Information processing device, consumables management system, mobile terminal, and information processing program

Abstract

To provide an information processing device that can order a consumable supply even in an environment where a device is not regularly connected to a consumable supply management system.SOLUTION: An image forming device 10 comprises a CPU 11. The CPU 11, when the degree of consumption of a consumable supply in the device satisfies a predetermined condition, performs notification indicating that the degree of consumption of the consumable supply satisfies the predetermined condition, and notifies a portable terminal that the degree of consumption of the consumable supply satisfies the predetermined condition, when connected to the portable terminal through short-distance radio communication, while performing the notification, and outputs consumable supply information for prompting order for the consumable supply.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing device, a consumables management system, a mobile terminal, and an information processing program. [Background technology]

[0002] For example, Patent Document 1 describes a system that includes an electronic device with a communication means and a computer with a communication means for communicating data with the electronic device. The computer further includes a network access means for accessing a network, etc., and can communicate data with a host having a consumables ordering system via a public line network such as the Internet. The computer includes a consumables information storage means that pre-stores consumables information, including at least identification information, about specific consumables used in the electronic device. The electronic device includes a consumption level detection means that detects the degree of consumption of the specific consumables. When the degree of consumption detected by the consumption level detection means reaches a specific level indicating when the consumables should be replaced, the computer is notified via the communication means. Based on the detection results of the consumption level detection means received via the communication means, the computer reads the consumables information stored in the consumables information storage means and transmits it to the host via a public line network such as the Internet. The host then orders the consumables based on the received consumables information. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2004-178175 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] There is a system for managing consumables used in printers installed in offices. In this system, the printer detects the degree of wear of consumables, and if it determines from the detection results that the consumable needs to be replaced, it notifies a computer. In response to this notification, the computer reads the consumable information and sends it to a host at a service center, and the host then orders the consumables based on the received consumable information.

[0005] In this case, the host must be constantly connected to the printer via a computer, constantly monitor the printer, and order consumables as needed. On the other hand, when a printer is installed at a remote work location, such as a home or a shared office, the printer is often not connected to a network. Installing a computer and host that are constantly connected to this type of printer increases monitoring costs compared to not having such a computer and host.

[0006] The present disclosure aims to provide an information processing device, a consumables management system, a mobile terminal, and an information processing program that are capable of ordering consumables even in an environment where the device is not constantly connected to a system that manages consumables. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In order to achieve the above object, an information processing device according to a first aspect includes a processor, which, when the degree of consumption of a consumable item in the device satisfies a predetermined condition, issues a notification indicating that the degree of consumption of the consumable item has satisfied the predetermined condition, and when the processor connects to a mobile terminal via short-range wireless communication while the notification is being sent, outputs consumable item information to the mobile terminal notifying the mobile terminal that the degree of consumption of the consumable item has satisfied the predetermined condition and encouraging the user to order the consumable item.

[0008] In addition, in the information processing device of the second aspect, in the information processing device of the first aspect, when the processor connects to the mobile terminal via short-range wireless communication while not making the notification, it enters a processing execution mode in which a predetermined process is executed.

[0009] In addition, an information processing device according to a third aspect is an information processing device according to the second aspect, in which when the processor is connected to the mobile terminal via short-range wireless communication while performing the notification, the information processing device is capable of switching between the processing execution mode and a consumable information output mode in which the consumable information is output.

[0010] In addition, the information processing device of the fourth aspect is an information processing device of the second aspect, in which the processor can set as a default which mode to switch to when the degree of consumption of the consumable meets a predetermined condition: the processing execution mode or the consumable information output mode that outputs the consumable information.

[0011] In addition, an information processing device according to a fifth aspect is an information processing device according to any one of the first to fourth aspects, in which the processor stops the notification after outputting the consumable item information to the mobile terminal.

[0012] In addition, an information processing device according to a sixth aspect is an information processing device according to the fifth aspect, in which the processor controls the information processing device to display information indicating that the consumable information has been output on a display unit of the device after outputting the consumable information to the mobile terminal.

[0013] In addition, an information processing device according to a seventh aspect is an information processing device according to the fifth or sixth aspect, in which when the processor reconnects to the mobile terminal via near-field wireless communication after outputting the consumable information to the mobile terminal, the processor does not re-output the consumable information to the mobile terminal.

[0014] In addition, an information processing device according to an eighth aspect is an information processing device according to any one of the first to seventh aspects, wherein the consumable information includes serial information for uniquely identifying the device itself and status information indicating that the consumable needs to be replaced or replenished.

[0015] In addition, an information processing device according to a ninth aspect is an information processing device according to the eighth aspect, wherein the near field communication is NFC, and the serial information and the status information are stored in NDEF, which is a data format used for reading and writing data via NFC.

[0016] Furthermore, in order to achieve the above-mentioned object, a consumables management system according to a tenth aspect is a consumables management system including an information processing device according to any one of the first to ninth aspects, a mobile terminal connectable to the information processing device via short-range wireless communication, and a consumables management server connected to the mobile terminal via a network, wherein a processor of the mobile terminal outputs order request information to the consumables management server to request an order for the consumables in accordance with the consumables information acquired from the information processing device, and a processor of the consumables management server outputs order information to the mobile terminal in accordance with the order request information acquired from the mobile terminal, the order information including a shipping destination, consumables name, and quantity of the consumables.

[0017] In addition, the consumables management system of the 11th aspect is a consumables management system of the 10th aspect, in which, when the processor of the consumables management server receives an instruction from the mobile terminal to start ordering for the order information, it performs a process to ship the consumables to a location specified as the shipping destination for the consumables, and the processor of the mobile terminal reads code information assigned to the consumables delivered to the location, and outputs delivery information obtained from the read code information to the consumables management server.

[0018] Furthermore, in order to achieve the above-mentioned object, a mobile terminal according to a twelfth aspect is a mobile terminal that can be connected to an information processing device according to any one of the first to ninth aspects via short-range wireless communication and is connected to a consumables management server via a network, wherein a processor of the mobile terminal outputs order request information to the consumables management server to request an order for the consumables in accordance with the consumables information acquired from the information processing device, acquires from the consumables management server order information including a shipping destination, consumable name, and quantity of the consumables in response to the order request information, outputs an instruction to the consumables management server to start ordering in response to the order start instruction, and when the consumables management server performs a process of shipping the consumables to a location specified as a shipping destination for the consumables in response to the order start instruction, reads code information attached to the consumables delivered to the location, and outputs delivery information obtained from the read code information to the consumables management server.

[0019] Furthermore, in order to achieve the above-mentioned object, the information processing program of the thirteenth aspect causes a computer to, when the degree of consumption of a consumable in an information processing device satisfies a predetermined condition, send a notification indicating that the degree of consumption of the consumable has satisfied the predetermined condition, and when connected to a mobile terminal via short-range wireless communication while the notification is being sent, notify the mobile terminal that the degree of consumption of the consumable has satisfied the predetermined condition and output consumable information encouraging the user to order the consumable. [Effects of the Invention]

[0020] According to the first and thirteenth aspects, it is possible to advantageously enable ordering of consumables even in an environment where the information processing device is not constantly connected to a system that manages consumables.

[0021] According to the second aspect, there is an effect that a predetermined process can be executed in a normal state where no notification is being made.

[0022] According to the third aspect, there is an effect that the user can switch to a desired mode even while a notification is being given.

[0023] According to the fourth aspect, there is an effect that the mode to be executed when the degree of consumption of the consumable item satisfies a predetermined condition can be set as a default.

[0024] According to the fifth aspect, there is an effect that unnecessary notifications can be stopped.

[0025] According to the sixth aspect, it is possible to notify a user who is near the device that the consumable item information has been output.

[0026] According to the seventh aspect, there is an effect that it is possible to prevent duplicate orders of consumables.

[0027] According to the eighth aspect, it is possible to provide an effect that the user can be notified that the device itself is identified and that replacement or replenishment of consumables is necessary.

[0028] According to the ninth aspect, there is an effect that it is possible to use NFC and NDEF to identify the device itself and to notify the user that a consumable item needs to be replaced or replenished.

[0029] According to the tenth aspect, there is an effect that it is possible to order consumables using a mobile terminal.

[0030] According to the eleventh aspect, there is an effect that the mobile terminal can be used to carry out the process of delivery of the ordered consumables.

[0031] According to the twelfth aspect, there is an effect that it is possible to order consumables using a mobile terminal and even to carry out delivery processing of the ordered consumables. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0032] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a consumables management system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the electrical configuration of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment. FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a front view illustrating an example of an operation panel according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the electrical configuration of the mobile terminal according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the electrical configuration of a consumables management server according to the first embodiment. FIG. [Figure 6] 1 is a block diagram showing an example of a functional configuration of an image forming apparatus according to a first embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a front view showing an example of a mode selection screen according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a front view showing an example of a consumable product information display screen according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an NDEF record according to a comparative example. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of an NDEF record according to the first embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a front view showing an example of a consumables information output completion notification screen according to the embodiment. [Figure 12] 5 is a flowchart showing an example of a processing flow by an information processing program according to the first embodiment. [Figure 13] 10 is a flowchart showing another example of the flow of processing by the information processing program according to the first embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 4 is a sequence diagram showing an example of a consumables ordering process performed by the consumables management system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a front view showing an example of an order information display screen according to the embodiment. [Figure 16] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating a process of reading code information according to an embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of an NDEF record according to the second embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram illustrating an example of a consumables ordering process performed by the consumables management system according to the second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0033] An example of an embodiment of the technology of the present disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. Note that components and processes that perform the same operations, actions, and functions are given the same reference numerals throughout the drawings, and duplicated descriptions may be omitted as appropriate. Each drawing is merely a schematic illustration to allow a sufficient understanding of the technology of the present disclosure. Therefore, the technology of the present disclosure is not limited to the illustrated examples. Furthermore, in this embodiment, descriptions of configurations that are not directly related to the present invention or well-known configurations may be omitted.

[0034] [First embodiment] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a consumables management system 100 according to the first embodiment.

[0035] 1, a consumables management system 100 according to this embodiment includes an image forming device 10, a mobile terminal 30, a consumables management server 50, and a customer information DB (DataBase) 60. The image forming device 10 is an example of an information processing device. Note that the information processing device is not limited to the image forming device 10, but may include any electronic device that has consumables.

[0036] The mobile terminal 30 is connectable to the image forming apparatus 10 via short-range wireless communication, and is connectable to the consumables management server 50 via a network N. The mobile terminal 30 may be, for example, a smartphone or a tablet terminal. The short-range wireless communication may be, for example, NFC (Near Field Communication), Bluetooth (registered trademark), or the like. NFC is a short-range wireless communication technology that uses a frequency of 13.56 MHz and has a communication distance of approximately 10 cm. The network N may be, for example, the Internet, a LAN (Local Area Network), a WAN (Wide Area Network), or the like.

[0037] The image forming apparatus 10 is installed, for example, in a user's home or a workplace for remote work, such as a shared office, and is not constantly connected to the consumables management server 50 via the network N. For this reason, in this embodiment, the user can easily order consumables for the image forming apparatus 10 using a mobile terminal 30. Note that examples of consumables for the image forming apparatus 10 include toner cartridges (toner bottles), waste toner boxes, photosensitive drums, and paper.

[0038] The consumables management server 50 is able to access the customer information DB 60 and manages orders for consumables for the image forming apparatus 10. The customer information DB 60 may be provided separately from the consumables management server 50 or may be provided integrally with the consumables management server 50. The consumables management server 50 and the customer information DB 60 are managed, for example, by the manufacturer or distributor of the image forming apparatus 10. The customer information DB 60 includes, as customer information for each customer, serial information (e.g., serial number, etc.) for uniquely identifying the image forming apparatus 10, model information (e.g., model name, product model number, etc.) of the image forming apparatus 10, shipping destination information for the image forming apparatus 10 (e.g., address, name, etc.), part information for the consumables (e.g., consumable name, part model number, etc.), and shipping destination information for the consumables (which is the same as the shipping destination for the image forming apparatus 10 by default).

[0039] In (S1) of Figure 1, when the degree of consumption of a consumable meets a predetermined condition, the image forming device 10 notifies the mobile terminal 30 connected via short-range wireless communication that the degree of consumption of the consumable meets the predetermined condition, and outputs consumable information encouraging the user to order the consumable.

[0040] In (S2), the mobile terminal 30 outputs consumables order request information to the consumables management server 50 in response to the consumables information from the image forming apparatus 10.

[0041] In (S3), when the consumables management server 50 receives order request information from the mobile terminal 30, it accesses the customer information DB 60, obtains the shipping destination and consumable name of the consumables, and outputs order information including the shipping destination, consumable name, and quantity of the consumables to the mobile terminal 30.

[0042] In (S4), the mobile terminal 30 outputs an instruction to the consumables management server 50 to start ordering the consumables in response to the order information from the consumables management server 50.

[0043] In (S5), when the consumables management server 50 receives an instruction to start ordering from the mobile terminal 30, it performs a process of shipping the corresponding consumables to the location specified as the shipping destination of the consumables.

[0044] In (S6), the mobile terminal 30 reads the code information attached to the consumables delivered to the specified location, and outputs delivery information obtained from the read code information to the consumables management server 50. This completes the delivery process for the consumables. The user then replaces the delivered consumables with the image forming device 10. The specific process contents of (S1) to (S6) above will be described later.

[0045] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the electrical configuration of the image forming apparatus 10 according to the first embodiment.

[0046] As shown in FIG. 2, the image forming apparatus 10 according to this embodiment includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 11, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 12, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 13, an input / output interface (I / O) 14, a memory unit 15, a display unit 16, an operation unit 17, a document reading unit 18, an image forming unit 19, a communication unit 20, and a short-range wireless communication unit 21.

[0047] The CPU 11, ROM 12, RAM 13, and I / O 14 are connected to each other via a bus. The I / O 14 is connected to various functional units including a storage unit 15, a display unit 16, an operation unit 17, a document reading unit 18, an image forming unit 19, a communication unit 20, and a short-range wireless communication unit 21. These functional units can communicate with the CPU 11 via the I / O 14.

[0048] The control unit is configured with the CPU 11, ROM 12, RAM 13, and I / O 14. The control unit may be configured as a sub-control unit that controls part of the operation of the image forming apparatus 10, or may be configured as part of the main control unit that controls the overall operation of the image forming apparatus 10. For example, an integrated circuit such as an LSI (Large Scale Integration) or an IC (Integrated Circuit) chip set is used for some or all of the blocks of the control unit. Individual circuits may be used for each of the above blocks, or a circuit in which some or all of the blocks are integrated may be used. The above blocks may be provided integrally, or some of the blocks may be provided separately. Furthermore, parts of each of the above blocks may be provided separately. The integration of the control unit is not limited to LSI, and a dedicated circuit or a general-purpose processor may also be used.

[0049] For example, a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid state drive (SSD), a flash memory, or the like is used as the storage unit 15. An information processing program 15A according to this embodiment is stored in the storage unit 15. Note that this information processing program 15A may be stored in the ROM 12.

[0050] The information processing program 15A may be pre-installed in the image forming apparatus 10, for example. The information processing program 15A may be realized by storing it in a non-volatile storage medium or distributing it via the network N and installing it appropriately in the image forming apparatus 10. Examples of non-volatile storage media include a CD-ROM (Compact Disc Read Only Memory), a magneto-optical disk, a HDD, a DVD-ROM (Digital Versatile Disc Read Only Memory), a flash memory, a memory card, etc.

[0051] The display unit 16 may be, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) or an organic electroluminescence (EL) display. The display unit 16 may be integrated with a touch panel. The operation unit 17 is provided with various operation keys, such as a numeric keypad and a start key. The display unit 16 and the operation unit 17 function as an operation panel and receive instructions from a user of the image forming apparatus 10 regarding various image processing functions and settings. These various instructions include, for example, an instruction to start scanning a document, an instruction to start copying a document, an instruction to print print data stored in the image forming apparatus 10, and the like. The display unit 16 displays various information, such as the results of processing executed in response to instructions received from the user and notifications regarding the processing.

[0052] Fig. 3 is a front view showing an example of the operation panel 22 according to the present embodiment. As shown in Fig. 3, the operation panel 22 includes a display unit 16, an operation unit 17, and an LED (Light Emitting Diode) indicator 22A. The LED indicator 22A notifies the user of various states of the image forming apparatus 10 by lighting or blinking one or more LEDs of one color or more.

[0053] The document reading unit 18 takes in documents placed on a paper feed tray of an automatic document feeder (not shown) provided on the top of the image forming apparatus 10, one by one, and optically reads the taken-in documents to obtain image information. Alternatively, the document reading unit 18 optically reads a document placed on a document tray such as a platen glass to obtain image information.

[0054] The image forming unit 19 forms an image based on the image information obtained by reading by the document reading unit 18 and the image information obtained by a print instruction from an external device onto a sheet of paper, which is an example of a recording medium. Note that, although the following description will be given using an electrophotographic method as an example of a method for forming an image, other methods such as an inkjet method may also be used.

[0055] When the image formation method is electrophotography, the image forming unit 19 includes a photosensitive drum, a charging device, an exposure device, a developing device, a transfer device, and a fixing device. The charging device applies a voltage to the photosensitive drum to charge the surface of the photosensitive drum. The exposure device forms an electrostatic latent image on the photosensitive drum by exposing the photosensitive drum, which has been charged by the charging device, to light corresponding to image information. The developing device develops the electrostatic latent image formed on the photosensitive drum with toner to form a toner image on the photosensitive drum. The transfer device transfers the toner image formed on the photosensitive drum to paper. The fixing device fixes the toner image transferred to the paper by applying heat and pressure.

[0056] The communication unit 20 is a communication interface for connecting to a network N such as the Internet, a LAN, or a WAN, and enables communication with external devices via the network N. However, in this embodiment, the image forming apparatus 10 and the consumables management server 50 are not constantly connected via the network N.

[0057] The short-range wireless communication unit 21 performs short-range wireless communication with the mobile terminal 30. As described above, for example, NFC, Bluetooth (registered trademark), or the like is applied to the short-range wireless communication unit 21.

[0058] FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the electrical configuration of the mobile terminal 30 according to the first embodiment.

[0059] As shown in FIG. 4, the mobile terminal 30 according to this embodiment includes a CPU 31, a ROM 32, a RAM 33, an I / O 34, a memory unit 35, an operation display unit 36, a photographing unit 37, a communication unit 38, and a short-range wireless communication unit 39.

[0060] The CPU 31, ROM 32, RAM 33, and I / O 34 are connected to each other via a bus. Functional units including a storage unit 35, an operation display unit 36, an image capturing unit 37, a communication unit 38, and a short-range wireless communication unit 39 are connected to the I / O 34. These functional units can communicate with the CPU 31 via the I / O 34.

[0061] The control unit is configured with the CPU 31, the ROM 32, the RAM 33, and the I / O 34. The control unit may be configured as a sub-control unit that controls part of the operation of the mobile terminal 30, or may be configured as part of a main control unit that controls the overall operation of the mobile terminal 30.

[0062] For example, a flash memory or the like is used as the storage unit 35. A print management application program (hereinafter referred to as a "print management app") 35A for performing printing and the like via short-range wireless communication is stored in the storage unit 35. Note that this print management app 35A may be stored in the ROM 32.

[0063] The print management application 35A may be pre-installed on the mobile terminal 30, for example. The print management application 35A may be realized by storing it in a non-volatile storage medium or distributing it via the network N and installing it appropriately on the mobile terminal 30. Note that examples of non-volatile storage media include CD-ROMs, magneto-optical disks, HDDs, DVD-ROMs, flash memories, and memory cards.

[0064] The operation display unit 36 uses, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD), an organic EL display, or the like, and is integrally provided with a touch panel for receiving operation inputs from the user.

[0065] The photographing unit 37 is a camera that photographs an object, for example, photographs code information attached to a consumable item.

[0066] The communication unit 38 is a communication interface for connecting to a network N such as the Internet, a LAN, or a WAN, and is capable of communicating with the consumables management server 50 via the network N.

[0067] The short-range wireless communication unit 39 performs short-range wireless communication with the image forming apparatus 10. As described above, the short-range wireless communication unit 39 may use, for example, NFC or Bluetooth (registered trademark).

[0068] By executing the print management application 35A, the mobile terminal 30 according to this embodiment can cause the image forming device 10 to perform printing or the like via short-range wireless communication. Furthermore, by executing the print management application 35A, it is possible to acquire consumable supply information from the image forming device 10 via short-range wireless communication. Furthermore, by executing the print management application 35A, it is possible to send and receive various information related to ordering consumable supplies to and from the consumable supply management server 50 via the network N.

[0069] FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing an example of the electrical configuration of the consumables management server 50 according to the first embodiment.

[0070] As shown in Figure 5, the consumables management server 50 of this embodiment includes a CPU 51, a ROM 52, a RAM 53, an I / O 54, a memory unit 55, a display unit 56, an operation unit 57, and a communication unit 58.

[0071] The CPU 51, ROM 52, RAM 53, and I / O 54 are connected to each other via a bus. Functional units including a storage unit 55, a display unit 56, an operation unit 57, and a communication unit 58 are connected to the I / O 54. These functional units can communicate with the CPU 51 via the I / O 54.

[0072] The control unit is configured with the CPU 51, the ROM 52, the RAM 53, and the I / O 54. The control unit may be configured as a sub-control unit that controls part of the operation of the consumables management server 50, or may be configured as part of the main control unit that controls the overall operation of the consumables management server 50.

[0073] For example, an HDD, an SSD, a flash memory, or the like is used as the storage unit 55. A consumables management program 55A according to this embodiment is stored in the storage unit 55. Note that this consumables management program 55A may be stored in the ROM 52.

[0074] Consumables management program 55A may be pre-installed in consumables management server 50, for example. Consumables management program 55A may be realized by storing it in a non-volatile storage medium or distributing it via network N and installing it appropriately in consumables management server 50. Examples of non-volatile storage media include CD-ROMs, magneto-optical disks, HDDs, DVD-ROMs, flash memories, and memory cards.

[0075] The display unit 56 may be, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD), an organic EL display, etc. The operation unit 57 is provided with input devices such as a keyboard and a mouse.

[0076] The communication unit 58 can be connected to a network N such as the Internet, a LAN, or a WAN, and can communicate with the mobile terminal 30 via the network N.

[0077] The consumables management server 50 according to this embodiment can transmit and receive various information relating to ordering consumables to and from the mobile terminal 30 via the network N by executing the consumables management program 55A.

[0078] As described above, when the image forming apparatus 10 is installed in a workplace for remote work, such as a home or a shared office, the image forming apparatus 10 is often not connected to a network environment. Providing a computer and a host that are constantly connected to this type of image forming apparatus 10 increases monitoring costs compared to not providing such a computer and a host.

[0079] Therefore, when the degree of consumption of a consumable in the image forming apparatus 10 itself satisfies a predetermined condition, the image forming apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment notifies the mobile terminal 30 that the degree of consumption of the consumable has satisfied the predetermined condition. When the image forming apparatus 10 is connected to the mobile terminal 30 via short-range wireless communication while this notification is being sent, the image forming apparatus 10 notifies the mobile terminal 30 that the degree of consumption of the consumable has satisfied the predetermined condition and outputs consumable information prompting the mobile terminal 30 to order the consumable.

[0080] Specifically, the CPU 11 of the image forming apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment writes the information processing program 15A stored in the storage unit 15 to the RAM 13 and executes the program, thereby functioning as each unit shown in Fig. 6. The CPU 11 is an example of a processor.

[0081] FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the image forming apparatus 10 according to the first embodiment.

[0082] As shown in FIG. 6, the CPU 11 of the image forming apparatus 10 according to this embodiment functions as a determination unit 11A, a notification unit 11B, a detection unit 11C, a setting unit 11D, an output unit 11E, and a processing unit 11F.

[0083] The determination unit 11A determines whether the degree of consumption of the consumables in the device itself satisfies a predetermined condition, such as when the remaining amount of the consumables falls below a threshold, when the time to replace the consumables has arrived, etc.

[0084] When the determining unit 11A determines that the degree of consumption of the consumables satisfies the predetermined condition, the notifying unit 11B issues a notification indicating that the degree of consumption of the consumables has satisfied the predetermined condition. The notification may take various forms, such as displaying a message on the touch panel of the display unit 16 to urge the user to replenish or replace the consumables, blinking the LED indicator 22A on the operation panel 22, or sending an email message to urge the user to replenish or replace the consumables.

[0085] The detection unit 11C monitors the connection state of the short-range wireless communication unit 21, and detects that a connection with the mobile terminal 30 has been established via short-range wireless communication.

[0086] Setting unit 11D sets a consumable information output mode for outputting consumable information when detection unit 11C detects that connection with mobile terminal 30 has been established via short-range wireless communication while the notification has been made. Also, setting unit 11D sets a process execution mode for executing a predetermined process (for example, printing) between mobile terminal 30 and setting unit 11D when detection unit 11C detects that connection with mobile terminal 30 has been established via short-range wireless communication while the notification has not been made.

[0087] Furthermore, when the setting unit 11D is connected to the mobile terminal 30 via short-range wireless communication while the notification is being made, the setting unit 11D may be able to switch between the process execution mode and the consumable item information output mode.

[0088] FIG. 7 is a front view showing an example of the mode selection screen 36A according to the present embodiment.

[0089] 7 is displayed on the operation display unit 36 of the mobile terminal 30. When the setting unit 11D is connected to the mobile terminal 30 via short-range wireless communication while the notification is being performed, the setting unit 11D causes the mobile terminal 30 to display the mode selection screen 36A shown in Fig. 7, and enables switching between a process execution mode and a consumable item information output mode in accordance with the user's selection.

[0090] Furthermore, the setting unit 11D may be configured to set, as a default, which of the process execution mode and the consumable information output mode to switch to when the degree of consumption of the consumable meets a predetermined condition. In other words, when the consumable runs out, the default mode is selected and executed.

[0091] When the setting unit 11D sets the consumable information output mode, the output unit 11E notifies the mobile terminal 30 that the degree of consumption of the consumable meets a predetermined condition, and outputs consumable information that encourages the user to order the consumable.

[0092] FIG. 8 is a front view showing an example of the consumable product information display screen 36B according to this embodiment.

[0093] Consumables information display screen 36B shown in FIG. 8 is displayed on operation display unit 36 of mobile terminal 30. As shown in FIG. 8, the consumables information includes a serial number, which is an example of serial information for uniquely identifying image forming apparatus 10, and a status ID (Identification), which is an example of status information indicating that the consumable needs to be replaced or replenished. The target consumables can be identified by this status ID. The serial number and status ID are obtained, for example, from a data record (hereinafter referred to as an "NDEF record") having NDEF (Near field communication Data Exchange Format), which is a data format used for reading and writing data via NFC. The NDEF record is stored, for example, in storage unit 15.

[0094] Fig. 9 is a diagram showing an NDEF record according to a comparative example. The NDEF record shown in Fig. 9 stores information such as an SSID (Service Set Identifier) for a Wi-Fi (registered trademark) connection.

[0095] Data[A] stores header information, and Data[B] stores the application type. Data[C] stores DataLength (data length), and Data[D] stores the application name. Data[E] stores Version (version information), and Data[F] stores SSID. Data[G] stores WiFiPassphrase (WiFi passphrase), and Data[H] stores IPAddress (IP address). This information is used when performing normal short-range wireless communication, and is updated as necessary.

[0096] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of an NDEF record according to the first embodiment. The NDEF record shown in FIG. 10 has Data[B] to Data[H] added to the comparative example shown in FIG. 9. Data[B] stores the serial number of the image forming apparatus 10, and Data[C] (the "isMaintenance" field) stores a consumable replacement flag. If the consumable replacement or replenishment is required, the consumable replacement flag is set to "1" in Data[C]. If the consumable replacement or replenishment is not required, the consumable replacement flag is set to "0." By default, "0" is set. Data[D] to Data[H] store a status ID corresponding to the consumable replacement flag. If there are multiple consumables that require replacement or replenishment, a status ID for each consumable is stored. The NDEF record shown in FIG. 10 is updated whenever the consumables are replaced or replenished.

[0097] The mobile terminal 30 launches and executes the print management application 35A, and connects to the image forming device 10 that is sending the notification via short-range wireless communication, thereby obtaining, as an example, the serial number and status ID from the NDEF record shown in FIG. 10.

[0098] Furthermore, notification unit 11B stops the notification (for example, blinking of LED indicator 22A) after outputting the consumable item information to mobile terminal 30 by output unit 11E. At this time, notification unit 11B may perform control such that, after outputting the consumable item information to mobile terminal 30, information indicating that the consumable item information has been output is displayed on display unit 16 of the mobile terminal itself.

[0099] FIG. 11 is a front view showing an example of the consumables information output completion notification screen 16A according to this embodiment.

[0100] 11 is displayed on display unit 16 of image forming apparatus 10. As shown in Fig. 11, a message indicating that the consumable information has been output is displayed, and a user near image forming apparatus 10 can be notified that the consumable information has been output to mobile terminal 30.

[0101] Furthermore, after outputting the consumable item information to the mobile terminal 30, if the output unit 11E connects to the mobile terminal 30 again via short-range wireless communication, the output unit 11E does not re-output the consumable item information to the mobile terminal 30. This prevents duplicate orders for consumable items.

[0102] When the process execution mode is set by the setting unit 11D, the processing unit 11F executes a predetermined process (for example, printing) on the mobile terminal 30.

[0103] Next, the operation of the image forming apparatus 10 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0104] FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of processing by the information processing program 15A according to the first embodiment.

[0105] First, when the image forming apparatus 10 is instructed to execute the consumables management function, the information processing program 15A is started by the CPU 11, and the following steps are executed.

[0106] 12, the CPU 11 determines whether the degree of consumption of the consumable item satisfies a predetermined condition (for example, the remaining amount is equal to or less than a threshold, the replacement time has arrived, etc.) If it is determined that the degree of consumption of the consumable item satisfies the predetermined condition (in the case of a positive determination), the process proceeds to step S102, and if it is determined that the degree of consumption of the consumable item does not satisfy the predetermined condition (in the case of a negative determination), the process proceeds to step S109.

[0107] In step S102, the CPU 11 issues a notification (for example, by displaying a message or blinking an LED indicator) indicating that the degree of consumption of the consumables satisfies a predetermined condition. At this time, the CPU 11 updates the NDEF record shown in Fig. 10, for example. That is, the CPU 11 stores the serial number of its own device in the NDEF record, sets the consumables replacement flag to "1", and stores the status ID of the consumables.

[0108] In step S103, CPU 11 determines whether a certain time has elapsed since the start of notification. The certain time can be set appropriately within a range of, for example, 10 to 60 seconds. If it is determined that the certain time has elapsed (in the case of a positive determination), the process proceeds to step S107, and if it is determined that the certain time has not elapsed (in the case of a negative determination), the process proceeds to step S104.

[0109] In step S104, the CPU 11 detects whether or not connection has been established via short-range wireless communication with the mobile terminal 30. If connection to the mobile terminal 30 via short-range wireless communication is detected (if a positive determination is made), the process proceeds to step S105, and if connection to the mobile terminal 30 via short-range wireless communication is not detected (if a negative determination is made), the process returns to step S103 and the process is repeated.

[0110] In step S105, the CPU 11 sets the consumable item information output mode.

[0111] In step S106, the CPU 11 outputs consumable supply information to the mobile terminal 30. The consumable supply information includes, for example, a serial number and a status ID obtained from the NDEF record shown in Fig. 10 above. The output consumable supply information is displayed, for example, on the consumable supply information display screen 36B shown in Fig. 8 above.

[0112] In step S107, CPU 11 stops the notification (for example, displaying a message, blinking an LED indicator, etc.) started in step S102. At this time, CPU 11 may perform control to output the consumable supply information to mobile terminal 30, and then display information indicating that the consumable supply information has been output on display unit 16 of the mobile terminal. The information indicating that the consumable supply information has been output is displayed, for example, on consumable supply information output notification screen 16A shown in FIG. 11 above.

[0113] In step S108, the CPU 11 determines whether or not the end timing has arrived. Examples of the end timing include when the main power of the device itself is turned off, when the connection via short-range wireless communication is disconnected, etc. If it is determined that the end timing has not arrived (in the case of a negative determination), the process returns to step S101 and is repeated, and if it is determined that the end timing has arrived (in the case of a positive determination), the series of processes by the information processing program 15A is terminated.

[0114] On the other hand, in step S109, the CPU 11 detects whether or not connection has been made via short-range wireless communication with the mobile terminal 30. If connection with the mobile terminal 30 via short-range wireless communication is detected (if the result is positive), the process proceeds to step S110, and if connection with the mobile terminal 30 via short-range wireless communication is not detected (if the result is negative), the process returns to step S101 and repeats the process.

[0115] In step S110, the CPU 11 sets the processing execution mode.

[0116] In step S111, the CPU 11 executes the process (for example, print) instructed by the mobile terminal 30, and returns to step S101 to repeat the process.

[0117] 13 is a flowchart showing another example of the processing flow of the information processing program 15A according to the first embodiment. In this example, a process of switching between the consumable item information output mode and the processing execution mode by user selection when replacement or replenishment of consumable items is required will be described.

[0118] First, when the image forming apparatus 10 is instructed to execute the consumables management function, the information processing program 15A is started by the CPU 11, and the following steps are executed.

[0119] 13, the CPU 11 determines whether the degree of consumption of the consumable item satisfies a predetermined condition (for example, the remaining amount is equal to or less than a threshold, the replacement time has arrived, etc.) If it is determined that the degree of consumption of the consumable item satisfies the predetermined condition (in the case of a positive determination), the process proceeds to step S122, and if it is determined that the degree of consumption of the consumable item does not satisfy the predetermined condition (in the case of a negative determination), the process proceeds to step S132.

[0120] In step S122, the CPU 11 issues a notification (for example, by displaying a message or blinking an LED indicator) indicating that the degree of consumption of the consumables satisfies a predetermined condition. At this time, the CPU 11 updates the NDEF record shown in Fig. 10, for example. That is, the CPU 11 stores the serial number of its own device in the NDEF record, sets the consumables replacement flag to "1", and stores the status ID of the consumables.

[0121] In step S123, CPU 11 determines whether a certain time has elapsed since the start of notification. The certain time can be set appropriately within a range of, for example, 10 to 60 seconds. If it is determined that the certain time has elapsed (in the case of a positive determination), the process proceeds to step S127, and if it is determined that the certain time has not elapsed (in the case of a negative determination), the process proceeds to step S124.

[0122] In step S124, the CPU 11 detects whether or not connection has been made via short-range wireless communication with the mobile terminal 30. If connection with the mobile terminal 30 via short-range wireless communication is detected (if a positive determination is made), the process proceeds to step S125, and if connection with the mobile terminal 30 via short-range wireless communication is not detected (if a negative determination is made), the process returns to step S123 and repeats the process.

[0123] In step S125, CPU 11 causes mobile terminal 30 to display, as an example, mode selection screen 36A shown in Fig. 7 above, and accepts mode selection from the user. If consumable item information output mode is selected (in the case of consumable item information output mode), the process proceeds to step S126, and if process execution mode is selected (in the case of process execution mode), the process proceeds to step S130.

[0124] In step S126, the CPU 11 sets the consumable item information output mode.

[0125] In step S127, the CPU 11 outputs the consumable supply information to the mobile terminal 30. The consumable supply information includes, for example, a serial number and a status ID obtained from the NDEF record shown in Fig. 10 above. The output consumable supply information is displayed, for example, on the consumable supply information display screen 36B shown in Fig. 8 above.

[0126] In step S128, CPU 11 stops the notification started in step S122 (for example, displaying a message, blinking an LED indicator, etc.). At this time, after outputting the consumable supply information to mobile terminal 30, CPU 11 may perform control to display information indicating that the consumable supply information has been output on display unit 16 of the mobile terminal. As one example, the information indicating that the consumable supply information has been output is displayed on consumable supply information output notification screen 16A shown in FIG. 11 above.

[0127] In step S129, the CPU 11 determines whether or not the end timing has arrived. Examples of the end timing include when the main power of the device itself is turned off, when the connection via short-range wireless communication is disconnected, etc. If it is determined that the end timing has not arrived (in the case of a negative determination), the process returns to step S121 and is repeated, and if it is determined that the end timing has arrived (in the case of a positive determination), the series of processes by the information processing program 15A is terminated.

[0128] On the other hand, in step S130, the CPU 11 sets the processing execution mode.

[0129] In step S131, the CPU 11 executes the process (for example, printing) instructed by the mobile terminal 30, and then the process proceeds to step S128.

[0130] On the other hand, in step S132, the CPU 11 detects whether or not connection has been made via short-range wireless communication with the mobile terminal 30. If connection with the mobile terminal 30 via short-range wireless communication is detected (if the result is positive), the process proceeds to step S133, and if connection with the mobile terminal 30 via short-range wireless communication is not detected (if the result is negative), the process returns to step S121 and repeats the process.

[0131] In step S133, the CPU 11 sets the processing execution mode.

[0132] In step S134, the CPU 11 executes the process (for example, print) instructed by the mobile terminal 30, and returns to step S121 to repeat the process.

[0133] Next, with reference to FIG. 14, a consumables ordering process performed by the consumables management system 100 according to the first embodiment will be specifically described.

[0134] FIG. 14 is a sequence diagram showing an example of a consumables ordering process by the consumables management system 100 according to the first embodiment.

[0135] 14 (S11), when the image forming apparatus 10 determines that a consumable item has run out, that is, that the degree of consumption of the consumable item satisfies a predetermined condition (for example, the remaining amount is below a threshold, or the time for replacement has arrived), it issues a notice indicating that the consumable item has run out (for example, by displaying a message or blinking an LED indicator), and, as one example, updates the NDEF record shown in the above-mentioned Fig. 10. That is, it sets the consumable item replacement flag in the NDEF record to "1."

[0136] In (S12), the image forming apparatus 10 detects that it has been connected to the mobile terminal 30 via short-range wireless communication while the image forming apparatus 10 is making the notification.

[0137] In (S13), the mobile terminal 30 executes the print management application 35A and reads the NDEF record (see FIG. 10) stored in the image forming apparatus 10.

[0138] In (S14), the image forming apparatus 10 outputs the consumable information including the serial number and the status ID in response to reading from the portable terminal 30, and the portable terminal 30 displays, as an example, the consumable information display screen 36B shown in FIG. 8 described above.

[0139] In (S15), when the user selects "Yes" on the consumables information display screen 36B shown in FIG. 8, the mobile terminal 30 outputs consumables request information including the serial number and the status ID to the consumables management server 50.

[0140] In (S16), the consumables management server 50 accesses the customer information DB 60 based on the serial number and status ID included in the consumables request information, and obtains the shipping address for the corresponding consumables, the model name of the image forming device 10, the name of the target consumables, and the model number (part model number) of the consumables, and outputs to the mobile terminal 30 order information including the obtained shipping address, model name, consumables name, and model number (part model number), as well as the number of consumables that can be specified by the user (1 by default).

[0141] In (S17), the mobile terminal 30 displays the order information acquired from the consumables management server 50, as shown in FIG. 15, for example.

[0142] FIG. 15 is a front view showing an example of the order information display screen 36C according to this embodiment.

[0143] 15 is displayed on the operation display unit 36 of the mobile terminal 30. As shown in Fig. 15, the order information displayed includes the shipping destination (address, name) of the consumables, the model name of the image forming device 10, the name of the target consumables, the model number (part model number) of the consumables, and the quantity of the consumables.

[0144] In (S18), when the user selects "Yes" on the order information display screen 36C shown in FIG. 15, the mobile terminal 30 instructs the consumables management server 50 to start ordering.

[0145] In (S19), the consumables management server 50 performs a process of shipping the consumables when it receives an instruction to start ordering from the mobile terminal 30. That is, the process of shipping the ordered consumables to a location specified as the shipping destination of the consumables is performed.

[0146] In step S20, the mobile terminal 30 executes the print management application 35A and, as an example, as shown in FIG. 16, captures an image of the code information attached to the consumables delivered to the specified location and reads the code information. Delivery information is assigned to the code information. The code information includes, for example, a barcode, a two-dimensional code, etc.

[0147] FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating the process of reading code information according to this embodiment.

[0148] 16, a two-dimensional code C1 is attached to the consumables delivered to the designated location. The user photographs and reads the two-dimensional code C1 using the mobile terminal 30, and obtains delivery information from the two-dimensional code C1.

[0149] In (S21), the mobile terminal 30 outputs the delivery information obtained from the read code information to the consumables management server 50. This completes the delivery process for the consumables.

[0150] In (S22), the user replaces the existing consumable item in the image forming device 10 with the new consumable item that has just been delivered. At this time, the image forming device 10 updates the NDEF record shown in Fig. 10 in response to the replacement of the consumable item. In other words, the consumable item replacement flag in the NDEF record is reset to "0."

[0151] According to this embodiment, by connecting a user's mobile device and an image forming device via short-range wireless communication, the information required for ordering consumables is automatically obtained from the NDEF record stored in the image forming device. Therefore, even in an environment where the image forming device is not constantly connected to the consumables management server, it is possible to easily order consumables for the image forming device using the mobile device.

[0152] [Second embodiment] In the first embodiment, a configuration in which a serial number and a status ID are acquired from an NDEF record is described. In the second embodiment, a configuration in which a serial number and a status ID are acquired from an MIB (Management Information Base) of an SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol) is described.

[0153] FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of an NDEF record according to the second embodiment. The NDEF record shown in FIG. 17 includes additional fields, Data[B] and Data[C], compared to the comparative example shown in FIG. 9. Data[B] stores a connection code for connecting to the SNMP / MIB, and Data[C] (the "isMaintenance" field) stores a consumable replacement flag. Note that SNMP is a communications protocol conforming to the DARPA model that defines a communication method for information used to monitor and control network devices on an IP network. The MIB is used when remotely monitoring and managing devices using SNMP, and is a database that stores device information indicating the settings and status of the devices to be monitored. The MIB (hereinafter referred to as "SNMP / MIB") is stored, for example, in the storage unit 15 of the image forming apparatus 10. In this embodiment, a serial number and a status ID are stored in the SNMP / MIB.

[0154] Next, with reference to FIG. 18, a consumables ordering process by the consumables management system 100 according to the second embodiment will be specifically described.

[0155] FIG. 18 is a sequence diagram showing an example of a consumables ordering process by the consumables management system 100 according to the second embodiment.

[0156] 18 (S31), when the image forming apparatus 10 determines that a consumable item has run out, that is, that the degree of consumption of the consumable item satisfies a predetermined condition (for example, the remaining amount is below a threshold, or the time for replacement has arrived), it issues a notice indicating that the consumable item has run out (for example, by displaying a message or blinking an LED indicator), and, as one example, updates the NDEF record shown in the above-mentioned Fig. 17. That is, it sets the consumable item replacement flag in the NDEF record to "1."

[0157] In (S32), the image forming apparatus 10 detects that it has been connected to the mobile terminal 30 via short-range wireless communication while the image forming apparatus 10 is making the notification.

[0158] In (S33), the mobile terminal 30 executes the print management application 35A and reads the NDEF record (see FIG. 17) stored in the image forming apparatus 10.

[0159] In (S34), the image forming apparatus 10 outputs the SNMP / MIB connection code to the portable terminal 30 in response to the read from the portable terminal 30.

[0160] In (S35), the mobile terminal 30 connects to the SNMP / MIB held by the image forming apparatus 10 based on the connection code of the SNMP / MIB acquired from the image forming apparatus 10.

[0161] In (S36), the image forming apparatus 10 outputs consumable information including the serial number and status ID in response to the SNMP / MIB connection from the mobile terminal 30, and the mobile terminal 30 displays, as an example, the consumable information display screen 36B shown in Figure 8 above.

[0162] In (S37), when the user selects "Yes" on the consumables information display screen 36B shown in FIG. 8, the mobile terminal 30 outputs consumables request information including the serial number and the status ID to the consumables management server 50.

[0163] In (S38), the consumables management server 50 accesses the customer information DB 60 based on the serial number and status ID included in the consumables request information, and obtains the shipping address for the corresponding consumables, the model name of the image forming device 10, the name of the target consumables, and the model number (part model number) of the consumables, and outputs to the mobile terminal 30 order information including the obtained shipping address, model name, consumables name, and model number (part model number), as well as the number of consumables that can be specified by the user (1 by default).

[0164] In (S39), the mobile terminal 30 displays the order information acquired from the consumables management server 50, as shown in FIG. 15 above, for example.

[0165] In (S40), when the user selects "Yes" on the order information display screen 36C shown in FIG. 15, the mobile terminal 30 instructs the consumables management server 50 to start ordering.

[0166] In (S41), the consumables management server 50 performs a process of shipping the consumables when it receives an instruction to start ordering from the mobile terminal 30. That is, the process of shipping the ordered consumables to a location specified as the shipping destination of the consumables is performed.

[0167] In step S42, the mobile terminal 30 executes the print management application 35A and, as an example, as shown in FIG. 16 above, captures an image of the code information attached to the consumables delivered to the specified location and reads the code information. Delivery information is assigned to the code information. The code information includes, for example, a barcode, a two-dimensional code, etc.

[0168] In (S43), the mobile terminal 30 outputs the delivery information obtained from the read code information to the consumables management server 50. This completes the delivery process for the consumables.

[0169] In (S44), the user replaces the existing consumable item in the image forming device 10 with the new consumable item that has just been delivered. At this time, the image forming device 10 updates the NDEF record shown in Fig. 17 in response to the replacement of the consumable item. In other words, the consumable item replacement flag in the NDEF record is reset to "0."

[0170] According to this embodiment, by connecting a user's mobile device and an image forming apparatus via short-range wireless communication, information required for ordering consumables is automatically obtained from the SNMP / MIB stored in the image forming apparatus. Therefore, even in an environment where the image forming apparatus is not constantly connected to the consumables management server, it is possible to easily order consumables for the image forming apparatus using the mobile device.

[0171] In each of the above embodiments, the term "processor" refers to a processor in a broad sense, and includes general-purpose processors (e.g., CPU: Central Processing Unit, etc.) and dedicated processors (e.g., GPU: Graphics Processing Unit, ASIC: Application Specific Integrated Circuit, FPGA: Field Programmable Gate Array, programmable logic device, etc.).

[0172] Furthermore, the operations of the processor in each of the above embodiments may not only be performed by a single processor, but may also be performed by multiple processors located at physically separate locations working together. Furthermore, the order of the operations of the processor is not limited to the order described in each of the above embodiments, and may be changed as appropriate.

[0173] The above description has been given using an image forming apparatus as an example of an information processing apparatus according to an embodiment. The embodiment may be in the form of a program for causing a computer to execute the functions of the information processing apparatus. The embodiment may be in the form of a non-transitory storage medium that stores the program and is readable by a computer.

[0174] Furthermore, the configuration of the information processing device described in the above embodiment is merely an example, and may be changed depending on the situation without departing from the spirit of the invention.

[0175] Furthermore, the processing flow of the program described in the above embodiment is also an example, and unnecessary steps may be deleted, new steps may be added, or the processing order may be rearranged within the scope of the main idea.

[0176] In the above embodiment, the processing according to the embodiment is realized by a software configuration using a computer by executing a program, but the present invention is not limited to this. The embodiment may be realized by, for example, a hardware configuration or a combination of a hardware configuration and a software configuration. [Explanation of symbols]

[0177] 10 Image forming device 11, 31, 51 CPUs 11A Judgment section 11B Notification Department 11C Detection unit 11D Setting section 11E Output section 11F Processing Section 12, 32, 52 ROM 13, 33, 53 RAM 14, 34, 54 I / O 15, 35, 55 storage section 15A Information Processing Program 16, 56 display section 17, 57 Operation section 18 Document reading section 19 Image forming unit 20, 38, 58 Communications Department 21, 39 Near field wireless communication department 30 Mobile Devices 36 Operation display section 35A Print Management App 37 Photography Department 50 Consumables Management Server 55A Consumables Management Program 60 Customer information DB 100 Consumables Management System

Claims

1. a processor; The processor: When the degree of consumption of a consumable item in the device satisfies a predetermined condition, a notification is given indicating that the degree of consumption of the consumable item has satisfied the predetermined condition; When the device is connected to a mobile device via short-range wireless communication while the notification is being made, the device notifies the mobile device that the degree of consumption of the consumables has satisfied the predetermined condition, and outputs consumable information prompting the user to order the consumables; The processor: When the device is connected to the mobile terminal via short-range wireless communication while the notification has not been made, the device is put into a process execution mode in which a predetermined process is executed; When the degree of consumption of the consumables satisfies a predetermined condition, the mode to be switched to can be set as a default between the processing execution mode and the consumables information output mode for outputting the consumables information. Information processing device.

2. A processor is provided, The processor: When the degree of consumption of a consumable item in the device satisfies a predetermined condition, a notification is given indicating that the degree of consumption of the consumable item has satisfied the predetermined condition; When the device is connected to a mobile device via short-range wireless communication while the notification is being made, the device notifies the mobile device that the degree of consumption of the consumables has satisfied the predetermined condition, and outputs consumable information prompting the user to order the consumables; The processor: After outputting the consumable product information to the mobile terminal, the notification is stopped. Information processing device.

3. The processor controls the mobile terminal to display, on a display unit of the mobile terminal, information indicating that the consumable product information has been output, after outputting the consumable product information. The information processing device according to claim 2 .

4. When the processor connects to the mobile terminal again via short-range wireless communication after outputting the consumable item information to the mobile terminal, the processor does not output the consumable item information to the mobile terminal again.

4. The information processing device according to claim 2 or 3.

5. The consumable product information includes serial information for uniquely identifying the device itself and status information indicating that the consumable product needs to be replaced or replenished.

5. The information processing device according to claim 1.

6. the short-range wireless communication is NFC, The serial information and the status information are stored in NDEF, which is a data format used for reading and writing data via the NFC. The information processing device according to claim 5 .

7. An information processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 6; a mobile terminal connectable to the information processing device via short-range wireless communication; a consumables management system including a consumables management server connected to the mobile terminal via a network, The processor of the mobile terminal outputting, to the consumables management server, order request information for requesting an order for the consumables in accordance with the consumables information acquired from the information processing device; The processor of the consumables management server In response to the order request information acquired from the mobile terminal, order information including a shipping destination, a name and a quantity of the consumables is output to the mobile terminal. Consumables management system.

8. a processor of the consumables management server, when receiving an instruction to start ordering for the order information from the mobile terminal, performing a process of shipping the consumables to a location specified as a shipping destination of the consumables; The processor of the mobile terminal reads code information attached to the consumables delivered to the location, and outputs delivery information obtained from the read code information to the consumables management server. The consumables management system according to claim 7 .

9. A mobile terminal connectable to the information processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 6 via short-range wireless communication and connected to a consumables management server via a network, The processor of the mobile terminal outputting, to the consumables management server, order request information for requesting an order for the consumables in accordance with the consumables information acquired from the information processing device; acquiring, from the consumables management server, order information including a shipping destination, a consumables name, and a quantity of the consumables in response to the order request information; outputting an instruction to the consumables management server to start ordering the order information; When the consumables management server performs a process of shipping the consumables to a location designated as a shipping destination of the consumables in response to the instruction to start ordering, it reads code information attached to the consumables delivered to the location, and outputs delivery information obtained from the read code information to the consumables management server. Mobile device.

10. When a degree of consumption of a consumable item in the information processing device satisfies a predetermined condition, a notification is given indicating that the degree of consumption of the consumable item has satisfied the predetermined condition; When the device is connected to a mobile device via short-range wireless communication while the notification is being made, the device notifies the mobile device that the degree of consumption of the consumables has satisfied the predetermined condition, and outputs consumable information prompting the user to order the consumables; When the device is connected to the mobile terminal via short-range wireless communication while the notification has not been made, the device is put into a process execution mode in which a predetermined process is executed; When the degree of consumption of the consumables satisfies a predetermined condition, the mode to be switched to can be set as a default between the processing execution mode and the consumables information output mode for outputting the consumables information. An information processing program to be executed by a computer.

11. When the degree of consumption of a consumable item in the device satisfies a predetermined condition, a notification is given indicating that the degree of consumption of the consumable item has satisfied the predetermined condition; When the device is connected to a mobile device via short-range wireless communication while the notification is being made, the device notifies the mobile device that the degree of consumption of the consumables has satisfied the predetermined condition, and outputs consumable information prompting the user to order the consumables; After outputting the consumable product information to the mobile terminal, the notification is stopped. An information processing program to be executed by a computer.

Images