Printing system, printing device, terminal device, and program

Abstract

This printing system is provided with a printing device that performs a printing operation, and a terminal device that operates the printing device by communicating with the printing device. The printing device has an identification unit that performs an identification operation for identifying the status of use of the printing device by another user different from a user of the terminal device, and transmits an identification result of the identification unit to the terminal device. In accordance with the identification result, the terminal device inquires the user of the terminal device of the contents of an operation with respect to the printing device.

Description

Printing system, printing device, terminal device, and program

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a printing system, a printing device, a terminal device, and a program.

[0002] Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2006-129999 describes a printing system in which a terminal device is connected via a communication cable to a host computer having a power control device that turns the power of the printing device on or off. In this printing system, the terminal device checks the power on / off status of the printing device and turns the power on / off via the host computer. This allows a user of the printing device to remotely turn the power on / off from the terminal device, instead of manually turning the power on / off directly to the printing device.

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 5-58001

[0004] A printing system according to a first aspect includes a printing device that performs printing operations and a terminal device that operates the printing device by communicating with the printing device. The printing device has an identification unit that performs an identification operation to identify usage status of the printing device by users other than the user of the terminal device, and transmits the identification result of the identification unit to the terminal device. The terminal device then queries the user of the terminal device about the operation details for the printing device in response to the identification result.

[0005] A printing device according to a second aspect is a printing device that performs a printing operation and includes a communication unit that communicates with a terminal device that operates the printing device, and an identification unit that performs an identification operation to identify usage status of the printing device by a user other than the user of the terminal device. The communication unit transmits the identification result of the identification unit to the terminal device.

[0006] A terminal device according to a third aspect is a terminal device for operating a printing device, and includes a communication unit that communicates with the printing device to receive from the printing device an identification result that identifies the usage status of the printing device by other users different from the user of the terminal device, and a control unit that queries the user of the terminal device about the operation content for the printing device in accordance with the identification result.

[0007] The program relating to the fourth aspect causes a terminal device that operates a printing device to execute the steps of communicating with the printing device to receive from the printing device an identification result that identifies the usage status of the printing device by other users different from the user of the terminal device, and inquiring from the user of the terminal device about the operation content for the printing device based on the identification result.

[0008] 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a printing system according to an embodiment; FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a printing device according to an embodiment; FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a terminal device according to an embodiment; FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of an operation sequence of a printing system according to an embodiment; FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display of an operation screen displayed on a display unit of a terminal device according to an embodiment; FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of an operation sequence of a printing system according to a first modified example of an embodiment; FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display of an operation screen displayed on a display unit of a terminal device according to a first modified example of an embodiment; FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of a printing device according to a second modified example of an embodiment; FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of an operation scenario according to a second modified example of an embodiment; FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating another example of an operation scenario according to the second modified example of an embodiment.

[0009] Conventional technologies have room for improvement in terms of increasing convenience for users of printing devices. For example, the technology described in Patent Document 1 allows a terminal device to remotely turn on / off the power of a printing device, but has the problem that the terminal device cannot remotely grasp the usage status of the printing device by other users other than the user of the terminal device.

[0010] The embodiments provide a printing system, a printing device, a terminal device, and a program that can improve convenience for users who use the printing device.

[0011] A printing system according to an embodiment includes a printing device that performs printing operations and a terminal device that operates the printing device by communicating with the printing device. The printing device has an identification unit that performs an identification operation to identify usage status of the printing device by users other than the user of the terminal device, and transmits the identification results from the identification unit to the terminal device. The terminal device then queries the user of the terminal device about operations to be performed on the printing device based on the identification results.

[0012] Such a printing system allows the terminal device to remotely grasp how other users are using the printing device, thereby improving convenience for users who use the printing device.

[0013] A printing system according to an embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the description of the drawings, the same or similar parts are denoted by the same or similar reference numerals.

[0014] 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a printing system according to this embodiment. The printing system according to this embodiment includes a printing device (also referred to as a “printer”) 100 and a terminal device 200.

[0015] The printing device 100 is a device that performs image processing, including printing. The printing device 100 is also referred to as an image forming device or an image recording device. The printing device 100 may also be capable of performing image processing other than printing, such as scanning. The printing device 100 also has a function for communicating with a terminal device 200. In this embodiment, an example in which the printing device 100 communicates with the terminal device 200 via wireless communication will be mainly described, but the printing device 100 may also communicate with the terminal device 200 via wired communication. In the illustrated example, the printing device 100 is a small printer for home use. However, the printing device 100 may also be a large multifunction printer (MFP) installed in an office or store.

[0016] The printing operation performed by the printing device 100 is an operation that includes at least printing. The printing operation includes "printing," in which the terminal device 200 sends print data (image data) to the printing device 100 and the printing device 100 prints the data. The printing operation also includes "copying," in which the printing device 100 prints scan data (image data) obtained by scanning.

[0017] In the illustrated example, the printing device 100 includes a paper feed unit 101, a cover 102 including a scanner unit, a paper output tray 103, and an operation panel 130. Paper sheets loaded in the paper feed unit 101 are transported one sheet at a time to a printing unit 121 (not shown in FIG. 1; see FIG. 2), where printing is performed, and the paper is output from the paper output tray 103. The cover 102 can be opened upward using the end of the cover 102 facing the paper output tray 103 as a pivot point. With the cover 102 open, the ink cartridge 5 (not shown in FIG. 1; see FIG. 2) is replaced. The operation panel 130 is provided at the top of the front side of the printing device 100. The operation panel 130 includes a display unit 131 that displays various information and an operation unit 132 that accepts various operations from the user (such as input of setting values ​​and execution of image processing). The operation panel 130 can be opened forward using its upper end as a pivot point.

[0018] The terminal device 200 is a device that can operate the printing device 100 by communicating with the printing device 100. The terminal device 200 may be a mobile terminal, such as a smartphone, a tablet terminal, or a notebook computer (PC). The terminal device 200 moves along with the user's movements. Alternatively, the terminal device 200 may be a stationary terminal, such as a desktop PC. In the illustrated example, the terminal device 200 is a smartphone.

[0019] The terminal devices 200 execute an operation application for operating the printing device 100. Each terminal device 200 executing the operation application displays an operation screen for the printing device 100. The operation screen for the printing device 100 includes a connection screen used when connecting to the printing device 100 and a menu screen used after connecting to the printing device 100. The menu screen may display operation buttons for instructing the execution of image processing for each type of image processing. In this embodiment, an example in which the terminal device 200 communicates with the printing device 100 via wireless communication will be mainly described, but the terminal device 200 may also communicate with the printing device 100 via wired communication.

[0020] In the illustrated example, communication between the printing device 100 and the terminal device 200 is indirect wireless communication via an access point (AP) 300. The AP 300 is also referred to as a wireless LAN (Local Area Network) router. For example, the wireless communication between the printing device 100 and the terminal device 200 uses an infrastructure mode of the wireless LAN communication method. The terminal device 200 accesses the printing device 100 via the AP 300 and establishes a communication connection with the printing device 100 via the AP 300. Note that the wireless LAN communication method may be a method compliant with the IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers) 802.11 standard.

[0021] Alternatively, communication between the printing device 100 and the terminal device 200 may be direct wireless communication without going through the AP 300. For example, the wireless communication between the printing device 100 and the terminal device 200 may use an ad hoc mode (also called "access point mode") of a wireless LAN communication method. Such direct wireless communication is also called Wi-Fi (registered trademark) Direct. However, the direct wireless communication may also be wireless communication using a Bluetooth (registered trademark; the same applies below).

[0022] In such a printing system, the printing device 100 is connected to an external power source 400 (not shown in FIG. 1 ; see FIG. 2 ), such as a commercial power source, and receives power from the external power source 400. The printing device 100 is in either a power-off state or a power-on state. In the power-off state, power supply to at least the printing unit 121 of the printing device 100 is stopped, and printing may be disabled. The power-off state is also referred to as a sleep mode or a power-saving state. Even in the power-off state, the printing device 100 can use its communication function and communicate with the terminal device 200. On the other hand, in the power-on state, power is supplied to the printing unit 121 of the printing device 100, and printing is enabled.

[0023] When the printing device 100 is switched from the power-off information to the power-on state, the printing device 100 may need to perform preparatory operations to start a printing operation. For example, the preparatory operations include warm-up and / or head cleaning. Therefore, after the printing device 100 is switched from the power-off information to the power-on state, the printing device 100 cannot start a printing operation until the preparatory operations are completed.

[0024] In this embodiment, the terminal device 200 transmits a power-on signal to the printing device 100 to transition the printing device 100 from a power-off state to a power-on state. This allows the printing device 100 to be powered on remotely. For example, when a user who is located far from the printing device 100 wants to print using the printing device 100, the user operates the terminal device 200 to power on the printing device 100. Then, while the user is traveling to the location of the printing device 100, the printing device 100 performs a preparatory operation. As a result, when the user arrives at the location of the printing device 100, the printing device 100 can be caused to quickly perform a printing operation.

[0025] However, if a malfunction occurs in the printing device 100, for example, if the printing device 100 has no ink remaining, the printing device 100 cannot perform a printing operation even if the user moves to the location of the printing device 100. In this case, the user's movement to the location of the printing device 100 may be wasted. Also, depending on the nature of the malfunction, it may be possible to cause the printing device 100 to perform a printing operation. Therefore, it is desirable for the user (terminal device 200) to be able to remotely grasp malfunctions in the printing device 100.

[0026] Therefore, the terminal device 200 transmits a predetermined signal to the printing device 100 to check whether or not there is a malfunction in the printing device 100. In this embodiment, the predetermined signal is a power-on signal that transitions the printing device 100 from a power-off state to a power-on state. That is, in this embodiment, the power-on signal is not only used by the terminal device 200 to remotely turn on the power of the printing device 100, but also to remotely check for any malfunctions in the printing device 100.

[0027] For example, the terminal device 200 displays an operation screen including an object that accepts a power-on operation from a user. In response to accepting the power-on operation on the operation screen, the terminal device 200 transmits a power-on signal to the printing device 100.

[0028] In response to receiving a power-on signal from the terminal device 200, the printing device 100 performs a check operation to determine whether or not there is a malfunction in the printing device 100. The printing device 100 then transmits a feedback signal indicating the results of the check operation to the terminal device 200. This allows the terminal device 200 to check whether or not there is a malfunction in the printing device 100. In this embodiment, in response to receiving the feedback signal from the printing device 100, the terminal device 200 displays feedback information based on the received feedback signal.

[0029] Here, the power-on signal is a signal that does not include an instruction to start a printing operation. For example, when a user wants to copy a document that they have on hand using the printing device 100, the user remotely turns on the power of the printing device 100, and then moves to the location of the printing device 100 to make the copy. In response to receiving the power-on signal, the printing device 100 checks for any malfunctions in the printing device 100 without starting a printing operation.

[0030] Specifically, in response to receiving a power-on signal from the terminal device 200, the printing device 100 performs preparatory operations for starting a printing operation and checks for any malfunctions in the printing device 100. As described above, the preparatory operations include warming up and / or head cleaning in the printing device 100.

[0031] 2 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the printing device 100 according to this embodiment. The printing device 100 includes a communication unit 110, an image processing unit 120, an operation panel 130, a sensor unit 140, a control unit 150, a storage unit 160, and a power supply unit 170.

[0032] The communication unit 110 performs indirect or direct wireless communication with the terminal device 200 under the control of the control unit 150. In this embodiment, the communication unit 110 is a wireless LAN communication unit, but the communication unit 110 may also be a Bluetooth communication unit. Alternatively, the communication unit 110 may be a wired LAN communication unit that performs wired LAN communication such as Ethernet with the terminal device 200. Note that the communication unit 110 may be considered as a component that includes only hardware components (e.g., a connector, an antenna, an amplifier, a filter, and an RF (Radio Frequency) circuit), or may be considered as a component that includes software components in addition to hardware components.

[0033] The image processing unit 120 performs image processing under the control of the control unit 150. The image processing unit 120 includes a printing unit 121 and a scanner unit 122. For example, types of image processing include "print" and "copy." These image processes correspond to printing operations. "Copy" is an operation in which the printing unit 121 prints image data obtained by scanning an original document with the scanner unit 122 onto paper. "Print" is an operation in which the printing unit 121 prints an image based on image data received by the communication unit 110 from the terminal device 200 or an image based on data stored in a recording medium (not shown) connected to the printing device 100.

[0034] The image processing type may include "scan." "Scan" is a function for saving image data obtained by scanning an original document with the scanner unit 122. The saving destination may be, for example, an auxiliary storage device (non-volatile memory from another perspective) included in the storage unit 160 or a storage medium connected to the printing device 100. Alternatively, the saving destination may be the terminal device 200.

[0035] The image processing type may include FAX (facsimile). The image processing unit 120 may further include a public network communication unit (analog modem) that performs communication via a public network. "FAX" refers to the operation of printing image data received from the outside via a telephone line by the public network communication unit onto paper by the printing unit 121, and the operation of scanning an original document with the scanner unit 122 and transmitting the image data obtained to the outside via the telephone line by the public network communication unit.

[0036] The printing unit 121 performs printing operations under the control of the control unit 150. For example, the printing unit 121 prints on paper loaded in the paper feed unit 101 and ejects the printed paper to the paper output tray 103. The printing unit 121 may have only one paper feed tray or multiple paper feed trays. From another perspective, the printing unit 121 may have a function for selecting the size of paper. The printing unit 121 may be configured to be capable of color (as well as monochrome and grayscale) printing, or may be configured to be capable of only grayscale (and monochrome) printing, or may be configured to be capable of only monochrome printing. Furthermore, for example, the printing unit 121 may be an inkjet printer that prints by ejecting ink, a thermal printer that prints by heating thermal paper or an ink ribbon, or an electrophotographic printer (e.g., a laser printer) that transfers toner attached to a photosensitive body irradiated with light. Also, for example, the printing unit 121 may be a line printer whose head has a length spanning the width of the paper (a direction intersecting the paper transport direction), or a serial printer whose head moves in the width direction of the paper.

[0037] The printing unit 121 is provided with detachable ink cartridges 5 (5a to 5d) of different colors. The ink cartridges 5 are containers filled with ink and are detachably attached to the printing device 100 (printing unit 121). The ink is not limited to liquid ink, but may also be in powder form. In the latter case, the ink is also referred to as toner, and the ink cartridges are also referred to as toner cartridges or toner containers. Hereinafter, the term "ink" will also include "toner." In the case of a printer capable of color printing, ink cartridges 5 of different colors are installed in the printing device 100. In the illustrated example, the ink cartridges 5a to 5d are four ink cartridges: yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K), but the color combination is not limited to this. Note that the printer 1 may be a monochrome printer and only one ink cartridge 5 may be installed in the printer 1.

[0038] The scanner unit 122 performs scanning under the control of the control unit 150. The scanner unit 122 captures (scans) an image of a document set on a document table or an ADF (Auto Document Feeder) using an imaging device that moves along a document glass, and generates image data.

[0039] The operation panel 130 includes a display unit 131 and an operation unit 132. The display unit 131 is configured as a liquid crystal display unit or an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) display unit. The display unit 131 has a relatively large number of regularly arranged pixels, and displays an image including any shape based on image data under the control of the control unit 150. The display unit 131 may be capable of displaying color images, or may be capable of displaying only grayscale images (and monochrome images), or may be capable of displaying only monochrome images (binary images). However, the printing device 100 does not necessarily have to include the display unit 131. In that case, it may be assumed that operations on the printing device 100 are performed by the terminal device 200.

[0040] The operation unit 132 includes one or more physical buttons (physical keys) and / or a touch panel in the touch panel display unit. The touch panel may be an electrostatic type or a pressure-sensitive type. The touch panel overlaying the display unit 131 detects the position of a touch operation on the display unit 131 and outputs the detection result. The operation unit 132 includes a power on / off button (physical key) used to turn the printing device 100 on and off.

[0041] The sensor unit 140 includes one or more sensors and outputs sensor data obtained by the sensors. For example, the sensor unit 140 includes at least one of an ink level sensor for detecting the amount of ink remaining in the printing device 100, a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature in the printing device 100 (e.g., the temperature of the printer head), a temperature sensor for detecting the room temperature around the printing device 100, a humidity sensor for detecting the humidity around the printing device 100, and a human presence sensor for detecting people around the printing device 100.

[0042] The control unit 150 includes one or more processors and controls the entire printing device 100. For example, the control unit 150 executes various processes and controls by executing programs stored in the storage unit 160. The various controls include control of printing operations. The control unit 150 may include a logic circuit or the like configured to perform only certain operations. The operations of the printing device 100 described above and below may be operations controlled by the control unit 150.

[0043] The storage unit 160 includes various types of memory, such as a read-only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), and an auxiliary storage device. The combination of the control unit 150 and the storage unit 160 may be considered as a computer. The programs executed by the control unit 150 are stored in the ROM of the storage unit 160 and / or the auxiliary storage device, for example.

[0044] 2 is merely a schematic diagram. For example, the control unit 150 and the storage unit 160 may be provided in a distributed manner in multiple locations. For example, a processor included in each unit (a control unit that controls each unit from another perspective) and a higher-level processor (a higher-level control unit that controls the control unit of each unit) may be provided. In such a case, the control unit 150 may be regarded as a higher-level control unit, or as a combination of the control unit of each unit and the higher-level control unit.

[0045] The power supply unit 170 supplies power to each unit of the printing device 100. The power supply unit 170 includes a main power supply unit 171 and a standby power supply unit 172. The main power supply unit 171 is connected to an external power supply 400 via a cable and a power plug, and converts power from the external power supply 400 to supply power to each unit of the printing device 100. The standby power supply unit 172 is used when the printing device 100 (main power supply unit 171) is not electrically connected to the external power supply 400. The standby power supply unit 172 includes a battery that can charge and discharge power, and supplies power to each unit of the printing device 100 by discharging the battery.

[0046] When the printing device 100 (main power supply unit 171) is not connected to the external power supply 400, the printing device 100 is in a power-off state, and it may be impossible to turn the printing device 100 on. In the power-off state, the power supply unit 170 may supply power to the communication unit 110, the sensor unit 140, the control unit 150, and the storage unit 160, without supplying power to the image processing unit 120 including the printing unit 121. On the other hand, in the power-on state, the power supply unit 170 also supplies power to the image processing unit 120 including the printing unit 121.

[0047] The various components of the printing device 100 are electrically connected by a bus 180. In the illustrated example, all components are connected to a single bus 180, but multiple buses, such as an address bus, a data bus, and a control bus, may be provided. The bus 180 may include a power line used to supply power from the power supply unit 170. An interface may also be interposed between the bus 180 and each component.

[0048] In the printing device 100 configured in this manner, the communication unit 110, which communicates with the terminal device 200, receives a power-on signal from the terminal device 200. In response to receiving the power-on signal, the control unit 150 performs a check operation to determine whether or not there is a malfunction in the printing device 100. The communication unit 110 transmits a feedback signal indicating the results of the check operation to the terminal device 200. The check operation may use the output of the sensor unit 140. Specific examples of feedback regarding the check operation will be described later.

[0049] (3) Example of the Configuration of the Terminal Device FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the terminal device 200 according to this embodiment. Here, explanations of components similar to those described above will be omitted as appropriate. The terminal device 200 has a communication unit 210, a display unit 221, an operation unit 222, an imaging unit 230, a control unit 240, and a storage unit 250. The terminal device 200 does not necessarily have to have the imaging unit 230. The terminal device 200 further has a power supply unit (not shown). The power supply unit may include a battery.

[0050] The communication unit 210 performs indirect or direct wireless communication with the printing device 100 under the control of the control unit 240. In this embodiment, the communication unit 210 is a wireless LAN communication unit, but the communication unit 210 may also be a Bluetooth communication unit. Alternatively, the communication unit 210 may be a wired LAN communication unit that performs wired LAN communication, such as Ethernet, with the printing device 100. The communication unit 210 may further include a public network communication unit that performs communication via a public network. The public network may include a cellular communication network. The public network communication unit may also be a cellular communication unit.

[0051] The display unit 221 displays an image under the control of the control unit 240. The operation unit 222 accepts user operations (user inputs). The display unit 221 is configured with a liquid crystal display unit or an organic EL display unit. At least a portion of the operation unit 222 may be integrated with the display unit 221 to configure the touch panel display unit 220. The following mainly describes an example in which the display unit 221 and the operation unit 222 configure the touch panel display unit 220. However, at least a portion of the operation unit 222 may be configured as one or more physical buttons. The operation unit 222 detects the position of a touch operation on the display unit 221 and outputs the detection result.

[0052] The image capturing unit 230 constitutes a camera including an image sensor such as a charge coupled device (CCD) or a complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS). The image capturing unit 204 electronically captures an image under the control of the control unit 240 and outputs image data.

[0053] The control unit 240 includes one or more processors and controls the entire terminal device 200. For example, the control unit 240 executes various processes and controls by executing programs stored in the storage unit 250. The programs include operation applications for operating the printing device 100. The control unit 240 may include a logic circuit or the like configured to perform only certain operations. The operations of the terminal device 200 described above and below may be operations controlled by the control unit 240.

[0054] The storage unit 250 includes various types of memory, such as a ROM, a RAM, and an auxiliary storage device. The combination of the control unit 240 and the storage unit 250 may be considered as a computer. The programs executed by the control unit 240 are stored in the ROM and / or the auxiliary storage device of the storage unit 250, for example.

[0055] The components of the terminal device 200 are electrically connected by a bus 260. In the illustrated example, all components are connected to a single bus 260, but multiple buses, such as an address bus, a data bus, and a control bus, may be provided. An interface may also be interposed between the bus 260 and each component.

[0056] In the terminal device 200 configured in this manner, the communication unit 210 transmits a power-on signal to the printing device 100. The communication unit 210 then receives a feedback signal from the printing device 100 indicating the results of the checking operation regarding the presence or absence of a malfunction in the printing device 100.

[0057] (4) System Operation Example An operation example of the printing system according to this embodiment will be described.

[0058] (4.1) Example of Operation Sequence Fig. 4 is a diagram showing an example of an operation sequence of the printing system according to this embodiment. In this example of the sequence, it is assumed that the printing device 100 is in a power-off state.

[0059] In step S101, the control unit 240 of the terminal device 200 starts an operation application for operating the printing device 100, and causes the display unit 221 of the terminal device 200 to display an operation screen corresponding to the operation application.

[0060] In step S102, the control unit 240 of the terminal device 200 controls the communication unit 210 of the terminal device 200 to establish a communication connection with the printing device 100. Similarly, the control unit 150 of the printing device 100 controls the communication unit 110 of the printing device 100 to establish a communication connection with the terminal device 200.

[0061] Here, the control unit 240 of the terminal device 200 may control the display unit 221 of the terminal device 200 to display information indicating the connection candidate printing device 100 on the operation screen. In response to the operation unit 222 of the terminal device 200 accepting a user operation to select a printing device 100, the control unit 240 of the terminal device 200 may control the communication unit 210 of the terminal device 200 to establish a communication connection with the selected printing device 100.

[0062] In step S103, the control unit 150 of the printing device 100 may control the communication unit 110 of the printing device 100 to send a power-off notification indicating that the printing device 100 is in a power-off state to the terminal device 200. The communication unit 210 of the terminal device 200 receives the power-off notification.

[0063] In step S104, the control unit 240 of the terminal device 200 may control the display unit 221 of the terminal device 200 to display information indicating that the printing device 100 is in a power-off state on the operation screen in response to receiving the power-off notification from the printing device 100. For example, the control unit 240 of the terminal device 200 may control the display unit 221 of the terminal device 200 to display an object (e.g., a power-on button) for receiving a power-on operation from the user on the operation screen in response to receiving the power-off notification.

[0064] In step S105, the operation unit 222 of the terminal device 200 receives a power-on operation, for example, a press (tap) of the power-on button, from the user.

[0065] In step S106, in response to the operation unit 222 of the terminal device 200 receiving the power-on operation, the control unit 240 of the terminal device 200 controls the communication unit 210 of the terminal device 200 to transmit a power-on signal to the printing device 100. The communication unit 110 of the printing device 100 receives the power-on signal.

[0066] In step S107, in response to receiving the power-on signal, the control unit 150 of the printing device 100 controls the power supply unit 170 (main power supply unit 171) of the printing device 100 to turn on the power of the printing device 100. The power supply unit 170 (main power supply unit 171) of the printing device 100 supplies power to the image processing unit 120 of the printing device 100.

[0067] In step S108, the control unit 150 of the printing device 100 performs a check operation to determine whether or not there is a malfunction in the printing device 100. Specific examples of the check operation will be described later. The printing unit 121 of the image processing unit 120 may also start a preparatory operation for starting a printing operation, such as warm-up and / or head cleaning. Here, the explanation will proceed assuming that the control unit 150 of the printing device 100 determines, through the check operation, that there is a malfunction in the printing device 100.

[0068] In step S109, the control unit 150 of the printing device 100 controls the communication unit 110 of the printing device 100 to send a feedback signal indicating the result of the checking operation to the terminal device 200. For example, the feedback signal includes information (such as an error code) indicating the content (type) of the problem in the printing device 100. The communication unit 210 of the terminal device 200 receives the feedback signal.

[0069] In step S110, the control unit 240 of the terminal device 200 controls the display unit 221 of the terminal device 200 to display feedback information based on a feedback signal from the printing device 100 on the operation screen. For example, the display unit 221 of the terminal device 200 displays information indicating the details of a problem in the printing device 100 as feedback information on the operation screen. This allows the user to understand that there is a problem in the printing device 100 and the details of the problem based on such display. The display unit 221 of the terminal device 200 may also control the display unit 221 of the terminal device 200 to display on the operation screen an object (for example, a confirmation button) for receiving an operation indicating that the user has confirmed the problem.

[0070] In step S111, the control unit 150 of the printing device 100 may control the display unit 131 of the printing device 100 to display information (error information) indicating the details of the problem in the printing device 100. This allows other users near the printing device 100 to understand that there is a problem with the printing device 100 and the details of the problem based on such a display.

[0071] In step S112, the operation unit 222 of the terminal device 200 accepts a confirmation operation from the user, for example, pressing (tapping) the confirmation button.

[0072] In step S113, in response to the operation unit 222 of the terminal device 200 accepting the confirmation operation, the control unit 240 of the terminal device 200 controls the communication unit 210 of the terminal device 200 to send a confirmation notification to the printing device 100. The communication unit 110 of the printing device 100 receives the confirmation notification.

[0073] In step S114, in response to receiving the confirmation notification, the control unit 150 of the printing device 100 controls the display unit 131 of the printing device 100 to display information indicating a solution to the problem (solution information). This allows a user who wishes to resolve (solve) the problem to resolve the problem in the printing device 100 based on the solution information displayed on the display unit 131 of the printing device 100.

[0074] Here, the solution information displayed by the display unit 131 of the printing device 100 is assumed to be stored in advance in the storage unit 160 of the printing device 100 for each type of problem. The solution information displayed by the display unit 131 of the printing device 100 may be text and / or images that represent a solution to the problem.

[0075] Alternatively, the solution information displayed on the display unit 131 of the printing device 100 may be information for accessing an external server that stores text and / or images representing the solution, such as a code (e.g., a QR Code (registered trademark; the same applies hereinafter)) that encodes a URL (Uniform Resource Locator). In this case, the user captures an image of the QR code using the imaging unit 230 of the terminal device 200. The control unit 240 of the terminal device 200 decodes the URL from the captured QR code and accesses the URL to obtain the text and / or images representing the solution from the external server, and controls the display unit 221 of the terminal device 200 to display the obtained text and / or images on the operation screen.

[0076] The feedback signal transmitted from the printing device 100 to the terminal device 200 may include solution information. In this case, the control unit 240 of the terminal device 200 may control the display unit 221 of the terminal device 200 to further display the solution information on the operation screen as feedback information based on the feedback signal from the printing device 100.

[0077] (4.2) Specific Examples of Confirmation Operation and Feedback First to seventh specific examples of the confirmation operation (step S108 in FIG. 4) and feedback (step S109 in FIG. 4) performed by the printing device 100 according to this embodiment will be described. The printing device 100 only needs to perform at least one of the first to seventh specific examples, and does not necessarily have to perform all of the first to seventh specific examples.

[0078] (4.2.1) First Specific Example In the first specific example, the checking operation includes an operation of checking the remaining amount of ink in the printing device 100. In response to receiving a power-on signal, the control unit 150 of the printing device 100 checks the remaining amount of ink in the printing device 100 based on the output of the remaining ink sensor included in the sensor unit 140 of the printing device 100. If ink cartridges 5 of different colors are present, the control unit 150 of the printing device 100 checks the remaining amount of ink in each of the ink cartridges 5 of different colors.

[0079] The checking operation further includes an operation of determining whether the remaining ink amount is equal to or less than a predetermined amount. For example, the control unit 150 of the printing device 100 may determine whether the remaining ink amount is equal to or less than a threshold by comparing the remaining ink amount with a preset threshold. Here, the threshold may be zero or a value greater than zero. The threshold may be the lowest remaining ink amount at which the printing device 100 can perform normal printing operations. If ink cartridges 5 of different colors are present, the control unit 150 of the printing device 100 may perform this determination for each ink cartridge 5 of each color.

[0080] When it is determined that the remaining amount of ink is below a predetermined amount, the control unit 150 of the printing device 100 controls the communication unit 110 of the printing device 100 to send a feedback signal indicating that the remaining amount of ink is below the predetermined amount to the terminal device 200. If there are ink cartridges 5 for different colors, the feedback signal may include information indicating the color (ink cartridge 5) whose remaining ink amount is below the predetermined amount.

[0081] The communication unit 210 of the terminal device 200 receives such feedback signals. The control unit 240 of the terminal device 200 controls the display unit 221 of the terminal device 200 to display feedback information based on the feedback signal from the printing device 100 on the operation screen. For example, the displayed feedback information may be text such as "Ink is running low" or an object (icon) indicating that ink is low. If ink cartridges 5 are provided for different colors, the displayed feedback information may include information indicating which color has ink at or below a predetermined level.

[0082] In a first specific example, the solution information may be information indicating how to replace an ink cartridge 5 when the remaining ink level is below a predetermined level. For example, the solution information may be text and / or an image indicating how to replace an ink cartridge 5 when the remaining ink level is below a predetermined level, or may be a QR code (URL) for obtaining this text and / or image.

[0083] (4.2.2) Second Specific Example In the second specific example, the confirmation operation includes an operation of confirming at least one value (hereinafter referred to as the "temperature and humidity value") among the temperature at the printing device 100, the room temperature around the printing device 100, and the humidity around the printing device 100. In response to receiving a power-on signal, the control unit 150 of the printing device 100 confirms the temperature and humidity value based on the output of the temperature sensor and / or humidity sensor included in the sensor unit 140 of the printing device 100.

[0084] The checking operation further includes an operation of determining whether the temperature and humidity values ​​are equal to or greater than a predetermined value. For example, the control unit 150 of the printing device 100 may determine whether the temperature and humidity values ​​are equal to or greater than a threshold value by comparing the temperature and humidity values ​​with a preset threshold value. Here, the threshold value may be the upper limit of the temperature and humidity values ​​at which the printing device 100 can perform normal printing operations. The control unit 150 of the printing device 100 may perform such a determination for each of the temperature at the printing device 100, the room temperature around the printing device 100, and the humidity around the printing device 100.

[0085] When the control unit 150 of the printing device 100 determines that the temperature and humidity values ​​are equal to or greater than the predetermined value, the control unit 150 controls the communication unit 110 of the printing device 100 to send a feedback signal indicating that the temperature and humidity values ​​are equal to or greater than the predetermined value to the terminal device 200. The control unit 150 of the printing device 100 may include information indicating the parameter type that is equal to or greater than the predetermined value from among the temperature at the printing device 100, the room temperature around the printing device 100, and the humidity around the printing device 100.

[0086] The communication unit 210 of the terminal device 200 receives such a feedback signal. The control unit 240 of the terminal device 200 controls the display unit 221 of the terminal device 200 to display feedback information based on the feedback signal from the printing device 100 on the operation screen. For example, the displayed feedback information may be text such as "The printer is overheating," or an object (icon) indicating that the printer is overheating. The displayed feedback information may include information indicating the parameter type that is equal to or greater than a predetermined value from among the temperature at the printing device 100, the room temperature around the printing device 100, and the humidity around the printing device 100.

[0087] In a second specific example, the solution information may be information indicating a method for reducing the temperature and humidity values. For example, the solution information may be text and / or an image indicating the method for reducing the temperature and humidity values, or a QR code (URL) for obtaining the text and / or the image.

[0088] (4.2.3) Third Specific Example In the third specific example, the checking operation includes an operation of checking the free memory capacity of the printing device 100. In response to receiving a power-on signal, the control unit 150 of the printing device 100 checks the free memory capacity of a storage area (e.g., RAM) in the storage unit 160 of the printing device 100 that stores print data (image data).

[0089] The checking operation further includes an operation of determining whether the free memory capacity is equal to or less than a predetermined amount. For example, the control unit 150 of the printing device 100 may determine whether the free memory capacity is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold by comparing the free memory capacity with a predetermined threshold. Here, the threshold may be the minimum free memory capacity at which the printing device 100 can normally perform a printing operation.

[0090] When the control unit 150 of the printing device 100 determines that the free memory capacity is less than a predetermined amount, it controls the communication unit 110 of the printing device 100 to send a feedback signal to the terminal device 200 indicating that the free memory capacity is less than the predetermined amount.

[0091] The communication unit 210 of the terminal device 200 receives such a feedback signal. The control unit 240 of the terminal device 200 controls the display unit 221 of the terminal device 200 to display feedback information based on the feedback signal from the printing device 100 on the operation screen. For example, the displayed feedback information may be text such as "Free memory capacity is insufficient," or an object (icon) indicating that free memory capacity is insufficient.

[0092] In a third specific example, the solution information may be information indicating a method for increasing free memory capacity. For example, the solution information may be text and / or an image indicating the method for increasing free memory capacity, or may be a QR code (URL) for obtaining the text and / or the image.

[0093] (4.2.4) Fourth Specific Example In the fourth specific example, the checking operation includes checking at least one of the following states (hereinafter referred to as "parts state"): the open / closed state of the cover 102 of the printing device 100, the open / closed state of the operation panel 130, and the malfunction state of the ink cartridges 5. The control unit 150 of the printing device 100 checks the parts state in response to receiving a power-on signal.

[0094] A malfunctioning state of the ink cartridge 5 may be, for example, whether the ink cartridge 5 is properly installed, or whether the ink cartridge 5 is a genuine product. The control unit 150 of the printing device 100 may check the open / closed state of the cover 102 based on the output of an open / closed state sensor included in the sensor unit 140 of the printing device 100. The control unit 150 of the printing device 100 may check the open / closed state of the operation panel 130 based on the output of an open / closed state sensor included in the sensor unit 140 of the printing device 100, or may check the open / closed state based on the control state of an actuator that drives the operation panel 130 to open and close.

[0095] The checking operation further includes an operation of determining whether the part status satisfies a condition under which a printing operation can be started. The condition under which a printing operation can be started may be a condition under which the printer head of the printing device 100 can eject ink. For example, the control unit 150 of the printing device 100 may determine that the part status does not satisfy the condition under which a printing operation can be started if at least one of the following conditions is met: the cover 102 is open, the operation panel 130 is closed, the ink cartridge 5 is not properly installed, and the ink cartridge 5 is not a genuine product.

[0096] When it is determined that the part status does not satisfy the conditions for starting the printing operation, the printing device 100 controls the communication unit 110 of the printing device 100 to send a feedback signal indicating that the part status does not satisfy the conditions for starting the printing operation to the terminal device 200. The feedback signal may include information indicating the part status that does not satisfy the conditions for starting the printing operation.

[0097] The communication unit 210 of the terminal device 200 receives such a feedback signal. The control unit 240 of the terminal device 200 controls the display unit 221 of the terminal device 200 to display feedback information based on the feedback signal from the printing device 100 on the operation screen. For example, the displayed feedback information may be text such as "The cover is open" or an object (icon) indicating that the cover is open. The displayed feedback information may include information indicating a part state that does not satisfy the conditions for starting a printing operation.

[0098] In a fourth specific example, the solution information may be information indicating a method for satisfying the conditions for starting a printing operation for a part that does not satisfy the conditions for starting a printing operation. For example, the solution information may be text and / or an image such as "Please close the cover," "Please open the operation panel," "Please install the ink cartridge properly," or "Please install a genuine ink cartridge," or may be a QR code (URL) for obtaining the text and / or image.

[0099] (4.2.5) Fifth Specific Example In the fifth specific example, the checking operation includes checking whether the printing device 100 (main power supply unit 171) is electrically connected to the external power supply 400. The control unit 150 of the printing device 100 monitors the main power supply unit 171, and in response to receiving a power-on signal, checks whether the main power supply unit 171 is electrically connected to the external power supply 400. For example, if the power plug is not inserted into an outlet or the power cable is not inserted into the printing device 100, the main power supply unit 171 is not electrically connected to the external power supply 400.

[0100] When the printing device 100 is not electrically connected to the external power source 400, the control unit 150 of the printing device 100 controls the communication unit 110 of the printing device 100 to send a feedback signal to the terminal device 200 indicating that the printing device 100 is not electrically connected to the external power source 400.

[0101] The communication unit 210 of the terminal device 200 receives such a feedback signal. The control unit 240 of the terminal device 200 controls the display unit 221 of the terminal device 200 to display feedback information based on the feedback signal from the printing device 100 on the operation screen. For example, the displayed feedback information may be text such as "The printer is not connected to an outlet," or an object (icon) indicating that the printer is not connected to an outlet.

[0102] In a fifth specific example, the solution information may be information indicating a method for electrically connecting the printing device 100 (main power supply unit 171) to the external power supply 400. For example, the solution information may be text and / or an image such as "Please plug the printer into an outlet," or may be a QR code (URL) for obtaining the text and / or image.

[0103] (4.2.6) Sixth Specific Example In the sixth specific example, the checking operation includes an operation of checking the reception quality of a wireless signal in wireless communication performed by the communication unit 110 of the printing device 100. The reception quality is, for example, the reception strength and / or SNR (Signal-to-Noise Ratio) of a wireless signal received by the communication unit 110 of the printing device 100 from the AP 300 (or the terminal device 200). The control unit 150 of the printing device 100 controls the communication unit 110 of the printing device 100 to measure the reception quality in response to receiving a power-on signal.

[0104] The checking operation further includes an operation of determining whether the reception quality satisfies a predetermined quality. For example, the control unit 150 of the printing device 100 may determine whether the reception quality is equal to or lower than a predetermined threshold by comparing the measured reception quality with a predetermined threshold. If the reception quality is equal to or lower than the threshold, the reception quality does not satisfy the predetermined quality. Here, the threshold may be a lower limit value of the reception quality at which the printing device 100 can successfully receive print data.

[0105] If it is determined that the reception quality does not satisfy the specified quality, the control unit 150 of the printing device 100 controls the communication unit 110 of the printing device 100 to send a feedback signal indicating that the reception quality does not satisfy the specified quality to the terminal device 200.

[0106] The communication unit 210 of the terminal device 200 receives such a feedback signal. The control unit 240 of the terminal device 200 controls the display unit 221 of the terminal device 200 to display feedback information based on the feedback signal from the printing device 100 on the operation screen. For example, the displayed feedback information may be text such as "The printer's communication status is poor," or an object (icon) indicating that the printer's communication status is poor.

[0107] In a sixth specific example, the solution information may be information indicating a method for improving the communication status of the printer. For example, the solution information may be text and / or an image indicating a method for improving the communication status of the printer, or may be a QR code (URL) for obtaining the text and / or the image.

[0108] (4.2.7) Seventh Specific Example In the seventh specific example, the confirmation operation includes an operation of confirming whether or not another user is using the printing device 100. In response to receiving a power-on signal, the control unit 150 of the printing device 100 confirms whether or not another user is using the printing device 100.

[0109] For example, the control unit 150 of the printing device 100 may determine that another user is using the printing device 100 if a terminal device of another user has already established a communication connection with the communication unit 110 of the printing device 100. The control unit 150 of the printing device 100 may also determine that another user is using the printing device 100 if it determines that a person is near the printing device 100 based on the output of a human presence sensor included in the sensor unit 140 of the printing device 100.

[0110] When it is determined that the printing device 100 is being used by another user, the control unit 150 of the printing device 100 controls the communication unit 110 of the printing device 100 to send a feedback signal indicating that the printing device 100 is being used by another user to the terminal device 200. The feedback signal may include information indicating the content of the image processing being performed by the other user (e.g., job type).

[0111] The communication unit 210 of the terminal device 200 receives such a feedback signal. The control unit 240 of the terminal device 200 controls the display unit 221 of the terminal device 200 to display feedback information based on the feedback signal from the printing device 100 on the operation screen. For example, the displayed feedback information may be text such as "Another user is using the printer," or an object (icon) indicating that another user is using the printer. In addition to such information, information indicating the content of the image processing (e.g., job type) being performed by the printing device 100 may also be displayed. For example, the displayed feedback information may be text such as "Another user is performing a copy."

[0112] In the seventh specific example, the solution information may be information that urges the user to wait until another user has finished using the printing device 100. For example, the solution information may be text and / or an image such as "Please wait until another user has finished using the printer" or "The new job will be executed once the other user has finished using the printer," or may be a QR code (URL) for obtaining the text and / or image.

[0113] (4.3) Display Example of Operation Screen FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a display example of an operation screen displayed on the display unit 221 of the terminal device 200 according to this embodiment.

[0114] In step S105 of FIG. 4, the control unit 240 of the terminal device 200 controls the display unit 221 of the terminal device 200 to display an operation screen such as that shown in FIG. 5A. In the illustrated example, the operation screen includes information A indicating the printing device 100 to be operated, a button B for performing a print operation, a button C for performing a scan operation, a button D for performing a printer setting operation, and a button E for performing a printer power-on operation. Here, it is assumed that button E has been selected (tapped). In this embodiment, the object for checking whether or not there is a malfunction in the printing device 100 is button E for performing a printer power-on operation. However, as in a modified example described below, the object for checking whether or not there is a malfunction in the printing device 100 may be button I for accepting a status inquiry operation (see FIG. 7).

[0115] When button E is selected (tapped), the control unit 240 of the terminal device 200 goes through steps S106 to S109 of Fig. 4 and then controls the display unit 221 of the terminal device 200 to display an operation screen as shown in Fig. 5(b) in step S110 of Fig. 4. In the illustrated example, the operation screen includes text F saying "Printer power has been turned on," text G indicating the details of the problem with the printing device 100, and button H for accepting a user's confirmation operation regarding the details of the problem. The text G indicating the details of the problem with the printing device 100 displays the content described in the first to seventh specific examples above.

[0116] (5) First Modification The first modification is a modification of the system operation according to the embodiment described above. The following description will focus on the differences between this modification and the system operation according to the embodiment described above.

[0117] In the above-described embodiment, a scenario was assumed in which the terminal device 200 remotely operates the printing device 100 in a power-off state to turn it on. In contrast, in this modified example, a scenario is assumed in which the terminal device 200 remotely operates the printing device 100 in a power-off state to check the latest status.

[0118] 6 is a diagram showing an example of an operation sequence of the printing system according to this modified example. In this sequence example, it is assumed that the printing device 100 is in a power-on state.

[0119] In step S201, the control unit 240 of the terminal device 200 starts an operation application for operating the printing device 100, and causes the display unit 221 of the terminal device 200 to display an operation screen corresponding to the operation application.

[0120] In step S202, the control unit 240 of the terminal device 200 controls the communication unit 210 of the terminal device 200 to establish a communication connection with the printing device 100. Similarly, the control unit 150 of the printing device 100 controls the communication unit 110 of the printing device 100 to establish a communication connection with the terminal device 200.

[0121] Here, the control unit 240 of the terminal device 200 may control the display unit 221 of the terminal device 200 to display information indicating the connection candidate printing device 100 on the operation screen. In response to the operation unit 222 of the terminal device 200 accepting a user operation to select a printing device 100, the control unit 240 of the terminal device 200 may control the communication unit 210 of the terminal device 200 to establish a communication connection with the selected printing device 100.

[0122] In step S203, the control unit 150 of the printing device 100 may control the communication unit 110 of the printing device 100 to send a power-on notification indicating that the printing device 100 is in a power-on state to the terminal device 200. The communication unit 210 of the terminal device 200 receives the power-on notification.

[0123] In step S204, the control unit 240 of the terminal device 200 may control the display unit 221 of the terminal device 200 to display information indicating that the printing device 100 is in a power-on state on the operation screen in response to receiving the power-on notification from the printing device 100. For example, the control unit 240 of the terminal device 200 may control the display unit 221 of the terminal device 200 to display an object (e.g., a status inquiry button) for receiving a status inquiry operation of the printing device 100 from the user on the operation screen in response to receiving the power-on notification.

[0124] In step S205, the operation unit 222 of the terminal device 200 receives a status inquiry operation, for example, a press (tap) of a status inquiry button, from the user.

[0125] In step S206, in response to the operation unit 222 of the terminal device 200 accepting the status inquiry operation, the control unit 240 of the terminal device 200 controls the communication unit 210 of the terminal device 200 to send an inquiry signal to the printing device 100. The inquiry signal is an example of a predetermined signal. The communication unit 110 of the printing device 100 receives the inquiry signal.

[0126] In step S207, in response to receiving the inquiry signal, the control unit 150 of the printing device 100 performs a check operation to determine whether or not there is a malfunction in the printing device 100. Specific examples of the check operation are the same as the first to seventh specific examples described above. However, in the check operation, the control unit 150 of the printing device 100 only needs to check the latest status related to the malfunction in the printing device 100, and does not necessarily have to determine whether or not there is a malfunction. In the check operation, the control unit 150 of the printing device 100 may also determine whether or not there is a malfunction.

[0127] In step S208, the control unit 150 of the printing device 100 controls the communication unit 110 of the printing device 100 to send a feedback signal indicating the result of the checking operation to the terminal device 200. For example, the feedback signal includes information indicating the status checked in the checking operation. The result of the checking operation (information indicating the status) may be at least one of the remaining ink level described in the first specific example, the temperature and humidity value described in the second specific example, the free memory capacity described in the third specific example, the part status described in the fourth specific example, the external power connection status described in the fifth specific example, the reception quality described in the sixth specific example, and the presence or absence of other users described in the seventh specific example. Alternatively, the result of the checking operation may be information indicating the details of the determined problem. The communication unit 210 of the terminal device 200 receives the feedback signal.

[0128] In step S209, the control unit 240 of the terminal device 200 controls the display unit 221 of the terminal device 200 to display, on the operation screen, feedback information based on the feedback signal from the printing device 100. For example, the display unit 221 of the terminal device 200 displays, on the operation screen, information indicating the status of the printing device 100 and / or information indicating the details of a malfunction in the printing device 100 as feedback information.

[0129] In this modification, the display control of solution information may be performed in the same manner as in the above embodiment (steps S112 to S114 in FIG. 4).

[0130] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of an operation screen displayed on the display unit 221 of the terminal device 200 according to this modified example.

[0131] 6, the control unit 240 of the terminal device 200 controls the display unit 221 of the terminal device 200 to display an operation screen as shown in Fig. 7(a). In the example shown in the figure, the operation screen includes a button I for accepting a status inquiry operation instead of the above-mentioned power-on button E. Here, it is assumed that button I is selected (tapped).

[0132] When button I is selected (tapped), the control unit 240 of the terminal device 200 goes through steps S206 to S208 in Fig. 6 and then controls the display unit 221 of the terminal device 200 in step S209 in Fig. 6 to display an operation screen such as that shown in Fig. 7(b). In the illustrated example, the operation screen includes information (text) J indicating the printer status. The information J indicating the printer status is displayed as described in the first to seventh specific examples.

[0133] (6) Second Modified Example FIG. 8 is a diagram showing the configuration of a printing device 100 according to a second modified example.

[0134] The printing device 100 according to this modified example has an identification unit 190 that performs an identification operation to identify the usage status of the printing device 100 by a user other than the user of the terminal device 200. The identification unit 190 is configured to include a control unit 150. The identification unit 190 may further include a sensor unit 140. The identification unit 190 may further include a storage unit 160. The communication unit 110 transmits the identification result of the identification unit 190 to the terminal device 200.

[0135] The terminal device 200 receives the identification result from the printing device 100 as a feedback signal, and inquires of the user of the terminal device 200 about the operation content for the printing device 100 in accordance with the identification result.

[0136] This allows the user of the terminal device 200 to perform appropriate operations (specifically, remote operations) on the printing device 100 depending on the usage status of the printing device 100 by other users.

[0137] In this modified example, an operation sequence similar to that of the above-described embodiment or the first modified example can be applied. Specifically, the above-described confirmation operation (the operation of checking whether or not there is a malfunction in the printing device 100) can be read as a specific operation (the specific operation of identifying the usage status of the printing device 100 by other users). Note that the specific operation by the identification unit 133 may be performed in response to a predetermined signal transmitted from the terminal device 200 to the printing device 100. Examples of the predetermined signal include a power-on signal that transitions the printing device 100 from a power-off state to a power-on state, or a power-off signal that transitions the printing device 100 from a power-on state to a power-off state.

[0138] (6.1) First Operation Pattern In this operation pattern, the identification unit 190 identifies the presence or absence of a person around the printing device 100. Specifically, the identification unit 190 has a sensor unit 140 (human presence sensor) for detecting the presence or absence of a person around the printing device 100. In this case, the terminal device 200 queries the user of the terminal device 200 about the operation content depending on the presence or absence of a person around the printing device 100. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of an operation scenario according to this modified example. In the illustrated example, a person (another user) other than the user operating the terminal device 200 is present around the printing device 100.

[0139] The communication unit 110 of the printing device 100 transmits the identification result of the identification unit 133 as to the presence or absence of people around the printing device 100 to the terminal device 200. The communication unit 210 of the terminal device 200 receives the identification result from the printing device 100. The control unit 240 of the terminal device 200 controls the display unit 221 to inquire of the user of the terminal device 200 about the operation content for the printing device 100, in accordance with the identification result.

[0140] As a specific example, in response to the identification result that a person is present around the printing device 100, the control unit 240 of the terminal device 200 inquires of the user about the operation content for the printing device 100, such as whether to instruct the printing device 100 to perform a new printing operation or whether to continue a printing operation that has already been instructed, by displaying the operation content on a screen, etc. For example, the control unit 240 of the terminal device 200 may display information such as "There are people around the printing device" on the display unit 221 while an operation application is being executed. When a user instructs a printing operation while an operation application is being executed, the control unit 240 of the terminal device 200 may display information such as "There are people around the printing device. Do you want to print?" on the display unit 221.

[0141] This allows the user of the terminal device 200 to operate the printing operation of the printing device 100 depending on whether there are people other than the user of the terminal device 200 around the printing device 100, and prevents the inconvenience of the printed material being unintentionally viewed by other people.

[0142] (6.2) Second Operation Pattern In this operation pattern, the identification unit 190 identifies the usage history of the printing device 100. An example of the usage history is the time elapsed since the most recent printing operation was performed (e.g., five minutes have elapsed since the most recent printing operation). For example, the control unit 150 constituting the identification unit 190 measures the time elapsed since the printing operation was performed using a timer or the like, and generates a usage history that includes the elapsed time. The usage history may include information about the user who performed the printing operation and information about the time the printing operation was performed.

[0143] The communication unit 110 of the printing device 100 transmits the identification result of the usage history of the printing device 100 by the identification unit 133 to the terminal device 200. The communication unit 210 of the terminal device 200 receives the identification result from the printing device 100. The control unit 240 of the terminal device 200 controls the display unit 221 to inquire of the user of the terminal device 200 about the operation content for the printing device 100, in accordance with the identification result.

[0144] As a specific example, the control unit 240 of the terminal device 200 may, based on the usage history of the printing device 100, inquire of the user about the operation details for the printing device 100, such as whether to instruct the printing device 100 to perform a new printing operation or whether to continue a printing operation that has already been instructed, by displaying the operation details on a screen or the like. For example, the control unit 240 of the terminal device 200 may display information such as "Printing has just been performed" on the display unit 221 while an operation application is running. When a user instructs a printing operation while an operation application is running, the control unit 240 of the terminal device 200 may display information such as "Printing has just been performed. Do you want to print?" on the display unit 221. This allows the next printing operation to be performed based on the usage history of the printing device 100 (e.g., the time elapsed since the last printing operation, etc.), thereby avoiding the inconvenience of the person who performed the last printing operation coming to pick up the printed material and unintentionally viewing the user's printed material.

[0145] (6.3) Third Operation Pattern In this operation pattern, the identification unit 190 identifies the presence or absence of ejected paper after printing or original paper before printing in the printing device 100. In this case, the identification unit 190 has a sensor unit 140 that detects the presence or absence of ejected paper or original paper in the printing device 100. This sensor unit 140 may be provided in the paper output tray 103 or the scanner unit 122 (for example, the document table or ADF).

[0146] The communication unit 110 of the printing device 100 transmits the identification result of the identification unit 133 as to whether or not there is any ejected paper or manuscript paper to the terminal device 200. The communication unit 210 of the terminal device 200 receives the identification result from the printing device 100. The control unit 240 of the terminal device 200 controls the display unit 221 to inquire of the user of the terminal device 200 about the operation content for the printing device 100, in accordance with the identification result.

[0147] As a specific example, depending on whether or not there is ejected paper or manuscript paper, the control unit 240 of the terminal device 200 inquires of the user about the operation content for the printing device 100, such as whether or not to instruct the printing device 100 to perform a new printing operation or whether or not to continue the printing operation that has already been instructed, by displaying the screen, etc. For example, the control unit 240 of the terminal device 200 may cause the display unit 221 to display information such as "There is paper in the paper output tray" or "There is paper on the platen." when the user instructs a printing operation while the operation application is being executed. The control unit 240 of the terminal device 200 may cause the display unit 221 to display information such as "There is paper in the paper output tray. Do you want to print?" or "There is paper on the platen. Do you want to print?" when a printing operation is instructed by the user while the operation application is being executed.

[0148] This allows the user of the terminal device 200 to operate the printing operation of the printing device 100 depending on whether or not there is discharged paper or manuscript paper in the printing device 100, and prevents the inconvenience of the user's printed matter being unintentionally seen by another person who comes to pick up the discharged paper or manuscript paper.

[0149] (6.4) Fourth Operation Pattern In this operation pattern, as shown in Fig. 10, a scenario is assumed in which there are multiple terminal devices, including a terminal device 200 and another terminal device 201, and the multiple terminal devices are communicably connected to the printing device 100. In the illustrated example, the multiple terminal devices are connected to the printing device 100 via AP 300, but at least one terminal device may be connected to the printing device 100 directly by wireless communication.

[0150] The identification unit 190 of the printing device 100 identifies whether or not another terminal device 201 is connected, or the status of a printing operation performed by the operation of the other terminal device 201. The status of a printing operation performed by the operation of the other terminal device 201 may be that a printing operation is currently being performed, or that an error has occurred in the printing operation. The communication unit 110 of the printing device 100 transmits the identification result to the terminal device 200.

[0151] The communication unit 210 of the terminal device 200 receives a determination result indicating the presence or absence of the connection or the status of the printing operation from the printing device 100. The control unit 240 of the terminal device 200 queries the user of the terminal device 200 about the operation to be performed on the printing device 100 in accordance with the determination result.

[0152] 10 , the printing device 100 may transmit, to the terminal device 200, information indicating whether the terminal device 201 is connected or not, as an identification result. The terminal device 200 queries the user of the terminal device 200 about the operation to be performed on the printing device 100, depending on whether the terminal device 201 is connected or not. As a specific example, when the terminal device 201 is connected to the printing device 100, the control unit 240 of the terminal device 200 queries the user of the terminal device 200, for example, by displaying on a screen (display unit 221) about the operation to be performed on the printing device 100, such as whether to instruct the printing device 100 to perform a new printing operation or whether to continue a printing operation that has already been instructed.

[0153] For example, the control unit 240 of the terminal device 200 may cause the display unit 221 to display information such as "Another terminal is connected to the printing device" while the operation application is being executed. When a user instructs a printing operation while the operation application is being executed, the control unit 240 of the terminal device 200 may cause the display unit 221 to display information such as "Another terminal is connected to the printing device. Do you want to print?"

[0154] This allows the terminal device 200 to control the printing operation of the printing device 100 depending on whether a terminal device 201 other than the terminal device 200 is connected to the printing device 100, thereby avoiding the inconvenience of the user of the terminal device 201 unintentionally viewing the printed material.

[0155] Another example of the identification result transmitted from the printing device 100 to the terminal device 200 is the status of a printing operation performed by another terminal device (terminal device 201) on the printing device 100. The status of the printing operation may be that a printing operation instructed by the terminal device 201 is currently being executed, or that an error has occurred during the execution of a printing operation instructed by the terminal device 201.

[0156] For example, when a printing operation is being performed by the terminal device 201, the terminal device 200 can inquire of the user as to whether or not to perform the printing operation by the printing device 100, thereby avoiding the inconvenience of the user of the terminal device 201 (another person) unintentionally viewing the printed material.

[0157] Furthermore, for example, if an error occurs during the execution of a printing operation instructed by the terminal device 201, the terminal device 200 can inquire in advance of the user whether or not to perform the printing operation using the printing device 100, thereby preventing the user of the terminal device 200 from instructing the printing device 100 to perform an unnecessary printing operation. (7) Other Embodiments In the above-described embodiment, a scenario in which the terminal device 200 remotely operates the printing device 100 via a LAN (wireless LAN or preferred LAN) has been mainly described. However, a scenario in which the terminal device 200 remotely operates the printing device 100 via a WAN (Wide Area Network) may also be used.

[0158] In the above-described embodiment, "printing" may include 3D printing. That is, the printing device 100 may have a 3D printing function. For example, the printing unit 121 may be a 3D printer that forms a three-dimensional object using resin and / or metal powder, etc.

[0159] The operational flows in the above-described embodiments do not necessarily have to be executed in chronological order according to the order shown in the flow diagrams. For example, steps in the operations may be executed in an order different from that shown in the flow diagrams, or may be executed in parallel. Furthermore, some steps in the operations may be deleted, or additional steps may be added to the process.

[0160] A program may be provided that causes a computer (printing device 100, terminal device 200) to execute the operations according to the above-described embodiments. The program may be recorded on a computer-readable medium. Using the computer-readable medium, the program can be installed on a computer (information processing device). Here, the computer-readable medium on which the program is recorded may be a non-transitory recording medium. The non-transitory recording medium is not particularly limited, and may be, for example, a recording medium such as a CD-ROM or a DVD-ROM.

[0161] As used in this disclosure, the terms "based on" and "depending on / in response to" do not mean "based only on" or "depending only on," unless expressly stated otherwise. The term "based on" means both "based only on" and "based at least in part on." Similarly, the term "depending on" means both "depending only on" and "depending at least in part on." Furthermore, the terms "include," "comprise," and variations thereof do not mean including only the listed items, but may mean including only the listed items or may include additional items in addition to the listed items. Furthermore, the term "or," as used in this disclosure, is not intended to mean an exclusive or. Furthermore, any reference to elements using designations such as "first," "second," etc., as used in this disclosure does not generally limit the quantity or order of those elements. These designations may be used herein as a convenient method of distinguishing between two or more elements. Thus, a reference to a first and a second element does not imply that only two elements may be employed therein or that the first element must precede the second element in some way. In this disclosure, where articles are added by translation, such as a, an, and the in English, these articles shall include the plural unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0162] The above describes the embodiments in detail with reference to the drawings, but the specific configuration is not limited to that described above, and various design changes can be made within the scope that does not deviate from the gist of the invention.

[0163] (8) Supplementary Notes The following are additional notes regarding the features of the above-described embodiment.

[0164] Supplementary Note 1: A printing system comprising: a printing device that performs a printing operation; and a terminal device that operates the printing device by communicating with the printing device, wherein the printing device has an identification unit that performs an identification operation to identify usage status of the printing device by other users different from the user of the terminal device, and transmits the identification result of the identification unit to the terminal device, and the terminal device queries the user of the terminal device about the operation content for the printing device according to the identification result.

[0165] Supplementary Note 2: The printing system described in Supplementary Note 1, wherein the identification unit identifies whether or not there is a person around the printing device, and the terminal device queries a user of the terminal device about the operation content depending on whether or not there is a person around the printing device.

[0166] Supplementary Note 3: The printing system according to Supplementary Note 1 or 2, wherein the specifying unit specifies a usage history of the printing device, and the terminal device inquires of a user of the terminal device about the operation content according to the usage history.

[0167] Supplementary Note 4: The printing system described in any of Supplementary Notes 1 to 3, wherein the identification unit identifies whether or not there is ejected paper after printing or original paper before printing in the printing device, and the terminal device queries a user of the terminal device about the operation content depending on whether or not there is ejected paper or original paper.

[0168] Supplementary Note 5: The printing system according to any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 4, wherein the specifying unit performs the specified operation in response to a predetermined signal transmitted from the terminal device to the printing device.

[0169] Supplementary Note 6: The printing system according to Supplementary Note 5, wherein the predetermined signal is a power-on signal that transitions the printing device from a power-off state to a power-on state, or a power-off signal that transitions the printing device from a power-on state to a power-off state.

[0170] Supplementary Note 7: The printing system according to Supplementary Note 6, wherein the power-on signal is a signal that does not accompany an instruction to start the printing operation, and the printing device performs the specific operation in response to receiving the power-on signal without starting the printing operation.

[0171] Supplementary Note 8: The printing system according to Supplementary Note 6 or 7, wherein the printing device performs a preparatory operation for starting the printing operation and the specific operation in response to receiving the power-on signal.

[0172] Supplementary Note 9: The printing system according to Supplementary Note 5, wherein the predetermined signal is an inquiry signal that inquires about a state of the printing device, and the printing device performs the specific operation in response to receiving the inquiry signal.

[0173] Supplementary Note 10: The printing system according to Supplementary Note 9, wherein the terminal device displays an operation screen including an object that accepts an inquiry operation from a user, and transmits the inquiry signal to the printing device in response to accepting the inquiry operation on the operation screen.

[0174] Supplementary Note 11: A printing system according to any of Supplementary Notes 1 to 10, comprising a plurality of terminal devices including the terminal device and other terminal devices, wherein the identification unit identifies whether or not the other terminal devices are connected, or a status of the printing operation due to an operation of the other terminal devices, and the terminal devices inquire of a user of the terminal device about the content of the operation depending on whether or not the other terminal devices are connected or the status of the printing operation.

[0175] Supplementary Note 12: The printing system according to Supplementary Note 11, wherein the status of the printing operation caused by the operation of the other terminal device is that the printing operation is being executed or that an error has occurred in the printing operation.

[0176] Supplementary Note 13: The printing system described in Supplementary Note 11 or 12, wherein the transmission of information about whether the other terminal device is connected or the status of the printing operation from the printing device to the terminal device is performed in response to a predetermined signal transmitted from the terminal device to the printing device.

[0177] Supplementary Note 14: The printing system according to Supplementary Note 13, wherein the predetermined signal is a power-on signal that transitions the printing device from a power-off state to a power-on state, or a power-off signal that transitions the printing device from a power-on state to a power-off state.

[0178] Supplementary Note 15: The printing system according to Supplementary Note 14, wherein the power-on signal is a signal that does not accompany an instruction to start the printing operation, and the printing device performs the specific operation in response to receiving the power-on signal without starting the printing operation.

[0179] Supplementary Note 16: The printing system according to Supplementary Note 14 or 15, wherein the printing device performs a preparatory operation for starting the printing operation and the specific operation in response to receiving the power-on signal.

[0180] Supplementary Note 17: The printing system according to Supplementary Note 10, wherein the predetermined signal is an inquiry signal that inquires about a state of the printing device, and the printing device performs the specific operation in response to receiving the inquiry signal.

[0181] Supplementary Note 15: The printing system according to Supplementary Note 14, wherein the terminal device displays an operation screen including an object that accepts an inquiry operation from a user, and transmits the inquiry signal to the printing device in response to accepting the inquiry operation on the operation screen.

[0182] Supplementary Note 16: A printing device that performs a printing operation, comprising: a communication unit that communicates with a terminal device that operates the printing device; and an identification unit that performs an identification operation to identify usage status of the printing device by a user other than a user of the terminal device, wherein the communication unit transmits the identification result of the identification unit to the terminal device.

[0183] Supplementary Note 17: A terminal device that operates a printing device, comprising: a communication unit that communicates with the printing device to receive from the printing device an identification result that identifies usage of the printing device by a user different from the user of the terminal device; and a control unit that queries the user of the terminal device about the operation content for the printing device in accordance with the identification result.

[0184] Supplementary Note 18: A program that causes a terminal device that operates a printing device to execute the steps of: receiving from the printing device, by communicating with the printing device, a result of identifying usage of the printing device by a user other than the user of the terminal device; and, in accordance with the result of the identification, inquiring of the user of the terminal device about the operation details for the printing device.

[0185] 1: Printer 5: Ink cartridge 100: Printing device 101: Paper feed unit 102: Cover 103: Paper output tray 110: Communication unit 120: Image processing unit 121: Printing unit 122: Scanner unit 130: Operation panel 131: Display unit 132: Operation unit 140: Sensor unit 150: Control unit 160: Storage unit 170: Power supply unit 171: Main power supply unit 172: Backup power supply unit 180: Bus 190: Identification unit 200: Terminal device 201: Terminal device 204: Imaging unit 210: Communication unit 220: Touch panel display unit 221: Display unit 222: Operation unit 230: Imaging unit 240: Control unit 250: Storage unit 260: Bus 300: AP 400: External power supply

Claims

1. a printing device that performs a printing operation; a terminal device that communicates with the printing device to operate the printing device, the printing device has a specifying unit that performs a specifying operation to specify the elapsed time since the most recent use of the printing device, and transmits the result of the specifying unit to the terminal device; The terminal device displays an inquiry about the operation content of the next printing operation of the printing device in accordance with the result of the identification. Printing system.

2. The terminal device displays the content of the identification result. The printing system of claim 1 .

3. The identification unit identifies user information of a previous use of the printing device, The identification results include user information of the most recent use of the printing device. The printing system of claim 1 .

4. The identification unit identifies time information of the most recent use of the printing device, The identification result includes time information of the most recent use of the printing device. The printing system of claim 1 .

5. The content of the inquiry is an inquiry as to whether to perform the next printing operation according to the identification result. The printing system of claim 1 .

6. The specifying unit performs the specified operation in response to a predetermined signal transmitted from the terminal device to the printing device. The printing system according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. The predetermined signal is a power-on signal that transitions the printing device from a power-off state to a power-on state, or a power-off signal that transitions the printing device from a power-on state to a power-off state. The printing system according to claim 6 .

8. the power-on signal is a signal that does not include an instruction to start the printing operation, In response to receiving the power-on signal, the printing device performs the specific operation without starting the printing operation. The printing system according to claim 7 .

9. In response to receiving the power-on signal, the printing device performs a preparatory operation for starting the printing operation and the specific operation. The printing system according to claim 7 .

10. A printing device that performs a printing operation, a communication unit that communicates with a terminal device that operates the printing device; a specifying unit that performs a specifying operation to specify the elapsed time since the most recent use of the printing device, The communication unit transmits the identification result of the identification unit to the terminal device. Printing device.

11. The identification unit identifies user information of a previous use of the printing device, The identification results include user information of the most recent use of the printing device. The printing device of claim 10.

12. The identification unit identifies time information of the most recent use of the printing device, The identification result includes time information of the most recent use of the printing device. The printing device of claim 10.

13. The specifying unit performs the specified operation in response to a predetermined signal received from the terminal device.

13. The printing device according to claim 10.

14. The predetermined signal is a power-on signal that transitions the printing device from a power-off state to a power-on state, or a power-off signal that transitions the printing device from a power-on state to a power-off state. The printing device of claim 13.

15. The power-on signal is a signal that does not include an instruction to start the printing operation, In response to the power-on signal, the specific operation is performed without starting the printing operation. The printing device of claim 14.

16. In response to receiving the power-on signal, a preparatory operation for starting the printing operation and the specific operation are performed. The printing device of claim 14.

17. A terminal device for operating a printing device, a communication unit that communicates with the printing device and receives from the printing device a result of identifying the elapsed time since the most recent use of the printing device; a control unit that controls the printing device to display an inquiry about the operation content of the next printing operation according to the identification result. Terminal device.

18. A terminal device that operates the printing device is communicating with the printing device to receive from the printing device a determination of the amount of time elapsed since the most recent use of the printing device; and displaying an inquiry about the operation content of the next printing operation of the printing device according to the result of the identification. program.