Application programs for servers, printers, and terminal devices

Abstract

To provide a server, a printer, and an application program that improve user's convenience.SOLUTION: In a communication system having a printer, a server, and a terminal device, the server receives cartridge information from the printer, the cartridge information being relating to whether a cartridge mounted on the printer is a genuine cartridge or a non-genuine cartridge; and when identification information for identifying the printer is received from the terminal device and the cartridge information received from the printer identified by the identification information indicates that the genuine cartridge is mounted on the printer, transmits a first message encouraging to subscribe to a service to the terminal device. In addition, when the identification information is received from the terminal device and the cartridge information received from the printer identified by the identification information indicates that the non-genuine cartridge is mounted on the printer, the server transmits a second message encouraging to subscribe to the service to the terminal device.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This specification discloses a technique for displaying a message encouraging a user to subscribe to a printer-related service. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a printer that displays a screen recommending a toner delivery contract in response to detecting a toner low state. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-111023 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] This specification discloses a technique that can improve user convenience. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] This specification discloses a server that provides a printer-related service. The server may include: a cartridge information receiving unit that receives, from the printer, cartridge information related to whether a cartridge installed in the printer is a genuine cartridge provided by the printer's vendor or a non-genuine cartridge provided by a business other than the vendor; a first message sending unit that sends, when identification information identifying the printer is received from a terminal device other than the printer and the cartridge information received from the printer identified by the identification information indicates that the genuine cartridge is installed in the printer, a first message sending unit that sends, to the terminal device, a first message encouraging the user to subscribe to the service; and a second message sending unit that sends, when the identification information is received from the terminal device and the cartridge information received from the printer identified by the identification information indicates that the non-genuine cartridge is installed in the printer, a second message encouraging the user to subscribe to the service, the second message being different from the first message.

[0006] According to the above configuration, the server can send an appropriate message to the terminal device according to the type of cartridge installed in the printer, thereby improving user convenience.

[0007] This specification also discloses a printer, which may include a display unit, a print execution unit to which a cartridge is removably attached, a first display control unit that causes the display unit to display a first message encouraging the user to subscribe to a service provided by a server when the cartridge attached to the print execution unit is a genuine cartridge provided by a vendor of the printer, and a second display control unit that causes the display unit to display a second message encouraging the user to subscribe to the service, the second message being different from the first message, when the cartridge attached to the print execution unit is a non-genuine cartridge provided by a business different from the vendor.

[0008] According to the above configuration, the printer can display an appropriate message depending on the type of cartridge installed in the print execution unit, thereby improving user convenience.

[0009] This specification also discloses an application program for a terminal device. The application program may cause a computer of the terminal device to function as the following units: a cartridge information receiving unit that receives, from a printer, cartridge information related to whether a cartridge installed in the printer is a genuine cartridge provided by the printer vendor or a non-genuine cartridge provided by a business other than the vendor; a first display control unit that, when the cartridge information indicates that the printer is equipped with a genuine cartridge, causes a display unit of the terminal device to display a first message encouraging the user to subscribe to a service related to the printer and provided by a server; and a second display control unit that, when the cartridge information indicates that the printer is equipped with a non-genuine cartridge, causes the display unit to display a second message different from the first message encouraging the user to subscribe to the service.

[0010] According to the above configuration, the terminal device can display an appropriate message depending on the type of cartridge installed in the printer, thereby improving user convenience.

[0011] Also, a control method for implementing the above-mentioned server, a computer program for the above-mentioned server, and a storage medium for storing the computer program are novel and useful. Also, a control method for implementing the above-mentioned printer, a computer program for the above-mentioned printer, and a storage medium for storing the computer program are novel and useful. Also, a storage medium for storing the above-mentioned application program, and a terminal device implemented by the application program are novel and useful. Also, a communication system including the above-mentioned printer and server, and a communication system including the above-mentioned printer, server, and terminal device are novel and useful. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] 1 shows the configuration of a communication system. [Figure 2] An example of each table and each screen is shown below. [Figure 3] 10 shows a sequence diagram of a printer information registration process. [Figure 4] 10 shows a flowchart of a server process. [Figure 5] 10 shows a sequence diagram of case A in which a notification screen is displayed on the display unit of the terminal device. [Figure 6] 10 shows a flowchart of printer processing according to the second embodiment. [Figure 7] 13 shows an example of a management table according to the third embodiment. [Figure 8] 10 shows a flowchart of terminal processing according to the third embodiment. [Figure 9] 13 shows a sequence diagram of case B in which a notification screen is displayed on the display unit of the terminal device in the third embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0013] (First Example) (Configuration of communication system 2; Figure 1) As shown in FIG. 1, the communication system 2 includes printers 10A and 10B, a terminal device 100, and a server 200. The printers 10A and 10B and the terminal device 100 are connected to a LAN (abbreviation for Local Area Network) 4. The printers 10A and 10B and the terminal device 100 can communicate with each other via the LAN 4. The LAN 4 is connected to the Internet 6. The printers 10A and 10B, the terminal device 100, and the server 200 are connected to the Internet 6. The printers 10A and 10B, the terminal device 100, and the server 200 can communicate with each other via the Internet 6. The server 200 provides a flat-rate billing service (hereinafter referred to as a "flat-rate service") related to the printers and an automatic ordering service. The flat-rate service and the automatic ordering service will be described in detail later. Hereinafter, the printers 10A and 10B may be collectively referred to as "printer 10."

[0014] (Configuration of printers 10A and 10B) The printer 10A is a peripheral device (i.e., a peripheral device such as a PC) that can perform a printing function. The printer 10A may be a multi-function device that can perform a scanning function, a fax function, etc. in addition to a printing function. The printer 10A includes an operation unit 12, a display unit 14, a print execution unit 16, a communication interface 20, and a control unit 30. The printer 10A has a serial number "SN1" and a model name "MN1." The serial number is an identification number assigned to the printer when it is manufactured, and is information for identifying the printer. The model name is information that indicates the model of the printer. Below, the interface may be referred to as "I / F."

[0015] The operation unit 12 includes a plurality of keys. A user can input various instructions to the printer 10A by operating the operation unit 12. The display unit 14 is a display for displaying various pieces of information.

[0016] The print execution unit 16 is an inkjet printing mechanism. A cartridge containing ink is installed in the print execution unit 16. The print execution unit 16 prints using the ink in the cartridge. Each cartridge is assigned a cartridge number to identify it. The cartridge number is a unique string assigned to each cartridge when multiple cartridges are manufactured. Cartridges include genuine cartridges provided by the vendor of the printer 10A and non-genuine cartridges provided by businesses other than the vendor. Non-genuine cartridges can be purchased from a retailer. Genuine cartridges include bundled cartridges that are available for purchase from a retailer and are included with the printer when it is sold, generic cartridges that are available for purchase from a retailer and are not included with the printer when it is sold, and dedicated cartridges that are not available for purchase from a retailer and are shipped from the server 200. Non-genuine cartridges and generic cartridges can be used when the printer is not receiving the flat-rate service (hereinafter referred to as the "non-service state"), but cannot be used when the printer is receiving the flat-rate service (hereinafter referred to as the "service state"). The bundled cartridges can be used in both the non-service state and the service state. The dedicated cartridges can be used in the service state, but cannot be used in the non-service state. The cartridges are equipped with memory (IC chip) that stores the cartridge number. Figure 1 shows the bundled cartridge 18A installed in the print execution unit 16.

[0017] The communication I / F 20 is connected to the LAN 4. The communication I / F 20 may be a wireless I / F or a wired I / F.

[0018] The control unit 30 includes a CPU 32 and a memory 34. The CPU 32 executes various processes in accordance with a program 36 stored in the memory 34. The memory 34 is composed of a volatile memory, a non-volatile memory, and the like. The memory 34 also stores a service flag 40. The service flag 40 indicates either "ON," which indicates that the printer 10A is receiving a flat-rate service, or "OFF," which indicates that the printer 10A is not receiving a flat-rate service. The printer 10A sets the service flag 40 to "ON" when the printer 10A is in a service-providing state, and sets the service flag 40 to "OFF" when the printer 10A is not in a service-providing state.

[0019] Printer 10B has the same configuration as printer 10A, except that it has serial number "SN2."

[0020] (Configuration of terminal device 100) The terminal device 100 is a user terminal such as a desktop PC, a notebook PC, a tablet PC, a mobile phone (e.g., a smartphone), etc. The terminal device 100 includes an operation unit 112, a display unit 114, a communication I / F 120, and a control unit 130. The units 112 to 130 are connected to a bus line (reference numerals omitted).

[0021] The operation unit 112 has a plurality of keys. A user can input various instructions to the terminal device 100 by operating the operation unit 112. The display unit 114 is a display for displaying various information. The display unit 114 also functions as a touch panel (i.e., an operation unit) that accepts instructions from the user. The communication I / F 120 is connected to the LAN 4. The communication I / F 120 may be a wireless I / F or a wired I / F.

[0022] The control unit 130 includes a CPU 132 and a memory 134. The CPU 132 executes various processes in accordance with programs 136 and 138 stored in the memory 134. The memory 134 is configured with a volatile memory, a non-volatile memory, etc. The memory 134 stores an OS (short for Operating System) program 136 and a print application 138. Hereinafter, the OS program 136 will be referred to as "OS 136," and the print application 138 will be referred to as "app 138." The OS 136 is a program for controlling the basic operations of the terminal device 100. The app 138 is an application for causing the printer 10 to execute printing using the terminal device 100.

[0023] (Configuration of Server 200) The server 200 is installed on the Internet 6 by the vendor of the printer 10. In a modified example, the server 200 may be installed on the Internet 6 by a business operator other than the vendor. In another modified example, the vendor of the printer 10 may not prepare the hardware for the server 200 itself, but may use an environment provided by an external cloud computing service. In this case, the vendor of the printer 10 may prepare a program (i.e., software) for the server 200 and implement the server 200 by installing it in the above-described environment. As described above, the server 200 provides a flat-fee service and an automatic ordering service. The flat-fee service is a service in which, if the number of printed sheets in a specified period (e.g., one month) is equal to or less than the contracted number of printed sheets (e.g., 1,000 sheets), a predetermined amount (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as a "flat-fee") is paid. If the number of printed sheets in the specified period exceeds the contracted number of printed sheets, a billed amount is paid that is the sum of the flat-fee and an amount corresponding to the number of printed sheets exceeding the contracted number of printed sheets. The automatic ordering service is, for example, a service that automatically orders a new dedicated cartridge when the remaining amount of ink in the dedicated cartridge attached to the print execution unit 16 of the printer 10A falls below a predetermined remaining amount. In a modified example, instead of a flat-rate service, the server 200 may provide a pay-as-you-go billing service in which an amount is paid according to the number of pages printed in a predetermined period (for example, one month).

[0024] The server 200 includes a communication I / F 220 and a control unit 230. The communication I / F 220 is connected to the Internet 6. The control unit 230 includes a CPU 232 and a memory 234. The CPU 232 executes various processes in accordance with a program 236 stored in the memory 234. The memory 234 is configured from a volatile memory, a non-volatile memory, etc. The memory 234 further stores a service table 238, a device table 240, and a screen table 242.

[0025] (Table configuration; Figure 2) Next, the contents of the service table 238, device table 240, and screen table 242 in the server 200 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0026] In the service table 238, model names and support information are stored in association with each other. The support information indicates either "ON" indicating that flat-rate service is supported, or "OFF" indicating that flat-rate service is not supported. The support information is information that is updated by the administrator of the server 200.

[0027] The serial number, model name, and cartridge number are associated and stored in the device table 240. Hereinafter, the serial number, model name, and cartridge number may be collectively referred to as "printer information."

[0028] The screen table 242 is a table for determining notification screen data to be transmitted to the terminal device 100 in the server processing (see FIG. 4), which will be described later. The screen table 242 stores support information, genuine information, type information, and notification screen data in association with each other. The genuine information is either "genuine," which indicates that the cartridge is genuine, or "non-genuine," which indicates that the cartridge is non-genuine. The type information is either "bundled," which indicates that the cartridge is a bundled cartridge, "general-purpose," which indicates that the cartridge is a general-purpose cartridge, or "dedicated," which indicates that the cartridge is a dedicated cartridge. The server 200 determines the notification screen data to be transmitted to the terminal device 100 using the support information, genuine information, and type information. Note that the memory 234 (see FIG. 1) of the server 200 pre-stores genuine information and cartridge number information for identifying type information based on the cartridge number. The first notification screen data ND1 to the fifth notification screen data ND5 will be described in detail later.

[0029] (Printer information registration process; Figure 3) 3, the printer information registration process in which printer information of printer 10A is registered in device table 240 of server 200 will be described. All of the following communications are performed via communication I / Fs 20, 120, and 220, and therefore, the following description omits the phrase "via communication I / F 20 (or 120, 220)." Also, in FIGS. 3, 5, and 9, for ease of understanding, the operations performed by CPU 32 of printer 10A, CPU 132 of terminal device 100, and CPU 232 of server 200 are described with printer 10A, terminal device 100, and server 200 as the subject, rather than CPUs 32, 132, and 232 as the subject. The operations performed by the CPU (not shown) of printer 10B are also described with printer 10B as the subject.

[0030] The user of printer 10A performs an operation to turn on printer 10A at T10, installs bundled cartridge 18A included with printer 10A into print execution unit 16 (see FIG. 1) at T12, and performs a network connection operation at T14. This enables printer 10A to communicate with server 200 via LAN 4 and the Internet 6. Then, printer 10A reads cartridge number "CN1" of bundled cartridge 18A installed in print execution unit 16, and sends printer information including serial number "SN1", model name "MN1", and cartridge number "CN1" to server 200 at T20.

[0031] When the server 200 receives the printer information from the printer 10A in T20, the server 200 associates the serial number "SN1," the model name "MN1," and the cartridge number "CN1" in the printer information with each other and stores them in the device table 240 in T22. Thereafter, the printer 10A transmits the printer information to the server 200 every time a predetermined time period (e.g., 24 hours) has elapsed. For example, after the bundled cartridge 18A attached to the print execution unit 16 is replaced with a generic cartridge, the printer 10A transmits printer information including the serial number "SN1," the model name "MN1," and the cartridge number of the generic cartridge to the server 200.

[0032] (Server processing; Figure 4) The server processing executed by the CPU 232 of the server 200 will be described with reference to Fig. 4. The CPU 232 starts the processing of Fig. 4 when the power of the server 200 is turned on.

[0033] In S10, the CPU 232 monitors whether the terminal device 100 has accessed the top screen. Specifically, the CPU 232 monitors whether a top screen data request has been received from the terminal device 100. The top screen is a screen for subscribing to a flat-rate service, and includes an input field for the printer's serial number. If a top screen data request has been received from the terminal device 100, the CPU 232 proceeds to S12.

[0034] In S12, the CPU 232 transmits the top screen data to the terminal device 100. When the terminal device 100 receives the top screen data from the server 200, it displays the top screen. Then, when the terminal device 100 receives input of a serial number into an input field on the top screen, it transmits the input serial number to the server 200.

[0035] In S14, the CPU 232 receives the serial number (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as the "target serial number") from the terminal device 100.

[0036] In S20, the CPU 232 identifies the target model name and the target cartridge number using the target serial number and the device table 240 (see FIG. 2). The CPU 232 identifies the model name and cartridge number associated with the target serial number in the device table 240 as the target model name and the target cartridge number, respectively.

[0037] In S30, CPU 232 determines whether the support information associated with the target model name is "ON" in service table 238 (see FIG. 2). If the support information is "ON" (YES in S30), CPU 232 proceeds to S40, and if the support information is "OFF" (NO in S30), CPU 232 proceeds to S32.

[0038] In S32, the CPU 232 identifies the first notification screen data ND1 associated with the support information "OFF" in the screen table 242 (see FIG. 2) and transmits the identified first notification screen data ND1 to the terminal device 100. Upon receiving the first notification screen data ND1 from the server 200, the terminal device 100 displays the first notification screen SC1. As shown in FIG. 2, the first notification screen SC1 includes a non-support message and an OK button. The non-support message includes a message indicating that the target printer identified by the target serial number does not support the flat-rate service. This allows the user to know that they cannot receive the flat-rate service using the target printer. When S32 in FIG. 4 ends, the CPU 232 ends the processing in FIG. 4.

[0039] In S40, the CPU 232 determines whether the cartridge installed in the target printer (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the "target cartridge") is a genuine cartridge. The CPU 232 uses the target cartridge number to identify the genuineness information of the target cartridge and determines whether the identified genuineness information is "genuine." If the genuineness information is "genuine" (YES in S40), the CPU 232 proceeds to S50, and if the genuineness information is not "genuine," i.e., if the genuineness information is "non-genuine" (NO in S40), the CPU 232 proceeds to S42.

[0040] In S42, the CPU 232 identifies second notification screen data ND2 associated with the support information "ON" and the genuineness information "non-genuine" in the screen table 242 (see FIG. 2), and transmits the identified second notification screen data ND2 to the terminal device 100. Upon receiving the second notification screen data ND2 from the server 200, the terminal device 100 displays a second notification screen SC2. As shown in FIG. 2, the second notification screen SC2 includes a non-genuine message, which is a message encouraging the user to subscribe to the flat-rate service, an OK button, and a Cancel button. The non-genuine message includes content indicating that subscribing to the flat-rate service will enable the user to use high-quality, low-cost printing and content indicating that a special discount will be applied. After S42 ends, the CPU 232 ends the processing of FIG. 4.

[0041] In S50, the CPU 232 determines whether the target cartridge is a bundled cartridge. The CPU 232 uses the target cartridge number to identify type information for the target cartridge, and determines whether the identified type information is "bundled." If the type information is "bundled" (YES in S50), the CPU 232 proceeds to S52, and if the type information is not "bundled" (NO in S50), the CPU 232 proceeds to S60.

[0042] In S52, the CPU 232 identifies third notification screen data ND3 associated with the support information "ON," the genuine information "genuine," and the type information "included" in the screen table 242 (see FIG. 2), and transmits the identified third notification screen data ND3 to the terminal device 100. Upon receiving the third notification screen data ND3 from the server 200, the terminal device 100 displays a third notification screen SC3. As shown in FIG. 2, the third notification screen SC3 includes a first genuine message including notification content for the included cartridge, an OK button, and a Cancel button. The first genuine message is a message encouraging the user to subscribe to the flat-rate service. The first genuine message also includes content indicating that by subscribing to the flat-rate service, the user can immediately use the flat-rate service and content indicating that a special discount will be applied. When S52 in FIG. 4 ends, the CPU 232 ends the processing in FIG. 4.

[0043] In S60, the CPU 232 determines whether the target cartridge is a generic cartridge. The CPU 232 determines whether the type information identified in S50 is "general purpose." If the type information is "general purpose" (YES in S60), the CPU 232 proceeds to S62, and if the type information is not "general purpose" (NO in S60), the CPU 232 proceeds to S70. Note that if the type information is neither "bundled" nor "general purpose," the type information is "dedicated."

[0044] In S62, the CPU 232 identifies fourth notification screen data ND4 associated with the support information "ON," the genuine information "genuine," and the type information "generic" in the screen table 242 (see FIG. 2 ) and transmits the identified fourth notification screen data ND4 to the terminal device 100. Upon receiving the fourth notification screen data ND4 from the server 200, the terminal device 100 displays a fourth notification screen SC4. As shown in FIG. 2 , the fourth notification screen SC4 includes a first genuine message containing notification content for a generic cartridge, an OK button, and a Cancel button. The first genuine message is a message encouraging the user to subscribe to the flat-rate service. The first genuine message also includes content indicating that the flat-rate service will be available after the dedicated cartridge arrives and content indicating that a general discount will be applied. Note that the general discount offers greater benefits to the user than the special discount. For example, if the free period for the flat-rate fee under the special discount is "two months," the free period for the flat-rate fee under the general discount is "one month." When S62 in FIG. 4 ends, the CPU 232 ends the processing in FIG.

[0045] In S70, the CPU 232 identifies fifth notification screen data ND5 associated with the support information "ON", the genuine information "genuine", and the type information "dedicated" in the screen table 242 (see FIG. 2), and transmits the identified fifth notification screen data ND5 to the terminal device 100. Upon receiving the fifth notification screen data ND5 from the server 200, the terminal device 100 displays a fifth notification screen SC5. As shown in FIG. 2, the fifth notification screen SC5 includes a second genuine message and an OK button. The second genuine message includes content indicating that the user has subscribed to the flat-rate service. This allows the user to know that the user has subscribed to the flat-rate service. When S70 ends, the CPU 232 ends the processing of FIG. 4.

[0046] (Case A; Figure 5) Referring to Figure 5, case A will be described in which an operation to subscribe to a flat-rate service is executed when the bundled cartridge 18A included with the printer 10A when sold is installed in the print execution unit 16 of the printer 10A. The initial state of case A is the state after the printer information registration process of Figure 3 is completed. Therefore, the serial number "SN1", model name "MN1", and cartridge number "CN1" are stored in association with each other in the device table 240 of the server 200 (see Figure 2).

[0047] When the terminal device 100 receives an access operation for accessing the top screen of the server 200 in T110, the terminal device 100 transmits a top screen data request to the server 200 in T112.

[0048] When the server 200 receives the top screen data request from the terminal device 100 in T112 (YES in S10 of FIG. 4), the server 200 transmits the top screen data to the terminal device 100 in T114 (S12).

[0049] When the terminal device 100 receives the top screen data from the terminal device 100 in T114, it displays the top screen in T116. Next, when the terminal device 100 accepts input of the serial number "SN1" of the printer 10A in T120, it transmits the serial number "SN1" to the server 200 in T122.

[0050] When server 200 receives serial number "SN1" from terminal device 100 at T122 (S14), it identifies, in device table 240, model name "MN1" and cartridge number CN1 associated with target serial number "SN1" as target model name "MN1" and target cartridge number "CN1," respectively (S20). Next, server 200 determines that, in service table 238, support information associated with target model name "MN1" is "ON" (YES in S30), and uses target cartridge number "CN1" to identify the genuine information and type information of the target cartridge as "genuine" and "bundled," respectively. Next, server 200 determines that the identified genuine information is "genuine" (YES in S40), determines that the identified type information is "bundled" (YES in S50), and identifies third notification screen data ND3 in screen table 242 as notification screen data to be sent to terminal device 100. Then, in T124, the server 200 transmits the third notification screen data ND3 to the terminal device 100 (S52).

[0051] When the terminal device 100 receives the third notification screen data ND3 from the server 200 at T124, it displays the third notification screen SC3 (see FIG. 2) at T126. This informs the user that the flat-rate service can be used immediately and that a special discount will be applied. The user can then subscribe to the flat-rate service.

[0052] (Effects of this embodiment) According to the above configuration, if the cartridge (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the "installed cartridge") installed in the printer 10 is a genuine cartridge (YES in S40), the server 200 sends a first genuine message to the terminal device 100 (S52, S62), and if the installed cartridge is a non-genuine cartridge (NO in S40), the server 200 sends a non-genuine message to the terminal device 100 (S42). With this configuration, the server 200 can send an appropriate message to the terminal device 100 according to the type of installed cartridge. This can improve user convenience.

[0053] Furthermore, if the loaded cartridge is a bundled cartridge (YES in S50), the server 200 transmits a first genuine message to the terminal device 100 including notification content for the bundled cartridge (S52), and if the loaded cartridge is a generic cartridge (YES in S60), the server 200 transmits a first genuine message to the terminal device 100 including notification content for the generic cartridge (S42). With this configuration, when a genuine cartridge is loaded in the printer 10, the server 200 can transmit an appropriate message according to the type of genuine cartridge to the terminal device 100. This can further improve user convenience.

[0054] Furthermore, if the loaded cartridge is a dedicated cartridge (NO in S60), the server 200 transmits a second genuine message to the terminal device 100 (S70). This configuration allows the user to know that the printer is receiving a flat-rate service. This improves user convenience.

[0055] Furthermore, if the printer 10 does not support the flat-rate service (NO in S30), the server 200 sends a non-support message to the terminal device 100 (S32); if the loaded cartridge is a genuine cartridge (YES in S40) and the printer 10 supports the flat-rate service (YES in S30), the server 200 sends a first genuine message to the terminal device 100 (S52, S62); and if the loaded cartridge is a non-genuine cartridge (NO in S40) and the printer 10 supports the flat-rate service (YES in S30), the server 200 sends a non-genuine message to the terminal device 100 (S42). With this configuration, the server 200 can send an appropriate message to the terminal device 100 depending on whether the printer 10 supports the flat-rate service and the type of loaded cartridge. This can further improve user convenience.

[0056] (Correspondence) A flat-rate service is an example of a "printer-related service." A cartridge number is an example of "cartridge information." A serial number is an example of "identification information." The first genuine message and non-genuine message are examples of a "first message" and a "second message," respectively. The included cartridge and generic cartridge are examples of a "first type genuine cartridge" and a "second type genuine cartridge," respectively. The notification content for the included cartridge and the notification content for the generic cartridge in the first genuine message are examples of a "first notification content" and a "second notification content," respectively. A dedicated cartridge is an example of a "third type genuine cartridge." The second genuine message is an example of a "third message." A non-support message is an example of a "fourth message."

[0057] T20 in Fig. 3 is an example of processing executed by a "printer information receiving unit." S52 and S62 in Fig. 4 are examples of processing executed by a "first message sending unit." S42 in Fig. 4 is an example of processing executed by a "second message sending unit."

[0058] (Second Example) In this embodiment, the printer process of Fig. 6 is executed instead of the server process of Fig. 4. Also, in this embodiment, cartridge number information for identifying genuine information and type information based on the cartridge number is stored in advance in the memory 34 (see Fig. 1) of the printer 10A.

[0059] (Printer processing; Figure 6) The printer processing executed by the CPU 32 of the printer 10A will be described with reference to Fig. 6. The CPU 32 starts the processing of Fig. 6 when printing is completed. In a modified example, the CPU 32 may execute the processing of Fig. 6 when the power of the printer 10A is turned on or every time a predetermined time has elapsed.

[0060] In S110, the CPU 32 determines whether the service flag 40 in the memory 34 is "OFF." That is, the CPU 32 determines whether the printer 10A is receiving a flat-rate service. If the service flag 40 is "OFF" (YES in S110), the CPU 32 proceeds to S120, and if the service flag 40 is "ON," the CPU 32 ends the processing of FIG. 6.

[0061] In S120, the CPU 32 determines whether the printer 10A supports a flat-rate service. The CPU 32 transmits the model name "MN1" of the printer 10A to the server 200 and receives support information corresponding to the model name "MN1" from the server 200. The CPU 32 then determines whether the received support information is "ON." If the support information is "ON" (YES in S120), the CPU 32 proceeds to S130, and if the support information is "OFF" (NO in S120), the CPU 32 ends the processing of FIG. 6.

[0062] S130, S140, and S150 are similar to S40, S50, and S60 in FIG. 4, respectively, except that they are processes executed by CPU 32, that they utilize the cartridge number read from the cartridge installed in printer 10A, and that they utilize cartridge number information in memory 34.

[0063] If the genuine information is "genuine" (YES in S130), the CPU 32 proceeds to S140, and if the genuine information is not "genuine", that is, if the genuine information is "non-genuine" (NO in S130), the CPU 32 proceeds to S132. In S132, the CPU 32 displays the second notification screen SC2 (see FIG. 2) on the display unit 14. When S132 ends, the CPU 32 ends the processing in FIG. 6.

[0064] If the type information is "bundled" (YES in S140), the CPU 32 proceeds to S142, and if the type information is not "bundled" (NO in S140), the CPU 32 proceeds to S150. In S142, the CPU 32 displays the third notification screen SC3 (see FIG. 2) on the display unit 14. When S142 ends, the CPU 32 ends the processing in FIG. 6.

[0065] If the type information is "general purpose" (YES in S150), the CPU 32 proceeds to S152, and if the type information is not "general purpose", that is, if the type information is "dedicated" (NO in S150), the CPU 32 ends the processing of FIG. 6. In S152, the CPU 32 displays the fourth notification screen SC4 (see FIG. 2) on the display unit 14. When S142 ends, the CPU 32 ends the processing of FIG. 6.

[0066] (Effects of this embodiment) According to the above configuration, the printer 10A displays a first genuine message (S142, S152) if the cartridge installed in the print execution unit 16 (i.e., the installed cartridge) is a genuine cartridge (YES in S130 of FIG. 5), and displays a non-genuine message (S132) if the installed cartridge is a non-genuine cartridge (NO in S130). This configuration allows the printer 10A to display an appropriate message according to the type of installed cartridge. This improves user convenience.

[0067] Furthermore, if the installed cartridge is a bundled cartridge (YES in S140), the printer 10A displays a first genuine message containing notification content for the bundled cartridge (S142), and if the installed cartridge is a generic cartridge (YES in S150), the printer 10A displays a first genuine message containing notification content for the generic cartridge (S152). With this configuration, the printer 10A can display an appropriate message according to the type of genuine cartridge when a genuine cartridge is installed in the print execution unit 16. This can further improve user convenience.

[0068] Furthermore, if the installed cartridge is a dedicated cartridge (NO in S150), the printer 10A does not display the first genuine message or the non-genuine message. If the first genuine message or the non-genuine message is displayed when the flat-rate service is already subscribed to, the user may feel annoyed. With the above configuration, it is possible to prevent the user from feeling annoyed.

[0069] Furthermore, if the installed cartridge is a genuine cartridge (YES in S130) and the printer 10A supports the flat-rate service (YES in S120), the printer 10A displays the first genuine message (S142, S152). If the installed cartridge is a non-genuine cartridge (NO in S130) and the printer 10A supports the flat-rate service (YES in S120), the printer 10A displays the non-genuine message (S132). If the printer 10A does not support the flat-rate service (NO in S120), the printer 10A does not display the first genuine message or the non-genuine message. If the first genuine message or the non-genuine message is displayed in a situation where subscription to the flat-rate service is not possible, the user may find it annoying. The above configuration can prevent the user from feeling this annoyance. Furthermore, the types of printers that can receive the flat-rate service may be expanded. According to the above configuration, the printer 10A can display the first genuine message and the non-genuine message after the printer 10A changes from a state where it is unable to receive the flat-rate service to a state where it is able to receive the flat-rate service. This allows the user to know that the printer 10A has become able to receive the flat-rate service. This improves user convenience.

[0070] Furthermore, the printer 10A displays the first genuine message if the installed cartridge is a genuine cartridge (YES in S130) and the service flag 40 is "OFF" (YES in S110), displays the non-genuine message if the cartridge is a non-genuine cartridge (NO in S130) and the service flag 40 is "OFF" (YES in S110), and does not display the first genuine message or the non-genuine message if the service flag 40 is "ON" (NO in S110). If the first genuine message and the non-genuine message are displayed when a flat-rate service has been subscribed to, the user may find it annoying. With the above configuration, it is possible to prevent the user from feeling this annoyance.

[0071] (Correspondence) The service flag 40 is an example of "service information."

[0072] S142 and S152 in Fig. 6 are examples of processing executed by the "first display control unit" of the "printer." S132 in Fig. 6 is an example of processing executed by the "second display control unit" of the "printer."

[0073] (Third Example) In the third embodiment, the terminal processing of Fig. 8 is executed instead of the server processing of Fig. 4. Also, as shown in Fig. 1, in this embodiment, a management table 140 is stored in the memory 134 of the terminal device 100. Also, the memory 134 of the terminal device 100 pre-stores genuine information and cartridge number information for identifying type information based on the cartridge number.

[0074] 7, serial numbers, model names, and service provision information are stored in association with each other in management table 140. The service provision information indicates either a value of "ON" indicating that a flat-rate service is being provided, or a value of "OFF" indicating that a flat-rate service is not being provided.

[0075] (Terminal processing; Figure 8) Referring to Fig. 8, a description will be given of terminal processing that the CPU 132 of the terminal device 100 executes in accordance with the application 138. The CPU 132 starts the processing of Fig. 8 when printing using the application 138 is completed, that is, when a print completion notification is received from the printer 10. In a modified example, the application 138 may execute the processing of Fig. 8 when the application 138 is started, or each time a predetermined time has elapsed while the application 138 is started. In the following, for ease of understanding, in Fig. 8, the application 138 will be described as the subject of processing, instead of the CPU 132.

[0076] In S210, the application 138 determines whether all the service provision information in the management table 140 is "OFF." If all the service provision information is "OFF" (YES in S210), the application 138 proceeds to S212. On the other hand, if at least one piece of service provision information is "ON" (NO in S210), the application 138 ends the processing in FIG. 8.

[0077] In S212, the application 138 sends a cartridge information request to the printer that sent the print completion notification (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as the "target printer") The cartridge information request is a signal for requesting the transmission of cartridge information including the cartridge number of the cartridge installed in the target printer.

[0078] In S214, the application 138 receives cartridge information from the target printer.

[0079] In S220, the application 138 determines whether the target printer supports a flat-rate service. The application 138 identifies the model name associated with the serial number of the target printer in the management table 140, transmits the identified model name to the server 200, and receives support information corresponding to the identified model name from the server 200. The application 138 then determines whether the support information received from the server 200 is "ON." If the support information is "ON" (YES in S220), the application 138 proceeds to S230, and if the support information is "OFF" (NO in S220), the application 138 ends the processing of FIG. 8.

[0080] 4, respectively, except that S230, S240, and S250 are processes executed by application 138, use the cartridge number in the cartridge information received from the target printer, and use the cartridge number information in memory 134. Also, S232, S242, and S252 are processes executed by application 138, and are similar to S132, S142, and S152 in FIG. 6, respectively, except that S232, S242, and S252 are processes executed by application 138, and display second notification screen SC2 to fourth notification screen SC4 on display unit 114 of terminal device 100.

[0081] (Case B) 9, a case B in which printing is performed using the printer 10A when a generic cartridge is installed in the printer 10A will be described. In the initial state of case B, the management table 140 is empty.

[0082] When the terminal device 100 accepts an operation to start the application 138 in T210, it displays a home screen in T212. The home screen is a screen for executing printing using a printer registered in the application 138, and is also a screen for registering a printer in the application 138. When the terminal device 100 accepts an operation to register the printer 10A identified by the serial number "SN1" in T214, it transmits a device information request to the printer 10A in T220.

[0083] When printer 10A receives a device information request from terminal device 100 at T220, it determines that service flag 40 in memory 34 is "OFF," and at T222 it sends device information including serial number "SN1," model name "MN1," and service provision information "OFF" to terminal device 100.

[0084] When the terminal device 100 receives the device information from the printer 10A in T222, it associates the serial number "SN1," the model name "MN1," and the service provision information "OFF" in the management table 140 in T224, and displays the home screen in T232. At this point, the user can cause the printer 10A to execute printing via the application 138. T234 is the same as T214 except that the serial number "SN2" is selected. T240 and T242 are the same as T220 and T222, respectively, except that the communication target is the printer 10B. Note that the printer 10B transmits device information including the serial number "SN2," the model name "MN1," and the service provision information "OFF" to the terminal device 100 in T242. When the terminal device 100 receives the device information from the printer 10B in T242, it associates the serial number "SN2," the model name "MN1," and the service provision information "OFF" and stores them in the management table 140 in T244, and displays the home screen in T252. At this point, the user can cause the printer 10A and the printer 10B to execute printing via the application 138. When the terminal device 100 accepts an operation to cause the printer 10A, identified by the serial number "SN1," to execute printing in T254, it transmits print data to the printer 10A in T260.

[0085] When the printer 10A receives the print data from the terminal device 100 in T260, it executes printing using the print data in T262, and transmits a print completion notification to the terminal device 100 in T264.

[0086] When the terminal device 100 receives a print completion notification from the printer 10A in T264, it determines that all service provision information in the management table 140 is "OFF" (YES in S210 of FIG. 8), sends a cartridge information request to the printer 10A in T270 (S212), and receives cartridge information including the cartridge number "CN2" of the generic cartridge from the printer 10A in T272 (S214). Next, the terminal device 100 identifies the model name "MN1" associated with the serial number "SN1" of the printer 10A used for printing in the management table 140, sends a support information request including the model name "MN1" to the server 200 in T280, and receives the support information "ON" from the server 200 in T282. The terminal device 100 determines that the received support information is "ON" (YES in S220). Next, the terminal device 100 uses the received cartridge number "CN2" and the cartridge number information in memory 134 to identify the genuineness information "genuine" and type information "generic" corresponding to cartridge number "CN2." In this case, the terminal device 100 determines that the cartridge installed in printer 10A is a genuine cartridge (YES in S230), determines that the cartridge is not a bundled cartridge (NO in S240), and determines that the cartridge is a generic cartridge (YES in S250). In this case, the terminal device 100 displays the fourth notification screen SC4 (see FIG. 2) at T290 (S252).

[0087] (Effects of this embodiment) According to the above configuration, if the cartridge installed in the printer 10 (i.e., the installed cartridge) is a genuine cartridge (YES in S230 of FIG. 8), the terminal device 100 displays a first genuine message (S242, S252), and if the installed cartridge is a non-genuine cartridge (NO in S230), it displays a non-genuine message (S232). With this configuration, the terminal device 100 can display an appropriate message according to the type of cartridge installed in the printer 10. This can improve user convenience.

[0088] Furthermore, if the installed cartridge is a bundled cartridge (YES in S240), the terminal device 100 displays a first genuine message including notification content for the bundled cartridge (S242), and if the installed cartridge is a generic cartridge (YES in S250), it displays a first genuine message including notification content for the generic cartridge (S252). With this configuration, the terminal device 100 can display an appropriate message according to the type of genuine cartridge when a genuine cartridge is installed in the printer 10. This can further improve user convenience.

[0089] Furthermore, if the loaded cartridge is a dedicated cartridge (NO in S250), the terminal device 100 does not display the first genuine message or the non-genuine message. With this configuration, it is possible to prevent the user from feeling annoyed.

[0090] Furthermore, if the loaded cartridge is a genuine cartridge (YES in S230) and the printer 10 supports the flat-rate service (YES in S220), the terminal device 100 displays the first genuine message (S242, S252), if the loaded cartridge is a non-genuine cartridge (NO in S230) and the printer 10 supports the flat-rate service (YES in S220), the terminal device 100 displays the non-genuine message (S232), and if the printer 10 does not support the flat-rate service (NO in S220), the terminal device 100 does not display the first genuine message or the non-genuine message. This configuration can reduce user annoyance and improve user convenience.

[0091] Furthermore, if the loaded cartridge is a genuine cartridge (YES in S230 of FIG. 8) and all service provision information in the memory 134 is “OFF” (YES in S210), the terminal device 100 displays the first genuine message (S242, S252). If the loaded cartridge is a non-genuine cartridge (NO in S230) and all service provision information in the memory 134 is “OFF” (YES in S210), the terminal device 100 displays the non-genuine message (S232). If at least one piece of service provision information in the memory 134 is “OFF” (NO in S210), the terminal device 100 does not display the first genuine message or the non-genuine message. If at least one piece of service provision information in the memory 134 is “OFF,” the user of the terminal device 100 is likely to be aware of the flat-rate service. In such a situation, if a message prompting the user to subscribe to the flat-rate service is displayed, the user may feel annoyed. The above configuration can prevent the user from feeling annoyed.

[0092] (Correspondence) S242 and S252 in Fig. 8 are examples of processing executed by the "first display control unit" of the "computer of the terminal device." S232 in Fig. 8 is an example of processing executed by the "second display control unit" of the "computer of the terminal device."

[0093] Although specific examples of the present invention have been described above in detail, these are merely examples and do not limit the scope of the claims. The technology described in the claims includes various modifications and variations of the specific examples exemplified above. Modifications of the above-mentioned embodiments are listed below.

[0094] (First Modification) In the first to third embodiments, the server 200 may be configured by a single server, or may have a plurality of servers.

[0095] (Second Modification) In the first embodiment, the server 200 identifies the type of cartridge, but the printer 10 may identify the type of cartridge. In this case, the printer 10 transmits information indicating the type of cartridge (i.e., genuineness information and type information) to the server 200. In this modification, the information indicating the type of cartridge is an example of "cartridge information."

[0096] (Third Modification) In the first embodiment, the server 200 does not need to periodically receive printer information from the printer 10. In this modification, when the server 200 receives a serial number from the terminal device 100, it sends a printer information request to the printer 10 or the terminal device 100 and receives the printer information from the printer 10 or the terminal device 100.

[0097] (Fourth Modification) In the first to third embodiments, the third notification screen data ND3 and the fourth notification screen data ND4 may be the same. That is, the content of the notification message displayed when the mounted cartridge is a bundled cartridge may be the same as the content of the notification message displayed when the mounted cartridge is a generic cartridge.

[0098] (Fifth Modification) The "first type genuine cartridge" is not limited to a packaged cartridge, but may be a cartridge that is included with the printer when it is sold, for example, a cartridge that is sold as a set with the printer.

[0099] (Sixth Modification) In the first embodiment, S70 can be omitted. In this modification, the "third message transmitting unit" can be omitted.

[0100] (Seventh Modification) In the second embodiment, the printer 10A may display the second genuine message if the determination in S150 of Fig. 6 is NO. Also, in the third embodiment, the terminal device 100 may display the second genuine message if the determination in S250 of Fig. 8 is NO.

[0101] (Eighth Modification) It is possible to omit S30 and S32 in Fig. 4. In this modification, it is possible to omit the "model name receiving unit" and the "fourth message transmitting unit".

[0102] (Ninth Modification) In the second embodiment, the printer 10A may display a non-support message if the determination in S120 of Fig. 6 is NO. Also, in the third embodiment, the terminal device 100 may display a non-support message if the determination in S220 of Fig. 8 is NO.

[0103] (Tenth Modification) S110 in Fig. 6 can be omitted. In this modification, the printer 10A does not need to store the service flag 40. In other words, the "service information" can be omitted.

[0104] (Eleventh Modification) S210 in Fig. 8 can be omitted. In this modification, the terminal device 100 does not need to store the management table 140. That is, the "service provision information" can be omitted.

[0105] (12th Variation) In each of the above embodiments, the processes in Figures 3 to 6, 8, and 9 are realized by software (e.g., programs 36, 136, 138, 236), but at least one of these processes may be realized by hardware such as a logic circuit.

[0106] Furthermore, the technical elements described in this specification or drawings may exhibit technical utility either alone or in various combinations, and are not limited to the combinations described in the claims at the time of filing. Furthermore, the technologies illustrated in this specification or drawings simultaneously achieve multiple objectives, and achieving one of those objectives is itself technically useful. [Explanation of symbols]

[0107] 2: Communication system, 4: LAN, 6: Internet, 10: Printer, 10A: Printer, 10B: Printer, 12: Operation unit, 14: Display unit, 16: Print execution unit, 18A: Bundled cartridge, 20: Communication I / F, 30: Control unit, 32: CPU, 34: Memory, 36: Program, 40: Service flag, 100: Terminal device, 112: Operation unit, 114: Display unit, 120: Communication I / F, 130: Control unit, 132: CPU, 134: Memory, 136: OS program, 138: Print application, 140: Management table, 200: Server, 220: Communication I / F, 230: Control unit, 232: CPU, 234: Memory, 236: Program, 238: Service table, 240: Device table, 242: Screen table

Claims

1. A server that provides printer-related services, a cartridge information receiving unit that receives, from the printer, cartridge information relating to whether the cartridge installed in the printer is a genuine cartridge provided by the printer vendor or a non-genuine cartridge provided by a business operator different from the printer vendor; a first message sending unit that sends a first message to the terminal device prompting subscription to the service when identification information identifying the printer is received from a terminal device different from the printer, and when the cartridge information received from the printer identified by the identification information indicates that the genuine cartridge is installed in the printer; a second message sending unit that, when the identification information is received from the terminal device and the cartridge information received from the printer identified by the identification information indicates that the non-genuine cartridge is installed in the printer, sends to the terminal device a second message that encourages the user to join the service, the second message being different from the first message; A server comprising:

2. The first message sending unit sending the first message including first notification content to the terminal device when the identification information is received from the terminal device and the cartridge information received from the printer identified by the identification information indicates that a first type of genuine cartridge that was attached to the printer when it was sold is installed in the printer; 2. The server according to claim 1, wherein when the identification information is received from the terminal device and the cartridge information received from the printer identified by the identification information indicates that a genuine cartridge of a second type different from the genuine cartridge of the first type, and that the genuine cartridge of the second type not included in the printer when it was sold, is installed in the printer, the server transmits the first message to the terminal device, the first message including second notification content different from the first notification content.

3. the second type genuine cartridge is a cartridge that can be used by the printer when the printer is not receiving the service, and cannot be used by the printer when the printer is receiving the service, The server further 3. The server according to claim 2, further comprising a third message sending unit that, when the identification information is received from the terminal device and the cartridge information received from the printer identified by the identification information indicates that a genuine cartridge of a third type different from the genuine cartridge of the first type and the genuine cartridge of the second type is attached to the printer, the genuine cartridge of the third type being different from the genuine cartridge of the first type and the genuine cartridge of the second type, the genuine cartridge being not included in the printer when it was sold and being usable by the printer when the printer is receiving the service, sends to the terminal device a third message different from the first message and the second message, the third message indicating that the printer has subscribed to the service.

4. The server further a model name receiving unit that receives the model name of the printer from the printer; a fourth message sending unit that, when the identification information is received from the terminal device and the model name received from the printer identified by the identification information is a model name for which the service cannot be provided, sends a fourth message to the terminal device indicating that the printer is unable to receive the service; the first message sending unit sends the first message to the terminal device when the identification information is received from the terminal device, the cartridge information received from the printer identified by the identification information indicates that the genuine cartridge is installed in the printer, and the model name received from the printer identified by the identification information is a model name that can receive the service, 2. The server according to claim 1, wherein the second message sending unit sends the second message to the terminal device when the identification information is received from the terminal device, the cartridge information received from the printer identified by the identification information indicates that the non-genuine cartridge is installed in the printer, and the model name received from the printer identified by the identification information is the name of a model that can receive the service.

5. The server further an identification information receiving unit that receives the identification information together with the cartridge information from the printer; a storage control unit that, when the identification information and the cartridge information are received from the printer, stores the identification information and the cartridge information in a memory in association with each other; the first message sending unit sends the first message to the terminal device when the identification information is received from the terminal device and the cartridge information associated with the identification information in the memory indicates that the genuine cartridge is installed in the printer; The server according to claim 1, wherein the second message sending unit sends the second message to the terminal device when the identification information is received from the terminal device and the cartridge information associated with the identification information in the memory indicates that the non-genuine cartridge is installed in the printer.

6. 1. A printer comprising: A display unit; a print execution unit to which a cartridge is detachably attached; a first display control unit that, when the cartridge installed in the print execution unit is a genuine cartridge provided by a vendor of the printer, displays a first message on the display unit that prompts the user to subscribe to a service provided by a server; a second display control unit that, when the cartridge installed in the print execution unit is a non-genuine cartridge provided by a business different from the vendor, causes a second message that urges the user to subscribe to the service to be displayed on the display unit, the second message being different from the first message; A printer comprising:

7. The first display control unit when the cartridge attached to the print execution unit is a genuine cartridge of a first type that was attached to the printer when the printer was sold, displaying the first message including first notification content on the display unit; 7. The printer according to claim 6, wherein when the cartridge attached to the print execution unit is a genuine cartridge of a second type different from the genuine cartridge of the first type, and is a genuine cartridge of the second type that was not included in the printer when it was sold, the printer causes the display unit to display the first message including second notification content different from the first notification content.

8. the second type genuine cartridge is a cartridge that can be used by the printer when the printer is not receiving the service, and cannot be used by the printer when the printer is receiving the service, 8. The printer according to claim 7, wherein the first message and the second message are not displayed when the cartridge attached to the print execution unit is a genuine cartridge of a third type different from the genuine cartridge of the first type and the genuine cartridge of the second type, the genuine cartridge of the third type not included in the printer when it was sold, and the genuine cartridge is usable by the printer when the printer is receiving the service.

9. the first display control unit displays the first message on the display unit when the cartridge attached to the print execution unit is the genuine cartridge and the printer is able to receive the service; the second display control unit displays the second message on the display unit when the cartridge attached to the print execution unit is the non-genuine cartridge and the printer is eligible for the service; 7. The printer of claim 6, wherein the first message and the second message are not displayed if the printer is unable to receive the service.

10. the printer includes a memory for storing service information indicating whether the printer is receiving the service; the first display control unit displays the first message on the display unit when the cartridge attached to the print execution unit is the genuine cartridge and the service information in the memory indicates that the printer has not received the service; the second display control unit displays the second message on the display unit when the cartridge attached to the print execution unit is the non-genuine cartridge and the service information in the memory indicates that the printer has not received the service; 7. The printer of claim 6, wherein the first message and the second message are not displayed if the service information in the memory indicates that the printer is receiving the service.

11. An application program for a terminal device, The computer of the terminal device is composed of the following parts: a cartridge information receiving unit that receives cartridge information from a printer, relating to whether a cartridge installed in the printer is a genuine cartridge provided by the printer vendor or a non-genuine cartridge provided by a business other than the printer vendor; a first display control unit that, when the cartridge information indicates that the genuine cartridge is installed in the printer, causes a first message to be displayed on a display unit of the terminal device, encouraging the user to subscribe to the service related to the printer, the service being provided by a server; and a second display control unit that, when the cartridge information indicates that the non-genuine cartridge is installed in the printer, causes the display unit to display a second message that encourages subscription to the service, the second message being different from the first message; An application program that acts as a

12. The first display control unit when the cartridge information indicates that a genuine cartridge of a first type that was attached to the printer when the printer was sold is attached to the printer, displaying the first message including first notification content on the display unit; 12. The application program according to claim 11, wherein when the cartridge information indicates that the printer is fitted with a genuine cartridge of a second type different from the genuine cartridge of the first type, the genuine cartridge of the second type not included in the printer when it was sold, the application program causes the display unit to display the first message including second notification content different from the first notification content.

13. the second type genuine cartridge is a cartridge that can be used by the printer when the printer is not receiving the service, and cannot be used by the printer when the printer is receiving the service, 13. The application program according to claim 12, wherein the first message and the second message are not displayed when the cartridge information indicates that the printer is equipped with a third-type genuine cartridge that is different from the first-type genuine cartridge and the second-type genuine cartridge, that was not included in the printer when it was sold, and that is usable by the printer when the printer is receiving the service.

14. The terminal device a model name receiving unit that receives a model name of the printer from the printer; the first display control unit causes the display unit to display the first message when the cartridge information indicates that the genuine cartridge is installed in the printer and the model name is a model name for which the service can be provided; the second display control unit displays the second message on the display unit when the cartridge information indicates that the non-genuine cartridge is installed in the printer and the model name is a model name for which the service can be provided; 12. The application program according to claim 11, wherein the first message and the second message are not displayed when the model name is a model name for which the service cannot be provided.

15. The terminal device a memory for storing service provision information indicating whether or not the printer is receiving the service for each of two or more printers including the printer; the first display control unit displays the first message on the display unit when the cartridge information indicates that the genuine cartridge is installed in the printer and all of the service provision information in the memory indicates that the service is not provided; the second display control unit displays the second message on the display unit when the cartridge information indicates that the non-genuine cartridge is installed in the printer and all of the service provision information in the memory indicates that the service has not been provided; The application program according to claim 11 , wherein the first message and the second message are not displayed when at least one piece of service provision information in the memory indicates that the service is being provided.

Images