Printer management methods, printer management systems, and programs

Abstract

This invention provides a printer management method, a printer management system, and a program that enable easy management of printer services for users. [Solution] In the printer service system 10, a method for managing a printer 12 that prints by ejecting material while the inkjet head moves relative to a recording medium or table includes: a first step in which the server's output unit outputs scan information, which is a value based on the relative movement of the inkjet head; a second step in which the server's comparison unit compares the scan information output by the output unit with a preset value; and a third step in which the server's management unit manages the server's printer based on the comparison result by the comparison unit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a printer management method, a printer management system, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, so-called subscriptions that provide services to users by paying a fixed fee on a monthly basis or the like have become widely popular.

[0003] Patent Document 1 describes that in a service of fixed-cost printing processing by a printer, recording information related to recording processing when a fixed-cost consumable delivery service is executed is stored in a storage unit of the printer.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] Here, in a fixed-cost consumable delivery service for printers used in offices or the like, recording paper as a consumable is standardized as defined by, for example, JIS (Japan Industrial Standards) such as A4 or B5. Therefore, as a subscription service related to printers, it is easy to provide a service based on the number of printed sheets used by users.

[0006] On the other hand, industrial printing paper and large printers perform printing not on the above-mentioned standardized printing paper but on printing paper of various sizes or recording media other than paper. Therefore, the management of consumables is complicated, and it is difficult to provide a subscription service based on the number of printed sheets.

[0007] Therefore, the present invention aims to provide a printer management method, a printer management system, and a program that can provide printer services to users through easy management. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] A printer management method according to a first aspect of the present invention is a method for managing a printer that prints by ejecting material while the ejection means moves relative to a recording medium or a table, and includes a first step in which a derivation means derives a relative movement value which is a value based on the relative movement of the ejection means; a second step in which a comparison means compares the relative movement value derived by the derivation means with a preset setting value; and a third step in which a management means manages the printer based on the comparison result by the comparison means.

[0009] This configuration allows for easy management of printer services to users by using the comparison result between the relative movement value of the ejection mechanism, which generates a mechanical load on the printer, and a preset value.

[0010] In the printer management method described above, the relative movement value may be derived using the number of scans in which the ejection means performed the relative movement. With this configuration, the relative movement value can be easily derived.

[0011] In the printer management method described above, the relative movement value may be derived based on the width of the direction in which the ejection means moves relative to the material while ejecting it, and the number of times this movement occurs. If the relative movement value is the number of times the ejection means has moved relative to the material, then even with the same number of movements, a wider width in the direction of relative movement of the ejection means will result in more material being ejected, which may give the user a sense of unfairness. Therefore, with this configuration, by managing the printer based on the number of times the ejection means has moved relative to the material and the width of the recording medium, a more appropriate printer service can be provided to the user.

[0012] In the printer management method described above, the relative movement value may be derived using the distance traveled by the ejection means while ejecting the material. With this configuration, the relative movement value can be easily derived.

[0013] In the printer management method described above, the relative movement value may be derived using the distance the ejection means moves relative to the material in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the ejection means moves relative to the material while ejecting it. With this configuration, the relative movement value can be easily derived.

[0014] In the printer management method described above, the ejection means ejects ink that hardens when exposed to light of a predetermined wavelength, and includes an irradiation means for irradiating the ejected ink with light of the predetermined wavelength, and the relative movement value may include a value based on the relative movement of the ejection means for hardening the ink. With this configuration, since the relative movement of the ejection means for hardening the ink also generates a mechanical load, appropriate management according to the printer's function can be achieved.

[0015] In the printer management method described above, the derivation means may derive the relative movement value based on an instruction signal that causes the ejection means to move relative to the printer. With this configuration, the relative movement value can be easily derived.

[0016] In the printer management method described above, the derivation means may derive the relative movement value based on the detection result from a sensor provided in the printer. With this configuration, the relative movement value can be easily derived.

[0017] In the printer management method described above, the derivation means may derive the relative movement value based on the results of capturing the relative movement of the ejection means by the camera. With this configuration, the relative movement value can be easily derived.

[0018] In the printer management method described above, the derivation means may derive the relative movement value based on the print data for printing and the print mode of the printer. With this configuration, the relative movement value can be easily derived.

[0019] In the above printer management method, when the relative movement value exceeds the set value during printing, the management means may stop the printer. According to this configuration, an increase in the relative movement value that is the service target can be prevented.

[0020] In the above printer management method, when the relative movement value exceeds the set value during printing, the management means may stop the printer after printing on the recording medium has ended. According to this configuration, even if the relative movement value exceeds the set value, the user can obtain the printed matter.

[0021] In the above printer management method, the derivation means may derive a total value of the relative movement value for which printing has been executed and the relative movement value for which printing is scheduled to be executed, and the comparison means may compare the total value with the set value. According to this configuration, it is possible to determine whether the relative movement value exceeds the set value before printing is performed.

[0022] In the above printer management method, when the total value exceeds the set value during printing on the recording medium, the management means may notify the user before the printer performs printing. According to this configuration, the user can recognize whether the relative movement value exceeds the set value before printing is performed.

[0023] In the above printer management method, the management means may notify the user of the remaining relative movement value, which is the difference between the total value and the set value. According to this configuration, the user can recognize the remaining relative movement value until the set value is reached.

[0024] In the above printer management method, when the remaining relative movement value, which is the difference between the total value and the set value, reaches a preset value, the management means may notify the user. According to this configuration, the user can recognize that the relative movement value has reached the desired remaining relative movement value.

[0025] In the above printer management method, the operation of the printer that is not the target of deriving the relative movement value may be preset. According to this configuration, by setting the operation of the printer that is not the target of the service, the user satisfaction can be improved.

[0026] In the above printer management method, the operation of the printer may be a print in which a printing error occurred due to the printer. According to this configuration, by setting the operation of the printer that is not the target of the service, the user satisfaction can be improved.

[0027] In the above printer management method, there are a plurality of printers, and the deriving means may derive the total value of the relative movement values of the plurality of printers, and the comparing means may compare the total value with the set value. According to this configuration, when a plurality of printers are the targets of the service, since the total value of the relative movement values of the plurality of printers is compared with the set value, the user can receive the service without worrying about the relative movement value and the set value of the frequently used printer.

[0028] In the above printer management method, the deriving means may be provided in at least one of the information processing device used by the user and the printer. According to this configuration, the information processing device is a terminal device operated by a user capable of transmitting and receiving data with the printer, and the printer can be managed by this information processing device and the printer.

[0029] In the above printer management method, when the relative movement value is less than or equal to the set value, it is a flat rate, and when the relative movement value exceeds the set value, charging may be performed according to the relative movement value exceeding the set value. According to this configuration, appropriate charging according to the usage state of the printer becomes possible.

[0030] In the above printer management method, charging may be performed according to the relative movement value. According to this configuration, appropriate charging according to the usage state of the printer becomes possible.

[0031] In the printer management method described above, the printer may be a robot having an arm with the ejection means attached to its tip. With this configuration, a robot that performs printing or painting can be included as a target of the printer service.

[0032] In the printer management method described above, the relative movement value of the robot may be the distance the arm has moved relative to the recording medium. With this configuration, the relative movement value can be easily derived.

[0033] In the printer management method described above, the printer may also be a molding device in which the ejection means ejects material onto the table to form a three-dimensional object. According to this embodiment, the molding device can be included as a target of the printer service.

[0034] A second aspect of the present invention is a printer management system for a printer that prints by ejecting material while the ejection means moves relative to a recording medium or a table, comprising: a derivation means for deriving a relative movement value which is a value based on the relative movement of the ejection means; a comparison means for comparing the relative movement value derived by the derivation means with a preset value; and a management means for managing the printer based on the comparison result by the comparison means.

[0035] A third aspect of the present invention provides a printer management system that manages a printer that prints by ejecting material while the ejection means moves relative to a recording medium or a table. The computer in the system provides a computer that performs the following steps: a first step in which a derivation means derives a relative movement value, which is a value based on the relative movement of the ejection means; a second step in which a comparison means compares the relative movement value derived by the derivation means with a preset setting value; and a third step in which a management means manages the printer based on the comparison result by the comparison means. [Effects of the Invention]

[0036] The present invention aims to provide a printer management method, a printer management system, and a program that enable easy management of printer services to users. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0037] [Figure 1] This is a schematic diagram of the printer service system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a schematic diagram showing the relative movement of the inkjet head in the embodiment. [Figure 3] This is a functional block diagram of the server related to the printer service of the embodiment. [Figure 4] This is a flowchart showing the printing process flow of the embodiment. [Figure 5] This is a schematic external view of an industrial robot of another embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0038] The printer service system 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. Figure 1 is a schematic overall view of the printer service system 10 according to this embodiment.

[0039] The printer service system 10 includes a printer 12, a dealer terminal 14, user terminals 16A and 16B, and a server 18. In this embodiment, the printer service system 10 leases the printer 12, which is owned by the dealer acting as the administrator, to the user based on predetermined contract terms, and the user uses the printer 12. The predetermined contract terms are, for example, a subscription contract (hereinafter referred to as the "subscription contract") in which the user pays a fixed monthly fee to the dealer.

[0040] In other words, the subscription contract in this embodiment is a contract in which the dealer leases the printer 12 to the user for a fixed fee at predetermined intervals, and the printer service system 10 in this embodiment executes the printer management method. Note that the dealer and user are, for example, corporations, but are not limited to corporations and may be individuals.

[0041] Printer 12 is, for example, a printing device (2D printer) that prints on a recording medium (hereinafter referred to as "media") based on print data transmitted from user terminals 16A and 16B. Although printer 12 is owned by the dealer, it is leased to the user based on a subscription contract and installed, for example, at the user's business premises. Printer 12 in this embodiment is, for example, a large industrial printer that prints on large media not included in standards such as JIS. The media may be paper or a flat material other than paper. Printer 12 is, for example, an inkjet printer that forms an image on the media by the relative movement of an inkjet head, which ejects ink (the printing material) onto the media, and the media itself.

[0042] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram showing the relative movement of the carriage 22 equipped with the inkjet head 20.

[0043] Figure 2(A) shows a printer 12 on which the media 24 is transported, with the media 24 being roll paper. The printer 12 shown in Figure 2(A) includes a guide rail 26 extending in the main scanning direction Y, a carriage 22 supported by the guide rail 26 and moving in the main scanning direction Y, an inkjet head 20 mounted on the carriage 22 that ejects ink onto the media 24, and a table 28 on which the media 24 is placed. Note that the media 24 in Figure 2(A) is, as an example, roll paper.

[0044] The printer 12 shown in Figure 2(A) moves the inkjet head 20 in the main scanning direction Y relative to the media 24 and ejects ink from the nozzles of the inkjet head 20 mounted on the carriage 22 toward the media 24, thereby performing printing in the main scanning direction Y. After each completion of printing in the main scanning direction Y, the printer 12 transports the media 24 in the sub-scanning direction X, which is perpendicular to the main scanning direction Y, by a transport device (not shown).

[0045] Figure 2(B) shows a printer 12 in which the media 24 is not transported. The printer 12 shown in Figure 2(B) includes a guide rail 26, a guide rail 30 extending in the sub-scanning direction X, an inkjet head 20 supported by the guide rail 26 so as to be movable in the main scanning direction Y, and a table 28 on which the entire media 24 is placed. That is, in Figure 2(B), the entire media 24 is placed on the table 28 and is not transported in the sub-scanning direction X as in Figure 2(A). Note that the guide rails 30 are provided in pairs on the left and right sides of the table 28.

[0046] The printer 12 shown in Figure 2(B) moves the inkjet head 20 in the main scanning direction Y relative to the media 24 and ejects ink from the nozzles of the inkjet head 20 toward the media 24 to perform printing in the main scanning direction Y. After each completion of printing in the main scanning direction Y, the printer 12 moves the carriage 22 along the guide rail 30 by a predetermined amount and performs printing in the main scanning direction Y again.

[0047] The printer 12 in this embodiment may take either the form shown in Figure 2(A) or (B). The movement of the inkjet head 20 in the main scanning direction Y is called scanning, and the distance the carriage 22 moves with each scan is called the scan width. The sub-scanning direction X is called the feed, and the distance the carriage 22 or media 24 moves in the sub-scanning direction X in one print is also called the feed length.

[0048] Furthermore, the printer 12 of this embodiment prints using ink that hardens when exposed to light of a predetermined wavelength. The predetermined wavelength of light is, for example, ultraviolet light, and the ink ejected by the inkjet head 20 is ultraviolet-curable ink (hereinafter also referred to as "UV ink"). For this reason, the carriage 22 is equipped with an irradiation unit 32 that irradiates the ejected ink with light of a predetermined wavelength. The irradiation unit 32 is provided on at least one of the left or right sides of the inkjet head 20.

[0049] Furthermore, the printer 12 of this embodiment may be capable of printing with a three-dimensional effect by ejecting UV ink multiple times from the carriage 22 to the same position, such as in 2.5D printing, thick-layer printing, or overlay printing.

[0050] The dealer terminal 14 is an information processing device such as a desktop computer, laptop computer, smartphone, or tablet, and is capable of communicating with the server 18 and the printer 12. The dealer terminal 14 has software (hereinafter referred to as "dealer software") installed for various settings related to printer services and for checking the usage status of the printer 12 that has been lent to the user.

[0051] Server 18 manages various information based on subscription contracts between dealers and users, analyzes the usage status of printers 12 by users, and provides service information based on the analysis results. Server 18 can communicate with dealer terminals 14, user terminals 16A, and other information processing devices.

[0052] User terminals 16A and 16B are information processing devices such as desktop computers, laptop computers, smartphones, or tablet devices. User terminal 16A is capable of communicating with server 18 and printer 12 lent to the user.

[0053] User terminal 16A has software installed for using the printer service (hereinafter referred to as "user software"). The user software acquires various information regarding the operating status of printer 12 and sends it to server 18. Communication is possible between user terminal 16B and user terminal 16A.

[0054] User terminal 16B generates print data and sends it to printer 12. In this embodiment, user terminal 16B is, for example, equipped with RIP (Raster Image Processor) software for converting print data into a raster image. Note that there may be more than one user terminal 16B. Also, user terminal 16A may generate print data for printer 12 and send it to printer 12.

[0055] In this embodiment, the printer service derives a relative movement value, which is a value based on the relative movement of the inkjet head 20 (carriage 22) with respect to the media 24 or table 28, and compares the derived relative movement value with a preset value. The preset value is, in other words, a threshold for managing the printer 12 based on the relative movement value. In the following description, the relative movement value is referred to as scan information. The printer service then manages the printer 12 based on the comparison result between the scan information and the preset value.

[0056] Thus, the printer service of this embodiment manages the printer 12 based on scan information. This is because the movement of the carriage 22 generates a mechanical load on the printer 12. In other words, the printer service of this embodiment manages the mechanical load associated with the movement of the carriage 22.

[0057] The management of printer 12 involves, for example, stopping printer 12 if the scan information exceeds a set value, or allowing printing by printer 12 if the user pays further even after the set value has been exceeded. In other words, the printer service of this embodiment, as an example, charges a flat rate if the scan information is below the set value, and charges (pay-per-use) based on the amount of scan information exceeding the set value. The flat rate is a monthly prepayment fee, while the pay-per-use fee is a post-payment fee based on the amount of scan information exceeding the set value.

[0058] Thus, the printer service of this embodiment can provide printer services to users with easy management by using the results of comparing scan information with pre-set settings.

[0059] Figure 3 is a functional block diagram of the server 18 related to the printer service in this embodiment. The server 18 comprises a processing unit 40, a storage unit 42, and a communication unit 44.

[0060] The arithmetic unit 40 is a computer such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and includes a derivation unit 50, a comparison unit 52, a management unit 54, and a service information generation unit 58. The functions of the derivation unit 50, comparison unit 52, management unit 54, and service information generation unit 58 are realized by executing programs stored in the storage unit 42 of the server 18.

[0061] The derivation unit 50 derives scan information.

[0062] The comparison unit 52 compares the scan information derived by the derivation unit 50 with the preset value.

[0063] The management unit 54 manages the printer 12 based on the comparison results from the comparison unit 52.

[0064] The service information generation unit 58 generates service information based on the user's usage of the printer 12.

[0065] The memory unit 42 stores programs for executing various processes related to printer services, as well as registration information for dealers, users, and printers 12, and various other programs and data.

[0066] The communication unit 44 transmits and receives information between the dealer terminal 14, the user terminal 16A, and other information processing devices.

[0067] Next, the four methods 1 to 4 for deriving scan information by the derivation unit 50 will be explained. Which of the first to fourth derivation methods is used to derive the scan information is predetermined, for example, in the subscription contract. The information used for the scan information is also sent from the printer 12 or user terminals 16A and 16B to the server 18 as needed.

[0068] (1st derivation method) The first derivation method derives scan information using the number of scans performed by the inkjet head 20 in relative movement. In other words, in the first derivation method, the number of scans is used as scan information. This makes it easy to derive scan information. For example, the following 1 to 5 can be used as methods for counting the number of scans by the derivation unit 50.

[0069] • Counting method 1 The number of scans is derived based on instruction signals that move the carriage 22 relative to the printer. This number of scans is obtained by acquiring the number of times the instruction signal is output in the firmware for controlling the printer 12. Counting method 1 is easy to implement and can accurately obtain the number of scans. Furthermore, counting method 1 prevents the inability to derive the number of scans due to mechanical failure.

[0070] • Counting method 2 The scan count is determined by the detection results of sensors such as switches and pressure sensors that count when the carriage 22 makes contact. The sensors are installed, for example, near one end of the guide rail 26, but the installation location is not limited as long as the sensors make contact each time the carriage 22 moves relative to the rail. In this way, counting method 2 derives the scan count based on the detection results of sensors installed on the printer 12. Counting method 2 is easy to implement and can accurately obtain the scan count.

[0071] • Counting method 3 The number of scans is derived based on the results of the camera's capture of the relative movement of the carriage 22. More specifically, the camera captures the relative movement of the carriage 22 in the main scanning direction Y as a video, and the number of scans is derived by image recognition of the captured results. The camera's installation location is not limited as long as it can capture the relative movement of the carriage 22.

[0072] • Counting method 4 A sensor capable of detecting the direction of movement of the carriage 22, such as a gyro sensor or an inertial sensor, is installed on the carriage 22. The number of times the direction of movement of the carriage 22 changes is detected by this sensor, and this detection result is taken as the scan count. In this way, counting method 4 derives the scan count based on the detection result from the sensor installed on the printer 12. Counting method 4 is easy to implement and can accurately obtain the scan count. Furthermore, since the sensor is installed inside the carriage 22, the sensor can be installed compactly.

[0073] • Counting method 5 The number of scans is derived based on the print data for printing and the print mode of the printer 12. For example, the number of scans is derived according to the length of the sub-scanning direction X of the print data and the image quality of the print data. The number of scans is also derived according to the print mode, for example, "high quality," "standard," "fast," etc. That is, the number of scans is higher when the print mode is "high quality" and lower when the print mode is "fast." The counting method 5 can be easily implemented and prevents the scan count from not being derived due to mechanical failure.

[0074] Here, if we consider the scan information as the number of scans, then even with the same number of scans, a wider scan width will eject more ink, which could create a sense of unfairness for the user. Note that the scan width varies depending on the width of the media 24 and the width of the table 28.

[0075] Therefore, the management unit 54 in this embodiment manages the printer 12 based on the width in the main scanning direction Y and the number of scans. Specifically, the management unit 54 changes the settings of the scan information and the billing table based on the maximum print width for the media 24 and the width of the table 28, etc. The management unit 54 may also change the billing amount based on the ratio of the width of the media 24 or the width of the table 28 to the actual print width (scan width).

[0076] (Second derivation method) In the second derivation method, scan information is derived using the distance the carriage 22 moves relative to the media 24 while ejecting ink (hereinafter referred to as the "scan distance"). That is, in the second derivation method, the scan distance is used as the scan information. The scan distance is the total distance the carriage 22 moves on the media 24 in the main scanning direction Y to perform one print. This makes it easy to derive scan information regardless of the width of the media 24. For example, the following 1 to 4 can be used as methods for measuring the scan distance by the derivation unit 50.

[0077] ·Measurement method 1 The scan distance is derived based on the instruction signal that moves the carriage 22 relative to the other. For example, the scan distance is derived by multiplying the distance traveled by each scan of the carriage 22 by the scan count obtained from the firmware. Measurement method 1 is easy to implement and can accurately obtain the scan count. Furthermore, measurement method 1 prevents the scan count from not being derived due to mechanical failure.

[0078] The distance the carriage 22 moves with each scan (scan width) may be a constant value depending on the width of the table 28, or it may be calculated for each scan based on the print data, or it may be calculated as the average value of multiple scans based on the print data.

[0079] ·Measurement method 2 The scan distance is derived based on the results of capturing the relative movement of the carriage 22 by the camera. More specifically, the camera captures the relative movement of the carriage 22 in the main scanning direction Y as a video, and the scan distance is derived by performing image recognition on the captured results.

[0080] ·Measurement method 3 A sensor capable of detecting the direction of movement of the carriage 22, such as a gyro sensor or an inertial sensor, is installed on the carriage 22. The number of times the direction of movement of the carriage 22 changes is detected by this sensor, and the scan distance is derived by multiplying this detection result by the distance the carriage 22 moves with each scan. In this way, measurement method 3 derives the scan distance based on the detection results from the sensor installed on the printer 12.

[0081] ·Measurement method 4 The scan distance is derived based on the print data and print mode used for printing. For example, the number of scans is calculated based on the length of the sub-scanning direction X of the print data and the image quality of the print data. The scan distance is then derived from the calculated number of scans and the distance the carriage 22 moves with each scan.

[0082] (Third derivation method) The third derivation method derives scan information using the distance the carriage 22 moves relative to the sub-scanning direction X (hereinafter referred to as "feed length"). In other words, in the second derivation method, the scan distance is used as the feed length. This makes it easy to derive scan information regardless of the width of the media 24. For example, the following methods 1 to 4 can be used as methods for measuring the feed length by the derivation unit 50. Note that in any of the following measurement methods, areas where ink is not ejected in the feed direction (for example, the top and bottom of the media 24) may be excluded from billing, or areas where ink is not ejected may also be subject to billing.

[0083] ·Measurement method 1 The feed length is derived based on the instruction signal that moves the carriage 22 relative to the other. For example, the scan count is obtained from the firmware, and the obtained scan count is multiplied by the distance that the carriage 22 or media 24 moves in the sub-scanning direction X with each scan.

[0084] ·Measurement method 2 The feed length is derived based on the results of capturing the relative movement of the carriage 22 by the camera. More specifically, the camera captures the movement of the carriage 22 or the media 24 in the sub-scanning direction X, and the feed length is derived by image recognition of the captured results.

[0085] In addition, for 2.5D printing, thick-layer printing, and overlay printing, multiple scans may be performed at the same location to increase the thickness of the print. Therefore, in such printing methods, the feed length measured by the camera is multiplied by a coefficient appropriate to each type of printing.

[0086] ·Measurement method 3 A sensor capable of detecting the direction of movement of the carriage 22, such as a gyro sensor or an inertial sensor, is installed on the carriage 22. The number of times the direction of movement of the carriage 22 changes is detected by this sensor, and this detection result is multiplied by the distance the carriage 22 or media 24 moves in the sub-scanning direction X with each scan. In this way, measurement method 3 derives the feed length based on the detection result from the sensor provided on the printer 12.

[0087] ·Measurement method 4 The feed length is derived based on the print data and print mode used for printing. For example, the feed length is derived according to the length of the sub-scan direction X of the print data and the image quality set in the print mode. Since the number of scans changes depending on the image quality, the feed length is derived by multiplying the length coefficient of the sub-scan direction X of the print data, using "Standard" as the base. For example, the coefficient is 1 when the print mode is "Standard", 2 when it is "High Quality", and 0.7 when it is "Fast".

[0088] (4th derivation method) The scan information may consist of at least two combinations of the number of scans, scan distance, and feed length. For example, the area of ​​the region covered by the carriage 22 (hereinafter referred to as "coverage area") is calculated by multiplying the scan distance (average distance) and feed length in a single scan. This coverage area is considered the scan information.

[0089] Furthermore, if the number of scans increases depending on the set print mode or print thickness, a coefficient corresponding to the increase in the number of scans may be multiplied by the cover area.

[0090] (Scan for UV ink curing) If the ink of the printer 12 is UV ink, the relative movement of the carriage 22 to cure the UV ink also generates a mechanical load, so the scan information includes values ​​based on the scan performed by the carriage 22 to cure the UV ink (hereinafter referred to as "curing scan information"). Curing scan information is derived when scanning is performed while irradiating ultraviolet light from the irradiation unit 32 in order to cure the UV ink ejected onto the media 24, without ejecting UV ink from the inkjet head 20.

[0091] The curing scan information is derived in the same way as the scan information described above. The sum of the scan information when UV ink is ejected and the curing scan information is used as the scan information. Note that if ultraviolet light is irradiated from the irradiation unit 32 at the same time as the UV ink is ejected, the curing scan information is not derived.

[0092] (Printer management) Next, we will explain how the management unit 54 manages the printer 12.

[0093] In this embodiment, the management unit 54 temporarily stops the printer 12 if the scan information exceeds a set value, as an example. Two methods for managing the situation when the scan information exceeds the set value while printing is in progress are a first stop process and a second stop process.

[0094] The set values ​​are predetermined according to the scan information, such as the number of scans, scan distance, feed length, or a combination thereof. In other words, the set values ​​will differ depending on the method used to derive the scan information. However, the set values ​​may also be assumed to be the same regardless of the scan information, and the scan information derived by each derivation method may be normalized by multiplying it by a coefficient corresponding to the derivation method.

[0095] The first stop process stops the printer 12 if the scan information exceeds a set value while printing to media 24. This prevents an increase in the amount of scan information to be serviced, and the user will not incur any additional charges.

[0096] The second stop process stops the printer 12 after printing to media 24 is complete if the scan information exceeds the set value while printing to media 24 is in progress. As a result, even if the scan information exceeds the set value, the user can still obtain the printed material, but a new charge will be incurred for the scan information that exceeds the set value.

[0097] The user can choose whether or not to perform the first or second stop process. Therefore, if the scan information exceeds a set value while printing to media 24, the user will be notified via the user terminal 16B or printer 12 to choose whether or not to perform the first or second stop process. Alternatively, whether or not to perform the first or second stop process may be set in advance.

[0098] Furthermore, the printer service system 10 of this embodiment may estimate whether the scan information exceeds a set value before printing. Therefore, the derivation unit 50 of this embodiment derives the sum of the scan information that has already been printed to the media 24 and the scan information that is scheduled to be printed to the media 24. Then, the comparison unit 52 compares the sum with the set value. For this reason, the storage unit 42 stores the scan information that has already been printed to the media 24 as a cumulative value.

[0099] The management unit 54 notifies the user (alert) before the printer 12 starts printing if the total value exceeds a set value while printing to the media 24. The notification is made via the user terminal 16B or the printer 12, for example, by displaying on the display, outputting sound and light, or a combination of display, sound, and light. This allows the user to recognize whether the scanned information exceeds the set value before performing the scheduled print. The user can then choose to proceed with printing or not. If printing is performed, an additional charge will be incurred according to the scanned information that exceeds the set value.

[0100] Furthermore, the management unit 54 notifies the user of the remaining scan information, which is the difference between the total value of the scan information and the set value. The notification of remaining scan information is made via the user terminal 16B or the printer 12. This allows the user to be aware of the remaining scan information until the set value is reached.

[0101] Furthermore, the management unit 54 notifies (alerts) the user when the remaining scan information, which is the difference between the total scan information and the set value, reaches a preset value. The notification that the preset remaining scan information has been reached is sent via the user terminal 16B or the printer 12. This allows the user to recognize that the scan information has reached the desired remaining scan information. Note that with large printers like the printer 12 in this embodiment, some users print large areas at once, while others print large quantities of small areas. Therefore, to accommodate users with diverse usage patterns of the printer 12, notification is sent at the user's desired remaining scan information, thereby increasing user convenience.

[0102] Furthermore, the printable area corresponding to the remaining scan information may be displayed. The printable area is calculated according to the print mode. That is, if the print quality setting in the print mode is "high quality," the printable area will be relatively smaller even with the same remaining scan information, and if the print quality setting in the print mode is "fast," the printable area will be relatively larger even with the same remaining scan information.

[0103] (Printer operations not included in scan information) In this embodiment, the printer service system 10 has pre-configured operations for printers 12 that are not subject to scan information extraction. In other words, by configuring the operations of printers 12 that are not subject to service, or in other words, not subject to billing, user satisfaction is increased.

[0104] The operations of printer 12 that are not covered by the service include, for example, printing for the maintenance of printer 12. Printing for maintenance includes, for example, printing to clean the nozzles of the inkjet head and printing for nozzle checks to detect nozzle malfunctions. These are not prints to form an image desired by the user on media 24, and are therefore excluded from the extraction of scan information. Whether or not printer 12 is performing the above-mentioned maintenance printing can be determined, for example, based on the operating mode of printer 12. That is, if printer 12 is operating in maintenance mode for nozzle cleaning or nozzle checks, the extraction unit 50 will not extract scan information.

[0105] Furthermore, printer 12 operations that are not subject to scan information extraction are printing errors caused by printer 12. These printing errors include system errors that cause printer 12 to stop (freeze) during printing for some reason, mechanical failures that stop the transport of media 24 in the sub-scanning direction or the movement of the inkjet head in the main scanning direction, clogged nozzles or filters of the inkjet head, and malfunctions in the printing application such as RIP errors. If image formation on media 24 is stopped midway due to such printing errors, the user will not be able to obtain the printed material. For this reason, prints that have such printing errors are not subject to scan information extraction.

[0106] The presence or absence of a printing error is determined, for example, by whether or not a printing error notification is received from printer 12, whether or not a printing completion notification is received from printer 12, or by printing error notifications obtained through big data analysis or AI analysis.

[0107] (If there are multiple printers covered by the contract) For example, a user may be leased multiple printers 12 from a dealer, such as when the user is a parent company and also contracts for printers 12 to be used by its subsidiary. Note that the multiple printers 12 do not necessarily have to be installed at the same business location of the user.

[0108] If a user is loaned multiple printers 12 from a dealer, the derivation unit 50 derives the total value of the scan information of the multiple printers 12, and the comparison unit 52 compares the total value with the set value. The set value may be set according to the number of printers 12 loaned to the user. For example, if a user is loaned two printers, A and B, and printer A has a lot of remaining scan information while printer B has little remaining scan information, printer B will be able to use the remaining scan information of printer A. This allows the user to receive service without having to worry about the scan information and set value of the printer 12 they use most frequently.

[0109] Furthermore, if multiple printers 12 include different models, the amount charged when the set value is exceeded may differ for each printer 12. In such cases, the charge may be set to the amount set for the cheapest printer 12, the average value, or a separate contract regarding the charge may be concluded.

[0110] (Generating service information) In this embodiment, the server 18 provides service information to the user using data related to printing by the printer 12 and other data. The service information is generated by the service information generation unit 58, and examples of service information include maintenance timing information and consumable shipment information.

[0111] Maintenance timing information indicates the timing of maintenance for the printer 12. Maintenance here refers to, for example, sending a worker to the user's business premises to perform maintenance on the printer 12. The service information generation unit 58 determines the timing of maintenance based on the cumulative operating time of the printer 12, the time elapsed since the last maintenance, etc.

[0112] The consumables delivery information indicates the timing for sending consumables used in the printer, such as ink and media 24, to the user. The service information generation unit 58 calculates the timing for sending consumables to the user by predicting the consumption of consumables used in the printer 12. The consumables delivery information is then sent to the consumables handling business, and the consumables are sent to the user by that business.

[0113] (Printing process flow) Figure 4 is a flowchart showing the printing process flow of this embodiment.

[0114] First, in step 100, print data is sent from user terminal 16B to printer 12. If necessary, the print data is also sent to server 18 via user terminal 16A.

[0115] In the next step 102, the derivation unit 50 derives the scan information to be printed. The derivation of scan information in step 102 is an estimation of the scan information to be printed, and is performed using one of the derivation methods described above, which is predetermined in the subscription contract.

[0116] In the next step 104, the derivation unit 50 reads the total value (cumulative value) of the printed scan information stored in the storage unit 42. The derivation unit 50 then adds the total value read from the storage unit 42 to the scan information derived in step 102 to calculate a total value that takes into account the scan information to be printed.

[0117] In the next step 106, the comparison unit 52 compares the total value calculated in step 104 with the preset value.

[0118] In the next step 108, the comparison unit 52 determines whether the total value is less than or equal to the set value. If the determination is positive, the process proceeds to step 110; otherwise, it proceeds to step 116.

[0119] In step 110, the printer 12 prints onto the media 24 based on the print data.

[0120] In step 112, the output unit 50 outputs the scanned information that was actually printed onto the media 24. The output of the scanned information is performed according to the output method predetermined in the subscription contract.

[0121] In the next step 114, a new total value is calculated by adding the total value (cumulative value) stored in the storage unit 42 to the scan information derived in step 112. The new total value is stored in the storage unit 42, and the printing process ends.

[0122] In step 116, the management unit 54 notifies the user via the user terminal 16B or printer 12 that the total value exceeds the set value.

[0123] In the next step 118, the management unit 54 determines whether a print command has been input from the user via the user terminal 16B or the printer 12. If the determination is positive, the process proceeds to step 110. On the other hand, if the determination is negative, the printer 12 does not print, and the printing process ends.

[0124] Although the present invention has been described above using the embodiments described above, the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the scope described in the embodiments above. Various modifications or improvements can be made to the embodiments above without departing from the spirit of the invention, and such modified or improved forms are also included in the technical scope of the present invention.

[0125] For example, in the above embodiment, the output unit 50 was described as being provided on the server 18, but it is not limited to this, and the output unit 50 may be provided on at least one of the user terminal 16B or the printer 12. This allows the user terminal 16B and the printer 12 to manage the printer 12 even if the user terminal 16B and the printer 12 lose communication with the server 18. The scan information output by the user terminal 16B or the printer 12 is sent to the server 18 and stored after communication with the server 18 becomes possible again. The output unit 50 may also be provided on the user terminal 16A. In addition, the comparison unit 52 and the management unit 54 may also be provided on at least one of the user terminal 16B or the printer 12. In particular, when it is provided on the printer 12, the printer 12 can independently determine whether or not to print by storing the scan information settings in the printer 12 in advance according to various print service plans.

[0126] In the above embodiment, a printer service configuration was described in which a flat fee is charged when the scan information is below a set value, and when the scan information exceeds the set value, charges are made according to the amount of scan information exceeding the set value (metered billing). However, the service is not limited to this configuration. For example, the printer service may be configured to charge according to the amount of scan information (metered billing) rather than a flat fee. In this configuration, the user would set a value, for example, to prevent the cost required for the printer 12 from becoming excessive.

[0127] In the above embodiment, a configuration in which the carriage 22 moves relative to the table 28 has been described, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the carriage 22 may remain stationary, while the table 28 moves relative to the carriage 22.

[0128] In the above embodiment, a configuration was described in which ink is ejected from an inkjet head 20 mounted on a carriage 22 to a media 24 as the printer 12, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, as shown in Figure 5, the printer may be an industrial robot 74 having an arm 72 to which an ejection device 70 is attached at the tip. The industrial robot 74 ejects ink onto a flat or three-dimensional object 76 to be printed on, for example, to paint or form an image.

[0129] The arm 72 is, for example, multi-jointed and ejects ink from the ejection device 70 onto the material to be printed 76. In the example in Figure 5, the vertical direction is the X direction, the paper depth direction perpendicular to the X direction is the Y direction, and the direction perpendicular to both the X and Y directions is the Z direction. The ejection device 70 is an inkjet head, dispenser, spray, etc., and is not limited to these.

[0130] In a configuration where the printer is an industrial robot 74, the scan information is, for example, the distance the ejector device 70 at the tip of the arm 72 moves relative to the object to be printed 76 (hereinafter referred to as "travel distance"). The travel distance is determined by monitoring the movement of the ejector device 70 based on detection results from, for example, a gyro sensor or inertial sensor attached to the arm 72. The movement of the arm 72 for measuring the travel distance may be in three dimensions (X, Y, Z directions) or two dimensions (X, Y directions). The travel distance is then derived from the monitoring results between the start timing and end timing of ink ejection by the ejector device 70.

[0131] Alternatively, as another method for deriving scan information, the travel distance may be derived based on a program (teaching program) that indicates the movement of the arm 72 to be executed by the industrial robot 74, and the ink ejection start timing and ejection end timing.

[0132] Furthermore, in the two methods for deriving scan information described above, the camera may recognize the positional relationship between the ejection device 70 and the workpiece 76, as well as the ejection start timing and ejection end timing, and the recognition results may be used to derive the travel distance. In addition, the scan information of the industrial robot 74 may be derived using any of the first to fourth derivation methods described above.

[0133] The printer may also be a 3D printer (hereinafter referred to as "3D printer") that uses an inkjet head to eject materials such as UV ink onto a table to form three-dimensional objects. As an example, a 3D printer ejects ultraviolet-curing ink from an inkjet head mounted on a carriage onto a table to form an object. The carriage ejects ink when it moves in the main scanning direction Y, similar to the printer 12 described above, and then moves in the sub-scanning direction X after ejecting the ink. As a result, scan information is derived using one of the first to fourth derivation methods described above.

[0134] (Effects of the embodiment)

[0135] (1) The printer management method by the printer service system 10 of this embodiment is a printer management method that prints by ejecting material while the inkjet head 20 moves relative to the media 24 or table 28, and includes a first step in which the output unit 50 outputs scan information which is a value based on the relative movement of the inkjet head 20; a second step in which the comparison unit 52 compares the scan information output by the output unit 50 with a preset value; and a third step in which the management unit 54 manages the printer based on the comparison result by the comparison unit 52. According to this embodiment, printer services can be provided to the user with easy management by using the comparison result between the scan information of the inkjet head 20 which generates a mechanical load on the printer 12 and a preset value.

[0136] (2) The scan information in this embodiment may be derived using the number of scans performed by the inkjet head 20 in relative movement. According to this embodiment, the scan information can be easily derived.

[0137] (3) The scan information in this embodiment may be derived based on the width of the main scanning direction Y, which the inkjet head 20 moves relative to while ejecting material, and the number of scans. According to this embodiment, a more appropriate printer service can be provided to the user.

[0138] (4) The scan information in this embodiment may be derived using the scan distance, which is the distance the inkjet head 20 moves relative to the material while ejecting it. According to this embodiment, the scan information can be easily derived.

[0139] (5) The scan information in this embodiment may be derived using the feed length, which is the distance the inkjet head 20 moves relative to the main scanning direction X, which is orthogonal to the main scanning direction X, while the inkjet head 20 moves relative to it while ejecting material. According to this embodiment, the scan information can be easily derived.

[0140] (6) The inkjet head 20 of this embodiment ejects ink that hardens when exposed to light of a predetermined wavelength, and includes an irradiation unit 32 that irradiates the ejected ink with light of a predetermined wavelength. The scan information may include values ​​based on the relative movement of the inkjet head 20 to harden the ink. According to this embodiment, the relative movement of the inkjet head 20 to harden the ink also generates a mechanical load, so appropriate management can be performed according to the function of the printer 12.

[0141] (7) The output unit 50 of this embodiment may output scan information based on an instruction signal to move the inkjet head 20 relative to itself. According to this embodiment, scan information can be easily output.

[0142] (8) The derivation unit 50 of this embodiment may derive scan information based on the detection result from a sensor provided on the printer 12. According to this embodiment, scan information can be easily derived.

[0143] (9) The output unit 50 of this embodiment may derive scan information based on the results of capturing the relative movement of the inkjet head 20 by the camera. According to this embodiment, scan information can be easily derived.

[0144] (10) The derivation unit 50 of this embodiment may derive scan information based on print data for printing and the print mode of the printer 12. According to this embodiment, scan information can be easily derived.

[0145] (11) In this embodiment, the management unit 54 may stop the printer 12 if the scan information exceeds a set value while printing is in progress. According to this embodiment, it is possible to prevent an increase in the scan information to be serviced.

[0146] (12) In this embodiment, if the scan information exceeds a set value while printing is in progress, the management unit 54 may stop the printer 12 after printing to the media 24 is completed. According to this embodiment, even if the scan information exceeds a set value, the user can still obtain the printed material.

[0147] (13) The derivation unit 50 of this embodiment may derive the sum of the scan information that has already been printed and the scan information that is scheduled to be printed, and the comparison unit 52 may compare the sum with the set value. According to this embodiment, it is possible to determine whether the scan information exceeds the set value before printing.

[0148] (14) In this embodiment, if the total value exceeds a set value while printing to the media 24, the management unit 54 may notify the user before the printer 12 performs printing. According to this embodiment, the user can be aware of whether the scan information exceeds a set value before printing.

[0149] (15) The management unit 54 of this embodiment may notify the user of remaining scan information, which is the difference between the total value and the set value. According to this embodiment, the user can recognize the remaining scan information until the set value is reached.

[0150] (16) The management unit 54 of this embodiment may notify the user when the remaining scan information, which is the difference between the total value and the set value, reaches a preset value. According to this embodiment, the user can recognize that the scan information has reached the desired remaining scan information.

[0151] (17) In the printer management method of this embodiment, the operation of printers 12 that are not subject to the extraction of scan information may be set in advance. According to this embodiment, user satisfaction can be increased by setting the operation of printers 12 that are not subject to the service.

[0152] (18) The operation of the printer 12 that is not subject to the derivation of scan information in this embodiment may be a print that results in a print error caused by the printer 12. According to this embodiment, user satisfaction can be increased by setting the operation of the printer 12 that is not subject to the service.

[0153] (19) In this embodiment, there are multiple printers 12, and the derivation unit 50 derives the total value of the scan information of the multiple printers 12, and the comparison unit 52 may compare the total value with the set value. According to this embodiment, the user can receive the service without having to worry about the scan information and set value of the printer 12 that is used most frequently.

[0154] (20) The output unit 50 of this embodiment may be provided in at least one of the user terminal 16B and the printer 12 used by the user. According to this embodiment, the user terminal 16B and the printer 12 can manage the printer 12 together.

[0155] (21) In this embodiment, the printer management method charges a flat rate when the scan information is below a set value, and charges may be made according to the amount of scan information that exceeds the set value. According to this embodiment, it is possible to charge appropriately according to the usage status of the printer 12.

[0156] (22) The printer management method of this embodiment may charge according to the scan information. According to this embodiment, it is possible to charge appropriately according to the usage status of the printer 12.

[0157] (23) The printer 12 in this embodiment may also be an industrial robot 74 having an arm 72 to which an ejection device 70 is attached at its tip. According to this embodiment, an industrial robot 74 that performs printing or painting can be the target of the printer service.

[0158] (24) The scan information of the industrial robot 74 in this embodiment is the distance the arm 72 has moved toward the object to be printed 76. According to this embodiment, scan information can be easily derived.

[0159] (25) The printer 12 in this embodiment may also be a 3D printer in which an inkjet head 20 extrudes material onto a table 28 to form a three-dimensional object. According to this embodiment, a 3D printer can be included as a target for printer services. [Explanation of symbols]

[0160] 10. Printer Service System 12 Printers 18 servers 20. Inkjet head (dispensing mechanism) 24. Media (recording media) 28 tables 32 Irradiation area 50 Derivation part (derivation means) 52 Comparison section (comparison means) 54 Management Department (Management Means)

Claims

1. A method for managing a printer that prints by ejecting material while the ejection means moves relative to a recording medium or table, The first step involves the derivation means deriving a relative movement value, which is a value based on the relative movement of the discharge means, A second step in which the comparison means compares the relative movement value derived by the derivation means with a preset value, A third step in which the management means manages the printer based on the comparison results obtained by the comparison means, Printer management methods, including those mentioned above.

2. The printer management method according to claim 1, wherein the relative movement value is derived using the number of scans in which the ejection means performed the relative movement.

3. The printer management method according to claim 2, wherein the relative movement value is derived based on the width in the direction in which the dispensing means moves relative to the material while dispensing the material and the number of times.

4. The printer management method according to claim 1, wherein the relative movement value is derived using the distance traveled by the dispensing means while dispensing the material.

5. The printer management method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the relative movement value is derived using the distance the discharge means moves relative to in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the discharge means moves relative to the material while discharging it.

6. The ejection means ejects an ink that hardens when exposed to light of a predetermined wavelength, and includes an irradiation means for irradiating the ejected ink with light of the predetermined wavelength. The printer management method according to claim 1, wherein the relative movement value includes a value based on the relative movement of the ejection means for curing the ink.

7. The printer management method according to claim 1, wherein the derivation means derives the relative movement value based on an instruction signal for relative movement of the ejection means.

8. The printer management method according to claim 1, wherein the derivation means derives the relative movement value based on the detection result by a sensor provided in the printer.

9. The printer management method according to claim 1, wherein the derivation means derives the relative movement value based on the results of capturing the relative movement of the ejection means by a camera.

10. The printer management method according to claim 1, wherein the derivation means derives the relative movement value based on print data for printing and the print mode of the printer.

11. The printer management method according to claim 1, wherein the management means stops the printer if the relative movement value exceeds the set value during printing.

12. The printer management method according to claim 1, wherein the management means stops the printer after printing to the recording medium is completed if the relative movement value exceeds the set value during printing.

13. The derivation means derives the sum of the relative movement values ​​for which printing has been performed and the relative movement values ​​for which printing is scheduled, The comparison means compares the total value with the set value. The printer management method according to claim 1.

14. The printer management method according to claim 13, wherein the management means notifies the user before the printer starts printing if the total value exceeds the set value while printing to the recording medium is in progress.

15. The printer management method according to claim 13, wherein the management means notifies the user of the remaining relative movement value, which is the difference between the total value and the set value.

16. The printer management method according to claim 13, wherein the management means notifies the user when the remaining relative movement value, which is the difference between the total value and the set value, reaches a preset value.

17. The printer management method according to claim 1, wherein printer operations that are not subject to the derivation of the relative movement value are pre-set.

18. The printer management method according to claim 17, wherein the operation of the printer is a print job in which a printing error caused by the printer occurred.

19. The aforementioned printers are multiple, The derivation means derives the sum of the relative movement values ​​of the plurality of printers, The comparison means compares the total value with the set value. The printer management method according to claim 1.

20. The printer management method according to claim 1, wherein the derivation means is provided in at least one of the information processing device used by the user and the printer.

21. The printer management method according to claim 1, wherein a fixed fee is charged when the relative movement value is less than or equal to the set value, and charges are made according to the relative movement value that exceeds the set value when the relative movement value exceeds the set value.

22. The printer management method according to claim 1, wherein charges are made according to the relative movement value.

23. The printer management method according to claim 1, wherein the printer is a robot having an arm with the ejection means attached to its tip.

24. The printer management method according to claim 23, wherein the relative movement value of the robot is the distance the arm has moved toward the recording medium.

25. The printer management method according to claim 1, wherein the printer is a molding device in which the ejection means ejects material onto the table to form a three-dimensional object.

26. A printer management system for printing, in which a dispensing means moves relative to a recording medium or table while dispensing material, A derivation means for deriving a relative movement value which is a value based on the relative movement of the discharge means, A comparison means for comparing the relative movement value derived by the derivation means with a preset value, Based on the comparison results obtained by the comparison means, a management means for managing the printer, A printer management system equipped with the following features.

27. A computer in an information processing device that manages a printer that prints by ejecting material while the ejection means moves relative to a recording medium or table, The first step involves the derivation means deriving a relative movement value, which is a value based on the relative movement of the discharge means, A second step in which the comparison means compares the relative movement value derived by the derivation means with a preset value, A third step in which the management means manages the printer based on the comparison results obtained by the comparison means, A program to execute.

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