to promote development.

[0012] The intermediate transfer unit is composed of an intermediate transfer body 11, a drive roller 12, a tension roller 13, and an opposing roller 15. The intermediate transfer body 11 is, for example, an endless belt (intermediate transfer belt). The drive roller 12 is a roller that rotates the intermediate transfer body 11. The tension roller 13 and the opposing roller 15 are rollers that rotate in response to the rotation of the intermediate transfer body 11.

[0013] A primary transfer roller 10 is disposed opposite the photosensitive drum 1 and inside the intermediate transfer body 11. A transfer voltage is applied to the primary transfer roller 10 to promote the transfer of the toner image. As the photosensitive drum 1 rotates, the toner image on the photosensitive drum 1 is transported to the primary transfer nip. The primary transfer nip is located where the photosensitive drum 1 and the primary transfer roller 10 face each other. The primary transfer roller 10 transfers the toner image from the photosensitive drum 1 to the intermediate transfer body 11. As a result, the YMCK toner images are superimposed on the intermediate transfer body 11 to form a full-color image. The cleaning blade 4 is a cleaning member that removes toner remaining on the photosensitive drum 1 and collects it in the waste toner container 7. The feeding unit 20 is composed of a feeding cassette 21, a feeding roller 22, a conveying roller 23, a separation roller 24, and the like. The feeding cassette 21 stores multiple sheets S. The feeding roller 22 feeds the sheet S from the feeding cassette 21 to the conveying path. The conveying roller 23 conveys the sheet S further downstream on the conveying path. The separation roller 24 separates one sheet S from the plurality of sheets S.

[0014] The registration roller pair 25 is disposed further downstream of the feeding section 20 in the conveying path. The registration roller pair 25 corrects skew of the sheet S conveyed from the feeding section 20 and conveys the sheet S further downstream. A sheet sensor 27 is disposed downstream of the registration roller pair 25. The sheet sensor 27 detects the arrival of the leading edge of the sheet S and the timing when the trailing edge of the sheet S passes by.

[0015] A secondary transfer roller 14 is provided further downstream of the registration roller pair 25. The secondary transfer roller 14 is disposed so as to face the opposing roller 15, and forms a secondary transfer nip in cooperation with the intermediate transfer body 11. The secondary transfer roller 14 transfers the toner image from the intermediate transfer body 11 to the sheet S. To promote the transfer of the toner image, a positive voltage (secondary transfer voltage) is applied to the secondary transfer roller 14.

[0016] A fixing device 30 is disposed downstream of the secondary transfer nip. The fixing device 30 has a fixing film 31 and a pressure roller 32, and applies heat and pressure to the sheet S and the toner image, thereby fixing the toner image onto the sheet S. A pair of discharge rollers 33 is provided downstream of the fixing device 30. The pair of discharge rollers 33 discharge the sheet S to the outside of the printer 100.

[0017] The detection result of the sheet sensor 27 is used to determine whether the sheet S has arrived early or late. Early arrival means that the sheet S arrives at the sheet sensor 27 earlier than the scheduled timing. Late arrival means that the sheet S arrives at the sheet sensor 27 later than the scheduled timing. These phenomena may be called conveyance errors. If the sheet sensor 27 cannot detect the sheet S even after the feed roller 22 retries feeding, it is determined that a jam of the sheet S has occurred. In FIG. 1, the sheet sensor 27 is installed in association with the pair of registration rollers 25, but this is merely an example. Another sheet sensor 27 may be installed downstream of the secondary transfer nip and downstream of the fixing device 30. This may detect a jam at the secondary transfer nip and a jam at the fixing device 30.

[0018] 2. Feeding section 2(A) to 2(C) show the feeding operation of the feeding unit 20. As shown in FIG. 2(A), when the solenoid 91 lowers the feeding roller 22, the uppermost sheet S1 of the multiple sheets S stored in the feeding cassette 21 is fed to the conveying path by the feeding roller 22. The multiple sheets S in the feeding cassette 21 are positioned by a trailing end regulating plate 26. The trailing end regulating plate 26 is configured to be movable in both the conveying direction and the opposite direction. The user appropriately changes the installation position of the trailing end regulating plate 26 depending on the size of the sheets S. The user pulls out the feeding cassette 21 to refill the sheets S, change the size of the sheets S, or change the installation position of the trailing end regulating plate 26.

[0019] When the rear end regulating plate 26 is installed so that it contacts the rear end of the sheet S, the leading edge of the sheet S1 is positioned at the transport start position Ps. When the feeding operation starts, the feed roller 22 and the transport roller 23 each rotate. The sheet S1 moves to the right (the transport direction) due to friction between the feed roller 22 and the sheet S1.

[0020] As shown in FIG. 2B, sheet S1 reaches the separation nip Pn formed by the conveying roller 23 and the separation roller 24. Friction also acts between sheet S1 and sheet S2 located below sheet S1. As a result, sheet S2 may also move in the conveying direction. When two or more sheets S are fed to the separation nip Pn by the feed roller 22, the separation nip Pn separates one sheet S from the two or more sheets S and conveys it downstream. A torque limiter (not shown) is connected to the separation roller 24. A predetermined torque is applied to the separation roller 24. As a result, the separation roller 24 applies a resistance force to sheet S2 in the opposite direction to the conveying direction of sheet S1. This torque is set so that when one sheet S is present in the separation nip Pn, the separation roller 24 rotates in response to the conveying roller 23, and stops the separation roller 24 when two or more sheets S enter the separation nip Pn. Therefore, the separation nip Pn can separate and convey the sheets S one by one.

[0021] Thereafter, the feed roller 22 and the conveyance roller 23 continue to rotate. As shown in FIG. 2C, the sheet S1 passes through the pair of registration rollers 25. As a result, the leading edge of the sheet S1 reaches a position (detection position Pr) where it is detected by the sheet sensor 27. The time elapsed from the start of this feeding operation to the time when the sheet S1 reaches the sheet sensor 27 is the feeding time.

[0022] 3A and 3B show multiple feeding times when feeding operations are repeatedly performed. The vertical axis represents feeding time. The horizontal axis represents the number of sheets fed. In particular, FIG. 3A shows the feeding time for the first 2,000 feeding operations when 400,000 feeding operations are performed with the leading edge of sheet S abutting against the conveyance start position of Ps and the trailing edge of sheet S contacting trailing edge regulating plate 26. FIG. 3B shows the feeding time for the last 2,000 feeding operations of the 400,000 feeding operations. As shown in FIG. 3A, when the number of feeding operations by feed unit 20 is small, the variation in feeding time is small. As shown in FIG. 3B, when the number of feeding operations by feed unit 20 is large, the variation in feeding time increases. This is because as the number of feeding operations increases, feed roller 22 wears, making slippage between feed roller 22 and sheet S more likely to occur.

[0023] 3. Hardware 4 is a diagram showing the hardware configuration of the printer 100, server device 430, and host computer 420 included in the image forming system 400. The server device 430 is capable of communicating with one or more printers 100 and one or more host computers 420 via a network such as the Internet. The server device 430 is a computer (information processing device) responsible for maintaining and managing one or more printers 100. The host computer 420 is capable of communicating with the server device 430 and the printer 100 via the network, and is a computer that can be operated by, for example, a user, an administrator, or a dealer's maintenance staff.

[0024] The printer 100 has a video controller 401, a display device 402, an input device 403, and a printer engine 404. The video controller 401 includes a communication circuit that receives image data from a host computer 420 or an image scanner, and an image processing circuit that converts the image data and generates an image signal for the printer engine 404. The video controller 401 can communicate with a server device 430 via the communication circuit. The display device 402 is, for example, a liquid crystal display device or an organic electroluminescence (EL) display device that displays information to the user. The input device 403 includes switches and touch sensors that accept instructions input from the user. The display device 402 and the input device 403 may be integrated to form an operation panel. The input device 403 may include a power switch, operation buttons, and the like. The video controller 401 transmits image signals and print instructions to the printer engine 404.

[0025] The printer engine 404 includes an engine control unit 405, a system bus 407, and an IO port 406. The engine control unit 405 includes a CPU 80, a storage device 81, and a timer 82. CPU is an abbreviation for central processing unit. The storage device 81 includes non-volatile memory (e.g., read-only memory (ROM)) and volatile memory (e.g., random access memory (RAM)). The ROM area of ​​the storage device 81 stores programs and various data. The RAM area is used as a working area. The timer 82 may include a real-time clock (RTC) and a counter circuit that counts clock signals. The CPU 80 uses the timer 82 to obtain the date and time and measure the length of time from one timing to another.

[0026] The CPU 80 executes various programs to achieve various functions. The CPU 80 receives detection results from the sheet sensor 27 via the system bus 407 and the IO port 406 and supplies drive signals to the motor 90 and the solenoid 91. A drive circuit that generates a drive current for the motor 90 may be provided between the IO port 406 and the motor 90. A drive circuit that generates a drive current for the solenoid 91 may be provided between the IO port 406 and the solenoid 91. The motor 90 drives various rotating bodies, such as the conveyance roller 23 and the pair of registration rollers 25. While one motor 90 is shown here, multiple motors may be implemented. The solenoid 91 lowers the feed roller 22 to bring it into contact with the sheet S1 and raises and lowers the feed roller 22 to separate it from the sheet S1.

[0027] The server device 430 includes a server control unit 431. The server control unit 431 is a control board including a CPU 87, a storage device 88, and a communication circuit 89. The CPU 87 executes programs stored in the storage device 88 and reads and writes various data. The CPU 87 includes a CPU core and a GPU core. GPU stands for graphics processing unit. The storage device 88 may include RAM, ROM, a hard disk drive (HDD), and a solid-state drive (SSD). The CPU 87 may realize a virtual environment according to the program, and the server may be implemented by this virtual environment. The server control unit 431 can exchange information with the engine control unit 405 via the video controller 401. The server control unit 431 receives information from and transmits information to the host computer 420 via a network such as the Internet. The communication circuit 89 includes circuits for communicating with the printer 100 and the host computer 420. The timer 92 may include a real-time clock (RTC), a counter circuit, and the like.

[0028] The host computer 420 includes a CPU 83, a display device 84, an input device 85, and a communication circuit 86. The CPU 83 executes programs stored in a storage device 93 to realize various functions. The display device 84 is a liquid crystal display or an organic electroluminescence (EL) display that displays information to the user. The input device 85 includes a keyboard and a pointing device that accept instructions input from the user. The communication circuit 86 is a circuit for wireless or wired communication with the printer 100 and the server device 430. The storage device 93 may include RAM, ROM, HDD, SSD, etc.

[0029] 4. Control System 5 shows the functions of the engine control unit 405, the video controller 401, the server control unit 431, and the host computer 420. The functions of the engine control unit 405 are realized by the CPU 80 in accordance with programs and data stored in the storage device 81. The functions of the video controller 401 are realized in accordance with programs and data stored in a memory (not shown). The functions of the server control unit 431 are realized by the CPU 87 in accordance with programs and data stored in the storage device 88. The functions of the host computer 420 are realized by the CPU 83 in accordance with programs and data stored in the storage device 93. One or more of the functions realized by the CPU 80 or the CPU 87 may be implemented by a hardware module such as an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or a field-programmable gate array.

[0030] In the engine control unit 405, the feeding control unit 501 controls the feeding of the sheet S. For example, when a print instruction is input by the user, the feeding control unit 501 transmits a feeding instruction to the drive control unit 502. Upon receiving the feeding instruction, the drive control unit 502 starts rotating the motor 90, thereby rotating the conveyance roller 23 and the separation roller 24. Furthermore, the drive control unit 502 controls the solenoid 91 to lower the feed roller 22 and cause the feed roller 22 to feed the sheet S. As a result, one sheet S1 of the multiple sheets S pushed up in the feed cassette 21 is separated and fed, and the sheet S1 is conveyed to the sheet sensor 27.

[0031] The detection unit 503 and measurement unit 504 have the function of measuring the feeding time. The detection unit 503 monitors the detection signal output from the sheet sensor 27 and detects the timing when the leading and trailing edges of the sheet S pass by. The measurement unit 504 uses the timer 82 to measure the time (feeding time) from the timing when the feeding control unit 501 issues a feeding instruction to the timing when the leading edge of the sheet S is detected by the detection unit 503. The measurement unit 504 adds the date and time when the feeding time was measured (hereinafter referred to as the feeding date and time) to the feeding time. The measurement unit 504 saves the feeding time in the RAM area of ​​the storage device 81 every time one sheet S is fed.

[0032] The counting unit 505 and the determining unit 506 have functions to determine or identify the operating state of the feeding unit 20. When the feeding control unit 501 performs a feeding operation, the counting unit 505 adds 1 to the cumulative number of feedings stored in the non-volatile area of ​​the storage device 81. Thus, the counting unit 505 counts the number of sheets S or pages on which images have been formed in the printer 100. The counting unit 505 may also count the amount of developer (toner) used to form images on the sheets S. The counting unit 505 may also count the number of times a jam has occurred or the number of times a specific abnormal event has occurred. In this way, the counting unit 505 acquires correlation information correlated to the wear state of consumable parts.

[0033] The determination unit 506 determines the operating state of the feed unit 20 by referring to the cumulative number of feedings stored in the storage device 81. Here, the operating state refers to a state indicating whether or not analysis of the operating history is necessary and whether or not accumulation of the operating history is necessary. If the cumulative number of feedings is equal to or greater than a first threshold and less than a second threshold, the determination unit 506 may determine that accumulation of the operating history is necessary and that analysis of the operating history is unnecessary. If the cumulative number of feedings is equal to or greater than a second threshold, the determination unit 506 may determine that accumulation of the operating history is necessary and that analysis of the operating history is also necessary. If the cumulative number of feedings is transmitted to the server device 430, the determination unit 521 may perform such a determination instead of the determination unit 506. If the feed roller 22 is not worn out, the replacement time (life expectancy) of the feed roller 22 is far away. This operating state is called a first state (initial state), and the accumulation unit 523 does not need to accumulate the operating history. On the other hand, when the feed roller 22 wears and approaches the time (life) for replacement of the feed roller 22, the accumulation unit 523 needs to start accumulating the operation history in preparation for identifying a more precise replacement time. This operation state is called the second state (accumulation required state). In the second state, accumulation of the operation history is performed, but analysis of the operation history is not performed. In the accumulation required state, there is a shortage of data samples required for analysis, so the accumulation required state may also be called an analysis preparation state. An operation state in which it is necessary to identify the replacement time by actually analyzing the operation history is called the third state (accumulation and analysis required state). In the third state, accumulation of the operation history continues, and analysis of the operation history is performed.

[0034] FIG. 6(A) is a table showing the relationship between the cumulative number of feedings and the operating state. As an example, the first state is a state where the cumulative number of feedings ranges from 0 to 198,999. The second state is a state where the cumulative number of feedings ranges from 199,000 to 199,999. This means that 1,000 pieces of operating history data are required for analysis. Note that 199,000 is used as a threshold for detecting a transition of the operating state from the first state to the second state. The third state is a value of 200,000 or greater. 200,000 may also be used as a threshold for detecting a transition of the operating state from the second state to the third state. These specific numerical values ​​are merely examples. When the feeding roller 22 is replaced, the cumulative number of feedings is reset to 0.

[0035] The collection unit 507 has a function of collecting the operation history of a replacement part (e.g., the feed unit 20). The operation history may be referred to as collected data, operation data, or history data. The collection unit 507 creates an operation history including the date and time when the operation status of the feed unit 20 changed, and transmits the operation history to the communication unit 511 provided in the video controller 401. The operation history may include multiple fields. The status field holds information indicating the operation status. The date and time field contains information indicating the date and time when the operation status changed. If the operation status is the second status, the collection unit 507 also transmits instruction information to the communication unit 511 to instruct the server control unit 431 to accumulate and analyze the operation history. Note that if the operation status has not reached the second status, the date and time field of the status change included in the operation history may be empty. In other words, an empty date and time field may indirectly indicate that there are no accumulation instructions or analysis instructions. In this way, the date and time field and the instruction information are transmitted to the server device 430 as data associated with the printer 100. The date and time field may be indirectly interpreted as data indicating the usage status or lifespan of a replacement part (consumable part) that constitutes the printer 100. Depending on the determination result of the determination unit 506, the collection unit 507 skips transmitting the operation history and data (instruction information), transmits the operation history and data (storage instruction), or transmits the operation history and data (storage instruction and analysis instruction).

[0036] FIG. 6(B) shows an example of an operation history relating to an operation state. The operation history in the second state and the operation history in the third state each have a date and time field for the state change. Date and time information is stored in the date and time field. Although not shown, the date and time field for the operation history in the first state is empty.

[0037] The collection unit 507 further transmits the feeding time measured by the measurement unit 504 and the date and time when the feeding time was measured (feeding date and time) to the communication unit 511 as the operation history of the feeding unit 20. Fig. 6C shows an example of the operation history related to the feeding time. The feeding time is an example of transport information related to the transport time of the sheet S.

[0038] The communication unit 511 transfers the status change date and time, the feeding date and time, and the feeding time to the server control unit 431.

[0039] The server control unit 431 includes a determination unit 521 that determines whether the operation history of the feed unit 20 needs to be analyzed. The determination unit 521 determines whether the operation history received from the printer 100 includes the date and time when the operation state changed from the first state to the second state. If the date and time are included, the determination unit 521 interprets this as a storage instruction and passes the operation history to the storage unit 523. The storage unit 523 stores the operation history in the storage device 88 according to the determination result of the determination unit 521. As shown in FIG. 6B, if 2024 / 07 / 20 21:05:30 is recorded in the date and time field, the storage unit 523 stores operation history having dates and times after 2024 / 07 / 20 21:05:30 in the storage device 88. If the date and time field is empty, the determination unit 521 determines that there is neither a storage instruction nor an analysis instruction, and discards the operation history received from the printer 100. If the date and time when the operation state changed from the second state to the third state is recorded in the operation history, the determination unit 521 determines that storage and analysis are instructed. In this case, the determination unit 521 instructs the storage unit 523 to store the operation history and instructs the analysis unit 522 to analyze the operation history.

[0040] When analysis is instructed by determination unit 521, analysis unit 522 analyzes the operation history (e.g., feeding time) stored in storage device 88. For example, analysis unit 522 calculates the variance V of the feeding time measured for the most recent X sheets S. X is, for example, 1000. As shown in FIGS. 3(A) and 3(B), as the amount of wear of feed roller 22 increases, the variance V of the feeding time increases. Therefore, analysis unit 522 can estimate the wear state of feed unit 20 based on the variance V.

[0041] FIG. 6(D) shows the relationship between the variance V and the analysis result. If the variance V is less than a first threshold (e.g., 280), the analysis unit 522 outputs "good (no replacement required)" as the analysis result. If the variance V is equal to or greater than the first threshold (e.g., 280) and less than a second threshold, the analysis unit 522 outputs "end of life approaching (replacement preparation required)" as the analysis result. If the variance V is equal to or greater than a second threshold (e.g., 320), the analysis unit 522 outputs "end of life reached (replacement required)" as the analysis result. The analysis unit 522 associates the analysis result with the feeding date and time and stores it in the storage device 88.

[0042] If the analysis result is "end of life", the notification unit 524 notifies the host computer 420 via the network of a message indicating the countermeasures to be taken. The display processing unit 531 of the host computer 420 displays the countermeasures (e.g., information indicating that the feed roller 22 needs to be replaced) on the display device 84.

[0043] 5. Flowchart 5-1.Processing performed by the printer 7A shows a control method implemented by the CPU 80 in accordance with the control program. When a print instruction is input, the CPU 80 executes the following process.

[0044] In S701, the CPU 80 (feed control unit 501, drive control unit 502) starts the motor 90, and controls the motor 90 and the solenoid 91 to feed the sheet S.

[0045] In S702, the CPU 80 (counting unit 505) updates the cumulative number of feedings N. That is, 1 is added to the cumulative number of feedings N.

[0046] In S703, the CPU 80 (determination unit 506) executes determination of the operating state of the feeding unit 20. The process of determining the operating state will be described later with reference to FIG.

[0047] In S704, the CPU 80 (detection unit 503, measurement unit 504) measures the feeding time of the sheet S using the sheet sensor 27. In S705, the CPU 80 (collection unit 507) saves the feeding time in the RAM area of ​​the storage device 81. As described above, the feeding time and the feeding date and time are saved in the storage device 81.

[0048] In S706, the CPU 80 (determination unit 506) determines whether notification of the operation history is necessary based on the notification conditions for the operation history. The notification condition is, for example, that the cumulative number of feedings N exceeds a first threshold value Nth1. In other words, the notification condition is that the operation state has changed to the second state or the third state. If the notification condition is met, the CPU 80 proceeds from S706 to S707. If the notification condition is not met, the CPU 80 skips S707. The notification condition may be that the operation state has changed, every predetermined number of prints, or every certain time period (e.g., once a day), etc.

[0049] In S707, the CPU 80 (collection unit 507) transmits the operation history to the server device 430 via the video controller 401. Here, the operation history includes, for example, information indicating the operation state of the feeding unit 20, the feeding date and time, and the feeding time.

[0050] 7(B) shows details of the operation state determination process. In S711, the CPU 80 (determination unit 506) determines whether the cumulative number of feedings N exceeds the first threshold value Nth1. If the cumulative number of feedings N does not exceed the first threshold value Nth1, the CPU 80 advances the process from S711 to S704. If the cumulative number of feedings N exceeds the first threshold value Nth1, the CPU 80 advances the process from S711 to S712.

[0051] In S712, the CPU 80 (determination unit 506) determines whether the date and time when the operating state changed from the first state to the second state is stored in the non-volatile area of ​​the storage device 81. If the date and time is stored in the storage device 81, the CPU 80 proceeds from S712 to S704. If the date and time is not stored in the storage device 81, the CPU 80 proceeds from S712 to S713.

[0052] In S713, the CPU 80 (collection unit 507) stores in the nonvolatile area of ​​the storage device 81 the date and time when the operating state changed from the first state to the second state.

[0053] In S714, the CPU 80 (determination unit 506) determines whether the cumulative number of feedings N exceeds the second threshold value Nth2. If the cumulative number of feedings N does not exceed the second threshold value Nth2, the CPU 80 advances the process from S714 to S704. If the cumulative number of feedings N exceeds the second threshold value Nth2, the CPU 80 advances the process from S714 to S715.

[0054] In S715, the CPU 80 (determination unit 506) determines whether the date and time when the operating state changed from the second state to the third state is stored in the non-volatile area of ​​the storage device 81. If the date and time is stored in the storage device 81, the CPU 80 proceeds from S715 to S704. If the date and time is not stored in the storage device 81, the CPU 80 proceeds from S715 to S716.

[0055] In S716, the CPU 80 (collection unit 507) stores in the nonvolatile area of ​​the storage device 81 the date and time when the operating state changed from the second state to the third state.

[0056] 5-2.Processing executed on the server device 8 shows a control method executed by the CPU 87 of the server device 430. In S801, the CPU 87 (determination unit 521) determines whether the operation history received from the printer 100 includes a storage instruction. For example, if the date and time field of the operation history includes a date and time (the date and time when the operation state changed from the first state to the second state), the CPU 87 advances the process from S801 to S802. If the date and time is not included, the CPU 87 skips the process from S802 to S806.

[0057] In S802, the CPU 87 (storage unit 523) stores the operation history in the storage device 88. As a result, the operation history acquired after the date and time when the operation state changed from the first state to the second state is stored in the storage device 88.

[0058] In S803, the CPU 87 (determination unit 521) determines whether an analysis instruction is included in the operation history received from the printer 100. For example, if the date and time field of the operation history includes the date and time when the operation state changed from the second state to the third state, the CPU 87 advances the process from S803 to S804. If the date and time is not included, the CPU 87 skips the process from S804 to S806.

[0059] In S804, the CPU 87 (analysis unit 522) adds the operation history to the storage device 88 and analyzes the operation history stored in the storage device 88. The analysis unit 522 calculates the variance V from the feeding time included in the operation history for the most recent X sheets, and determines the analysis result based on the variance V.

[0060] In S805, the CPU 87 (analysis unit 522) determines whether or not notification of the analysis result is necessary based on the analysis result. If notification is not necessary, the CPU 87 skips S806. If notification is necessary, the CPU 87 advances the process from S805 to S806.

[0061] In S806, the CPU 87 (notification unit 524) transmits a notification of the analysis result (including, for example, the content of countermeasures) to the host computer 420. For example, if the analysis result is "end of life," the notification will include the content of countermeasures that "the feed roller should be replaced." Upon receiving the notification, the CPU 83 (display processing unit 531) of the host computer 420 displays the notification on the display device 84.

[0062] According to the first embodiment, the printer 100 determines whether analysis is necessary based on data related to the status or type of the printer 100 (primary determination), thereby reducing the number of analyses performed by the server device 430 and reducing the operating costs of the image forming system 400. Furthermore, if it is not necessary to store the operation history, the server device 430 discards the operation history. This reduces the storage capacity required for the storage device 88 of the server device 430 and reduces the operating costs of the image forming system 400. The data related to the status or type of the printer 100 may be instruction information that instructs an analysis based on the data indicating the status or type of the printer 100.

[0063] Although FIG. 1 shows only one feeding unit 20, multiple feeding units 20 may be present. In this case, the counting unit 505 may count the cumulative number of feeding operations N for each feeding unit 20, or may add up the cumulative number of feeding operations N for the multiple feeding units 20. In the former case, the replacement time for replacement parts in each feeding unit 20 may be accurately determined based on an individual analysis. In the latter case, the replacement time for replacement parts common to the multiple feeding units 20 (e.g., the pair of registration rollers 25, the intermediate transfer body 11, and the fixing device 30) may be accurately determined based on an analysis using the combined value. In this way, in the latter case, it may be possible to identify the replacement time for replacement parts related to both the sheet P fed from the first feeding unit 20 and the sheet P fed from the second feeding unit 20.

[0064] In the first embodiment, the feeding unit 20 is used as the replacement part to be analyzed, but this is merely an example. The replacement part may be the fixing device 30 or the intermediate transfer body 11.

[0065] There may be multiple determination methods. For example, the necessity of storing and analyzing the operation history may be determined based on the frequency of occurrence of transport abnormalities such as early arrival, delay, or jam of the sheet S based on the feeding time. The necessity of storing and analyzing the operation history may also be determined based on the frequency of occurrence of other abnormal events (e.g., jam or fixing failure in the fixing device 30, jam or transfer failure in the intermediate transfer body 11, etc.) collected in the printer 100. The determination unit 521 acquires determination results for each of the multiple determination methods. At least one of the multiple determination results may suggest the necessity of storage or analysis. In this case, the determination unit 521 determines that storage or analysis is necessary. If all the determination results suggest that storage and analysis are not necessary, the determination unit 521 determines that storage and analysis of the operation history are not necessary. Alternatively, the determination unit 521 may determine that storage or analysis is necessary if N or more of the M determination results suggest the necessity of storage or analysis. Here, M is an integer equal to or greater than 2, and N is a positive integer equal to or less than M.

[0066] Furthermore, a determination unit 521 and an analysis unit 522 may be provided for each replacement part to be analyzed. For example, a determination unit 521 and an analysis unit 522 may be provided for the fixing device 30, and a determination unit 521 and an analysis unit 522 may be provided for the intermediate transfer body 11. In this case, the necessity for storing and analyzing the operation history is determined for each replacement part.

[0067] In the first embodiment, the notification unit 524 transmits the content of the countermeasure to the host computer 420, but this is merely an example. The notification unit 524 may notify the printer 100 of the content of the countermeasure. Upon receiving the content of the countermeasure, the video controller 401 may display the content of the countermeasure on the display device 402.

[0068] Second Embodiment In the second embodiment, the warranty period set for the printer 100 is used as data related to the status or type of the printer 100. In the second embodiment, if the warranty period set for the printer 100 has not expired, accumulation and analysis of the operation history are performed, and if the warranty period has expired, accumulation and analysis of the operation history are skipped. Here, the warranty period refers to the period during which the manufacturer that manufactured the printer 100 or the dealer that sold the printer 100 is obligated to provide support to the user, either free of charge or for a fee. The warranty period of the printer 100 may be linked to the identification information of the printer 100 and managed by the server device 430. In this case, the identification information of the printer 100 is included in the data collected by the collection unit 507. The server device 430 identifies the warranty period based on the identification information and determines the need for accumulation and analysis based on the warranty period. The warranty period may be replaced with the expiration date of the printer 100.

[0069] In the second embodiment, the function of the engine control unit 405 described in the first embodiment may be changed. For example, the engine control unit 405 may not have the counting unit 505 and the determination unit 506. The data (e.g., operation history) collected by the collection unit 507 includes identification information of the printer 100. The determination content of the determination unit 521 of the server control unit 431 is changed. In the second embodiment, descriptions of content that overlaps with the first embodiment will be omitted. The same reference symbols are assigned to the same or similar items, and descriptions of such items will be omitted.

[0070] 1. Functions in the second embodiment 9 shows the functions of the engine control unit 405, video controller 401, server control unit 431, and host computers 420a and 420b. Although the host computers 420a and 420b are separate, they may be a single computer. The hardware of the host computers 420a and 420b may be the same as the hardware of the host computer 420 shown in FIG.

[0071] The collection unit 507 of the engine control unit 405 collects operation history such as feeding time and feeding date and time, and acquires the identification information of the printer 100 stored in the ROM area or RAM area of ​​the storage device 81. The collection unit 507 transmits the operation history and the identification information of the printer 100 to the server device 430 via the communication unit 511. The operation history and the identification information of the printer 100 may be transmitted together or separately. In the former case, an ID field may be provided in the operation history, and the identification information of the printer 100 may be stored in the ID field. ID is an abbreviation for identifier. The identification information of the printer 100 may be stored in the video controller 401. In this case, the video controller 401 notifies the engine control unit 405 of the identification information, and the engine control unit 405 stores the identification information in the storage device 81.

[0072] The determination unit 521 of the server control unit 431 refers to the warranty period preset for each printer 100 to determine whether the storage unit 523 can execute the storage process and whether the analysis unit 522 can execute the analysis process. If the warranty period has not expired, the determination unit 521 determines that the storage process is executable and transfers a storage instruction and the operation history to the storage unit 523. The storage unit 523 stores the operation history in the storage device 81 in accordance with the storage instruction from the determination unit 521. If the warranty period has not expired, the determination unit 521 determines that the analysis process is executable and sends an analysis instruction to the analysis unit 522. If the storage device 81 contains the amount of operation history required for analysis, the analysis unit 522 executes the analysis process in accordance with the analysis instruction. The notification unit 524 transmits the analysis results (measure contents) to the host computer 420a. The display processing unit 531 displays the analysis results (measure contents) on the display device 84.

[0073] The host computer 420b has a setting unit 901 that sets execution conditions (e.g., warranty expiration date) for accumulating and analyzing operation history. The host computer 420b may be operated, for example, by a user of the image forming system 400. The user of the image forming system 400 is not the user of the printer 100, but other users (e.g., administrators, distributors) who use the image forming system 400. The other users provide support (such as maintenance of the printer 100) to enable the user to use the printer 100 smoothly. To distinguish between the user of the printer 100 and other users of the image forming system 400, the former may be called a printer user and the latter may be called a system user. The system user operates the input device 85 of the host computer 420b to activate the setting unit 901. The setting unit 901 accesses the reception unit 902 of the server control unit 431 via the communication circuit 86, receives display data for the setting UI, and displays the setting UI on the display device 84. UI is an abbreviation for user interface.

[0074] FIG. 10 shows the setting UI 1000. The identification information display section 1001 displays the identification information of the printer 100. The warranty expiration input section 1002 accepts input of the warranty expiration date to be set for the printer 100. The details button 1003 is a button for instructing the display of detailed information about the corresponding printer 100. The detailed information may include the printer user's identification information (e.g., name, user ID) and the installation location (e.g., address). The pointer 1004 is operated via the input device 85 and is used to specify an operation target or press a button. The settings button 1005 is a button for instructing the server device 430 to reflect the settings input via the setting UI 1000. The cancel button 1006 is a button for discarding the settings input via the setting UI 1000. When the settings button 1005 is pressed, the setting unit 901 transmits the identification information of the printer 100 and the corresponding warranty expiration date to the reception unit 902.

[0075] The reception unit 902 transmits an instruction to the storage unit 903 to store the identification information of the printer 100 and the corresponding warranty expiration date. The storage unit 903 stores the identification information in the storage device 81 in accordance with the storage instruction, linking the identification information to the warranty expiration date. FIG. 11A shows a database 1100 stored in the storage device 81. The database 1100 stores the identification information and the warranty expiration date that are linked to each other. The determination unit 521 can read the warranty expiration date corresponding to the identification information received from the printer 100 by referring to the database 1100. For example, the determination unit 521 determines whether the warranty expiration date of the printer 100 has expired by comparing the date on which data (e.g., operation history) was received from the printer 100 with the last day of the warranty expiration date. In other words, the determination unit 521 determines whether support for the printer 100 is valid or invalid.

[0076] 2. Flowchart 2-1. Printer 100 Control Method Figure 12 shows a control method executed by the CPU 80 of the engine control unit 405 in accordance with a control program. Of the processes shown in Figure 12, the same processes as those shown in Figure 7 are given the same reference numerals. Figure 12 differs from Figure 7 in that S702 and S703 are omitted and S1201 is added between S706 and S707. When notification of the operation history is required, the CPU 80 proceeds from S706 to S1201.

[0077] In S1201, the CPU 80 (collection unit 507) acquires the identification information of the printer 100 from the storage device 81. In S707, the CPU 80 (collection unit 507) collects the operation history (feed date and time, feed time) and transmits the identification information and the operation history to the server device 430.

[0078] 2-2. Control method of server device 430 13A shows a method for setting the warranty period executed by the CPU 87 of the server device 430. When a request for the setting UI 1000 is received from the host computer 420b, the CPU 87 executes the following process.

[0079] In S1301, the CPU 87 (reception unit 902) responds to the request received from the host computer 420b by transmitting display data for the setting UI 1000, thereby displaying the setting UI 1000 on the host computer 420b.

[0080] In step S1302, the CPU 87 (acceptor 902) accepts from the host computer 420b the setting of the identification information and warranty period of the printer 100. The acceptor 902 transmits to the storage unit 903 a save instruction, the identification information of the printer 100, and the warranty period.

[0081] In S1303, the CPU 87 (storage unit 903) stores the identification information and warranty expiration date of the printer 100 in the database 1100. As a result, the identification information and warranty expiration date of the printer 100 are linked in the database 1100.

[0082] Fig. 13(B) shows a control method (storage processing and analysis processing) executed by CPU 87 of server device 430. Comparing Fig. 13(B) with Fig. 8, S801 has been replaced with S1311 and S1312. Furthermore, S803 has been replaced with S1313.

[0083] In S1311, the CPU 87 (determination unit 521) refers to the database 1100 based on the identification information of the printer 100 included in the data received from the printer 100, and identifies the warranty expiration date.

[0084] In S1312, the CPU 87 (determination unit 521) determines whether the warranty period has expired. If the warranty period has expired, the determination unit 521 discards the operation history and skips storing and analyzing the operation history. If the warranty period has not expired, the CPU 87 advances the process from S1312 to S802. In S802, the operation history is stored in the storage device 88.

[0085] In S1313, the CPU 87 (determination unit 521) determines whether or not analysis of the operation history can be performed. For example, it is determined whether the amount of operation history stored in the storage device 88 is sufficient (e.g., operation history for 1,000 sheets S). If analysis of the operation history can be performed, the CPU 87 proceeds from S1313 to S804 and analyzes the operation history. If analysis of the operation history cannot be performed, the CPU 87 skips S804 to S806.

[0086] According to the second embodiment, the operation history is accumulated and analyzed for printers 100 that satisfy specific conditions among multiple printers 100. This reduces the number of analyses performed by the server device 430, and also reduces the operating costs of the image forming system 400. Furthermore, if it is not necessary to accumulate the operation history, the server device 430 discards the operation history. This makes it possible to reduce the storage capacity required for the storage device 88 of the server device 430, and also reduces the operating costs of the image forming system 400.

[0087] In the second embodiment, the need for accumulation and analysis is determined based on the warranty expiration date of the printer 100, but this is merely an example. Instead of the warranty expiration date, the frequency (execution interval) of accumulation and analysis may be used. For example, the execution frequency may be set for the identification information of the printer 100 through the setting UI 1000. The execution frequency may be information indicating, for example, the time interval (e.g., number of days, number of weeks, number of months) at which notification of the analysis results is executed.

[0088] In the second embodiment, the warranty period or execution frequency is set by the system user, but this is merely an example, and the printer user may also set it.

[0089] The notification unit 524 transmits the countermeasure content to the printer user's host computer 420a, but this is merely an example. The notification unit 524 may transmit the countermeasure content to the system user's host computer 420b. The notification unit 524 may notify the printer 100 of the countermeasure content.

[0090] Third Embodiment There may be various models of printer 100 available as a result of sales strategies. For example, a model with less support from the seller may be provided for users who prioritize the purchase cost of printer 100. Furthermore, a model with more support from the seller may be provided for users who prioritize smooth use of printer 100. Therefore, whether or not to accumulate and analyze the operation history may be determined based on information indicating the model, which is an example of data related to the status or type of printer 100.

[0091] Therefore, in the third embodiment, the collection unit 507 transmits model information of the printer 100 to the server device 430. The determination unit 521 of the server device 430 identifies the support content (e.g., whether or not maintenance service is available) associated with the printer 100 based on the model information, and accumulates and analyzes the operation history according to the support content. The model information is identification information for distinguishing product models. For example, the model information may be unique information that corresponds one-to-one to the product model number of the printer 100. In the third embodiment, a model with support from the seller and a model without support are distinguished depending on the model number. For supported models, the seller of the printer 100 provides support to ensure that the printer user can use the printer 100 without any problems. For example, signs of image abnormalities may be detected based on the operation history, and consumable parts that could cause the abnormality may be replaced.

[0092] 1. Functions of the image forming system 14 shows the functions of the engine control unit 405, video controller 401, server control unit 431, and host computers 420a and 420b. Functions that have already been described are given the same reference numerals, and their description will be omitted.

[0093] The collection unit 507 of the engine control unit 405 transmits the model information of the printer 100 in addition to the operation history to the server device 430. The model information may be notified to the engine control unit 405 from the video controller 401 and stored in the RAM area of ​​the storage device 81 of the engine control unit 405. Alternatively, the model information may be stored in the ROM area of ​​the storage device 81.

[0094] Determination unit 521 of server control unit 431 uses the model information to determine whether storage processing by storage unit 523 and analysis processing by analysis unit 522 can be performed. For example, determination unit 521 reads out support details linked to the received model information from storage device 88, and determines whether or not support is provided by the seller based on the support details.

[0095] The setting unit 901 sets support details for each piece of model information and transmits them to the reception unit 902. The reception unit 902 transmits a save instruction, the model information, and the support details to the storage unit 903. The storage unit 903 stores the model information and the support details in the storage device 88, linking them together.

[0096] 11(B) shows an example of a database 1101 that stores support details for each piece of model information in the storage device 88. In this example, information indicating whether or not support is available (maintenance information indicating whether or not maintenance services are available) is stored for each piece of model information. For example, "yes" to support indicates that storage processing by the storage unit 523 and analysis processing by the analysis unit 522 are required. "no" to support indicates that storage processing by the storage unit 523 and analysis processing by the analysis unit 522 are not required.

[0097] 2. Flowchart 2-1. Printer 100 Control Method Figure 15(A) shows a control method executed by the CPU 80 of the engine control unit 405 in accordance with a control program. Of the processes shown in Figure 15(A), the same processes as those shown in Figure 7 are given the same reference numerals. Figure 15(A) differs from Figure 7 in that S702 and S703 are omitted and S1501 is added between S706 and S707. When notification of the operation history is required, the CPU 80 advances the process from S706 to S1501.

[0098] In S1501, the CPU 80 (collection unit 507) acquires model information of the printer 100 from the storage device 81. In S707, the CPU 80 (collection unit 507) collects the operation history (feed date and time, feed time) and transmits the model information and the operation history to the server device 430.

[0099] 2-2. Control method of server device 430 Fig. 15(B) shows a control method (storage process and analysis process) executed by CPU 87 of server device 430. Comparing Fig. 15(B) with Fig. 13, S1311 and S1312 have been replaced with S1511 and S1512.

[0100] In S1511, the CPU 87 (determination unit 521) refers to the database 1101 based on the model information of the printer 100 included in the data received from the printer 100, and identifies the support content.

[0101] In S1512, the CPU 87 (determination unit 521) determines whether there is support. If there is no support, the determination unit 521 discards the operation history and skips storing and analyzing the operation history. If there is support, the CPU 87 advances the process from S1512 to S802. In S802, the operation history is stored in the storage device 88. The subsequent process is as described in the second embodiment.

[0102] According to the third embodiment, the operation history is accumulated and analyzed for supported models of printers 100 among the multiple printers 100. This reduces the number of analyses performed by the server device 430, and also reduces the operating costs of the image forming system 400. Furthermore, if it is not necessary to accumulate the operation history, the server device 430 discards the operation history. This reduces the storage capacity required for the storage device 88 of the server device 430, and also reduces the operating costs of the image forming system 400.

[0103] In the third embodiment, a model in which both accumulation and analysis are performed and a model in which neither accumulation nor analysis is performed are illustrated. However, three or more models may exist. For example, a model in which accumulation of operation history is performed but analysis is not performed may exist. Operation history collected from such a model may be used as big data. For example, the big data may be used to improve the printer 100 or for market analysis.

[0104] Priority may be used in determining whether to store and analyze the operation history. For example, identification information (warranty expiration date) and model information (support details) may be present as information accompanying the operation history. Furthermore, the priority of the model information may be higher than the priority of the identification information. In this case, analysis of the model information is performed before analysis of the identification information. If it is determined based on the model information that storage and analysis of the operation history are necessary, the warranty expiration date is further determined based on the identification information. If it is determined based on the model information that storage and analysis of the operation history are unnecessary, determination of the warranty expiration date based on the identification information is skipped. This reduces the time required for the determination process, prevents unnecessary determination processes, and reduces operational costs. Conversely, the priority of the identification information may be higher than the priority of the model information. In this case, if the model information indicates that storage and analysis are unnecessary but the warranty expiration date linked to the identification information is valid, it is determined that storage and analysis are necessary. For example, if the customer attributes indicated by the identification information indicate that the customer is a regular customer, it may be determined that storage and analysis are necessary without relying on the model information.

[0105] The collected data may include one or more pieces of information (e.g., storage instructions, analysis instructions, identification information, model information) that can be used to determine whether to perform analysis. In this case, the determination unit 521 may identify one piece of information according to a predetermined priority order for the multiple pieces of information and determine whether to perform analysis based on the identified information. For example, the determination unit 521 determines whether to perform storage and analysis based on the information with the highest priority order. If it is determined that storage or analysis is necessary based on the information with the highest priority order, determination based on other information with lower priority is unnecessary, thereby reducing operational costs. If it is determined that storage and analysis are unnecessary based on information with a certain priority order, the determination unit 521 performs a determination process based on information with the next highest priority order. Note that setting information indicating which information among the multiple pieces of information should be used to perform the determination process may be stored in the storage unit 903 in advance by the setting unit 901. In this case, the determination unit 521 performs the determination process using the information among the multiple pieces of information indicated by the setting information and skips the determination process using information not indicated by the setting information. This may reduce operational costs.

[0106] The determination method of the first embodiment, the determination method of the second embodiment, and the determination method of the third embodiment may be executed in parallel. For example, if at least one of the three determination methods determines that storage and analysis are required, storage and analysis may be executed.

[0107] <Fourth embodiment> In the first to third embodiments, the server device 430 is installed outside the printer 100, but this is merely an example. As illustrated in FIG. 16 , the functions of the server device 430 may be implemented in the printer 100. In this example, the determination unit 521, analysis unit 522, accumulation unit 523, and notification unit 524 are realized by the CPU 80. That is, the processes described in the first to third embodiments as being executed by the CPU 87 of the server device 430 are executed by the CPU 80 of the engine control unit 405. Information described as being stored in the storage device 88 of the server device 430 is stored in the storage device 81 of the engine control unit 405. The notification unit 524 may notify the host computer 420 of the content of the countermeasure via the video controller 401. The notification unit 524 may display the content of the countermeasure on the display device 402 via the video controller 401.

[0108] 9 and 14 may also be realized by the CPU 80 of the engine control unit 405. In addition, the display device 402 and input device 403 of the printer 100 may be used instead of the display device 84 and input device 85 of the host computer 420.

[0109] <Technical concepts derived from the embodiments> (Item 1) an acquisition means for acquiring data relating to the operation history of an image forming apparatus and the state or type of the image forming apparatus; a storage means for storing the operation history and the data acquired by the acquisition means; a determination means for determining whether or not to perform an analysis using the operation history stored in the storage means based on the data; analysis means for performing the analysis when the determination means determines that the analysis should be performed, and for not performing the analysis when the determination means determines that the analysis should not be performed; a notification means for notifying an analysis result that is a result of the analysis by the analysis means; An image forming system having:

[0110] The CPU 80, CPU 87, communication circuit 89, and determination unit 521 function as an acquisition unit. The CPU 80, CPU 87, storage device 88, and accumulation unit 523 function as an accumulation unit. The CPU 80, CPU 87, and determination unit 521 function as a determination unit. The CPU 80, CPU 87, and analysis unit 522 function as an analysis unit. The CPU 80, CPU 87, and notification unit 524 function as a notification unit. These reduce the operating costs of the image forming system that analyzes the operation history. (Item 2) The determining means further determines, based on the data, whether or not the operation history acquired by the acquiring means should be stored in the storing means; 2. The image forming system according to item 1, wherein the storage unit stores the operation history when the determination unit determines that the operation history should be stored.

[0111] The determination unit 506 or the determination unit 521 may determine whether to store the operation history based on data associated with the printer 100. The storage unit 523 stores the operation history in accordance with the determination result. This reduces the operating costs of the image forming system that stores the operation history. (Item 3) The data is The usage status or lifespan of replacement parts constituting the image forming apparatus, an expiration date set for the image forming device; The warranty period set for the image forming device, and Information regarding the availability of maintenance services provided for the image forming apparatus 3. The imaging system according to item 1 or 2, comprising or associated with at least one of:

[0112] These are merely exemplary listings of data associated with printer 100. (Item 4) The usage status of replacement parts constituting the image forming apparatus is the number of sheets or pages on which images are formed in the image forming device; the amount of developer used to form an image on a sheet in the image forming device; conveyance information relating to a sheet conveyance time measured in the image forming apparatus; The number of times a jam occurs in the image forming apparatus, and The number of occurrences of a specific abnormal event in the image forming apparatus 4. The image forming system according to item 3, comprising at least one of:

[0113] These are merely examples of the usage status and consumption status of replacement parts (consumable parts) and correlation information related thereto. (Item 5) The determination means When the value indicated by the data is equal to or greater than a first threshold and less than a second threshold, it is determined that storage of the operation history is necessary and that analysis of the operation history is unnecessary; 5. An image forming system according to any one of items 2 to 4, wherein, if the value indicated by the data is equal to or greater than the second threshold, it is determined that accumulation of the operation history is necessary and that analysis of the operation history is also necessary.

[0114] As illustrated in Figure 6(A), the first threshold may be 199000. The second threshold may be 200000. The difference between the first and second thresholds may be correlated to the number of data samples required for analysis. (Item 6) the data relating to the state or type of the image forming device includes identification information of the image forming device associated with a use-by date or a warranty date set for the image forming device, the acquiring unit acquires the expiration date or the warranty date associated with the identification information received from the image forming device, 5. The image forming system according to claim 3, wherein the determination means determines to perform the analysis if the expiration date or the warranty period has not expired, and determines not to perform the analysis if the expiration date or the warranty period has expired.

[0115] As described in the second embodiment, the warranty period may be managed in association with the identification information of the printer 100. Therefore, whether or not to perform accumulation and analysis may be determined based on the warranty period (usage period). (Item 7) 7. The image forming system according to item 6, wherein the identification information is identification information for distinguishing between a plurality of image forming apparatuses.

[0116] Such identification information may be unique information such as a printer ID, a manufacturing number, or a serial number. (Item 8) the data relating to the state or type of the image forming apparatus includes maintenance information relating to whether or not a maintenance service is provided for the image forming apparatus; the acquiring unit acquires the maintenance information associated with the identification information of the image forming device received from the image forming device, 5. The image forming system according to item 3 or 4, wherein the determining unit determines whether the image forming apparatus is eligible for the maintenance service based on the maintenance information.

[0117] As explained in the third embodiment, a maintenance service (support) may be provided for the product model of the printer 100. Therefore, whether or not to perform accumulation and analysis may be determined based on the maintenance information. (Item 9) 9. The image forming system according to item 8, wherein the identification information is identification information for distinguishing product models of the image forming apparatus.

[0118] The model information is an example of unique identification information for distinguishing product models. (Item 10) further comprising a setting means for setting execution conditions for the analysis; 2. The image forming system according to item 1, wherein the determining unit determines whether to perform the analysis based on the data and the execution conditions.

[0119] The CPU 80, CPU 87, CPU 83 and setting unit 901 may function as a setting unit for setting analysis execution conditions. (Item 11) The device further includes a setting means for setting execution conditions for storing the operation history, 3. The image forming system according to item 2, wherein the determining unit determines whether or not to accumulate the operation history based on the data and the execution conditions.

[0120] The CPU 80, CPU 87, CPU 83 and setting unit 901 may function as a setting unit for setting the storage execution conditions. (Item 12) the data regarding the status or type of the image forming device includes a frequency of notification of the analysis result associated with identification information received from the image forming device; 2. The image forming system according to item 1, wherein the determining unit determines to perform the analysis at an execution interval corresponding to a frequency of notification of the analysis result.

[0121] The CPU 80, CPU 87, CPU 83, and setting unit 901 may set the frequency of notification of the analysis results as data associated with the printer 100. The determination units 506 and 521 may perform the analysis at an execution interval according to the set notification frequency. (Item 13) the data regarding the status or type of the imaging device includes one or more pieces of information usable to determine whether to perform the analysis; Item 2. The image forming system according to item 1, wherein, when the data includes a plurality of pieces of information, the determination means identifies the information to be used to determine whether to perform the analysis according to a predetermined priority order for the plurality of pieces of information.

[0122] The data associated with printer 100 may include one or more pieces of information that can be used to determine whether to perform an analysis. Determination unit 506 and determination unit 521 may identify the information to be used to determine whether to perform an analysis according to a preset priority order for the multiple pieces of information. (Item 14) 2. The image forming system of claim 1, wherein the data regarding the status or type of the image forming device includes instruction information received from the image forming device that instructs the execution of the analysis.

[0123] The date and time field and analysis instruction described in the first embodiment are examples of instruction information. (Item 15) Item 15. The imaging system of item 14, wherein a predetermined field of the data being empty indicates that the analysis should not be performed.

[0124] In this way, the analysis instructions may be suggested by the information stored in a given field (eg, a date and time field). (Item 16) 3. The image forming system according to item 2, wherein the data relating to the status or type of the image forming device includes instruction information instructing accumulation of the operation history received from the image forming device.

[0125] The date and time field and the storage instruction described in the first embodiment are examples of instruction information. (Item 17) Item 17. The imaging system of item 16, wherein a predetermined field of the data being empty indicates that the accumulation should not be performed.

[0126] In this way, the storage instruction may be suggested by information stored in a predetermined field (eg, a date and time field). (Item 18) an acquisition means for acquiring data relating to the operation history of an image forming apparatus and the state or type of the image forming apparatus; a storage means for storing the operation history and the data acquired by the acquisition means; a determination means for determining whether or not to perform an analysis using the operation history stored in the storage means based on the data; analysis means for performing the analysis when the determination means determines that the analysis should be performed, and for not performing the analysis when the determination means determines that the analysis should not be performed; a notification means for notifying an analysis result that is a result of the analysis by the analysis means; A server device having the above configuration. (Item 19) An image forming system having an image forming apparatus and a server apparatus, the image forming apparatus, Consumable parts that are consumed by forming images; a transmission unit that collects the operation history of the consumable parts and data relating to the state or type of the image forming apparatus and transmits the collected data to the server device; The server device an acquisition unit for acquiring the operation history and the data of the image forming apparatus; a storage means for storing the operation history and the data acquired by the acquisition means; a first determination means for determining whether or not to perform an analysis using the operation history stored in the storage means based on the data; an analysis means for performing the analysis when the first determination means determines that the analysis should be performed, and for not performing the analysis when the first determination means determines that the analysis should not be performed; a notification means for notifying an analysis result that is a result of the analysis by the analysis means; An image forming system having:

[0127] The communication unit 511 and the collection unit 507 are an example of a sending means. The determination unit 521 is an example of a first determination means. (Item 20) The image forming apparatus further comprises: a second determination unit that determines whether the operation history should be transmitted to the server device based on a wear state of the image forming device; 20. The image forming system of item 19, wherein, depending on the judgment result of the second judgment means, data regarding the status or type of the image forming device includes an instruction to accumulate the operation history, or the data includes an instruction to accumulate the operation history and an instruction to analyze the operation history.

[0128] The determination unit 506 is an example of a first determination means. (Item 21) An image forming apparatus capable of communicating with a server apparatus that analyzes an operation history of the image forming apparatus, Consumable parts that are consumed by forming images; an acquisition means for acquiring correlation information correlated with a consumption state of the consumable parts; a collection means for collecting the operation history of the consumable parts; a determination means for determining whether the operation history should be transmitted to a server device based on the correlation information; a transmitting means for transmitting the operation history and data relating to the status or type of the image forming apparatus to the server device, The transmitting means, depending on the determination result of the determining means, Skip sending the operation history and the data, or Transmitting the operation history and the data including an instruction to store the operation history to the server device, or The image forming apparatus transmits the operation history and the data including instructions to store and analyze the operation history to the server apparatus.

[0129] As described in the first embodiment, the number of times that the server device 430 accumulates and analyzes the operation history may be reduced by performing the primary determination in the printer 100.

[0130] The invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, the following claims are appended to apprise the public of the scope of the invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0131] 400: Image forming system, 100: Printer

Claims

1. an acquisition means for acquiring data relating to the operation history of an image forming apparatus and the state or type of the image forming apparatus; a storage means for storing the operation history and the data acquired by the acquisition means; a determination means for determining whether or not to perform an analysis using the operation history stored in the storage means based on the data; analysis means for performing the analysis when the determination means determines that the analysis should be performed, and for not performing the analysis when the determination means determines that the analysis should not be performed; a notification means for notifying an analysis result that is a result of the analysis by the analysis means; An image forming system having:

2. The determining means further determines, based on the data, whether or not the operation history acquired by the acquiring means should be stored in the storing means; 2. The image forming system according to claim 1, wherein said storage means stores the operation history when said determination means determines that the operation history should be stored.

3. The data is The usage status or lifespan of replacement parts constituting the image forming apparatus, an expiration date set for the image forming device; The warranty period set for the image forming device, and Information regarding the availability of maintenance services provided for the image forming apparatus 10. The imaging system of claim 1, comprising or associated with at least one of:

4. The usage status of replacement parts constituting the image forming apparatus is the number of sheets or pages on which images are formed in the image forming device; the amount of developer used to form an image on a sheet in the image forming device; conveyance information relating to a sheet conveyance time measured in the image forming apparatus; The number of times a jam occurs in the image forming apparatus, and The number of occurrences of a specific abnormal event in the image forming apparatus 4. The image forming system of claim 3, comprising at least one of:

5. The determination means When the value indicated by the data is equal to or greater than a first threshold and less than a second threshold, it is determined that storage of the operation history is necessary and that analysis of the operation history is unnecessary; The image forming system according to claim 2 , wherein, when the value indicated by the data is equal to or greater than the second threshold value, it is determined that the operation history needs to be accumulated and that the operation history needs to be analyzed.

6. the data includes identification information of the image forming apparatus associated with a use-by date or a warranty date set for the image forming apparatus, the acquiring unit acquires the expiration date or the warranty date associated with the identification information received from the image forming device, 4. The image forming system according to claim 3, wherein the determination means determines to perform the analysis if the expiration date or the warranty period has not expired, and determines not to perform the analysis if the expiration date or the warranty period has expired.

7. 7. The image forming system according to claim 6, wherein the identification information is information for distinguishing between a plurality of image forming apparatuses.

8. the data includes maintenance information regarding whether or not a maintenance service is provided for the image forming apparatus; the acquiring unit acquires the maintenance information associated with the identification information of the image forming device received from the image forming device, 4. The image forming system according to claim 3, wherein said determining means determines whether said image forming apparatus is a target for said maintenance service based on said maintenance information.

9. 9. The image forming system according to claim 8, wherein the identification information is identification information for distinguishing product models of the image forming apparatus.

10. further comprising a setting means for setting execution conditions for the analysis; 2. The image forming system according to claim 1, wherein said determining means determines whether or not to execute said analysis based on said data and said execution conditions.

11. The device further includes a setting means for setting execution conditions for storing the operation history, 3. The image forming system according to claim 2, wherein said determining means determines whether or not to execute accumulation of said operation history based on said data and said execution conditions.

12. the data includes a frequency of notification of the analysis result associated with identification information received from the image forming device; 2. The image forming system according to claim 1, wherein the determining unit determines to perform the analysis at an execution interval corresponding to a frequency of notification of the analysis result.

13. the data includes one or more pieces of information usable to determine whether to perform the analysis; 2. The image forming system according to claim 1, wherein, when the data includes a plurality of pieces of information, the determination means identifies the information to be used for determining whether to perform the analysis in accordance with a predetermined priority order for the plurality of pieces of information.

14. The imaging system of claim 1 , wherein the data includes instruction information received from the imaging device that instructs the performance of the analysis.

15. 15. The imaging system of claim 14, wherein a predetermined field of the data being empty indicates that the analysis should not be performed.

16. 3. The image forming system according to claim 2, wherein the data includes instruction information that instructs storage of the operation history received from the image forming apparatus.

17. 17. The imaging system of claim 16, wherein a predetermined field of said data being empty indicates that said accumulation should not be performed.

18. an acquisition means for acquiring data relating to the operation history of an image forming apparatus and the state or type of the image forming apparatus; a storage means for storing the operation history and the data acquired by the acquisition means; a determination means for determining whether or not to perform an analysis using the operation history stored in the storage means based on the data; analysis means for performing the analysis when the determination means determines that the analysis should be performed, and for not performing the analysis when the determination means determines that the analysis should not be performed; a notification means for notifying an analysis result that is a result of the analysis by the analysis means; A server device having the above configuration.

19. An image forming system having an image forming apparatus and a server apparatus, the image forming apparatus, Consumable parts that are consumed by forming images; a transmission unit that collects the operation history of the consumable parts and data relating to the state or type of the image forming apparatus and transmits the collected data to the server device; The server device an acquisition unit for acquiring the operation history and the data of the image forming apparatus; a storage means for storing the operation history and the data acquired by the acquisition means; a first determination means for determining whether or not to perform an analysis using the operation history stored in the storage means based on the data; an analysis means for performing the analysis when the first determination means determines that the analysis should be performed, and for not performing the analysis when the first determination means determines that the analysis should not be performed; a notification means for notifying an analysis result that is a result of the analysis by the analysis means; An image forming system having:

20. The image forming apparatus further comprises: a second determination unit that determines whether the operation history should be transmitted to the server device based on a wear state of the image forming device; 20. The image forming system of claim 19, wherein, depending on the judgment result of the second judgment means, data regarding the status or type of the image forming device includes an instruction to accumulate the operation history, or the data includes an instruction to accumulate and an instruction to analyze the operation history.

21. An image forming apparatus capable of communicating with a server apparatus that analyzes an operation history of the image forming apparatus, Consumable parts that are consumed by forming images; an acquisition means for acquiring correlation information correlated with a consumption state of the consumable parts; a collection means for collecting the operation history of the consumable parts; a determination means for determining whether the operation history should be transmitted to a server device based on the correlation information; a transmitting means for transmitting the operation history and data relating to the status or type of the image forming apparatus to the server device, The transmitting means, depending on the determination result of the determining means, Skip sending the operation history and the data, or Transmitting the operation history and the data including an instruction to store the operation history to the server device, or The image forming apparatus transmits the operation history and the data including instructions to store and analyze the operation history to the server apparatus.

Images