Control device, service server, printer, control method, and program

Abstract

The present invention provides a control device, service server, printer, control method, and program that can effectively encourage users to formally subscribe to the service. [Solution] When the service server receives an application for a trial subscription to the printer, it grants a number of permitted prints that are included with the trial subscription. The service server grants the number of permitted prints by storing it in the service server's memory. During the trial subscription, the user can print up to the permitted number of pages using the printer. When printing is performed by the printer, the service server reduces the number of permitted prints according to the number of pages printed by the printer (S81).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a control device, a service server, a printer, a control method, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] A service of an automatic ordering and delivery system for consumables related to printing apparatuses is known. The printing apparatus described in Patent Document 1 automatically places an order for toner when the remaining amount of toner used for printing becomes low, and delivers the toner to the user.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In order to promote official subscription to the service, the automatic ordering and delivery system may set a trial period and provide the service during the trial period. In this case, the provision of the service is stopped when the trial period ends. Therefore, if the user forgets the deadline of the trial period, it becomes difficult for the automatic ordering and delivery system to promote official subscription to the service.

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide a control device, a service server, a printer, a control method, and a program that can effectively promote official subscription to a service to a user.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] A control device according to a first aspect of the present invention is a control device for controlling the provision of services related to a printer, characterized in that, upon receiving an application for a trial subscription to the service, it performs a storage process to store in a storage unit the permitted print volume that is permitted in connection with the trial subscription, and a reduction process to reduce the permitted print volume according to the amount of print used by the printer.

[0007] According to the first embodiment, when the control device receives a trial subscription application, it authorizes the printer to print the permitted amount of prints. The permitted amount of prints decreases each time the printer prints. Therefore, the printer user realizes that their right to the permitted amount of prints is being lost through their own actions. Thus, the control device effectively contributes to encouraging the user to formally subscribe to the service.

[0008] A service server according to a second aspect of the present invention is a service server that provides services related to a printer, and is equipped with a communication unit that communicates with the printer and a linked terminal that works in conjunction with the printer, and is characterized in that, when it receives an application for a trial subscription to the service via the printer or the linked terminal, it performs a storage process that stores in a storage unit the permitted print volume that is permitted in conjunction with the trial subscription, and a reduction process that reduces the permitted print volume according to the amount of printing used by the printer.

[0009] A third aspect of the present invention is a printer comprising a control unit and a display unit, wherein the control unit performs a display process that causes the display unit to display the permitted print volume authorized by a trial subscription to a service relating to the printer.

[0010] A control method according to a fourth aspect of the present invention is a control method for controlling the provision of a printer service, characterized in that, when an application for a trial subscription to the service is received, the method includes: a storage step of storing in a storage unit the permitted print volume that is permitted in connection with the trial subscription; and a reduction step of reducing the permitted print volume according to the amount of print used by the printer.

[0011] A fifth aspect of the present invention is a program that causes a computer that controls the provision of services related to a printer to execute, upon receiving an application for a trial subscription to the service, a storage step of storing in a storage unit the permitted print volume that is permitted in connection with the trial subscription, and a reduction step of reducing the permitted print volume according to the amount of print used by the printer.

[0012] The service server of the second embodiment, the printer of the third embodiment, the control method of the fourth embodiment, and the program of the fifth embodiment have the same effect as the control device of the first embodiment. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0013] [Figure 1] This is a conceptual diagram of Service System 1. [Figure 2] This is a conceptual diagram of database 8. [Figure 3] This is a conceptual diagram of Table 84. [Figure 4] This diagram shows the relationship between the number of permitted uses and the discount period after formally subscribing to the service. [Figure 5] This is a timing chart for processing trial subscriptions to the service. [Figure 6] This is a timing chart for printing processes during the trial period. [Figure 7] This is a timing chart for processing formal subscriptions to the service. [Figure 8] This is a flowchart of the terminal processing performed on terminal device 2. [Figure 9] Figure 8 is a flowchart of the terminal processing. [Figure 10] This is a flowchart of the printer processing performed on printer 3. [Figure 11] Figure 10 is a flowchart of the printer processing. [Figure 12] This is a flowchart of the server processing performed on service server 5. [Figure 13]This is a flowchart of server processing subsequent to Figure 12. [Figure 14] This is a diagram illustrating the display unit 35 that displays a display screen 91A. [Figure 15] This is a diagram illustrating the display unit 35 that displays a display screen 91B. [Figure 16] This is a diagram illustrating the display unit 35 that displays a display screen 91C. [Figure 17] This is a diagram illustrating the display unit 35 that displays a display screen 91D. [Figure 18] This is a diagram illustrating the display unit 25 that displays a display screen 91E. [Figure 19] This is a diagram illustrating a first modified example of the relationship between the permitted number of sheets and the discount period after formal subscription to the service. [Figure 20] This is a diagram illustrating a second modified example of the relationship between the permitted number of sheets and the discount period after formal subscription to the service. [Figure 21] This is a diagram illustrating the display unit 35 that displays a display screen 95. [Figure 22] This is a diagram illustrating the display unit 35 that displays a display screen 96. [Mode for Carrying Out the Invention]

[0014] A service system 1 and a service server 5 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0015] As shown in Figure 1, the service system 1 includes a terminal device 2, a printer 3, and a service server 5. The terminal device 2, the printer 3, and the service server 5 are configured to be capable of communicating with each other via a WAN 6 (Wide Area Network). The WAN 6 of the present embodiment is the Internet.

[0016] Service System 1 provides a subscription service to users of Printer 3. Under this subscription service, users pay a fixed fee to receive various services related to Printer 3 for a set period. These services include, for example, allowing Printer 3 to print up to a predetermined amount and automatically delivering cartridges containing the necessary consumables for printing.

[0017] In Service System 1, Printer 3 can be offered on a trial basis as a promotional offer before formally subscribing to the subscription service. Details on the trial subscription for Printer 3 will be described later.

[0018] Terminal device 2 is a personal computer. Terminal device 2 comprises a control unit 20, a communication unit 23, a storage unit 24, a display unit 25, and an input unit 26.

[0019] The control unit 20 has a CPU 21 and a memory 22. The CPU 21 controls the terminal device 2 by executing programs stored in the memory 22. The memory 22 is a semiconductor memory such as ROM, RAM, or flash memory. The memory 22 stores various programs, such as the terminal program 29, which is executed by the CPU 21.

[0020] The communication unit 23 is a communication module for data communication via WAN6. The storage unit 24 is a non-volatile storage device such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or SSD (Solid State Drive) that stores various types of data. The display unit 25 is a liquid crystal display that displays various types of information. The input unit 26 is a keyboard, mouse, etc., which outputs detection signals to the control unit 20 in response to user input operations.

[0021] Printer 3 is an inkjet printer that uses cartridges for printing. The cartridges contain ink, which is a consumable item. The cartridges in this embodiment include regular cartridges and trial cartridges. Regular cartridges are mailed upon formal subscription to the service. Trial cartridges are provided along with Printer 3 when it is installed.

[0022] The printer 3 comprises a housing 38, a control unit 30, a communication unit 33, a storage unit 34, a display unit 35, an input unit 36, and a head 37. The housing 38 is capable of holding a cartridge. The housing 38 houses the control unit 30, the communication unit 33, the storage unit 34, and the head 37.

[0023] The control unit 30 has a CPU 31 and a memory 32. The CPU 31 controls the printer 3 by executing programs stored in the memory 32. The memory 32 is a semiconductor memory such as ROM, RAM, or flash memory. The memory 32 stores various programs, such as the printer program 39 executed by the CPU 31.

[0024] The communication unit 33 is a communication module that performs data communication via WAN 6. The storage unit 34 is a non-volatile storage device such as an HDD or SSD, which stores various types of data. The display unit 35 is a liquid crystal display located in the housing 38, which displays various types of information. The input unit 36 ​​is a switch located in the housing 38, which outputs a detection signal to the control unit 30 in response to user input operations.

[0025] The print head 37 has an inkjet head. The print head 37 prints on the medium 7 by ejecting ink from the inkjet head towards the medium 7. The medium 7 is, for example, a sheet of cut paper.

[0026] The service server 5 comprises a control unit 50, a communication unit 53, and a storage unit 54. The control unit 50 has a CPU 51 and a memory 52. ​​The CPU 51 controls the service server 5 by executing programs stored in the memory 52. ​​The memory 52 is a semiconductor memory such as ROM, RAM, or flash memory. The memory 52 stores various programs, such as the server program 59 executed by the CPU 51.

[0027] The communication unit 53 is a communication module that performs data communication via WAN 6. The storage unit 54 is a non-volatile storage device such as an HDD or SSD. The storage unit 54 stores the database 8 and the service table 9. The database 8 has multiple tables 81, 82, 83, and 84 and stores information related to trial subscriptions to the subscription service. The service table 9 stores information related to formal subscriptions to the subscription service.

[0028] This section explains how to sign up for a trial subscription service. Instructions on how to apply for a trial subscription will be provided later.

[0029] In this embodiment, upon application for a trial subscription, the printer 3 to be subscribed is granted a trial period and a permitted number of prints associated with the trial subscription. The trial period is the duration of the trial subscription. In this embodiment, the trial period is 30 days. When the trial period expires, the service server 5 terminates the trial subscription for printer 3.

[0030] The permitted number of prints is the number of media 7 prints permitted in conjunction with the trial subscription. In this embodiment, 50 prints are permitted upon application for a trial subscription. As a trial subscriber, the user can print the permitted number of media 7 prints using the printer 3.

[0031] The number of allowed pages decreases according to the number of pages printed on media 7 using printer 3 during the trial period. For example, if the number of allowed pages before printing is 50 and 5 pages of media 7 are printed on printer 3, the number of allowed pages after printing will decrease to 45.

[0032] If the number of permitted pages becomes 0, service server 5 will terminate the trial subscription for printer 3, even if the trial period has not expired. Furthermore, if the trial period expires while the number of permitted pages is 1 or more, service server 5 will terminate the trial subscription for printer 3.

[0033] As shown in Figure 4, if a user applies for a formal subscription during the trial period, the benefits of formal subscription will be applied to the printer 3 to which the subscription is applied. The benefits of formal subscription include a discount on the subscription service fee for a certain period after formal subscription. The discount period after formal subscription includes multiple grades with different discount periods. The discount period is determined by the remaining number of permitted prints at the time the formal subscription application is made.

[0034] If the permitted number of prints is between 26 and 50 at the time of formal application, the discount period is 12 months. If the permitted number of prints is between 11 and 25 at the time of formal application, the discount period is 9 months. If the permitted number of prints is between 1 and 10 at the time of formal application, the discount period is 3 months. Note that if a formal application is made after the trial period for Printer 3 has ended, the user will not be granted the formal application discount.

[0035] In the following, a state where the number of permitted cards is between 26 and 50 is referred to as the first trial membership state. A state where the number of permitted cards is between 11 and 25 is referred to as the second trial membership state. A state where the number of permitted cards is between 1 and 10 is referred to as the third trial membership state.

[0036] Furthermore, the subscription service includes multiple plans with different fixed monthly fees. In this embodiment, the subscription service includes three tiers of plans, in descending order of fixed monthly fee: Premium Plan, Standard Plan, and Basic Plan. The Premium Plan includes automatic delivery of all color cartridges and enables high-quality printing by printer 3. The Standard Plan includes automatic delivery of all color cartridges and enables standard-quality printing by printer 3. The Basic Plan includes automatic delivery of only the black cartridge and enables black and white printing by printer 3.

[0037] The subscription service offers three levels of promotion during the trial period. The first trial period provides access to the Premium plan subscription service. The second trial period provides access to the Standard plan subscription service. The third trial period provides access to the Basic plan subscription service.

[0038] The service table 9 shown in Figure 1 stores information such as the grade selected upon formal enrollment in the subscription service, user information, payment method information for the fixed monthly fee, and information about printer 3. The service server 5 provides services to printer 3 based on the information stored in service table 9.

[0039] Refer to Figures 2 and 3 to explain database 8. Service server 5 manages trial subscriptions for printer 3 based on database 8.

[0040] Table 81 in database 8 stores user information. User information includes, for example, user ID, user name, and user email address.

[0041] Table 82 stores printer information. This printer information includes, for example, the device ID of printer 3, the model name of printer 3, and the user ID indicating the user of printer 3.

[0042] The device ID is a number used by the service server 5 to identify and manage printer 3. The device ID is stored in memory 32. The user IDs in table 82 and the user IDs in table 81 are associated.

[0043] Table 83 stores promotion information. This promotion information includes, for example, the promotion ID, promotion name, and discount period.

[0044] As shown in Figure 4, the Promotion ID value is 1 in the first trial membership state, 2 in the second trial membership state, and 3 in the third trial membership state. Furthermore, the Promotion ID value is 0 before the start of the trial membership and 4 after the end of the trial membership.

[0045] The promotion name indicates the grade of the subscription service being promoted during the trial period. The discount period indicates the discount period that will be applied to Printer 3 if a formal subscription is applied for.

[0046] Table 84 is the table that centrally manages trial subscription information. Trial subscription information includes the management ID, device ID, promotion ID, whether or not a trial subscription is currently active, and the current number of allowed subscriptions. The management ID includes the ID that manages the trial subscription. The device ID in Table 84 is associated with the device ID in Table 82. The promotion ID in Table 84 is associated with the promotion ID in Table 83.

[0047] In Table 84, the value in the "is_active" column is 1 if the user is on trial, and 0 if they are not on trial. The current number of allowed prints is shown in the value in the "remaining_print" column. For example, in Figure 3, the current number of allowed prints for management ID "1" is 30.

[0048] Referring to Figures 5 to 13, the process related to trial subscriptions for the subscription service executed on service system 1 will be explained in chronological order.

[0049] When the control unit 20 of the terminal device 2 detects a startup instruction, it starts the terminal program 29 stored in the memory 22 and executes the terminal processing shown in Figures 8 and 9. The startup instruction is input by the user via the input unit 26 and is an instruction to start an application related to the printer 3.

[0050] When the printer 3 is powered on, the control unit 30 of the printer 3 starts the printer program 39 stored in the memory 32. By starting the printer program 39, the control unit 30 executes the printer processing shown in Figures 10 and 11.

[0051] When the power to the service server 5 is turned ON, the control unit 50 of the service server 5 starts the server program 59 stored in memory 52. ​​By executing the server program 59, the control unit 50 performs the server processing shown in Figures 12 and 13.

[0052] As shown in Figure 5, in order to apply for a trial subscription to the subscription service, the user operates the input unit 26 to input user information into the terminal device 2 (S11). Note that in Figures 5, 8, and 12, the user is referred to as "UE".

[0053] As shown in Figure 8, the control unit 20 of the terminal device 2 determines whether or not it has received user information input (S211). If the control unit 20 determines that it has not received user information input (S211: NO), it proceeds to S215. If the control unit 20 determines that it has received user information input (S211: YES), it outputs the input user information to the service server 5 (S13) and proceeds to S213.

[0054] As shown in Figure 12, the control unit 50 of the service server 5 determines whether or not it has received user information from the terminal device 2 (S511). If the control unit 50 determines that it has not received user information from the terminal device 2 (S511: NO), it proceeds to S515. If the control unit 50 determines that it has received user information from the terminal device 2 (S511: YES), it registers the user information in the database 8 (S15). In the process of S15, the control unit 50 registers the user information by storing it in table 81 of the database 8.

[0055] The control unit 50 outputs a user registration notification to the terminal device 2 (S19), and the process proceeds to S515.

[0056] As shown in Figure 8, the control unit 20 determines whether or not it has received a user registration notification from the service server 5 (S213). If the control unit 20 determines that it has not received a user registration notification from the service server 5 (S213: NO), it returns to processing S213. If the control unit 20 determines that it has received a user registration notification from the service server 5 (S213: YES), it displays on the display unit 25 that user information registration is complete (S21).

[0057] As shown in Figure 5, after the user confirms that user information registration is complete via the display unit 25, the user operates the input unit 26 to input model information into the terminal device 2 (S23). The model information indicates the model name of printer 3 included in the printer information. The user performs the operation to input the model name of printer 3.

[0058] As shown in Figure 8, the control unit 20 determines whether or not it has received the model information input (S215). If the control unit 20 determines that it has not received the model information input (S215: NO), it proceeds to S219. If the control unit 20 determines that it has received the model information input (S215: YES), it outputs the input model information to the printer 3 (S25) and proceeds to S217.

[0059] As shown in Figure 10, the control unit 30 of the printer 3 determines whether or not it has received model information from the terminal device 2 (S311). If the control unit 30 determines that it has not received model information from the terminal device 2 (S311: NO), it proceeds to S313.

[0060] If the control unit 30 determines that it has received model information from the terminal device 2 (S311: YES), it outputs printer information to the service server 5 (S27). The printer information output in S27 includes the model information received from the terminal device 2 and the device ID stored in memory 32. Note that in Figures 5, 8, 10, and 12, the printer is denoted as "PRT".

[0061] As shown in Figure 12, the control unit 50 determines whether or not it has received printer information from the printer 3 (S515). If the control unit 50 determines that it has not received printer information from the printer 3 (S515: NO), it proceeds to S519.

[0062] If the control unit 50 determines that it has received printer information from printer 3 (S515: YES), it registers the printer information in database 8 (S29). In the process of S29, the control unit 50 registers the printer information by storing it in table 82 of database 8.

[0063] The control unit 50 outputs a printer registration notification to the terminal device 2 (S33). The control unit 50 then proceeds to process S519.

[0064] As shown in Figure 8, the control unit 20 determines whether or not it has received a printer registration notification from the service server 5 (S217). If the control unit 20 determines that it has not received a printer registration notification from the service server 5 (S217: NO), it returns to processing S217. If the control unit 20 determines that it has received a printer registration notification from the service server 5 (S217: YES), it displays on the display unit 25 that the printer information registration is complete (S35). The control unit 20 then proceeds to processing S219.

[0065] As shown in Figure 12, the control unit 50 determines whether the printer 3 to be subscribed to is eligible for a trial subscription (S519). In Figures 5 to 13, the trial subscription is denoted as "PR". In the process of S519, the control unit 50 determines that the printer 3 to be subscribed to is eligible for a trial subscription if the user information and printer information are registered in the database 8 and the value of the promotion ID is not "4". If the control unit 50 determines that the printer 3 to be subscribed to is not eligible for a trial subscription (S519: NO), it returns to process S511.

[0066] If the control unit 50 determines that a trial subscription is possible (S519: YES), it starts the trial subscription for printer 3 (S37). In the process of S37, the control unit 50 sets the value of the "is_active" column in the table 84 shown in Figure 3 to "1" and sets the trial period to 30 days.

[0067] The control unit 50 grants an allowance of 50 prints (S38). In the process of S521, the control unit 50 grants an allowance of 50 prints by storing "50" in the value of the "remaining_print" column of the table 84 shown in Figure 3. The control unit 50 sends trial subscription completion information to the terminal device 2 (S39). The trial subscription completion information indicates that the trial subscription for the target printer 3 has been completed and that an allowance of 50 prints has been granted. The control unit 50 moves the process to S523.

[0068] As shown in Figure 8, the control unit 20 determines whether or not it has received trial subscription completion information (S219). If the control unit 20 determines that it has not received trial subscription completion information from the service server 5 (S219: NO), it returns to processing S211. If the control unit 20 determines that it has received trial subscription completion information from the service server 5 (S219: YES), it displays the trial subscription completion information on the display unit 25 (S41).

[0069] The control unit 20 sets the status of the application related to the running printer 3 to the terminal trial subscription status (S221). The terminal trial subscription status indicates that the printer 3 is currently on trial. The control unit 20 displays a confirmation operation area on the display unit 25 (S223). The confirmation operation area is an area that accepts confirmation operations to check the current number of allowed pages.

[0070] During the process in S41, the user understands that the trial subscription has been completed for the printer 3 to be subscribed to, based on the trial subscription completion information displayed on the display unit 25. After the trial subscription is completed for the printer 3 to be subscribed to, the user performs a confirmation operation via the input unit 26 to check the remaining number of allowed prints, as shown in Figure 6 (S51).

[0071] As shown in Figure 8, the control unit 20 determines whether or not it has received the confirmation operation (S225). If the control unit 20 determines that it has not received the confirmation operation (S225: NO), it proceeds to S229. If the control unit 20 determines that it has received the confirmation operation (S225: YES), it outputs a confirmation instruction to the service server 5 (S53). The control unit 20 then proceeds to S229.

[0072] As shown in Figure 12, the control unit 50 determines whether or not it has received a confirmation instruction from the terminal device 2 (S523). If the control unit 50 determines that it has not received a confirmation instruction from the terminal device 2 (S523: NO), it proceeds to S524. If the control unit 50 determines that it has received a confirmation instruction from the terminal device 2 (S523: YES), it reads the current number of allowed pages from table 84 of the database 8 (S55). The control unit 50 notifies the printer 3 of the current number of allowed pages read in S55 (S59).

[0073] As shown in Figure 10, the control unit 30 determines whether or not it has received notification of the current number of allowed cards from the service server 5 (S313). If the control unit 30 determines that it has not received notification of the current number of allowed cards from the service server 5 (S313: NO), it proceeds to S315. If the control unit 30 determines that it has received notification of the current number of allowed cards from the service server 5 (S313: YES), it displays the current number of allowed cards by turning the display screen 91D shown in Figure 17 onto the display unit 35 (S61).

[0074] As shown in Figure 17, the display screen 91D displays the permitted number of pages information 911 and the reminder information 915. The permitted number of pages information 911 displays information indicating the current permitted number of pages. The reminder information 915 displays information encouraging formal subscription to the subscription service. By checking the display screen 91D, the user can understand the current permitted number of pages and is prompted to formally subscribe to the subscription service for the printer 3 to be subscribed to.

[0075] This section describes the process for printing using printer 3 during a trial period in service system 1. As shown in Figure 6, when printing using printer 3 during a trial period, the user performs the necessary preparation operations for printing (S65). During these preparation operations, the user operates the input unit 26 to input image data, the number of pages to print, etc., into the terminal device 2.

[0076] As shown in Figure 8, the control unit 20 determines whether or not it has received the preparation operation (S229). If the control unit 20 determines that it has not received the preparation operation (S229: NO), it proceeds to S241.

[0077] If the control unit 20 determines that it has received the preparation operation (S229: YES), it determines whether or not the printer 3 is currently on trial (S231). In the process of S231, the control unit 20 determines that the printer 3 is on trial if the application status is in the terminal trial subscription state. If the control unit 20 determines that the printer 3 is not currently on trial (S231: NO), it proceeds to process S233.

[0078] If the control unit 20 determines that printer 3 is currently under trial subscription (S231: YES), it outputs a calculation command to the service server 5 (S66). The calculation command instructs the service server 5 to calculate the change in the number of permitted pages due to the current print job. The calculation command includes the information on the number of pages to print that was entered in the preparation operation. The control unit 20 then proceeds to S233.

[0079] As shown in Figure 12, the control unit 50 determines whether or not it has received a calculation command from the terminal device 2 (S524). If the control unit 50 determines that it has not received a calculation command from the terminal device 2 (S524: NO), it proceeds to S525.

[0080] If the control unit 50 determines that it has received a calculation command from the terminal device 2 (S524: YES), it calculates the estimated number of pages that will be allowed to be printed after printing (S67). In the process of S67, the control unit 20 subtracts the number of pages to be printed included in the calculation command from the current number of pages that will be allowed to be printed. The control unit 50 outputs the calculated estimated number of pages that will be allowed to be printed after printing to the terminal device 2 (S68), and proceeds to process S525.

[0081] As shown in Figure 8, the control unit 20 determines whether or not it has received an estimated number of allowed pages after printing from the service server 5 (S232). If the control unit 20 determines that it has not received an estimated number of allowed pages after printing from the service server 5 (S232: NO), it returns to processing S232. If the control unit 20 determines that it has received an estimated number of allowed pages after printing from the service server 5 (S232: YES), it displays the display screen 91E on the display unit 25 (S69). The control unit 20 then proceeds to processing S233.

[0082] As shown in Figure 18, the display screen 91E displays the change in the number of permitted pages calculated in S67. The display screen 91E displays the change schedule information 916 and the number of printed pages information 912. The change schedule information 916 displays the number of permitted pages if printing is performed. The number of printed pages information 912 displays the number of permitted pages before printing and the number of permitted pages after printing, and displays the number of printed pages based on the difference between the number of permitted pages before printing and the number of permitted pages after printing.

[0083] As shown in Figure 8, the control unit 20 displays a print operation area (not shown) on the display unit 25 (S233). The print operation area is an area that accepts print operations to instruct the printer 3 to print. As shown in Figure 6, the user performs the print operation via the input unit 26 (S71).

[0084] As shown in Figure 9, the control unit 20 determines whether or not it has received a print operation (S251). If the control unit 20 determines that it has not received a print operation (S251: NO), it proceeds to S263.

[0085] If the control unit 20 determines that it has received a print operation (S255: YES), it outputs a print command to the printer 3 (S73). The print command includes print data for printing image data and information on the number of copies to print. The control unit 20 clears the display in the print operation area (S253) and proceeds to S255.

[0086] As shown in Figure 10, the control unit 30 determines whether or not a print command has been received (S315). If the control unit 30 determines that no print command has been received (S315: NO), the process proceeds to S321 as shown in Figure 11.

[0087] If the control unit 30 determines that it has received a print command (S315: YES), it prints onto the medium 7 based on the print data (S75). Once printing by the printer 3 is complete, the user removes the printed medium 7 from the printer 3. The control unit 30 outputs the number of pages printed to the service server 5 (S79), and then proceeds to S317.

[0088] As shown in Figure 12, the control unit 50 determines whether or not it has received the number of pages information (S525). If the control unit 50 determines that it has not received the number of pages information (S525: NO), it proceeds to S531 as shown in Figure 13. If the control unit 50 determines that it has received the number of pages information (S525: YES), it reduces the number of allowed pages according to the number of pages printed (S81). In the process of S81, the control unit 50 subtracts the number of pages to be printed indicated in the number of pages information received in S525 from the number of allowed pages before printing to obtain the number of allowed pages after printing. The control unit 50 stores the number of allowed pages after printing in the value of "remaining_print" in the table 84 shown in Figure 3.

[0089] The control unit 50 determines whether the number of permitted pages after printing is greater than or equal to zero (S527). If the control unit 50 determines that the number of permitted pages after printing is greater than or equal to zero (S527: YES), it determines whether the trial subscription status has changed after printing (S529). More specifically, in S529, the control unit 50 determines whether the trial subscription status has changed after printing based on the value of "remaining_print" in table 84 and the relationship between the number of permitted pages and the trial subscription status shown in Figure 4.

[0090] If the control unit 50 determines that the trial subscription status has not changed after printing (S529: NO), it proceeds to S85. If the control unit 50 determines that the trial subscription status has changed after printing (S529: YES), it changes the value of "promotion_id" in table 84 to match the trial subscription status and changes the content of the promotion to be performed on printer 3 to a plan corresponding to the trial subscription status (S83). More specifically, in the first trial subscription status, the control unit 50 performs a premium plan promotion on printer 3. In the second trial subscription status, the control unit 50 performs a standard plan subscription service promotion on printer 3. In the third trial subscription status, the control unit 50 performs a basic plan subscription service promotion on printer 3. The control unit 50 then proceeds to S85.

[0091] The control unit 50 outputs an authorized page count notification to the printer 3 (S85). The authorized page count notification includes information on the number of pages printed in S75 as shown in Figure 10, and information on the authorized page count after printing. If the trial subscription status changes due to a change in the authorized page count in S529, information indicating the trial subscription status after printing and the discount period due to the formal subscription is added to the authorized page count notification.

[0092] As shown in Figure 10, the control unit 30 determines whether or not it has received a notification of the permitted number of pages from the service server 5 (S317). If the control unit 30 determines that it has not received a notification of the permitted number of pages after printing from the service server 5 (S317: NO), it proceeds to S319.

[0093] If the control unit 30 determines that it has received notification of the permitted number of pages after printing from the service server 5 (S317: YES), it displays the display screen 91A shown in Figure 14 or the display screen 91B shown in Figure 15 on the display unit 35 (S87). Display screens 91A and 91B show the change in the permitted number of pages. Display screen 91A is displayed when there is no change in the trial subscription status after printing, and display screen 91B is displayed when there is a change in the trial subscription status after printing.

[0094] As shown in Figure 14, the display screen 91A displays the permitted number of pages information 911 and the number of printed pages information 912. The permitted number of pages information 911 displays the permitted number of pages after printing.

[0095] As shown in Figure 15, the display screen 91B displays the permitted number of pages information 911, the number of printed pages information 912, and the status change information 913. The status change information 913 shows the change in the trial subscription status after printing. In Figure 15, the status change information 913 shows that the trial subscription has changed to the second state, and that the discount period due to the formal subscription has changed to 9 months.

[0096] As shown in Figure 10, the control unit 30 sends an authorized number notification to the terminal device 2 (S89), and the process proceeds to S321 shown in Figure 11. The authorized number notification sent in S89 is the same as the authorized number notification received in S317.

[0097] As shown in Figure 9, the control unit 20 determines whether or not it has received a notification of the permitted number of pages from the printer 3 (S255). If the control unit 20 determines that it has not received a notification of the permitted number of pages from the printer 3 (S255: NO), it proceeds to S257.

[0098] If the control unit 20 determines that it has received a notification of the permitted number of pages from the printer 3 (S255: YES), it displays the permitted number of pages after printing on the display unit 25 (S91). The control unit 20 then proceeds to process S263.

[0099] In Figure 12, if the control unit 50 determines that the number of permitted pages after printing is 0 (S527: NO), it terminates the trial subscription for printer 3 (S93). A number of permitted pages after printing being 0 means that the number of pages printed in S75 has reached the permitted number stored in table 84. In the process of S93, the control unit 50 sets the value of "is_active" in table 84 shown in Figure 3 to "0" and the value of "promotion_id" to "4".

[0100] The control unit 50 sends a trial subscription termination notification to printer 3 indicating that the trial subscription for printer 3 has ended (S97). The control unit 50 then proceeds to S531 shown in Figure 13.

[0101] In Figure 10, the control unit 30 determines whether or not it has received a trial subscription termination notice (S319). If the control unit 30 determines that it has not received a trial subscription termination notice (S319: NO), it returns to processing in S313. If the control unit 30 determines that it has received a trial subscription termination notice (S319: YES), it displays the display screen 91C shown in Figure 16 (S99).

[0102] As shown in Figure 16, the display screen 91B displays the permitted number of pages information 911, the reminder information 915, and the completion information 914. The completion information 914 indicates that the trial subscription for printer 3 has ended.

[0103] As shown in Figure 10, the control unit 30 sends a trial subscription termination notice to the terminal device 2 (S101), and the process proceeds to S321 shown in Figure 11. The trial subscription termination notice sent in S101 is the same as the trial subscription termination notice received in S319.

[0104] In Figure 9, the control unit 20 determines whether or not it has received a trial subscription termination notice (S257). If the control unit 20 determines that it has not received a trial subscription termination notice (S257: NO), it returns to processing S255.

[0105] If the control unit 50 determines that it has received a trial subscription termination notification (S257: YES), it displays on the display unit 35 that the trial subscription has ended (S103). The control unit 20 cancels the application's terminal trial subscription status (S259). The control unit 20 clears the display of the confirmation operation area shown on the display unit 25 (S261) and proceeds to S263.

[0106] This section describes the process in service system 1 when no printing occurs during the trial period. As shown in Figure 13, the control unit 50 determines whether a predetermined period has elapsed since the start of the trial period (S531). The predetermined period is shorter than the trial period, for example, 10 days. If the control unit 50 determines that the predetermined period has not elapsed since the start of the trial period (S531: NO), the process proceeds to S541.

[0107] If the control unit 50 determines that a predetermined period has elapsed since the start of the trial subscription (S531: YES), it determines whether the number of pages printed during the trial subscription is less than a predetermined number (S533). The predetermined number is less than the 50 pages permitted when applying for the trial subscription, for example, 5 pages. In the process of S533, the control unit 50 determines that the number of pages printed during the trial subscription is less than the predetermined number if the permitted number of pages stored in table 84 is 46 pages or more.

[0108] If the control unit 50 determines that the number of printed pages during the trial period is not less than a predetermined number (S533: NO), it proceeds to S541.

[0109] If the control unit 50 determines that the number of prints during the trial period is less than a predetermined number (S533: YES), it outputs a reminder notice to the printer 3 (S535). The control unit 50 then proceeds to S541. The reminder notice includes information on the current permitted number of prints and information encouraging formal subscription to the subscription service. The information encouraging formal subscription to the subscription service is, for example, the address of a website where the necessary information for formal subscription is received.

[0110] As shown in Figure 11, the control unit 30 determines whether or not it has received a reminder notice from the service server 5 (S321). If the control unit 30 determines that it has not received a reminder notice from the service server 5 (S321: NO), it proceeds to S336.

[0111] If the control unit 30 determines that it has received a reminder notification from the service server 5 (S321: YES), it displays the display screen 91D shown in Figure 17 (S323). The control unit 30 indicates on the display screen 91D that the user is on a trial subscription and urges them to subscribe officially. The control unit 30 sends a trial subscription signal to the terminal device 2 (S325). The control unit 30 then proceeds to process S326.

[0112] As shown in Figure 8, the control unit 20 determines whether or not it has received a trial subscription signal from the printer 3 (S241). If the control unit 20 determines that it has not received a trial subscription signal from the printer 3 (S241: NO), it proceeds to S251 as shown in Figure 9. If the control unit 20 determines that it has received a trial subscription signal from the printer 3 (S241: YES), it displays on the display unit 25 that it is in trial subscription mode (S243). The control unit 20 then proceeds to S251.

[0113] This section describes the process in service system 1 when printer 3 is powered on during a trial period. When printer 3 is powered on and printer processing begins, the control unit 30 determines whether printer 3 is still under trial period (S305). If the control unit 30 determines that printer 3 is not under trial period (S305: NO), the process proceeds to S311.

[0114] If the control unit 30 determines that printer 3 is currently on trial (S305: YES), it displays the display screen 91D shown in Figure 17 (S307). The control unit 30 indicates on the display screen 91D that it is on trial and prompts the user to officially subscribe. The control unit 30 then proceeds to S311.

[0115] This section describes the process when maintenance is performed on printer 3 during a trial period in service system 1. As part of the maintenance, printer 3 periodically flushes the ink nozzles to prevent clogging. The control unit 30 determines whether or not to start maintenance (S326). If the control unit 30 determines not to start maintenance (S326: NO), the process proceeds to S331.

[0116] If the control unit 30 determines that maintenance should be started (S326: YES), it executes the maintenance process (S327). In S327, the control unit 30 performs flushing by ejecting ink from the nozzles of the print head 37.

[0117] The control unit 30 displays the display screen 91D shown in Figure 17 (S328). The control unit 30 indicates on the display screen 91D that the user is on a trial subscription and urges them to subscribe officially. The control unit 30 then proceeds to S331.

[0118] In service system 1, the process S51 to S91 shown in Figure 6 is repeated until the number of allowed pages for printer 3 becomes 0 or the trial period ends. The user formally subscribes to the subscription service during the trial period for printer 3. Before formally subscribing to the subscription service, the user checks the current number of allowed pages using S51 to S61 shown in Figure 7. S51 to S61 shown in Figure 7 is the same process as S51 to S61 shown in Figure 6. As shown in Figure 7, if the user formally subscribes to the subscription service during the trial period, the user performs the subscription operation (S111). In the subscription operation, the user operates the input unit 26 to input the subscription information necessary for formal subscription to the terminal device 2.

[0119] As shown in Figure 9, the control unit 20 determines whether or not it has received a join operation (S263). If the control unit 20 determines that it has not received a join operation (S263: NO), it proceeds to S271. If the control unit 20 determines that it has received a join operation (S263: YES), it outputs the join information to the service server 5 (S113). The control unit 20 then proceeds to S265.

[0120] As shown in Figure 13, the control unit 50 determines whether or not it has received subscription information from the terminal device 2 (S541). If the control unit 50 determines that it has not received subscription information from the terminal device 2 (S541: NO), it proceeds to S551.

[0121] If the control unit 50 determines that it has received subscription information from the terminal device 2 (S541: YES), it reads the information necessary for formal subscription to the subscription service from the database 8 (S115). The control unit 50 then formally subscribes the printer 3 to the subscription service (S119). In the process of S119, the control unit 50 formally subscribes the printer 3 by storing the subscription information received in S541 and the information read in S115 in the service table 9.

[0122] The control unit 50 checks the trial subscription status by looking at the promotion ID in table 84 (S543). Based on the trial subscription status, the control unit 50 grants a discount period for the subscription service fee as a benefit after formal subscription (S121). More specifically, in S121, the control unit 50 grants the discount period based on the relationship between the promotion ID and the discount period shown in Figure 4.

[0123] The control unit 50 terminates the trial subscription of printer 3 upon formal enrollment in the subscription service (S123). In the process of S123, the control unit 50 sets the value of "is_active" in table 84 shown in Figure 3 to "0" and the value of "promotion_id" to "4". The control unit 50 outputs an enrollment setting instruction to printer 3 (S127) and proceeds to process S545.

[0124] As shown in Figure 11, the control unit 30 determines whether or not it has received a subscription setting instruction from the service server 5 (S331). If the control unit 30 determines that it has not received a subscription setting instruction from the service server 5 (S331: NO), it proceeds to S341.

[0125] If the control unit 30 determines that it has received a subscription setting instruction from the service server 5 (S331: YES), it sets the printer 3 to the subscription state (S333). In this embodiment, when the printer 3 is in the subscription state, it periodically communicates with the service server 5. The control unit 30 notifies the service server 5 that the setting of the printer 3 to the subscription state is complete (S129). The control unit 30 then terminates the printer processing.

[0126] As shown in Figure 13, the control unit 50 determines whether or not it has received a notification from the printer 3 that the subscription status setting is complete (S545). If the control unit 50 determines that it has not received a notification from the printer 3 that the subscription status setting is complete (S545: NO), it returns to processing S545. If the control unit 50 determines that it has received a notification from the printer 3 that the subscription status setting is complete (S545: YES), it outputs a subscription completion notification to the terminal device 2 (S131). The control unit 50 then terminates the server processing.

[0127] As shown in Figure 9, the control unit 20 determines whether or not it has received a subscription completion notification from the service server 5 (S265). If the control unit 20 determines that it has not received a subscription completion notification from the service server 5 (S265: NO), it returns to processing S265.

[0128] If the control unit 20 determines that it has received a subscription completion notification from the service server 5 (S265: YES), it displays on the display unit 25 that the formal subscription to the subscription service has been completed (S133). The control unit 20 cancels the application's terminal trial subscription status (S267). The control unit 20 terminates terminal processing.

[0129] This section explains the process that occurs when the trial period expires without formally subscribing to the subscription service. As shown in Figure 13, the control unit 50 determines whether the trial period has expired (S551). If the control unit 50 determines that the trial period has not expired (S551: NO), it returns to S523 as shown in Figure 12.

[0130] If the control unit 50 determines that the trial period has expired (S551: YES), it terminates the trial subscription for printer 3 (S553). In the process of S551, the control unit 50 stores "0" in the value of "is_active" and "4" in the value of "promotion_id" in table 84 shown in Figure 3. The control unit 50 outputs a trial subscription termination notice to printer 3 (S555) and terminates the server process.

[0131] As shown in Figure 11, the control unit 30 determines whether or not it has received a trial subscription termination notice from the service server 5 (S341). If the control unit 30 determines that it has not received a trial subscription termination notice from the service server 5 (S341: NO), it returns to S311 as shown in Figure 10.

[0132] If the control unit 30 determines that it has received a trial subscription termination notification from the service server 5 (S341: YES), it displays on the display unit 35 that the trial subscription has ended (S343). The control unit 30 sends a trial subscription termination signal to the terminal device 2 (S345) and terminates the printer process.

[0133] As shown in Figure 9, the control unit 20 determines whether or not it has received a trial subscription termination signal from the printer 3 (S271). If the control unit 20 determines that it has not received a trial subscription termination signal from the printer 3 (S271: NO), it returns to process S225 as shown in Figure 8.

[0134] If the control unit 20 determines that it has received a trial subscription termination signal (S271: YES), it displays on the display unit 25 that the trial subscription has ended (S273). The control unit 20 then terminates the terminal processing.

[0135] As explained above, when the service server 5 receives an application for a trial subscription to printer 3, it grants an allowance for 50 pages (S521). In processing S521, the control unit 50 stores "50" in the value of the "remaining_print" column in table 84, thereby granting an allowance of 50 pages. During the trial period, the user can print the allowed number of pages of media 7 using printer 3. The service server 5 reduces the allowance according to the number of pages printed by printer 3 (S81). The user of printer 3 realizes through their own actions that they are losing the right to print the allowed number of pages. Therefore, the service server 5 effectively contributes to encouraging the user to formally subscribe to the subscription service.

[0136] When printer 3 prints (S75) and service server 5 receives page count information from printer 3 (S525: YES), it reduces the allowed number of pages (S81). This allows service server 5 to reduce the number of pages corresponding to the print command from the allowed number of pages each time printer 3 prints. Therefore, service server 5 can reduce the allowed number of pages in a timely manner. As shown in S87, if printer 3 notifies the user of the decreasing number of allowed pages in a timely manner, the user will realize that their right to the allowed number of pages is being lost due to their own actions. Therefore, service server 5 contributes to effectively encouraging users to officially subscribe.

[0137] Service server 5 outputs an permission count notification to printer 3 (S85). The permission count notification includes information on the number of pages printed in S75 and information on the number of permitted pages after printing. As a result, when printer 3 notifies the user of the number of pages printed and the number of permitted pages reduced by printing, the user realizes that their right to permitted pages is being lost due to their own actions. Therefore, service server 5 contributes to effectively encouraging users to officially subscribe.

[0138] If service server 5 determines that the number of permitted pages after printing is 0 (S527: NO), it terminates the trial subscription for printer 3 (S93). A number of permitted pages after printing being 0 means that the number of pages printed in S75 reached the number of permitted pages stored in table 84. This makes the user realize that they have lost their permission to print due to their own actions. Therefore, service server 5 effectively encourages the user to subscribe to the service.

[0139] Before printing by printer 3, service server 5 estimates the expected decrease in the number of permitted pages in response to the print command (S67). Because service server 5 estimates the number of permitted pages after printing before printing by printer 3, the user is aware of how many permitted pages they will lose with this print job. Therefore, service server 5 effectively contributes to encouraging users to formally subscribe.

[0140] When the service server 5 receives a confirmation instruction from the terminal device 2, it notifies the printer 3 of the current number of allowed pages (S59). As a result, when the printer 3 has the display unit 35 notify the user of the current number of allowed pages, the user can find out how many pages are left. Therefore, the service server 5 contributes to effectively encouraging users to officially subscribe.

[0141] If the service server 5 determines that a predetermined period has elapsed since the start of the trial subscription and that the number of pages printed during the trial subscription is less than a predetermined number, it outputs a reminder notice to the printer 3 (S535). As a result, when the printer 3 displays the display screen 91D on the display unit 35, the user can be aware that they are still on a trial subscription. Therefore, the service server 5 effectively contributes to encouraging the user to subscribe to the full service.

[0142] In the service server 5, the reminder notification includes information on the current number of allowed pages and information encouraging formal subscription to the subscription service. Therefore, when the printer 3 displays the allowed page count information 911 and the reminder information 915 on the display unit 35, the user can understand the current number of allowed pages and the information encouraging formal subscription. Thus, the service server 5 effectively contributes to encouraging formal subscription by the user.

[0143] The service server 5 and the control unit 50 accept the application for trial subscription (S511, S515) and start the trial subscription for printer 3 (S37). In processing S37, the control unit 50 sets the trial period to 30 days. When the trial period expires, the service server 5 terminates the trial subscription for printer 3 (S553). As a result, if the trial period expires before the permitted number of pages have been printed, the service server 5 terminates the permission to print the permitted number of pages associated with the trial subscription. Therefore, the service server 5 helps to prevent the trial subscription from continuing without any printing being performed on printer 3.

[0144] The service server 5 outputs a notification of the number of allowed pages to the printer 3 (S85). If the status of the trial subscription changes due to a change in the number of allowed pages, the notification of the number of allowed pages includes information indicating the status of the trial subscription after printing. As a result, when the printer 3 displays the status change information 913 on the display unit 35, the user can understand the grade of the service. Therefore, the service server 5 contributes to effectively encouraging users to sign up for a full subscription.

[0145] Service Server 5 will provide a discount on the subscription service fee for a certain period after formal subscription if a formal subscription application is made during the trial period. The discount period after formal subscription includes multiple grades with different discount periods. Service Server 5 will change the discount period according to the number of permitted tickets at the time the formal subscription application is made. In this way, Service Server 5 will change the discount period upon formal subscription according to the remaining number of permitted tickets, thus encouraging the user to formally subscribe. Therefore, Service Server 5 contributes to effectively promoting formal subscriptions to users.

[0146] In service server 5, the permitted number of media 7 is the number of media 7 that are permitted in conjunction with the trial subscription. This allows users to realize that their rights to the number of media 7 are being lost through their own actions. Therefore, service server 5 contributes to effectively encouraging users to subscribe to the service.

[0147] The service server 5 displays the permitted number of pages information 911 on the display unit 35. This allows the user of printer 3 to realize that their actions are causing them to lose their right to print a permitted number of pages. Therefore, the service server 5 effectively encourages users to formally subscribe to the subscription service.

[0148] The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above and can be implemented in various modified forms. The present invention can be realized in various forms, such as a non-temporary computer-readable medium such as a semiconductor memory on which the server program 59 is recorded, or a service system 1.

[0149] The configuration of service system 1 may be modified as appropriate. For example, service server 5 may consist of multiple physical servers. Service server 5 may consist of one or more virtual servers from among multiple virtual servers created by dividing a single physical server using virtualization software.

[0150] The number of terminal devices 2 provided by service system 1 may be changed as appropriate. Terminal devices 2 of service system 1 may be tablet devices, smartphones, etc.

[0151] The printer 3 of service system 1 may be a multifunction device, copier, and facsimile machine with a scanner function for reading images from documents. Printer 3 may be a laser printer or an LED printer. An LED printer refers to one in which the means for exposing the photosensitive material is an LED head. In this case, the consumable material is toner. The medium 7 may be changed as appropriate depending on the configuration of printer 3. The medium 7 may be, for example, thermal roll paper.

[0152] The server program 59, which includes instructions for executing server processing, only needs to be stored in memory 52 before the control unit 50 executes the server program 59. Therefore, the method of acquiring the server program 59, the acquisition path, and the device that stores the server program 59 can each be changed as appropriate. The server program 59 may be transmitted from another device via cable or wireless communication and stored in memory 52. ​​Other devices include, for example, a personal computer and a server connected via a network. The same applies to the terminal program 29 and the printer program 39.

[0153] Each step of the server processing is not limited to being performed by the control unit 50; some or all of it may be performed by other electronic devices (e.g., ASICs). The same applies to terminal processing and printer processing.

[0154] Each step of terminal processing, printer processing, and server processing may be distributed and processed by multiple electronic devices (e.g., multiple CPUs). The order of each step of terminal processing, image forming processing, management processing, and server processing can be changed, steps can be omitted, and additional steps can be added as needed.

[0155] In the above embodiment, when an application for a trial subscription to the subscription service is received, the control unit 50 of the service server 5 reduces the number of allowed pages according to the number of pages printed by the printer 3. Alternatively, the control unit 30 of the printer 3 may reduce the number of allowed pages according to the number of pages printed. The user can feel that their right to the allowed number of pages is being lost through their own actions. Therefore, the printer 3 effectively contributes to encouraging the user to formally subscribe to the subscription service.

[0156] The control unit 20 of terminal device 2 may reduce the permitted number of prints according to the number of prints. The user can feel that their right to the permitted number of prints is being lost due to their own actions. Therefore, terminal device 2 effectively contributes to encouraging the user to formally subscribe to the subscription service.

[0157] In the above embodiment, when the printer 3 is powered on, the control unit 30 of the printer 3 displays on the display screen 91D that it is in a trial period (S307). Alternatively, when the printer 3 is powered on, the control unit 50 of the service server 5 may notify the printer 3 that it is in a trial period. In this case, the printer 3, upon receiving the notification, displays on the display screen 91D that it is in a trial period, allowing the user to understand that it is in a trial period. Therefore, the service server 5 contributes to effectively encouraging the user to formally subscribe to the subscription service.

[0158] In the above embodiment, when printer 3 is undergoing maintenance, the control unit 30 of printer 3 displays on the display screen 91D that it is in a trial period (S328). Alternatively, when printer 3 is undergoing maintenance, the control unit 50 of service server 5 may notify printer 3 that it is in a trial period. In this case, printer 3, upon receiving the notification, displays on the display screen 91D that it is in a trial period, allowing the user to understand that it is in a trial period. Therefore, service server 5 contributes to effectively encouraging users to formally subscribe to the subscription service.

[0159] The service server 5 does not need to reduce the allowed number of pages based on the number of pages printed when the printer 3's printing process (S75) is completed. The service server 5 may, for example, check the number of pages printed by printer 3 at daily intervals and reduce the allowed number of pages based on the number of pages printed in that day.

[0160] The service server 5 does not need to output the permission limit notification to the printer 3. In the above embodiment, the service server 5 output the permission limit notification to the terminal device 2 via the printer 3, but the service server 5 may output the permission limit notification directly to the terminal device 2. The service server 5 may not output the permission limit notification to the printer 3, but instead output the permission limit notification to the terminal device 2.

[0161] The service server 5 does not need to estimate the reduction in the number of pages to be printed during the printing process before printing. In this case, the service server 5 does not need to output a change notification to the printer 3. If the service server 5 has estimated the reduction in the number of pages to be printed during the printing process before printing, the service server 5 may output a change notification to the terminal device 2.

[0162] In the above embodiment, the service server 5 calculated the reduction in the number of pages to be printed by the printing process before printing. Alternatively, the terminal device 2 may calculate the reduction in the number of pages to be printed by the printing process before printing. Alternatively, the printer 3 may calculate the reduction in the number of pages to be printed by the printing process before printing.

[0163] The service server 5 does not need to notify the terminal device 2 of the current number of allowed pages when it receives a confirmation instruction. In the above embodiment, the service server 5 notified the printer 3 of the current number of allowed pages, but it may also notify the terminal device 2. The service server 5 may also notify both the printer 3 and the terminal device 2 of the current number of allowed pages.

[0164] If the service server 5 determines that a predetermined period has elapsed since the last print and the number of prints during the trial period is less than a predetermined number, it may output a reminder notice to the printer 3. The service server 5 may not output the reminder notice to the printer 3, but instead output it to the terminal device 2. The service server 5 may output the reminder notice to both the printer 3 and the terminal device 2.

[0165] The reminder notice does not need to include information on the current number of permitted prints. The reminder notice does not need to include information encouraging formal subscription to the subscription service. Information encouraging formal subscription may be modified as appropriate. Information encouraging formal subscription may, for example, indicate that a discount period will be granted upon formal subscription.

[0166] Service Server 5 does not need to change the promotion grade based on the remaining number of permitted licenses at the time of receiving the formal subscription application. Service Server 5 may promote two grades of service, or four or more grades of service, depending on the remaining number of permitted licenses.

[0167] The service server 5 does not need to notify printer 3 when it changes the service grade. The service server 5 may notify terminal device 2 when it changes the service grade. The service server 5 may notify both printer 3 and terminal device 2 when it changes the service grade, or it does not need to notify both printer 3 and terminal device 2.

[0168] Service server 5 does not have to grant any benefits upon formal subscription to the service. The benefits upon formal subscription are not limited to a discount on the fixed monthly fee; for example, they could be automatic delivery of media 7.

[0169] As shown in Figure 19, the benefits upon formal enrollment do not have to include multiple grades. The benefits upon formal enrollment may include two grades, or four or more grades. The benefits upon formal enrollment only need to be uniquely determined according to the remaining number of licenses, and for example, as shown in Figure 20, the discount period upon formal enrollment may decrease in proportion to the remaining number of licenses.

[0170] Service server 5 does not have to change the discount period at the time of formal subscription based on the remaining number of permitted pages at the time of receiving the formal subscription application. Service server 5 does not have to notify printer 3 if it changes the discount period at the time of formal subscription. Service server 5 may notify terminal device 2 if it changes the discount period at the time of formal subscription. Service server 5 may notify both printer 3 and terminal device 2 if it changes the discount period at the time of formal subscription, or it may not notify both printer 3 and terminal device 2.

[0171] In the present invention, the permitted print volume granted in conjunction with the trial subscription may be related to the amount of print used by printer 3, and is not limited to a permitted number of prints that decreases in proportion to the number of prints.

[0172] The permitted print volume may be, for example, a number of permitted prints that decreases with each print run. The number of permitted prints decreases each time a series of print tasks on printer 3 is completed. Printer 3 may display the display screen 95 shown in Figure 21. The display screen 95 displays permitted print count information 951 and print count information 952. Permitted print count information 951 displays the current number of permitted prints. Print count information 952 displays the number of permitted prints before printing and the number of permitted prints after printing, showing the change in the number of permitted prints before and after printing.

[0173] The permitted print volume may be, for example, the permitted ink volume which decreases with the number of prints. The permitted ink volume is, for example, the amount of ink contained in the trial cartridge. The permitted ink volume decreases when the ink contained in the trial cartridge is used for printing while the trial cartridge is installed in the housing 38.

[0174] Printer 3 may display the display screen 96 shown in Figure 22. The display screen 96 displays the permitted ink amount information 961 and the ink amount information 962. The permitted ink amount information 961 displays the current permitted ink amount. The ink amount information 962 schematically displays the amount of ink contained in the trial cartridge and the permitted ink amount.

[0175] When a trial cartridge is installed in the housing 38 and used, the service server 5 may determine that a trial subscription application has been accepted simply because the trial cartridge has been installed in the housing 38. In this case, the trial period begins when the trial cartridge is installed in the housing 38. This helps the service server 5 simplify the trial subscription application process and initiate the trial period.

[0176] If the service server 5 determines that a trial subscription application has been accepted when a trial cartridge is installed in the housing 38, the service server 5 may terminate the trial subscription for printer 3 when a regular cartridge is installed in the housing 38. This allows the service server 5 to complete the printing of the permitted amount with a simple process.

[0177] Printer 3 notified the user that it was in a trial period by displaying on its display unit 35, but it may also notify the user that it was in a trial period by using sound, flashing lights, etc. Terminal device 2 notified the user that it was in a trial period by displaying on its display unit 25, but it may also notify the user that it was in a trial period by using sound, flashing lights, etc.

[0178] The above modifications may be combined as appropriate, provided they are not contradictory. In addition to the combinations exemplified in the claims, the applicant intends to obtain patent rights for embodiments that combine each other in a manner that does not depart from the spirit of the present invention and is not contradictory.

[0179] Service server 5 is an example of the control device and service server of the present invention. Storage unit 54 is an example of the storage unit of the present invention. The permitted number of pages is an example of the permitted print volume of the present invention. The processing in S521 is an example of the storage processing and storage step of the present invention. The number of printed pages is an example of the print volume of the present invention. The processing in S67 and S81 is an example of the reduction processing and reduction step of the present invention. Terminal device 2 is an example of the collaborative terminal of the present invention. Communication unit 53 is an example of the communication unit of the present invention. The processing in S93 is an example of the first termination processing of the present invention. The confirmation instruction output in S53 is an example of the confirmation instruction of the present invention. The predetermined number is an example of the threshold of the present invention. The processing in S535 is an example of the first notification processing of the present invention. The processing in S37 is an example of the setting processing of the present invention. The processing in S553 is an example of the second termination processing of the present invention. The processing in S87, which displays the display screen 91B, is an example of the fourth notification processing of the present invention. Control unit 30 is an example of the control unit of the present invention. Display unit 35 is an example of the display unit of the present invention. The processes in S87, S99, S323, S328, and S343 are examples of the display process of the present invention. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0180] 1: Service system, 2: Terminal device, 3: Printer, 5: Service server, 8: Database, 20, 30, 50: Control unit, 25, 35: Display unit, 91A, 91B, 91C, 91D, 91E, 95, 96: Display screen

Claims

1. A control device for controlling the provision of services related to printers, When an application for a trial subscription to the aforementioned service is received, a storage process is performed to store the permitted print volume authorized in connection with the trial subscription in the storage unit, A reduction process that reduces the permitted print volume according to the amount of print used by the printer, A control device characterized by performing the following actions.

2. A service server that provides services related to printers, The system includes a printer and a communication unit that communicates with a connected terminal that works in conjunction with the printer. When an application for a trial subscription to the service is received via the printer or the linked terminal, a storage process is performed to store the permitted print volume authorized in connection with the trial subscription in the storage unit. A reduction process that reduces the permitted print volume according to the amount of print used by the printer, A service server characterized by performing the following actions.

3. The reduction process is characterized in that, when the printing process performed by the printer in response to the print command is completed, the service server reduces the permitted print amount in accordance with the amount of print used in the printing process.

4. The service server according to claim 3, characterized in that it notifies at least one of the printer and the cooperating terminal of the permitted print volume and the information of the print volume used in the immediately preceding print process.

5. The service server according to claim 3, further characterized in that when the amount of prints used by the printer reaches the permitted print amount, it performs a first termination process to terminate the permission to print the permitted print amount that was attached to the trial subscription.

6. The reduction process is characterized in that it reduces the amount of prints for the print process that the printer is scheduled to perform in response to a print command from the permitted print amount before the print process is executed, as described in claim 2.

7. The service server according to claim 2, characterized in that when it receives a confirmation instruction for the permitted print volume via the printer or the linked terminal, it outputs the current permitted print volume information to at least one of the printer and the linked terminal.

8. The service server according to claim 2, further characterized in that, if the amount of printing within a predetermined period is less than a predetermined threshold, it performs a first notification process to notify at least one of the printer and the linked terminal of notification information indicating that the trial subscription is in progress.

9. The service server according to claim 2, further characterized in that when the printer is started, it performs a second notification process to notify the printer of notification information indicating that it is in the trial period.

10. The service server according to claim 2, further characterized in that when the printer is undergoing maintenance, it performs a third notification process to notify the printer of notification information indicating that it is currently on trial.

11. The service server according to any one of 8 to 10, characterized in that the notification information includes information on the current permitted print volume and information encouraging formal subscription to the service.

12. When an application for the aforementioned trial membership is received, a setting process is performed to set the trial period for the aforementioned trial membership, When the trial period set by the setting process has elapsed, a second termination process is performed to terminate the permission to print the permitted amount of prints associated with the trial subscription, A service server according to any one of claims 2 to 10, characterized by further performing the following.

13. The service server according to claim 12, wherein the setting process sets the trial period when a trial cartridge for the trial period, which contains consumables consumed by the printer, is installed in the printer.

14. The service server according to claim 13, characterized in that the second termination process terminates printing of the permitted print volume when a cartridge different from the trial cartridge is installed in the printer.

15. The aforementioned service includes multiple grades, A fourth notification process is performed to notify at least one of the printer and the linked terminal of the information regarding the grade of the service corresponding to the remaining permitted print volume. A service server according to any one of claims 2 to 10, characterized by the following:

16. The benefits of formally subscribing to the aforementioned service include multiple tiers, The grade of the aforementioned benefits will be changed according to the remaining permitted printing volume at the time the application for formal membership is received. A service server according to any one of claims 2 to 10, characterized by the following:

17. The service server according to any one of claims 2 to 10, characterized in that the permitted print volume is at least one of the number of sheets of media printed by the printer, the amount of consumables consumed by the printer, or the number of times the printer has printed based on print data.

18. A printer comprising a control unit and a display unit, The control unit, Display process to display the permitted print volume authorized by the trial subscription to the service for the aforementioned printer on the display unit. A printer characterized by performing the following actions.

19. The printer according to claim 18, wherein the control unit further performs a reduction process to reduce the permitted print amount according to the amount of print used for printing.

20. A method for controlling the provision of services related to printers, When an application for a trial subscription to the aforementioned service is received, a storage step is performed in which the permitted print volume authorized in connection with the trial subscription is stored in the storage unit, A reduction step that reduces the permitted print volume according to the amount of print used by the printer, A control method characterized by performing the following.

21. The computer that controls the provision of services related to printers, When an application for a trial subscription to the aforementioned service is received, a storage step is performed in which the permitted print volume authorized in connection with the trial subscription is stored in the storage unit, A reduction step that reduces the permitted print volume according to the amount of print used by the printer, A program to execute.

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