A computer program for a control device, a communication system comprising a server and a printer, and a method executed by the control device.

Abstract

To provide novel technologies related to the shipping of colorant cartridges. [Solution] The computer program for the control device causes the computer of the control device to function as follows: an acquisition unit that acquires remaining amount information relating to the remaining amount of colorant contained in each of the multiple colorant cartridges installed in the printer; a first prediction unit that uses the remaining amount information of each of the multiple colorant cartridges to predict when it is time to replace the colorant cartridge; and a first related processing execution unit that executes first related processing related to shipping a new first colorant cartridge, which is a replacement for the first colorant cartridge whose replacement time is coming soonest, and a new second colorant cartridge, which is a replacement for the second colorant cartridge whose replacement time is coming next to the first colorant cartridge.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This specification discloses a technology related to the shipment of an ink cartridge.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses an equipment management system including an image forming apparatus and a management server. In this system, the management server monitors the toner remaining amount of the image forming apparatus, and when the toner remaining amount in a certain toner cartridge becomes below a threshold value, it ships a replacement toner cartridge. Further, the management server predicts the ordering timing for other toner cartridges when the toner remaining amount in a certain toner cartridge becomes below the threshold value. And when the toner remaining amounts in other toner cartridges become below the threshold value at the same time as a certain toner cartridge, the management server ships the replacement toners for the certain toner cartridge and the other toner cartridges together.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] This specification provides a novel technology related to the shipment of an ink cartridge.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] This specification discloses a computer program for a control device. The computer program may cause the computer of the control device to function as an acquisition unit that acquires remaining amount-related information relating to the remaining amount of colorant contained in each of a plurality of colorant cartridges installed in a printer. The computer program may cause the computer of the control device to function as a first prediction unit that uses the remaining amount-related information of each of the plurality of colorant cartridges to predict when it is time to replace the colorant cartridge. The computer program may cause the computer of the control device to function as a first related processing execution unit that performs first related processing relating to shipping a new first colorant cartridge, which is a replacement for the first colorant cartridge that is due to be replaced the earliest among the plurality of colorant cartridges, and a new second colorant cartridge, which is a replacement for the second colorant cartridge that is due to be replaced next to the first colorant cartridge.

[0006] According to the above configuration, the control device performs a first related process related to shipping a new first colorant cartridge, which is a replacement for the first colorant cartridge whose replacement time is due soonest, and a new second colorant cartridge, which is a replacement for the second colorant cartridge whose replacement time is due next to the first colorant cartridge. In this way, a novel technology related to the shipping of colorant cartridges is provided.

[0007] This specification also discloses another computer program for a control device. The computer program may cause the computer of the control device to function as an acquisition unit that acquires remaining amount-related information relating to the remaining amount of colorant contained in each of the one or more colorant cartridges installed in each of the plurality of printers. The computer program may cause the computer of the control device to function as a first prediction unit that uses the remaining amount-related information of each of the one or more colorant cartridges installed in each of the plurality of printers to predict when it is time to replace the colorant cartridge. The computer program may cause the computer of the control device to function as a first related processing execution unit that performs first related processing relating to shipping a new first colorant cartridge, which is a replacement for the first colorant cartridge that is due to be replaced the earliest among the one or more colorant cartridges installed in each of the plurality of printers, and a new second colorant cartridge, which is a replacement for the second colorant cartridge that is due to be replaced next to the first colorant cartridge.

[0008] According to the above configuration, the control device performs a first related process related to shipping a new first colorant cartridge, which is a replacement for the first colorant cartridge whose replacement time is due soonest, and a new second colorant cartridge, which is a replacement for the second colorant cartridge whose replacement time is due next to the first colorant cartridge. In this way, a novel technology related to the shipping of colorant cartridges is provided.

[0009] The computer-readable recording medium for storing the above computer program, the control device itself implemented by the above computer program, and the method executed by the control device are also novel and useful. Here, the above recording medium may be a single medium or multiple mediums. Furthermore, a communication system comprising the control device and a printer is also novel and useful. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] This is a diagram illustrating the configuration of a communication system. [Figure 2] This is a flowchart of the processes performed by the server. [Figure 3] This graph illustrates a specific case A. [Figure 4] This graph illustrates a specific case B. [Figure 5] This is a flowchart of the processes performed by the server. [Figure 6] This graph illustrates a specific case. [Figure 7] This is a flowchart of the processes performed by the server. [Figure 8] This graph illustrates a specific case. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0011] (First embodiment) (Configuration of communication system 2; Figure 1) As shown in Figure 1, the communication system 2 comprises a server 10 and multiple printers 100A and 100B. Each device 10, 100A, and 100B can communicate with each other via the internet 6. The printers 100A and 100B are owned by the same person. For example, the printers 100A and 100B are installed within the same company.

[0012] (Configuration of Printer 100A) Printer 100A is a peripheral device capable of performing printing functions, such as a peripheral device of a terminal device (not shown). In a modified example, printer 100A may be a multi-functional device capable of performing scanning functions, facsimile functions, etc., in addition to printing functions. Printer 100A performs printing using colorants contained in a colorant cartridge that is detachably attached to the main body of printer 100A. Hereinafter, the cartridge will be referred to as "CTG". In this embodiment, an example is described in which printer 100A has an inkjet printing mechanism. That is, the colorant CTG is an ink CTG. In a modified example, printer 100A may have an electrophotographic printing mechanism. That is, the colorant CTG may be a toner CTG. In yet another modified example, printer 100A may have a thermal printing mechanism. That is, the colorant CTG may be a CTG containing an ink ribbon coated with ink.

[0013] One or more ink CTGs are detachably installed in the printer 100A. In this embodiment, the printer 100A is equipped with four ink CTGs corresponding to four colors: black (K), cyan (C), magenta (M), and yellow (Y). Hereinafter, the ink CTGs for K, C, M, and Y installed in the printer 100A will be referred to as CTG "K1", "C1", "M1", and "Y1", respectively.

[0014] Printer 100A is assigned the serial number SN1. Serial number SN1 is a unique string assigned to printer 100A by its vendor. In other words, serial number SN1 is identification information for identifying printer 100A. Printer 100A is a printer with the model name MN1.

[0015] Printer 100A stores in a memory (not shown) the current remaining amount indicating the remaining amount of ink in each ink CTG currently installed in Printer 100A. When a new ink CTG is installed, Printer 100A updates the current remaining amount of the color corresponding to the new ink CTG to 100%. Then, Printer 100A updates the current remaining amount every time printing is executed. Specifically, when Printer 100A acquires image data representing an image to be printed, it estimates the amount of ink required for printing the image for each color. When the printing of the image is executed, Printer 100A updates the current remaining amount by subtracting the estimated used amount from the current remaining amount for each color. In a modified example, Printer 100A may include a sensor for measuring the remaining amount of ink in the ink CTG. In this case, Printer 100A may update the current remaining amount every time the remaining amount of ink is measured by the above sensor.

[0016] (Configuration of Printer 100B) Printer 100B has the same configuration as Printer 100A, except that it has a model name MN2 and a serial number SN2 is assigned. Regarding the ink CTGs installed in Printer 100B, the ink CTG corresponding to K, the ink CTG corresponding to C, the ink CTG corresponding to M, and the ink CTG corresponding to Y are described as CTG "K2", "C2", "M2", and "Y2", respectively.

[0017] (Configuration of Server 10) Server 10 is a server for managing a plurality of printers including printers 100A and 100B. Server 10 is installed on the Internet 6 by the vendors of printers 100A and 100B (hereinafter simply referred to as "vendors"). Server 10 may be a physical server, or may be a virtual server on the cloud, a virtual machine, etc. Server 10 may be a single server, or may be a set of a plurality of servers. Server 10 may be a server on the intranet, or may be a cloud server on the Internet 6. In a modified example, Server 10 may be installed on the Internet 6 by an operator different from the vendor. In another modified example, the vendor may utilize an environment provided by an external cloud computing service without preparing the hardware of Server 10 by itself. In this case, the vendor may realize Server 10 by preparing the program (i.e., software) of Server 10 and introducing it into the above environment. In this modified example, as an example, a form in which Server 10 is a physical server will be described.

[0018] In addition, Server 10 provides a flat-rate service including a consumable automatic shipping service. The flat-rate service is a service in which a predetermined amount is billed when the number of printed sheets in a predetermined period (e.g., one month) is less than or equal to the contract printed sheet number (e.g., 1000 sheets). In the flat-rate service, a dedicated ink CTG for the flat-rate service is used. Hereinafter, the dedicated ink CTG for the flat-rate service will be referred to as "dedicated CTG". In a modified example, Server 10 may provide a printing service in which an amount corresponding to the number of printed sheets in a predetermined period is billed instead of the flat-rate service.

[0019] The consumable automatic shipping service is a service that automatically ships a new dedicated CTG when the remaining amount of ink in the dedicated CTG installed in the printer satisfies a predetermined shipping condition. Here, "when the predetermined shipping condition is satisfied" means, for example, when it is predicted that the ink in the dedicated CTG will run out within a predetermined period, when the remaining amount of ink becomes less than or equal to a predetermined remaining amount, etc.

[0020] Server 10 comprises a communication interface 16 and a control unit 30. Each of the parts 16 and 30 is connected to a bus line. Hereafter, the interface will be referred to as "I / F". The communication I / F 16 is connected to the Internet 6.

[0021] The control unit 30 comprises a CPU 32 and a memory 34. The memory 34 comprises a main memory and an auxiliary memory. For example, the main memory includes RAM and cache memory. For example, the auxiliary memory may be ROM, flash memory, solid state drive (SSD), hard disk drive (HDD), or a combination thereof. A program 36 is stored in the auxiliary memory of the memory 34. The CPU 32 performs various processes according to the program loaded from the auxiliary memory to the main memory.

[0022] Memory 34 further stores multiple account information entries A1, A2, etc., corresponding to multiple users. Each account information entry includes address information indicating the user's address and printer information relating to one or more printers used by that user. As mentioned above, the two printers 100A and 100B are owned by the same user. Therefore, the user's account information A1 includes two printer information entries PI1 and PI2 relating to the two printers 100A and 100B.

[0023] Server 10 stores account information A1 as follows: Server 10 receives an account registration instruction from the users of printers 100A and 100B. The account registration instruction includes address information AI1 indicating the user's address and the serial numbers SN1 and SN2 of printers 100A and 100B, respectively. In this case, Server 10 stores account information A1 in memory 34. Account information A1 includes address information AI1 and two pieces of printer information PI1 and PI2. Printer information PI1 is information about printer 100A identified by serial number SN1. Printer information PI1 includes the serial number SN1 of printer 100A and history information HI1 indicating the history of the ink levels of each ink CTG currently installed in printer 100A. Printer information PI2 is information about printer 100B identified by serial number SN2. Printer information PI2 includes the serial number SN2 of printer 100B and history information HI2, which shows the history of the ink levels of each ink CTG currently installed in printer 100B.

[0024] Server 10 repeatedly acquires remaining battery information from each printer 100A and 100B at predetermined intervals (for example, every 12 hours). Specifically, each printer 100A and 100B sends remaining battery information to Server 10 at the predetermined intervals mentioned above. The remaining battery information includes the serial number of the printer that sent the information, the model name, and the current remaining battery level. Each time Server 10 receives remaining battery information from a printer, it updates the history information associated with the serial number included in that remaining battery information. Specifically, Server 10 adds information to the history information that associates the date and time the remaining battery information was acquired with the remaining battery level included in that information. As a result, history information showing the remaining battery level in each CTG at multiple dates and times is stored in Memory 34.

[0025] Furthermore, the server 10 can acquire remaining ink information from the printer 100A, etc., at predetermined timings different from the predetermined cycles described above. These predetermined timings include, for example, the timing when the power to the printer 100A, etc., is turned on, or the timing when the cover of the printer 100A's casing is opened and then closed in order to insert or remove the ink CTG installed in the printer 100A, etc. For example, the printer 100A may send the remaining ink information to the server 10 at the predetermined timings described above.

[0026] Furthermore, whenever an ink CTG is replaced in the printer 100A, etc., the server 10 deletes the information corresponding to the color contained in the ink CTG from the current history information. Specifically, for example, when the server 10 acquires remaining ink information, it compares the current remaining amount included in the remaining ink information with the latest remaining amount included in the history information for each color. If the current remaining amount is greater than the latest remaining amount, the server 10 determines that the ink CTG has been replaced in the printer 100A, etc., and deletes the information corresponding to that color from the history information. Subsequently, the server 10 stores new history information including the date and time when the remaining ink information was acquired and the current remaining amount included in the remaining ink information. In other words, the history information does not include the remaining ink information of ink CTGs that were previously installed in the printer 100A, etc., but includes the remaining ink information of the ink CTG currently installed in the printer 100A, etc.

[0027] (Processing by Server 10; Figure 2) Next, referring to Figure 2, we will explain the process that is realized when the CPU 32 of the server 10 executes program 36.

[0028] In S10, CPU32 monitors for the acquisition of remaining battery information from the printer (e.g., printer 100A, 100B, etc.) via the communication interface 16. As described above, CPU32 receives remaining battery information from the printer every 12 hours or at the predetermined timings described above. When CPU32 receives remaining battery information from the printer (YES in S10), it adds the information associated with the current time and the remaining battery information to the printer's history information and proceeds to S12. Hereafter, the remaining battery information received here will be referred to as "target remaining battery information". The printer that sent the target remaining battery information will be referred to as "target printer".

[0029] In step S12, CPU32 calculates the estimated date and time when the ink in each ink CTG currently installed in the target printer will run out. Here, CPU32 calculates the estimated date and time when the ink in each ink CTG currently installed in other printers owned by the target printer's user will run out. Specifically, first, CPU32 identifies the serial number included in the received remaining ink information. Next, CPU32 identifies the account information that includes the identified serial number. Then, CPU32 uses the printer information included in the identified account information to calculate the estimated date and time when the ink in each ink CTG will run out.

[0030] For example, consider a scenario in S10 where remaining ink information, including the serial number SN1 of printer 100A, is received. In this case, the CPU 32 first identifies the serial number SN1 from the remaining ink information and then identifies account information A1, which includes the serial number SN1. The CPU 32 then identifies the history information HI1 and HI2 contained in the two printer information PI1 and PI2 included in account information A1. As described above, each history information HI1 and HI2 contains information indicating the history of the remaining ink in the four ink CTGs. Therefore, in this example, the CPU 32 calculates the estimated depletion date and time for each of the eight ink CTGs.

[0031] Here, we will explain the specific method for calculating the estimated depletion date and time. First, the CPU 32 identifies one historical information HI1 from the identified historical information HI1 and HI2. Then, the CPU 32 identifies information indicating the history of a certain ink CTG from the historical information HI1. For example, the CPU 32 identifies information indicating the history of CTG "K1" from the historical information HI1. Then, the CPU 32 identifies the oldest date and time and the remaining amount associated with that oldest date and time from the identified information. Hereafter, the remaining amount associated with the oldest date and time will be referred to as "oldest remaining amount". Furthermore, the CPU 32 identifies the latest date and time and the remaining amount associated with that latest date and time from the identified information. Hereafter, the remaining amount associated with the latest date and time will be referred to as "latest remaining amount".

[0032] Next, CPU32 uses the latest date and time and latest remaining amount, and the oldest date and time and oldest remaining amount to calculate a prediction line corresponding to the ink CTG. The prediction line is a straight line on a coordinate plane in which the date and time and remaining amount are represented on the horizontal and vertical axes, respectively. First, CPU32 calculates the difference between the latest date and time and the oldest date and time. Next, CPU32 calculates the difference between the latest remaining amount and the oldest remaining amount. Then, CPU32 calculates the slope by dividing the latter difference by the former difference. Next, CPU32 calculates a straight line as the prediction line that passes through the point representing the latest date and time and latest remaining amount, and has the calculated slope. In other words, the prediction line is a straight line on the above coordinate plane that passes through two points: the point representing the oldest date and time and oldest remaining amount, and the point representing the latest date and time and latest remaining amount. Then, CPU32 calculates the date and time corresponding to 0% remaining amount on the prediction line as the expected depletion date and time. This allows the CPU 32 to use the history information HI1 to calculate the estimated date and time when the CTG "K1" of printer 100A will be depleted.

[0033] The CPU 32 uses the history information HI1 to calculate the estimated depletion dates and times for each of the other CTGs "C1", "M1", and "Y1" in printer 100A. Furthermore, the CPU 32 uses the history information HI2 to calculate the estimated depletion dates and times for each of the CTGs "K2", "C2", "M2", and "Y2" in printer 100B. In this way, the CPU 32 can calculate the estimated depletion dates and times for each ink CTG installed in one or more printers owned by the user of the target printer.

[0034] In S14, CPU32 determines whether the number N of CTGs whose expected depletion date and time is within 10 days is 0. If the number N is 0, i.e., if CPU32 determines that there are no ink CTGs whose ink is expected to be depleted within 10 days (YES in S14), it returns to monitoring in S10. On the other hand, if the number N is 1 or greater, i.e., if CPU32 determines that there are ink CTGs whose ink is expected to be depleted within 10 days (NO in S14), it proceeds to S16. Note that "10 days" used here is just an example; a value less than 10 days or a value greater than 10 days may also be used. In this way, CPU32 can use the calculated expected depletion dates and times to determine whether the expected depletion date and time for each CTG will arrive within 10 days.

[0035] In S16, CPU32 determines whether the number N is 1 or not. If CPU32 determines that the number N is 1, that is, that there is only one ink CTG that is expected to run out of ink within 10 days (YES in S16), it proceeds to S20. On the other hand, if CPU32 determines that the number N is 2 or more, that is, that there are two or more ink CTGs that are expected to run out of ink within 10 days (NO in S16), it proceeds to S50.

[0036] In the following, in the scenario proceeding to S20, the one ink CTG that is expected to run out of ink within 10 days will be referred to as the "first CTG". In S20, the CPU 32 calculates the expected depletion date and time for the new first CTG corresponding to the first CTG. Here, the "new first CTG corresponding to the first CTG" means the ink CTG that should be installed in the printer as a replacement for the first CTG. Specifically, the CPU 32 first sets the expected depletion date and time of the first CTG as the start date and time for using the new first CTG. Next, the CPU 32 calculates a straight line that passes through the start date and time for using the new first CTG and the point indicating 100% remaining ink, and has the same slope as the prediction straight line corresponding to the first CTG, as the prediction straight line corresponding to the new first CTG. Then, the CPU 32 calculates the date and time corresponding to 0% remaining ink on the prediction straight line of the new first CTG as the expected depletion date and time for the new first CTG.

[0037] In S22, CPU32 identifies one ink CTG that is expected to run out of ink after the first CTG. Hereafter, this identified ink CTG will be referred to as the "second CTG". Specifically, CPU32 identifies the ink CTG with the second earliest expected depletion date and time among the expected depletion dates and times of each CTG calculated in S12 and the expected depletion date and time of the new first CTG calculated in S20 as the second CTG. The second CTG may be an ink CTG currently installed in one or more printers owned by the user of the target printer, or it may be a new first CTG that will be shipped in the future.

[0038] In S24, CPU32 determines whether the estimated depletion date of the second CTG falls within the contract period of the subscription service. That is, CPU32 determines whether the estimated depletion date of the second CTG occurs before the end of the contract for the subscription service. If the estimated depletion date of the second CTG occurs before the end of the contract for the subscription service (YES in S24), CPU32 proceeds to S30. On the other hand, if the estimated depletion date of the second CTG occurs after the end of the contract for the subscription service (NO in S24), CPU32 proceeds to S40.

[0039] In S30, CPU32 supplies shipping information to a shipping server (not shown) that includes information indicating a new first CTG and a new second CTG corresponding to the second CTG. Here, "a new second CTG corresponding to the second CTG" means an ink CTG that should be installed in the printer as a replacement for the second CTG. The shipping information includes address information included in the account information identified in S12 and CTG information. The CTG information is, for example, the CTG model number. That is, the shipping information in S30 includes the CTG model number of the first CTG and the CTG model number of the second CTG. As a result, the shipping server ships the two ink CTGs indicated by the CTG information to the user's address indicated by the address information. When processing in S30 is complete, CPU32 returns to monitoring S10.

[0040] In S40, CPU32 supplies the dispatch server with dispatch information that includes information indicating a new first CTG. The CTG information included in the dispatch information supplied in S40 does not include information indicating a second CTG. As a result, the dispatch server dispatches one ink CTG, indicated by the CTG information, to the user's address, indicated by the address information. In this way, CPU32 does not dispatch a new second CTG to the user for second CTGs whose expected depletion date and time fall after the end date. This is because the user can still perform printing within the contract period even if a new ink CTG is not dispatched to the user. This prevents unnecessary ink CTGs from being dispatched to the user. Once processing in S40 is complete, CPU32 returns to monitoring in S10.

[0041] Furthermore, in S50, CPU32 supplies the shipping server with shipping information for two or more new ink CTGs corresponding to two or more CTGs whose expected depletion date is within 10 days. The CTG information included in the shipping information supplied in S50 includes the model numbers of two or more of the above two or more ink CTGs. As a result, the shipping server ships the two or more ink CTGs indicated by the CTG information to the user's address indicated by the address information. Once processing in S50 is complete, CPU32 returns to monitoring in S10.

[0042] (Case A; Figure 3) Next, we will explain a specific case A with reference to Figure 3. In Figure 3, the horizontal axis represents the date and time, and the vertical axis represents the ink level of each CTG. For example, "K1," "C1," and "M1" in Figure 3 are the predicted lines for the CTGs "K1," "C1," and "M1" of printer 100A, respectively. "Y2" in Figure 3 is the predicted line for the CTG "Y2" of printer 100B.

[0043] Server 10 acquires remaining ink information from printer 100A at date and time D1 (YES in S10 of Figure 2). In this case, Server 10 calculates a prediction line and an estimated depletion date and time for each of the four ink CTGs currently installed in printer 100A and the four ink CTGs currently installed in printer 100B (S12). In other words, Server 10 calculates a prediction line and an estimated depletion date and time for eight ink CTGs.

[0044] Server 10 identifies ink CTGs whose expected depletion date is within 10 days. That is, Server 10 identifies ink CTGs whose expected depletion date is before the threshold TH. The threshold TH is D1 + 10 days. In this case, the expected depletion date D2 for CTG "K1" is before the threshold TH. Also, the expected depletion dates for each of the other ink CTGs are after the threshold TH. Therefore, in case A, Server 10 determines that there is one ink CTG whose expected depletion date is within 10 days (NO in S14, YES in S16).

[0045] Next, server 10 calculates the estimated date and time of depletion of the new ink CTG, which is a replacement for CTG "K1" (S20). Note that in Figure 3, the point corresponding to 0% remaining amount of CTG "K1" and the point corresponding to 100% remaining amount of the new ink CTG are treated as the same.

[0046] Next, server 10 identifies the ink CTG with the second earliest estimated depletion date among the eight ink CTGs currently installed in printers 100A and 100B, and the new ink CTG that will replace CTG "K1" (S22). In this case, the ink CTG with the second earliest estimated depletion date is CTG "C1", which has an estimated depletion date of date and time D3. In particular, date and time D3, the estimated depletion date of CTG "C1", falls before the end date EC of the contract for the subscription service (YES in S24).

[0047] Therefore, server 10 supplies the shipping server with shipping information including the CTG model number that identifies CTG "K1" and the CTG model number that identifies CTG "C1" (S30). As a result, the two ink CTGs with the earliest estimated depletion dates are shipped to the user. In particular, for CTG "C1", a new ink CTG is shipped to the user even if the estimated depletion date is not within 10 days.

[0048] (Case B; Figure 4) Next, we will explain a specific case B, referring to Figure 4. In case B, the ink CTG with the second earliest predicted depletion date is different from that in case A. It is the same as case A until it is determined that the predicted depletion date for ink CTG "K1" is within 10 days.

[0049] In Case B, the ink CTG with the second earliest expected depletion date is the ink CTG with an expected depletion date of date D4. This ink CTG is a new ink CTG that replaces CTG "K1". Therefore, server 10 supplies shipping information to the shipping server, which includes the CTG model number that identifies CTG "K1" (S30). In particular, the shipping information includes information indicating that two new CTGs with the said CTG model number should be shipped. As a result, two identical ink CTGs are shipped to the user.

[0050] (Effects of the first embodiment) In the above configuration, server 10 supplies the shipping server with order information including information indicating a new first CTG, which is a replacement for the first CTG whose expected depletion date and time is the earliest, and a new second CTG, which is a replacement for the second CTG whose expected depletion date and time is the next earliest after the first CTG (S30 in Figure 2). In this way, server 10 can ship two ink CTGs together to the shipping server. This reduces shipping costs. In addition, the number of times the user has to receive ink CTGs is reduced, improving user convenience.

[0051] Furthermore, in the above configuration, server 10 executes process S30 only if there is only one first CTG whose expected depletion date is within 10 days (NO in S14, YES in S16). In particular, for the second CTG with the next earliest expected depletion date, a new second CTG will be sent to the user along with a new first CTG, even if the expected depletion date is not within 10 days. This more effectively reduces shipping costs and improves user convenience.

[0052] (Correspondence) Server 10 is an example of a "control device" and a "server". Printers 100A and 100B are examples of "printers". Ink level information is an example of "ink level related information". The expected depletion date and time is an example of "timing when the colorant cartridge should be replaced". "10 days" is an example of "first predetermined period". CTG "K1" is an example of "first colorant cartridge". In case A, CTG "C1" is an example of "second colorant cartridge". In case B, the new ink CTG that replaces CTG "K1" is an example of "second colorant cartridge". The process of supplying shipping information to the shipping server is an example of "first related process", "second related process", and "third related process". In particular, the process of supplying shipping information to the shipping server in case A, i.e., process S30 in Figure 2, is an example of "first related process". In case B, the process of supplying shipping information to the shipping server, i.e., process S30 in Figure 2, is an example of "second related process". The process of supplying shipping information to the shipping server in S40 of Figure 2 is an example of the "third related process".

[0053] The process at S10 in Figure 2 is an example of the process performed by the "acquisition unit" and the "receiving unit". The process at S12 is an example of the process performed by the "first prediction unit". The process at S14 is an example of the process performed by the "decision unit". The process at S20 is an example of the process performed by the "second prediction unit". The process at S30 is an example of the process performed by the "first related processing execution unit" and the "second related processing execution unit". The process at S40 is an example of the process performed by the "third related processing execution unit". The process at which the printer 100A etc. sends remaining data information to the server 10 is an example of the process performed by the "transmission unit".

[0054] (Second example) Next, a second embodiment will be described. In the second embodiment, a new ink CTG is also shipped that corresponds to an ink CTG whose expected depletion date is earlier than the end date of the subscription service contract, and the difference between the expected depletion date and the end date is 10 days or less.

[0055] (Processing by Server 10; Figure 5) Referring to Figure 5, the process realized by the execution of program 36 by the CPU 32 of server 10 will be explained. Note that in Figure 5, the same reference numerals are used for processes that are the same as in the first embodiment, and their detailed explanation is omitted. In the second embodiment, as in the first embodiment, the same processes as in S10 to S24 are executed first.

[0056] In S126, CPU32 determines whether there are any ink CTGs whose expected depletion date and time meet the predetermined conditions. In this case, the "predetermined conditions" include that the expected depletion date and time is earlier than the end date for the subscription service contract, and that the difference between the expected depletion date and time and the end date is within 10 days. Note that "10 days" used here is just an example; a value less than 10 days or a value greater than 10 days may be used. CPU32 determines whether the expected depletion date and time meets the predetermined conditions for each CTG other than the first and second CTGs, among the CTGs whose expected depletion dates and times were calculated in S12 and S20. If there are any ink CTGs whose expected depletion date and time meet the predetermined conditions, CPU32 determines YES in S126 and proceeds to S130. Hereafter, an ink CTG whose expected depletion date and time meets the predetermined conditions will be referred to as the "third CTG". Note that there may be one third CTG or two or more. On the other hand, if there is no ink CTG whose expected depletion date and time meets the predetermined conditions, CPU32 determines NO in S126 and proceeds to S30.

[0057] In S130, CPU32 supplies shipping information to the shipping server. The shipping information in S130 includes information indicating a new first CTG, information indicating a new second CTG, and information indicating a new third CTG corresponding to the third CTG. Here, "a new third CTG corresponding to the third CTG" means an ink CTG that should be installed in the printer as a replacement for the third CTG. As a result, the shipping server ships three or more ink CTGs, indicated by the CTG information, to the user's address indicated by the address information. When processing in S130 is complete, CPU32 returns to monitoring S10.

[0058] (Specific case; Figure 6) Next, with reference to Figure 6, a specific case of the second embodiment will be explained. The process is the same as in Case A until the ink CTG "C1," which has the second earliest predicted depletion date, is identified.

[0059] Server 10 determines if there are any ink CTGs whose expected depletion date and time are earlier than the end date for the flat-rate service contract, and the difference between the expected depletion date and time and the end date is within 10 days (S126). In this case, the expected depletion date and time D5 for CTG "Y2" is earlier than the end date EC, and the difference between the expected depletion date and time and the end date is within 10 days. Therefore, Server 10 supplies shipping information to the shipping server, including the CTG model number that identifies CTG "K1", the CTG model number that identifies CTG "C1", and the CTG model number that identifies CTG "Y2" (S130). As a result, three ink CTGs are shipped to the user. In this way, Server 10 can have the shipping server ship not only two ink CTGs with early expected depletion dates and times, but also ink CTGs whose expected depletion dates and times meet the predetermined conditions. In particular, Server 10 can have the shipping server ship ink CTGs whose expected depletion dates and times are close to the end date of the contract as ink CTGs that meet the predetermined conditions. According to this embodiment, the reduction of shipping costs and the improvement of user convenience are achieved more effectively. CTG "Y2" is an example of the "third colorant cartridge". "10 days" is an example of the "second predetermined period".

[0060] (Third embodiment) Next, a third embodiment will be described. As shown in Figure 1, the account information stored in the server 10 further includes quantity information. The quantity information indicates the number of new ink CTGs to be shipped together. The quantity information is specified by the user.

[0061] (Processing by Server 10; Figure 7) Referring to Figure 7, the process realized by the CPU 32 of the server 10 executing program 36 will be explained. In Figure 7, the same reference numerals are used for processes that are the same as in the first embodiment, and their detailed explanation will be omitted. In the third embodiment, as in the first embodiment, the same processes as in S10 to S14 are executed first.

[0062] In S216, CPU32 determines whether the number N is less than M. Here, M is a value indicated by the quantity information included in the account information corresponding to the target printer. If CPU32 determines that the number N is less than M, that is, that there are fewer than M ink CTGs expected to run out of ink within 10 days (YES in S216), it proceeds to S220. Hereafter, among the K ink CTGs (K is less than M) expected to run out of ink within 10 days, the ink CTG with the earliest expected depletion date and time will be referred to as the "first CTG". On the other hand, if CPU32 determines that the number N is M or greater, that is, that there are M or more ink CTGs expected to run out of ink within 10 days (NO in S16), it proceeds to S50. The process in S220 is the same as the process in S20 in Figure 2.

[0063] In S222, CPU32 sequentially identifies (M-1) ink CTGs that are expected to run out of ink after the first CTG. Specifically, first, CPU32 identifies one ink CTG that is expected to run out of ink after the first CTG. Hereafter, the ink CTG identified here will also be referred to as the "second CTG". Here, the expected depletion date and time for the second CTG may be within 10 days or not. In this case, CPU32 also calculates the expected depletion date and time for a new second CTG corresponding to the second CTG. The method for calculating the expected depletion date and time for the new second CTG is the same as the method explained in S20 of Figure 2. After that, CPU32 identifies one ink CTG that is expected to run out of ink after the second CTG. CPU32 sequentially repeats this process to sequentially identify (M-1) ink CTGs that are expected to run out of ink after the first CTG. As a result, together with the first CTG, M ink CTGs with an early predicted depletion date are identified.

[0064] In S224, the CPU 32 determines whether the expected depletion date for each of the (M-1) ink CTGs identified in S222 will occur before the end of the contract for the subscription service. Specifically, the CPU 32 identifies one of the (M-1) ink CTGs that have been identified. If the expected depletion date for that ink CTG occurs before the end of the contract for the subscription service (YES in S224), the CPU 32 proceeds to S226. On the other hand, if the expected depletion date for that ink CTG occurs after the end of the contract for the subscription service (NO in S224), the CPU 32 proceeds to S228.

[0065] In S226, CPU32 adds information indicating a new ink CTG corresponding to one previously identified ink CTG to the shipping information. Specifically, CPU32 adds the CTG model number of the identified ink CTG to the shipping information. If the CTG model number is already included in the shipping information, CPU32 increments the information indicating the number of ink CTGs with that CTG model number to be shipped by 1.

[0066] In S228, the CPU 32 determines whether all (M-1) ink CTGs have been identified in S224. If all (M-1) ink CTGs have been identified (YES in S228), the CPU 32 proceeds to S230. On the other hand, if all (M-1) ink CTGs have not been identified (NO in S228), the CPU 32 proceeds to S224 and identifies one other ink CTG from the (M-1) ink CTGs that has not yet been identified.

[0067] In S230, CPU32 supplies shipping information to the shipping server. The shipping information in S230 includes information indicating a new first CTG and information indicating a new CTG corresponding to an ink CTG whose expected depletion date and time is earlier than the end date among the (M-1) ink CTGs. As a result, the shipping server ships the ink CTG indicated by the CTG information to the user's address indicated by the address information. When processing in S230 is complete, CPU32 returns to monitoring in S10.

[0068] (Specific case; Figure 8) Next, with reference to Figure 8, a specific case of the third embodiment will be explained. In the initial state of Figure 8, account information A1, which includes the quantity information "3", is stored in memory 34. Note that the value "3" for the quantity information is just an example; it could be "2" or a value of "4" or higher. The process is the same as in case A until it is determined that the expected depletion date and time for ink CTG "K1" is within 10 days. That is, in this case as well, the server 10 determines that there is one ink CTG whose expected depletion date and time is within 10 days (NO in S14, YES in S216). In this case, the server 10 calculates the expected depletion date and time for the new ink CTG that will replace CTG "K1" (S220).

[0069] In this case, since the quantity information "3" is stored, the server 10 sequentially identifies (3-1) = 2 ink CTGs that are expected to run out next. First, the server 10 identifies the ink CTG with the second earliest expected depletion date and time from among the 8 ink CTGs currently installed in printers 100A and 100B and the new CTG that will replace CTG "K1" (S222). In this case, the ink CTG with the second earliest expected depletion date and time is CTG "C1", which is expected to run out on date and time D3. In this case, the server 10 calculates the new expected depletion date and time for the replacement CTG "C1".

[0070] Next, the server 10 identifies the ink CTG with the third earliest expected depletion date and time among the eight ink CTGs currently installed in printers 100A and 100B, the new CTG that replaces CTG "K1", and the new CTG that replaces CTG "C1" (S222). In this case, the ink CTG with the third earliest expected depletion date and time is CTG "Y2", which has an expected depletion date and time of day D5.

[0071] In this case, the expected depletion date and time for CTG "C1" (D3) and the expected depletion date and time for CTG "Y2" (D5) occur before the end EC (YES in S224). Therefore, server 10 supplies shipping information to the shipping server, including the CTG model number that identifies CTG "K1", the CTG model number that identifies CTG "C1", and the CTG model number that identifies CTG "Y2" (S226, S228, S230). As a result, three ink CTGs with earlier expected depletion dates and times are shipped to the user. That is, the number of ink CTGs corresponding to the number of units with earlier expected depletion dates and times is shipped to the user. In particular, for CTG "C1" and CTG "Y2", new ink CTGs are shipped to the user even if the expected depletion date and time is not within 10 days. "3" is an example of "M". Two CTGs "C1" and "Y2" are an example of "(M-1) colorant cartridges".

[0072] The specific examples of the technology disclosed herein have been described in detail above, but these are merely illustrative and do not limit the scope of the claims. The technology described in the claims includes various modifications and changes to the specific examples illustrated above. Modifications of the above embodiments are listed below.

[0073] (Modification 1) In the above embodiment, when the server 10 receives remaining ink information from the printer 100A, it calculates not only the estimated date and time of depletion of each ink CTG installed in the printer 100A, but also the estimated date and time of depletion of each ink CTG installed in the printer 100B. In the modification, when the server 10 receives remaining ink information from the printer 100A, it does not need to calculate the estimated date and time of depletion of the ink CTG installed in the printer 100B.

[0074] (Modification 2) Printer 100A may be a so-called monochrome printer that can only be equipped with, for example, a K ink CTG. In this case, in S12 of Figure 2, Server 10 may calculate the estimated time of depletion for five ink CTGs: one ink CTG installed in printer 100A and four ink CTGs installed in printer 100B. In this modification, five ink CTGs are an example of "multiple colorant cartridges". Also, one ink CTG installed in printer 100A and four ink CTGs installed in printer 100B are examples of "one or more colorant cartridges".

[0075] (Modification 3) The printer 100A, etc., may store the amount of ink used instead of the remaining amount. The printer 100A, etc., may also send usage information indicating the amount of ink used to the server 10 instead of the remaining amount information. The server 10 may calculate the expected date and time of depletion based on the history of ink usage indicated by the usage information. In this modification, the usage information is an example of "remaining amount related information".

[0076] (Modification 4) In each of the above embodiments, the threshold TH is the current date and time D1 + 10 days and is set in common for each ink CTG. In the modification, the threshold may be set to a different value for each ink CTG.

[0077] (Modification 5) Server 10 can omit the processing in S14 and S16 of Figure 2. In this case, Server 10 may identify the ink CTG with the earliest predicted depletion date and time among the calculated depletion predicted dates and times as the first CTG. Server 10 may also identify the ink CTG with the second earliest predicted depletion date and time as the second CTG. In this modification, the "decision unit" can be omitted.

[0078] (Modification 6) Server 10 can omit the processing in S20 of Figure 2. In this case, in S22, Server 10 may identify the ink CTG with the second earliest predicted depletion date and time among the predicted depletion dates and times of each CTG calculated in S12 as the second CTG. In this modification, the "second prediction unit" and the "second related processing execution unit" can be omitted.

[0079] (Modification 7) Server 10 can omit the processing in S24. That is, Server 10 may supply the shipping server with shipping information including information indicating a new first CTG and information indicating a new second CTG, regardless of whether the expected date and time of depletion of the second CTG is within the contract period (S30). In this modification, the "third related processing execution unit" can be omitted.

[0080] (Modification 8) In S126 of Figure 5, the server 10 may, for example, identify an ink CTG whose ink level is below a predetermined threshold as a third CTG. In this modification, the fact that the ink level is below a predetermined threshold is an example of "the timing for replacement satisfies predetermined conditions."

[0081] (Modification 9) Instead of processing S12 in Figure 2, the server 10 may predict, for example, the date and time when the remaining ink level in each ink CTG will reach a predetermined threshold (e.g., 10%). In this case, the server 10 may determine in S14, etc., the number of ink CTGs for which the date and time when the remaining ink level reaches the predetermined threshold will occur within 10 days. In another modification, the server 10 may omit processing S12. In this case, the server 10 may determine in S14, etc., the number of ink CTGs for which the remaining ink level is below a predetermined threshold.

[0082] (Modification 10) Server 10 does not need to determine in S228 of Figure 7 whether it has identified all (M-1) ink CTGs. For example, in S224, Server 10 may identify one ink CTG from among the (M-1) ink CTGs in order of their predicted depletion dates and times. Then, in S224, if the predicted depletion date and time of that one ink CTG arrives after the end date (NO in S224), Server 10 may execute the process in S230 without identifying any ink CTGs with a later predicted depletion date and time than that one ink CTG.

[0083] (Modification 11) In the above embodiment, the server 10 calculated the prediction line and the expected depletion date and time using the oldest date and time and the oldest remaining amount, and the latest date and time and the latest remaining amount. In the modification, the prediction line and the expected depletion date and time may be calculated by a different method. For example, the server 10 may identify all combinations of date and time and remaining amount from the historical information. The server 10 may then calculate the prediction line using all or some of the above combinations. For example, if the historical information contains L combinations of date and time and remaining amount, the server 10 may calculate (L-1) slopes using two adjacent date and time combinations. The server 10 may then calculate the prediction line as a line passing through the point indicating the latest date and time and the latest remaining amount, for example, by having the average value of the (L-1) slopes as the slope. In another modification, the server 10 may calculate the prediction line as a line passing through the point indicating the latest date and time and the latest remaining amount, by having the smallest slope among the (L-1) slopes as the slope. Thus, the method for calculating the prediction line is not limited to the form of the above embodiment.

[0084] (Modification 12) In each of the above embodiments, the processes in Figure 2 or Figure 8 were executed by the server 10. In this modification, the processes in Figure 2 or Figure 8 may be executed by, for example, the printer 100A. For example, the printer 100A may execute the process in Figure 2 or Figure 8 at the timing when it should transmit the remaining amount information in the above embodiments. In this modification, the printer 100A is an example of a "control device". In another modification, the processes in Figure 2 or Figure 8 may be executed by, for example, a terminal device (not shown) different from the server 10 and printers 100A and 100B. In this modification, the terminal device is an example of a "control device".

[0085] (Modification 13) In the above embodiment, the processing of each step in Figures 2, 5, and 7 is implemented by software (e.g., program 36), but at least one of these processes may be implemented by hardware such as a logic circuit.

[0086] The technical elements described herein or in the drawings demonstrate technical usefulness individually or in various combinations, and are not limited to the combinations described in the claims at the time of filing. Furthermore, the technologies illustrated herein or in the drawings can achieve multiple objectives simultaneously, and achieving even one of these objectives constitutes technical usefulness in itself.

[0087] Even if, in the claims of this patent application, each claim depends on only some of the claims, it is not limited to the claim being dependent only on those specific claims. To the extent that it is not technically contradictory, each claim may be dependent on other claims that were not dependent at the time of application. That is, the technologies of each claim can be combined in various ways as follows: (Item 1) A computer program for a control device, The computer of the aforementioned control device comprises the following parts, namely: For each of the multiple colorant cartridges installed in the printer, an acquisition unit acquires remaining amount information relating to the remaining amount of colorant contained in the said colorant cartridge, For each of the aforementioned plurality of colorant cartridges, a first prediction unit predicts the timing at which the colorant cartridge should be replaced, using the remaining amount information of the colorant cartridge. A first related processing execution unit performs first related processing related to shipping a new first colorant cartridge, which is a replacement for the first colorant cartridge whose replacement time is due soonest from among the plurality of colorant cartridges, and a new second colorant cartridge, which is a replacement for the second colorant cartridge whose replacement time is due next to the first colorant cartridge. A computer program that functions as such. (Item 2) The computer program described in item 1, wherein the first related processing execution unit executes the first related processing when the timing for replacing the first colorant cartridge arrives within a first predetermined period. (Item 3) The computer program described in item 2, wherein the first related processing execution unit executes the first related processing when the timing for replacing the first colorant cartridge arrives within the first predetermined period, even if the timing for replacing the second colorant cartridge does not arrive within the first predetermined period. (Item 4) The aforementioned computer program further uses the computer, Each of the aforementioned plurality of colorant cartridges is configured to function as a determination unit that determines whether or not the timing for replacing the colorant cartridge arrives within the first predetermined period. The computer program described in item 2 or 3, wherein the first related processing execution unit executes the first related processing when it is determined that the timing for replacing the first colorant cartridge has arrived within the first predetermined period. (Item 5) The aforementioned computer program further uses the computer, A second prediction unit predicts the timing at which the new first colorant cartridge should be replaced, A second related processing execution unit performs a second related processing related to shipping two new first colorant cartridges when the timing for replacing the new first colorant cartridge is earlier than the timing for replacing the second colorant cartridge. To make it function as, A computer program according to any one of items 1 to 4, wherein the first associated process is not performed if the timing for replacing the new first colorant cartridge is earlier than the timing for replacing the second colorant cartridge. (Item 6) The first related processing execution unit executes the first related processing when the timing for replacing the second colorant cartridge is earlier than the end date of the contract for automatic shipment of the colorant cartridge. The aforementioned computer program further uses the computer, If the timing for replacing the second colorant cartridge is later than the end date, the third related processing unit will function to execute a third related processing related to shipping the new first colorant cartridge and not shipping the new second colorant cartridge. A computer program according to any one of items 1 to 5, wherein the first related process is not performed if the timing for replacing the second colorant cartridge is later than the end time. (Item 7) The first related processing execution unit is: With respect to the third colorant cartridge, which is the next colorant cartridge to be replaced after the second colorant cartridge, if the timing for replacing the third colorant cartridge satisfies predetermined conditions, the first related process is performed, which is related to shipping the new third colorant cartridge together with the new first colorant cartridge and the new second colorant cartridge. With respect to the third colorant cartridge, if the timing for replacing the third colorant cartridge does not meet the predetermined conditions, the first related process is performed, which involves shipping the new first colorant cartridge and the new second colorant cartridge, but not shipping the new third colorant cartridge. A computer program as described in any one of items 1 through 6. (Item 8) The computer program described in item 7, wherein the predetermined conditions include that the timing for replacing the third colorant cartridge is earlier than the end date of the contract for automatic delivery of the colorant cartridges, and the difference between that timing and the end date is within the second predetermined period. (Item 9) The first related processing unit executes the first related processing related to shipping the new first colorant cartridge and new (M-1) colorant cartridges that replace the (M-1) colorant cartridges that are due to be replaced next to the first colorant cartridge, when the user specifies M (where M is an integer of 2 or more) as the number of new colorant cartridges to be shipped together. The (M-1) colorant cartridges include the second colorant cartridge, The aforementioned new (M-1) colorant cartridges include the aforementioned new second colorant cartridges, and are computer programs as described in any one of items 1 to 8. (Item 10) The acquisition unit acquires the remaining amount information of each of the multiple colorant cartridges installed in each of the two or more printers. A computer program according to any one of items 1 to 9, wherein each of the two or more printers is equipped with two or more of the aforementioned colorant cartridges. (Item 11) The first prediction unit is a computer program according to any one of items 1 to 10, which predicts the timing at which the colorant in the colorant cartridge will be depleted. [Explanation of symbols]

[0088] 2: Communication system, 6: Internet, 10: Server, 16: Communication I / F, 30: Control unit, 32: CPU, 34: Memory, 36: Program, 100A, 100B: Printer

Claims

1. A computer program for a control device, The computer of the aforementioned control device comprises the following parts, namely: For each of the multiple colorant cartridges installed in the printer, an acquisition unit acquires remaining amount information relating to the remaining amount of colorant contained in the said colorant cartridge, For each of the aforementioned plurality of colorant cartridges, a first prediction unit predicts the timing at which the colorant cartridge should be replaced, using the remaining amount information of the colorant cartridge. A first related processing execution unit performs first related processing related to shipping a new first colorant cartridge, which is a replacement for the first colorant cartridge whose replacement time is due soonest from among the plurality of colorant cartridges, and a new second colorant cartridge, which is a replacement for the second colorant cartridge whose replacement time is due next to the first colorant cartridge. A computer program that functions as such.

2. The computer program according to claim 1, wherein the first related processing execution unit executes the first related processing when the timing for replacing the first colorant cartridge arrives within a first predetermined period.

3. The computer program according to claim 2, wherein the first related processing execution unit executes the first related processing when the timing for replacing the first colorant cartridge arrives within the first predetermined period, even if the timing for replacing the second colorant cartridge does not arrive within the first predetermined period.

4. The aforementioned computer program further uses the computer, Each of the aforementioned plurality of colorant cartridges is configured to function as a determination unit that determines whether or not the timing for replacing the colorant cartridge arrives within the first predetermined period. The computer program according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the first related processing execution unit executes the first related processing when it is determined that the timing for replacing the first colorant cartridge has arrived within the first predetermined period.

5. The aforementioned computer program further uses the computer, A second prediction unit predicts the timing at which the new first colorant cartridge should be replaced, A second related processing execution unit performs a second related processing related to shipping two new first colorant cartridges when the timing for replacing the new first colorant cartridge is earlier than the timing for replacing the second colorant cartridge. To make it function as, The computer program according to claim 1, wherein the first related process is not executed if the timing for replacing the new first colorant cartridge is earlier than the timing for replacing the second colorant cartridge.

6. The first related processing execution unit executes the first related processing when the timing for replacing the second colorant cartridge is earlier than the end date of the contract for automatic shipment of the colorant cartridge. The aforementioned computer program further uses the computer, If the timing for replacing the second colorant cartridge is later than the end date, the third related processing unit will function to execute a third related processing related to shipping the new first colorant cartridge and not shipping the new second colorant cartridge. The computer program according to claim 1, wherein the first related process is not executed if the timing for replacing the second colorant cartridge is later than the end time.

7. The first related processing execution unit is: With respect to the third colorant cartridge, which is the next colorant cartridge to be replaced after the second colorant cartridge, if the timing for replacing the third colorant cartridge satisfies predetermined conditions, the first related process is performed to ship the new first colorant cartridge, the new second colorant cartridge, and the new third colorant cartridge which is a replacement for the third colorant cartridge. If the timing for replacing the third colorant cartridge does not meet the predetermined conditions, the first related process is performed, which involves shipping the new first colorant cartridge and the new second colorant cartridge, but not shipping the new third colorant cartridge. The computer program according to claim 1.

8. The computer program according to claim 7, wherein the predetermined conditions include that the timing for replacing the third colorant cartridge is earlier than the end date of the contract for automatic delivery of the colorant cartridge, and the difference between that timing and the end date is within a second predetermined period.

9. The first related processing unit executes the first related processing related to shipping the new first colorant cartridge and new (M-1) colorant cartridges that replace the (M-1) colorant cartridges that are due to be replaced next to the first colorant cartridge, when the user specifies M (where M is an integer of 2 or more) as the number of new colorant cartridges to be shipped together. The (M-1) colorant cartridges include the second colorant cartridge, The computer program according to claim 1, wherein the new (M-1) colorant cartridges include the new second colorant cartridge.

10. The acquisition unit acquires the remaining amount information of each of the multiple colorant cartridges installed in each of the two or more printers. The computer program according to claim 1, wherein each of the two or more printers is equipped with two or more of the colorant cartridges.

11. The computer program according to claim 1, wherein the first prediction unit predicts the timing at which the colorant in the colorant cartridge will be depleted.

12. A computer program for a control device, The computer of the aforementioned control device comprises the following parts, namely: An acquisition unit that acquires remaining amount information relating to the remaining amount of colorant contained in each of several colorant cartridges installed in two or more printers, wherein each of the two or more printers is equipped with one or more of the colorant cartridges, and the acquisition unit For each of the aforementioned plurality of colorant cartridges, a first prediction unit predicts the timing at which the colorant cartridge should be replaced, using the remaining amount information of the colorant cartridge. A first related processing execution unit performs first related processing related to shipping a new first colorant cartridge, which is a replacement for the first colorant cartridge whose replacement time is due soonest from among the plurality of colorant cartridges, and a new second colorant cartridge, which is a replacement for the second colorant cartridge whose replacement time is due next to the first colorant cartridge. A computer program that functions as such.

13. Server and A printer and A communication system comprising, The aforementioned printer is The printer is equipped with a transmission unit that transmits information relating to the remaining amount of colorant contained in each of the multiple colorant cartridges installed in the printer to the server. The aforementioned server, A receiving unit that receives the remaining amount information for each of the multiple colorant cartridges installed in the printer from the printer, For each of the aforementioned plurality of colorant cartridges, a first prediction unit predicts the timing at which the colorant cartridge should be replaced, using the remaining amount information of the colorant cartridge. A first related processing execution unit performs first related processing related to shipping a new first colorant cartridge, which is a replacement for the first colorant cartridge whose replacement time is due soonest from among the plurality of colorant cartridges, and a new second colorant cartridge, which is a replacement for the second colorant cartridge whose replacement time is due next to the first colorant cartridge. A communication system equipped with these features.

14. A method performed by a control device, For each of the multiple colorant cartridges installed in the printer, an acquisition process is performed to acquire information relating to the remaining amount of colorant contained in the colorant cartridge, For each of the aforementioned plurality of colorant cartridges, a first prediction step is performed to predict the timing at which the colorant cartridge should be replaced, using the remaining amount information of the colorant cartridge. A first related processing execution step which performs a first related processing related to shipping a new first colorant cartridge, which is a replacement for the first colorant cartridge whose replacement time is due soonest from among the plurality of colorant cartridges, and a new second colorant cartridge, which is a replacement for the second colorant cartridge whose replacement time is due next to the first colorant cartridge, A method that includes [a certain feature].

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