Printing system, maintenance system, remote maintenance system for printing device, computer program, recording medium, and remote maintenance method for printing device

Abstract

A printing system according to the present invention comprises: a printing device including a printing mechanism for executing a printing process and a housing that houses the printing mechanism; an imaging unit that can be attached to and detached from the housing; an image processing unit that executes image processing of the image captured by the imaging unit; and a communication unit that outputs the image generated by the image processing unit to the outside via a communication line. In the housing, installation points set as positions for attaching the imaging unit are provided at a plurality of places in advance. The image processing unit executes, as the image processing, an obscuration process in which partial areas of the image captured by the imaging unit are set as target areas and the visibility of an object being imaged in the target areas is eliminated, and the target areas are set individually in advance in accordance with the installation points. The communication unit outputs the image following the obscuration process as an output image.

Description

Printing system, maintenance system, remote maintenance system for printing device, computer program, recording medium, and remote maintenance method for printing device

[0001] The present invention relates to the maintenance of a printing device having a printing mechanism and a housing that houses the printing mechanism, and more particularly to a technology that enables remote support of maintenance work by using captured images of the device.

[0002] Printing devices require periodic maintenance work, such as checking the condition of mechanical parts and replacing consumables. Furthermore, if any abnormalities occur, work must be done to fix the problem. While such work requires knowledge of the device's structure and the work involved, users of printing devices generally lack sufficient knowledge. For this reason, maintenance work is generally entrusted to dedicated technicians with the necessary knowledge and skills. This type of maintenance system, for example, can result in long downtime when a device malfunctions, requiring a technician to arrive on-site and complete the repair work, which can also be expensive.

[0003] To address these issues, it is desirable to establish a system that allows users to perform a certain level of maintenance work without relying on dedicated engineers. In this regard, for example, Patent Document 1 describes a technology in which an imaging unit (multiple cameras or a camera that can move between multiple positions) is built into a liquid ejection device that prints using an inkjet method, and the cause of the malfunction is estimated from images of the nozzles that eject the liquid. With this technology, if the malfunction cannot be resolved even through recovery operations that the device autonomously performs, the user is notified of this fact and prompted to perform maintenance work.

[0004] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2023-066601

[0005] If the user does not have sufficient knowledge, it is possible to create a system in which the captured image is sent to a service center or technician in charge of the maintenance work, and the user can receive advice on the maintenance work from the technician based on the image.In fact, maintenance services are becoming available in which the user and a technician in a remote location can communicate while sharing images using a mobile phone or other device with an image capture function, and the technician can support the user in the maintenance work.

[0006] If a technician can issue instructions from a remote location and users can perform maintenance themselves based on those instructions, it will be possible to reduce downtime and maintenance costs significantly. Also, if images of various locations within the device can be captured depending on the purpose, it is expected that maintenance work can be performed on those locations.

[0007] The following are some of the potential problems that may arise, primarily from the user's perspective, when establishing such a maintenance system. First, in order for technicians to accurately grasp the equipment's status, they need to capture images of the equipment from an appropriate field of view. Even if the technician provides instructions for this, inexperienced users may not always be able to obtain appropriate images. Furthermore, images may contain content that is not necessary for maintenance work but that may be related to the user's privacy, such as the background around the equipment. It is necessary to avoid transmitting such images to external parties.

[0008] For these reasons, in order to enable users to perform maintenance work themselves efficiently and reliably based on instructions from remote locations, it is necessary to ensure that accurate images necessary for the work are delivered to technicians while respecting the user's privacy.

[0009] This invention has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned problems, and aims to enable users to perform maintenance work effectively based on instructions from a remote location by ensuring that images necessary for maintenance work are obtained while protecting the user's privacy.

[0010] One aspect of the present invention is a printing system comprising a printing device having a printing mechanism that performs printing processing and a housing that houses the printing mechanism, an imaging unit that is detachable from the housing, an image processing unit that performs image processing on an image captured by the imaging unit, and a communication unit that outputs the image generated by the image processing unit to the outside via a communication line.

[0011] Another aspect of the present invention is a maintenance system for a printing device, comprising an imaging unit, an image processing unit that performs image processing on an image captured by the imaging unit, and a communication unit that outputs the image generated by the image processing unit to the outside via a communication line.

[0012] In these inventions, the housing is provided with a plurality of installation points set as positions for attaching the imaging unit, and the image processing unit performs, as the image processing, a secrecy process in which a partial area of ​​the image captured by the imaging unit is set as a target area and the object being imaged within the target area is made invisible, the target areas being set individually in advance corresponding to each of the installation points, and the communication unit outputs the image after the secrecy process as an output image.

[0013] Another aspect of the present invention is a computer program that causes a computer device to execute the following steps: acquiring an image captured by an imaging unit; acquiring information for identifying one of a plurality of installation points pre-installed in a printing device at which the imaging unit was installed when the image was acquired; determining the target area in the image based on the information and a table that associates each of the plurality of installation points with the corresponding target area in the image; performing a secrecy process on the image to make the imaged object in the target area invisible; and outputting the image after the secrecy process to the outside via a communication line.

[0014] Another aspect of the present invention is a computer-readable recording medium having the above-described computer program recorded thereon.

[0015] In the invention configured as described above, the user simply attaches the imaging unit to a preset installation point on the housing of the printing device, significantly reducing the risk of capturing images in an inappropriate field of view. Furthermore, by providing multiple installation points according to the purpose of the maintenance work, it is possible to capture images of each part of the device with a single imaging unit, making it possible to handle multiple types of maintenance work with different purposes.

[0016] On the other hand, to address user privacy concerns, confidentiality processing is performed on a target area, which is a portion of the captured image, and the processed image is transmitted to the outside. The confidentiality processing is a process that makes the imaged object in the target area invisible, so that the image content in the target area cannot be identified in the image transmitted to the outside.

[0017] The area within an image that should be subject to confidentiality processing varies depending on the position and orientation of the imaging unit that captures the image. However, in this invention, the position and orientation are determined by attaching the imaging unit to a planned installation point. Therefore, when the imaging unit is attached to one installation point, it is possible to know in advance the location of the area within the image that is required for maintenance work and the location of other areas that should be confidential. For this reason, the target area to be subject to confidentiality processing is determined for each installation point, and the appropriate area is selected and applied according to the installation position of the imaging unit to perform the confidentiality processing. In this way, information related to the user's privacy is prevented from being transmitted to the outside for any installation point.

[0018] As described above, the image captured and transmitted externally in the present invention reliably contains image information necessary for performing maintenance work, while excluding information that is not necessary for the work and that may affect the user's privacy. A remote recipient of the image via a communication line, such as a technician with maintenance knowledge, can obtain the information necessary for performing maintenance work from the image without violating the user's privacy. Using this information, the technician can provide appropriate instructions and advice to the user attempting to perform maintenance work. As a result, the user's maintenance work based on instructions from a remote location can be performed effectively.

[0019] Another aspect of the present invention is a remote maintenance system for a printing device, comprising: a printing system having the above-described configuration; an external display device that is remotely located from the printing system and that displays the output image transmitted from the communication unit via the communication line; and a pair of communication devices that can communicate with each other.

[0020] Another aspect of the present invention is a remote maintenance method for a printing device having a printing mechanism that executes printing processing and a housing that houses the printing mechanism, in which a printing system of the above configuration and an external display device that are located remotely from each other are connected to each other so that they can communicate via the communication line, the output image sent from the communication unit via the communication line is displayed on the external display device, and an instructor who can access the external display device and an operator who can access the printing system communicate with each other via a communication device while the operator performs maintenance work on the printing system.

[0021] In the invention configured in this way, the image displayed on the external display device can contain information necessary for the maintenance work, but not contain user privacy information, as described above. Therefore, a technician who views the image displayed on the external display device in a remote location can act as an instructor, and a user who is in a position where they can operate the printing system can act as an operator, and the two can carry out maintenance work while communicating via a communication device.

[0022] As described above, according to the present invention, the mounting position of the imaging unit relative to the printing device is preset as an installation point, thereby preventing the imaging unit from being mounted in an inappropriate position and capturing an image with an inappropriate field of view. Meanwhile, to address the problem of the possibility that information related to the user's privacy may be included in the image, confidentiality processing is performed on the target area of ​​the image set for each installation point, preventing such image information from being transmitted to the outside. Therefore, images necessary for maintenance work can be reliably obtained without violating the user's privacy. As a result, the present invention enables the user to perform maintenance work effectively based on instructions from a remote location.

[0023] The above and other objects and novel features of the present invention will become more fully apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

[0024] 1 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a system configuration for executing a remote maintenance method according to the present invention. FIG. 1 is a front view schematically illustrating an example of a printing device that is a component of a printing system according to the present invention. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating the position of a print head within a housing. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating the position of a print head within a housing. FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating the electrical configuration of this printing device. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of an imaging unit. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of an attachment location of the imaging unit. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating details of an installation point. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating details of an installation point. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating the relationship between the position of a head unit and an installation point during maintenance work. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the concept of privacy protection in this embodiment. FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating the concept of privacy protection in this embodiment. FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating image processing executed in a printing system. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of how maintenance work proceeds in a remote maintenance service. FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of another installation point.

[0025] Below, we will explain an embodiment of a printing system according to the present invention and an overview of a remote maintenance service using the system. This printing system is centered around a commercial printing device that uses an inkjet printing method. This printing system also allows users to perform some of the maintenance work that traditionally required a dedicated service engineer to visit the user. Specifically, the printing system disclosed below combines a camera and a communication device with the printing device, enabling remote maintenance services. This remote maintenance service involves users performing maintenance work themselves while receiving real-time instructions and advice from a remote service engineer via the communication device.

[0026] In the following description, the person who accesses the printing device and performs maintenance work will be referred to as an "operator." The operator may be the user of the printing device, or a dedicated service engineer dispatched from the printing device's supplier or service center. In the following, such a service engineer may be simply referred to as an "engineer."

[0027] 1 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a system configuration for executing a remote maintenance service, which is one embodiment of a remote maintenance method according to the present invention. This remote maintenance service is realized by connecting a user of a printing device 1 and a service provider that provides maintenance support services for the printing device 1 via a communication line. The user side is provided with a printing system 10 including the printing device 1, and the service provider side is provided with a support system 20 including a service-side computer 6.

[0028] In one embodiment, the printing system 10 includes a printing device 1, a user computer 2, an imaging unit 3, and a mobile phone 4. The user computer 2 is connected to an internet line IN, and the imaging unit 3 is connected to the user computer 2. The mobile phone 4 can be connected to a telephone line TL as needed.

[0029] In order to distinguish between the computer installed on the user's side and the computer installed on the service provider's side, these will be referred to as the "user's computer" and the "service's computer," respectively. However, in the following, when it is deemed possible to distinguish between them, these will sometimes be simply referred to as the "computer."

[0030] As will be described later, in order to realize the remote maintenance service according to this embodiment, it is not essential that the printing device 1 be connected to the computer 2 and the Internet line IN. However, for other purposes, such as enabling operation and management of the printing device 1 by the computer 2 or enabling maintenance such as firmware updates via the Internet line IN, the printing device 1 may be connected to at least one of the computer 2 and the Internet line IN, as indicated by the dashed arrow in the figure. The printing device 1 may also be configured to be able to connect to the Internet via the computer 2.

[0031] The configurations of the printing device 1 and the imaging unit 3 will be described later. The mobile phone 4 is capable of at least voice communication with other communication devices via a telephone line TL provided by a telephone carrier. In this embodiment, a mobile phone is used for conversation between the user and the service provider, but as will be described later, the remote maintenance service in the printing system of the present invention can also be implemented in a form that does not use a mobile phone.

[0032] The (user-side) computer 2 has a hardware configuration equivalent to that of a typical computer device, and includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 21, memory 22, storage 23, and interface (IF) section 24. The CPU 21 executes a control program 231 stored in the storage 23 to implement functional blocks such as a camera control section 211 and an image processing section 212 in software. The memory 22 stores data generated by the CPU 21 on a short-term basis. The IF section 24 is responsible for data exchange with external devices and for the UI (user interface). To this end, the IF section 24 includes an input section 241 that accepts operational inputs from the user, and a display section 242 that presents various information to the user.

[0033] The storage 23 is a storage device that stores various data for a long period of time, and may be, for example, a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid state disk (SSD), etc. The storage 23 stores the control program 231 described above as well as a mask setting table 232, which will be described later.

[0034] The support system 20 on the service provider side is generally installed in a location remote from the printing system 10 on the user side. For example, it can be installed at service bases set up by the service provider in various locations. The support system 20 includes a service-side computer 6 and a mobile phone 7. In addition, the service base may also be equipped with a management server 8 for collecting and managing the usage status of the printing device 1 installed on the user side, although this does not directly contribute to the remote maintenance method of the present invention.

[0035] The (service-side) computer 6 also has a hardware configuration equivalent to that of a general computer device, and includes a CPU 61, memory 62, storage 63, and interface IF unit 64. The IF unit 64 includes an input unit 641 that accepts operational input from an engineer who operates the computer 6 at the service base, and a display unit 642 that displays various information. As will be described later, the display unit 642 can display images transmitted from the printing system 10 via the Internet line IN.

[0036] FIG. 2 is a front view schematically illustrating an example of a printing device that is a component of a printing system according to the present invention. In FIG. 2 and the following figures, the horizontal X direction, the horizontal Y direction perpendicular to the X direction, and the vertical Z direction are indicated as appropriate. The printing device 1 prints an image on a long, strip-shaped web (substrate) W by ejecting ink onto the web W using an inkjet method while transporting the web W roll-to-roll within a housing 100. The web W is made of paper or film, and is flexible. The printing device 1 includes a control unit 11 that provides overall control of the entire device, and the control required for printing operations on the web W is executed by the control unit 11. The control unit 11 is configured with a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit).

[0037] The printing apparatus 1 includes a transport unit 12 that transports the web W. The transport unit 12 has a feed roller 121 and a take-up roller 122, and transports the web W roll-to-roll by winding the web W unwound by the feed roller 121 onto the take-up roller 122. The transport unit 12 includes a take-up unit 123 between the feed roller 121 and the take-up roller 122 that takes in the web W unwound from the feed roller 121. The take-up unit 123 has two drive rollers 1231, two nip rollers 1232, and an edge position adjustment unit 1234 provided between the two drive rollers 1231. Each drive roller 1231 rotates by the driving force of a motor while wrapping the web W around it, thereby driving the web W. Two nip rollers 1232 are provided corresponding to the two drive rollers 1231, respectively, and each nip roller 1232 sandwiches the web W between itself and the corresponding drive roller 1231. The edge position adjustment unit 1234 adjusts the position of the edge of the web W in the X direction, which is the width direction of the web W.

[0038] The transport unit 12 also has a plurality of support rollers 124 that support the web W between the take-in unit 123 and the winding roller 122. These support rollers 124 transport the web W in the Y direction while supporting the web W, onto which ink is ejected by an inkjet system, from below. In particular, the plurality of support rollers 124 are arranged at an incline so that the support rollers 124 on the downstream side in the transport direction (Y direction) of the web W are positioned higher. Therefore, the web W transported by these support rollers 124 is transported at an incline so as to rise as it approaches the Y direction.

[0039] The transport unit 12 further includes a plurality of support rollers 125 that support the web W between the support roller 124 and the winding roller 122, and a drying unit 126 disposed between the support rollers 125 and the winding roller 122. The drying unit 126 includes a heat drum 1261 and a support roller 1262 that supports the web W moving from the heat drum 1261 to the winding roller 122. The heat drum 1261 is driven to rotate in response to the transport of the web W, and dries the web W by heating the web W with a built-in heater. The transport unit 12 also includes a plurality of support rollers 127 that support the web W moving from the drying unit 126 to the winding roller 122. The transport unit 12 further includes a drive roller 1281 and a nip roller 1282 disposed between the support rollers 127 and the winding roller 122. The drive roller 1281 rotates by the driving force of a motor while the web W is wound around it, thereby driving the web W. The nip roller 1282 sandwiches the web W between itself and the drive roller 1281 .

[0040] In this way, the transport unit 12 forms a transport path for the web W by combining multiple rollers, and transports the web W along this transport path. Most of the transport path is formed in the internal space SP within the housing 100, but a portion of it, for example, at least one of the pay-out roller 121 and the wind-up roller 122, may be provided outside the housing 100. This improves the ease of attaching and detaching the rolled web W to and from the pay-out roller 121 and the wind-up roller 122.

[0041] The printing device 1 has multiple head units 13 that face from above the web W, which is supported by multiple support rollers 124 inside the housing 100. Each head unit 13 is equipped with a print head 130 that ejects ink downward from an ejection port (nozzle) located at the bottom, depositing the ink onto the web W transported below. For example, color printing is achieved by having the print heads 130 located in each head unit 13 eject ink of different colors. In this example, six head units 13 are arranged along the transport path, but the number of head units 13 is not limited to this and can be any number. Furthermore, the combination of ink types ejected from each print head 130 can also be any number. Furthermore, multiple print heads may be provided for one head unit.

[0042] Each head unit 13 is also provided with a maintenance unit (not shown) that covers the bottom of the print head 130. Its role is to keep the nozzles of the print head 130 clean and prevent clogging, maintaining a state in which the print head 130 can be quickly used for printing when necessary. As shown in FIG. 2, although the head units 13 are arranged at different tilt angles, their configurations can basically be the same. Therefore, in the following description of the head units 13, no particular distinction is made between these head units.

[0043] Furthermore, as shown below, the print head 130 is movable in the (-X) direction. More specifically, the print head 130 is movable from a position above the web W on the transport path where it can eject ink onto the web W, to a position further away from the web W in the (-X) direction, i.e., where the web W is no longer present below the print head 130.

[0044] 3A and 3B are diagrams showing the position of the print head 130 inside the housing 100. As shown in Fig. 3A, inside the housing 100, which houses the main parts of the device in an internal space SP, the print head 130 is positioned above the web W on the transport path. The position of the print head 130 at this time will be referred to as the "first position P1."

[0045] The (-X) side of the housing 100 is a front panel surface where an operator can perform various operations and maintenance work. Part of the front panel also forms an opening 110 with openable and closable doors 102a and 102b. By opening the doors 102a and 102b, the operator can access the print head 130 through the opening 110.

[0046] More specifically, as shown in FIG. 3A , the print head 130 is attached to a pair of frame members 171 extending in the X direction within the housing 100. The frame members 171 are supported by frame support side plates 172 fixed inside the housing 100 so that they can move freely in the X direction. As shown in FIG. 3B , when an operator opens the doors 102a and 102b and pulls out the print head 130 in the (-X) direction, the frame members 171 move in the (-X) direction along the frame support side plates 172. This pulls out the print head 130 into the external space through the opening 110. As a result, the operator can access the print head 130 from above, below, and laterally to perform necessary tasks. The position of the print head 130 at this time is referred to as the "second position P2."

[0047] Such movement of the print head 130 is performed when an operator performs maintenance work such as head replacement on the head unit 13, and particularly on the print head 130. Therefore, this movement can be achieved manually by the operator, and it is not necessarily necessary to provide the device with a drive source for automatically moving the frame member 171.

[0048] In addition, although illustrations and detailed explanations are omitted here because this is a typical configuration for a printing device, openings for exposing areas requiring maintenance work and doors for opening and closing these openings are provided as appropriate in the housing 100. For example, the drying unit 126 also requires periodic maintenance work, so a door is provided to expose this.

[0049] FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of this printing device. The control unit 11 issues control commands to each of the above-mentioned device components, causing them to perform predetermined operations. For this purpose, the control unit 11 includes a CPU, which executes various control programs, a storage device for storing and saving control programs and various data, a user interface device, and the like. For example, the control unit 11 can be a dedicated hardware built into the printing device 1, or a computer device or workstation with a general hardware configuration. In this case, for example, the user's computer 2 can also function as the control unit 11.

[0050] The control unit 11 controls the transport unit 12, head unit 13, and drying unit 126. A plurality of head units 13 are provided, each of which includes a print head 130 and a maintenance unit 139. The print head 130 is provided with ejection nozzles 131, an ink delivery system 132, and a head drive mechanism 133.

[0051] The discharge nozzles 131 are provided at the bottom of the print head 130 and discharge ink toward the web W passing underneath. The ink delivery system 132 stores ink to be supplied to the discharge nozzles 131 and delivers ink to the discharge nozzles 131 as needed. The head drive mechanism 133 controls the discharge nozzles 131 to form an image in accordance with a print control signal provided by the control unit 11.

[0052] The maintenance unit 139 is equipped with mechanisms necessary for maintaining the print head 130, and in particular the discharge nozzles 131. For example, the maintenance unit 139 is provided with nozzle caps that cover the discharge openings of the discharge nozzles 131 to prevent the ink from drying, and a nozzle cleaning mechanism that removes any ink remaining on the discharge nozzles 131. Many of these components are well known, so a description of them will be omitted here.

[0053] In addition to these, the printing device 1 is provided with an interlock mechanism 14. The interlock mechanism 14 is provided to ensure safe and reliable operation of the printing device 1, and allows execution of the printing process only when each part of the device is ready. For example, execution of the printing process is restricted if a processing unit that is detachably provided in the device and is essential for executing the printing process is not installed, or if doors 102a, 102b, etc. are not completely closed. Various types of such interlock mechanisms are known, and they can be appropriately selected and used in this embodiment as well.

[0054] FIG. 5 shows an example configuration of the imaging unit 3. The imaging unit 3 includes a camera 31 with real-time imaging capabilities and a support mechanism 32 that supports the camera. The imaging unit 3 is attached to the housing 100 of the printing device 1 (more specifically, the frame 101 or doors 102a, 102b, etc., of the housing 100) when in use. The camera 31 is a typical industrial camera, equipped with an imaging element that converts light incident on the light-receiving surface into an electrical signal and a data output unit that converts the electrical signal into digital image data and outputs it. Here, the camera 31 has a disk-shaped main body 312 with a roughly hemispherical protective hood 311, but the shape and configuration of the camera are arbitrary. The main body 312 of the camera 31 is also equipped with a pilot lamp 313 that indicates that imaging is in progress. The image data output by the camera 31 is transmitted to the computer 2.

[0055] The support mechanism 32 includes a stage part 321 on which the camera 31 is attached, a clamp part 322 for fixing the camera 31 to the frame 101, and an arm part 323 that connects these together. The stage part 321 has a structure that matches the shape of the camera 31 and holds the camera 31. The camera 31 may be provided detachably with respect to the stage part 321, or may be fixed to the stage part 321 using a fastening member such as a screw.

[0056] The clamp unit 322 is detachably attached to the frame 101 that constitutes the housing 100. Specifically, the clamp unit 322 has a first member 322a and a second member 322b that are movable toward and away from each other, and a fixing screw 322c. The clamp unit 322 is fixed to the frame 101 by tightening the fixing screw 322c with the frame 101 sandwiched between the first member 322a and the second member 322b. In this manner, the imaging unit 3 can be attached to the frame 101.

[0057] 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of the installation location of the imaging unit 3. The imaging unit 3 is used for maintenance work on the printing device 1, and is installed in the housing 100 of the printing device 1 at that time. A plurality of installation points are set in advance as installation positions of the imaging unit 3 relative to the housing 100. Specifically, positions Pa to Pf shown in FIG. 6 are set as installation points.

[0058] These installation points Pa to Pf are provided on a frame 101 of the housing 100 of the printing device 1, which is shielded by the doors 102a and 102b when the doors 102a and 102b are closed, but is exposed when the doors 102a and 102b are opened. For example, installation point Pa is provided at approximately the center in the Y direction of frame 101a, which is provided along the bottom edge of opening 110 that appears when the doors 102a and 102b are opened. Furthermore, four installation points Pb to Pe are provided discretely in the Y direction on frame 101b, which is provided along the top edge of opening 110.

[0059] Furthermore, a reinforcing frame 103 is provided on the rear surface that appears when the doors 102a and 102b are opened, and an installation point Pf is provided at a position on the reinforcing frame 103a of the door 102a that is closer to the opening 110 side.

[0060] By providing the installation points in positions that are exposed when the doors 102a and 102b are open, the imaging unit 3 is attached to the printing device 1 when the doors 102a and 102b are open. In other words, when the doors 102a and 102b are closed and printing processing is possible, the imaging unit 3 is not attached. This prevents the user from feeling uneasy that images are being constantly transmitted to the outside.

[0061] These installation points Pa to Pf are determined in accordance with the content of maintenance work performed on each print head 130. More specifically, installation points Pa to Pf are determined so that the position and orientation of the imaging unit 3 are as desired at the time of maintenance work performed by a remote engineer, with the aim of acquiring images necessary to support the user's maintenance work. Instead of or in addition to these, installation points may be set at other locations depending on the purpose for maintenance work performed on other parts of the device, or for maintenance work of different content.

[0062] 7A and 7B are diagrams showing details of the installation points. Here, installation point Pa will be described as a representative example, but the same applies to the other installation points Pb to Pf. As shown in FIG. 7A , installation point Pa, which is provided on frame 101a, which is part of housing 100, is provided with a rectangular marker 151 indicating the attachment position of clamp unit 322 of imaging unit 3, a character symbol 152 represented by the letter "A" to distinguish installation point Pa from other installation points, and an arrow symbol 153 indicating the orientation of camera 31.

[0063] These can be fixedly provided in advance by being printed or engraved on the frame 101a, but may also be configured as labels 150 affixed to the frame 101a, for example. In this way, it becomes possible to set the installation point after the fact and apply the remote maintenance service according to this embodiment to existing printing devices that were shipped without an installation point being clearly indicated.

[0064] For example, when attaching the imaging unit 3 to installation point Pa during maintenance work, the operator aligns the clamp unit 322 with the marker 151 identified by the letter symbol 152 "A," as shown in FIG. 7B , and fixes the clamp unit 322 so that the camera 31 faces the direction indicated by the arrow symbol 153. This allows the imaging unit 3 to be accurately attached to installation point Pa. This prevents a decrease in work efficiency due to the imaging unit 3 being attached in an inappropriate position or direction. Furthermore, the engineer only needs to instruct the operator on which installation point the imaging unit 3 should be attached. Therefore, even a user without detailed knowledge of the equipment can function as an operator in charge of maintenance work.

[0065] Figure 8 is a diagram showing the relationship between the position of the head unit and the installation point during maintenance work. As shown in Figure 8, each print head 130 is exposed when the doors 102a and 102b covering the opening 110 are opened, and can be pulled out in the (-X) direction, and ultimately the print head 130 is pulled out from the opening 110 into the external space. In this state, maintenance work can be performed on the print head 130.

[0066] When the imaging unit 3 is attached to installation point Pa on the frame 101a, the camera 31 is installed so that it faces upward, as indicated by the arrow symbol 153, i.e., has an imaging field of view above. Therefore, the camera 31 can capture images of the lower part of the pulled-out print head 130. On the other hand, for installation point Pb, the imaging unit 3 is installed on the frame 101b so that the camera 31 faces downward, i.e., has an imaging field of view below. In other words, to obtain such an imaging field of view, installation point Pb is located directly above the print head 130 furthest to the (+Y) side of the four print heads 130 facing the opening 110. Therefore, at this time, the camera 31 of the imaging unit 3 can capture images of the upper part of that print head 130 from a close distance. The other installation points Pc to Pe on the frame 101b are also located in positions that allow images of the other print heads 130 facing the opening 110 from above.

[0067] Meanwhile, although hidden in the figure, the installation point Pf is set at a position where the imaging unit 3 can image the maintenance section 139 that is provided below the print head 130 in each head unit 13. In other words, the installation point Pf is provided for the purpose of imaging the maintenance section 139 for maintenance work on the maintenance section 139. In this way, installation points can be set according to the target and purpose of the maintenance work.

[0068] 8, when the imaging unit 3 is attached to any of the installation points, the imaging unit 3 is disposed so as to protrude outward from the frame 101 that is exposed when the doors 102a, 102b are opened. Therefore, when an attempt is made to close the doors 102a, 102b with the imaging unit 3 attached, the operation is restricted by the imaging unit 3. In other words, the doors 102a, 102b cannot be closed with the imaging unit 3 attached to any of the installation points.

[0069] The printing device 1 is provided with an interlock mechanism 14, which does not allow printing to be performed unless the doors 102a and 102b are completely closed. This prohibits printing with the imaging unit 3 installed, and also prevents the problem of operating the printing device 1 while forgetting to remove the imaging unit 3. This allows the operator to perform maintenance work safely. Note that it is not necessary for all installation points to meet this condition.

[0070] It is necessary to capture images with the imaging unit 3 properly attached to the installation point and share the images with engineers in remote locations. If this can be achieved, even users without specialized knowledge of the equipment can play the role of operators who actually access the equipment and perform maintenance work.

[0071] If maintenance work is entirely left to engineers dispatched from outside, for example, if a problem occurs in the printing device 1 and printing processing stops, even if the problem is minor, printing processing cannot be resumed until the engineer arrives and takes measures. If users could take measures to resolve the problem themselves, this type of downtime could be significantly reduced.

[0072] Furthermore, by having users take on part of the maintenance work in this way, the frequency of dispatching engineers can be reduced, which can also reduce maintenance costs. Even if a remote maintenance service is provided, it is expected that users will become less reliant on the service as they become familiar with the work by performing it several times. This will further reduce maintenance costs.

[0073] In fact, some services are now being offered to support users in performing maintenance work, for example by allowing users to take images of equipment using a mobile phone with an image capture function and send them to a remote service engineer who can then communicate with the user and provide operational instructions while viewing the images.However, there are problems with this approach, such as the difficulty of accurately instructing users who do not have detailed knowledge on the location where the image should be taken, making it difficult to obtain the images necessary for the work.

[0074] In the printing system 10 of this embodiment, an installation point for attaching the imaging unit 3 to the printing device 1 is set in advance. By attaching the imaging unit 3 to the set installation point, the position and posture of the imaging unit 3 are stabilized. Therefore, it is possible to reliably acquire images necessary for smooth maintenance work.

[0075] Furthermore, there is a concern that inadvertent image capture may result in the transmission of images that are not necessary for maintenance work, particularly images containing content that may affect the user's privacy. Such concerns may discourage users from performing maintenance work themselves. This poses an obstacle to reducing downtime and maintenance costs as described above. To address this issue, the printing system 10 of this embodiment takes the following measures.

[0076] 9A to 9C are diagrams illustrating the concept of privacy protection in this embodiment. For example, if the imaging unit 3 is attached to installation point Pa, as shown in FIG. 9A, the camera 31 will capture an image of the print head 130 facing upward. In this case, the imaging field of view FV of the camera 31 naturally includes the print head 130. However, other surrounding objects may also inevitably be included in the imaging field of view FV. This creates the risk of violating the user's privacy.

[0077] As shown in FIG. 9B , the image Im captured by the camera 31 includes an image of the print head 130 viewed from below. Furthermore, various objects in the user facility where the printing device 1 is installed may be reflected in the background region BG. Here, since the imaging unit 3 is attached to a predetermined installation point, the positional relationship between the camera 31 and the print head 130, which is the object to be imaged, is known in advance. Therefore, the area of ​​the image Im occupied by the print head 130 can also be determined in advance. Therefore, by extracting only the area of ​​the image Im occupied by the print head 130, information about the object to be imaged in the background region BG can be prevented from leaking.

[0078] Specifically, as shown in Figure 9C, a mask M is prepared to block out the area of ​​the image Im that is necessary for maintenance work, specifically the background area BG other than the area occupied by the print head 130. Then, only the processed image obtained by applying the mask M to the image Im captured by the camera 31 is transmitted to the outside. This prevents information that is not necessary for maintenance work from leaking to the outside.

[0079] As described above, in this embodiment, a plurality of installation points are prepared. Therefore, the area of ​​the image to be masked (mask setting area) needs to be different for each installation point. Therefore, in this embodiment, each of the plurality of installation points and its corresponding mask setting area are associated in advance and stored in the storage 23 as a mask setting table 232. Then, by referring to the mask setting table 232, a mask setting area corresponding to the installation point of the imaging unit 3 is selected and the image is masked. Specifically, this is as follows.

[0080] 10 is a flowchart showing the image processing executed in the printing system. This image processing is realized by the CPU 21 of the user's computer 2 executing the control program 231, and is mainly executed by the camera control unit 211 and image processing unit 212. This processing can be executed by connecting a camera to a computer device with a general hardware configuration. Therefore, the present invention can be embodied as a computer program that represents this processing procedure, or as a recording medium on which that program is recorded.

[0081] When the system recognizes that the camera 31 is connected (step S101), information about the installation point is acquired (step S102). The installation point of the imaging unit 3 is preferably detected automatically, but may be instructed by an operator's input via the input unit 241. For example, a user interface may be provided in which a list of candidate installation points is displayed on the display unit 242, allowing the operator to select from the list.

[0082] As described above, the installation point of the imaging unit 3 is determined depending on the object of the maintenance work and the work content. Therefore, the mask setting area may be indirectly determined by having the operator specify the object of the maintenance work or the work content. In this way, the CPU 21 can determine which of the multiple installation points the imaging unit 3 is attached to. In addition, in a mode in which an engineer instructs the operator from a remote location, the selected installation point may be notified to the user-side computer 2 by reflecting the results of the engineer's operation of the service-side computer 6. Based on the acquired information, the mask setting table 232 is referenced, and a mask setting area corresponding to the installation point is selected and set from among the previously prepared mask setting areas (step S103).

[0083] The camera control unit 211 controls the camera 31 to start capturing images (step S104). When the image Im is acquired (step S105), the image processing unit 212 applies the selected mask M to the image Im and executes a masking process (step S106). As a result, information about the captured object that is unrelated to the maintenance work is erased from the image.

[0084] The processed image (processed image) is first displayed on the display unit 242 of the user-side computer 2 (step S107). While this is not a mandatory requirement, it is a preferable measure in that it allows the user to confirm that the image to be transmitted externally does not contain private information. When an operation input indicating permission to transmit the image is received from the operator (step S108), the processed image is further transmitted as an output image from the interface unit 24 to the service-side computer 6 via the Internet line IN (step S109). Thereafter, steps S105 to S109 are repeatedly executed until the maintenance work is completed and imaging is no longer necessary (step S110). However, step S108 may be omitted in this case.

[0085] During work, users feel uneasy if they cannot tell whether images are being sent externally. In the above process, images are not sent until the operator authorizes the transmission, and an image identical to the output image is displayed on the display unit 242 of the user-side computer 2, thereby eliminating such anxiety. Alternatively, or in addition, while the camera 31 is operating and capturing images, or at least while the images captured by the camera 31 and masked by the image processing unit 212 are being transmitted, the pilot lamp 313 provided on the camera 31 may be lit to notify the user that image capture is in progress. This allows the user to easily know whether images are being transmitted.

[0086] In this way, the images processed by the user's computer 2 and transmitted via the Internet line IN are images from which information about the object being photographed that is unrelated to the maintenance work has been masked out, thereby preventing information that concerns the user's privacy and is unnecessary for the work from leaking to the outside.

[0087] The engineer can display the output image received via the Internet line IN on the display unit 642 of the computer 6 and observe the status of the remotely located printing device 1. This image is also displayed on the user's display unit 242, and the operator and engineer can share the screen and communicate using mobile phones 4 and 7 to carry out maintenance work according to the status of the device.

[0088] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of how maintenance work is carried out in a remote maintenance service. The remote maintenance service begins when a user of the printing device 1 requests support from an engineer at a remote location, such as a service center. The engineer interviews the user and confirms the details of the maintenance work required. If the work can be performed by the user, the engineer instructs the user on the work required for the user to perform the maintenance work themselves and the installation point where the imaging unit 3 should be attached for that purpose.

[0089] Hereinafter, the user will be the operator who actually performs the maintenance work on the printing device 1. Based on instructions from the engineer, the operator prepares for the work, including attaching the imaging unit 3 to the specified installation point. When the operator confirms that the preparation work is complete (e.g., step S108 in FIG. 10 ), image transmission from the printing system 10 on the operator's side to the support system 20 on the engineer's side begins.

[0090] The image transmitted at this time is an image captured by the camera 31 when the imaging unit 3 is attached at an installation point according to the work content, and furthermore, information related to the user's privacy is deleted from the image. Therefore, the imaging field of view FV necessary for the maintenance work is secured, and information unrelated to the work is also excluded.

[0091] The engineer determines the status of the equipment from the images displayed on the display unit 642, and if a problem occurs, instructs the operator on the work to resolve it. The operator performs the work according to the instructions. If necessary, conversations between the engineer and the operator and work based on those conversations are repeated. During this time, if the operator becomes confused about the work, the engineer can provide advice at any time to promote the progress of the work.

[0092] It is also preferable that the image displayed on the display unit 242 of the user-side computer 2 and the image displayed on the display unit 642 of the service-side computer 6 are linked with each other with the same content, i.e., a so-called mirrored display. Specifically, for example, when an engineer moves a pointer on the screen by operating the input unit 641, the pointer can be displayed in the same position on the display unit 242 of the user-side computer 2.

[0093] In this way, the engineer can point out on the screen the part that the operator should pay attention to by operating the screen. This makes it possible to communicate more smoothly between the engineer and the operator. A similar function may also be implemented for the operator to direct the message to the engineer.

[0094] Furthermore, for example, the imaging field of view FV, imaging magnification, etc. of the camera 31 may be changed by an engineer by remotely operating the camera 31 via the Internet line IN. This allows for the engineer to, for example, enlarge and observe a specific portion of the original image, thereby enabling maintenance work to proceed more efficiently.

[0095] When this operation requires changing the mask setting area in the image, the mask M is changed each time. That is, even if the installation point where the imaging unit 3 is attached is the same, the mask applied may differ depending on the settings of the camera 31. Furthermore, even if the installation point is the same, the mask setting area may differ due to different purposes of the maintenance work.

[0096] In other words, the correspondence between the installation point and the mask setting area is not necessarily one-to-one, and there may be cases where there are multiple candidate mask setting areas for one installation point. A mask setting table that corresponds to such a case can be one that associates the installation point, the type of maintenance work to be performed by attaching the imaging unit 3 to that position, and the corresponding mask. As with the installation point, the type of maintenance work can be instructed to the computer 2, for example, by a user's operational input.

[0097] When the engineer determines that the necessary work has been completed, the engineer notifies the operator and instructs them to perform the necessary operations to end the work. In response, the operator removes the imaging unit 3 from the housing 100 and closes the door, allowing the printing process to be resumed.

[0098] As described above, the printing system 10 of this embodiment can transmit images of the printing device 1 taken by the camera 31 to an external device via the Internet line IN. This allows an engineer at a remote location to receive the images, share them with an operator, and carry out maintenance work while communicating with them.

[0099] The problem of the field of view of the image captured by the operator being unstable when instructed from a remote location is addressed by presetting the installation points of the imaging unit 3 on the printing device 1. That is, the position and orientation of the imaging unit 3 at each installation point are clearly indicated, and the engineer can inform the operator which installation point to use. This allows even an operator without specialized knowledge to install the imaging unit 3 in the correct position and orientation. This makes it possible to reliably capture images of the areas to be captured during work.

[0100] Furthermore, the problem of transmitting information about objects not necessary for the work, particularly information related to the user's privacy, is addressed by image processing that applies a mask M that is predefined for each installation point. That is, information not necessary for the maintenance work is masked from the captured image, and the masked image is transmitted to an external engineer. This prevents information related to the user's privacy from leaking to the outside.

[0101] In this embodiment, an installation point is set in advance as the installation position of the imaging unit 3, and once the installation position is determined, the imaging field of view FV of the camera 31 is specified. Therefore, it is possible to set in advance the area to be masked according to the installation point. If there are multiple installation points, by setting a mask setting area individually for each installation point, it is possible to perform optimal mask processing according to the installation position of the imaging unit 3.

[0102] The areas of the image to be masked can be predefined for each installation point as described above, but may also be user-configurable. For example, a function may be provided in which, while an image captured by the imaging unit 3 attached to one of the installation points is displayed on the display unit 242 of the user-side computer 2, the user can specify the areas of the image to be masked via the input unit 241. This allows the level of privacy protection to be tailored to the user's wishes.

[0103] By sharing the optimal image for the purpose of the maintenance work and giving instructions from a remote engineer to the operator operating the printing device 1, the operator can perform the work accurately even if he or she does not have detailed knowledge of the structure of the printing device 1. As a result, with this printing system 10, even if the printing process stops due to some kind of abnormality, the user can perform the maintenance work themselves and quickly resolve the abnormality. This reduces the downtime during which the device cannot be used. In the long term, it also reduces the cost of maintenance services.

[0104] It is expected that as users gain experience performing maintenance work themselves and become proficient in the operations, they will be able to perform maintenance work without the assistance of a service engineer in the future. This will enable users to minimize downtime by having them handle minor problems, and have service engineers handle only those problems that are difficult to handle. This will reduce the workload of service engineers and also reduce maintenance costs.

[0105] Of the maintenance tasks generally required for this type of printing device, those that are relatively simple and low risk and that may be performed by the user include, for example, replacing the print head 130, adjusting the drying unit 126, checking the nozzle surface of the print head 130, and checking for dirt on the nozzle caps in the maintenance unit 139. Depending on the object and purpose of these tasks, installation points can be set for each so that the information needed for the task can be obtained from the captured images.

[0106] As described above, in the above embodiment, the printing device 1 corresponds to the "printing device" of the present invention, and the conveying unit 12, head unit 13, drying unit 126, etc., as a whole, correspond to the "printing mechanism" of the present invention. Also, the housing 100 corresponds to the "housing" of the present invention, and the doors 102a and 102b correspond to the "doors" of the present invention. Also, the frame 101 corresponds to the "exposed portion" of the present invention.

[0107] Furthermore, the imaging unit 3 and the image processing unit 212 function as the "imaging unit" and the "image processing unit" of the present invention, respectively, and the interface unit 24 functions as the "communication unit" of the present invention. Furthermore, the display unit 242 functions as the "display unit" of the present invention. Furthermore, the interlock mechanism 14 functions as the "interlock mechanism" of the present invention. Furthermore, the pilot lamp 313 provided on the camera 31 functions as the "alarm" of the present invention. Furthermore, each of the multiple head units 13 and the drying unit 126 is an example of the "processing unit" of the present invention.

[0108] The printing device 1, the user computer 2, and the imaging unit 3 together constitute the "printing system" of the present invention. The user computer 2 and the imaging unit 3 together constitute the "maintenance system" of the present invention. The mobile phones 4 and 7 correspond to the "pair of communication devices" of the present invention. The input unit 641 and the display unit 642 in the support system 20 function as the "input device" and the "external display device," respectively. The printing system 10 and the support system 20 together constitute the "remote maintenance system for printing devices" of the present invention. The remote maintenance service shown in FIG. 11 corresponds to the "remote maintenance method" of the present invention. Step S106 in FIG. 10 corresponds to the "secrecy processing" of the present invention.

[0109] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications other than those described above are possible without departing from the spirit of the present invention. For example, in the above-described embodiment, the positions of the installation points Pa to Pf are indicated by visual information such as markers attached to the frame 101, etc. Instead, the following configurations are also possible.

[0110] 12A and 12B are diagrams showing other configuration examples of the installation point. Note that installation point Pa is taken as an example here, but the same can be applied to other installation points. In the example shown in FIG. 12A , a bracket 155 is attached in advance to installation point Pa on frame 101a as a "holding member" that holds image capture unit 3a. An engagement portion 324 provided on the image capture unit 3a in place of clamp portion 32 engages with bracket 155, thereby fixing image capture unit 3a at a predetermined position relative to frame 101a.

[0111] 12B, a positioning pin 326 provided on the clamp portion 32b of the imaging unit 3b engages with a hole 156 provided at the installation point Pa. This fixes the imaging unit 3b to a predetermined position relative to the frame 101a. In other words, the hole 156 provided in the frame 101a functions as an "engagement portion" of the present invention.

[0112] These configurations make it difficult to attach the imaging unit to a location other than the installation point. This reduces the risk of the imaging unit being attached to an inappropriate location. Furthermore, the position and posture of the imaging unit when attached can be more accurately reproduced. Even in these cases, it is desirable to also include character symbols 157 to distinguish each installation point from the others.

[0113] For example, in the above embodiment, the user (operator) operating the printing device 1 and the service engineer in a remote location communicate using a mobile phone. However, if the operator and engineer can communicate using a function that allows voice communication along with images via the Internet line IN, for example, a mobile phone is not necessarily required. In this case, the computers 2 and 6 that perform the voice communication function via the Internet line IN function as the "communication device" of the present invention. Furthermore, by using Internet telephony, a telephone line can be eliminated. Furthermore, the "communication line" of the present invention is not limited to an Internet line, and various types of communication lines, such as a telephone line, can also be used.

[0114] Also, for example, in the above embodiment, the functions of the camera control unit and image processing unit are realized by implementing the control program 231 in the user-side computer 2. However, these functions may be implemented in the control unit 11 of the printing device 1. In that case, a separate computer device is not necessarily required on the user side. Also, as described above, the functions of the control unit 11 of the printing device 1 may be integrated into the user-side computer 2.

[0115] For example, in the above embodiment, not only are the images transmitted from the printing system 10 to the support system 20 masked, but the images displayed on the user's display unit 242 are also masked. While this is preferable in terms of sharing images between the operator and the engineer, privacy protection measures are not necessarily required on the user (operator) side. For this reason, the user's display unit 242 may display the image before masking. For example, when adjusting the camera position, an unmasked image may be displayed to improve workability, while after adjustment, a masked image may be displayed to share with the engineer. In either case, it is necessary to prevent unmasked images from being transmitted to the outside.

[0116] In the above embodiment, the confidentiality processing performed on a target area of ​​the image captured by the camera 31 that is not required for maintenance work is a masking process that blocks the target area. However, from the viewpoint of privacy protection, it is sufficient to perform a process that irreversibly reduces the visibility of the captured object in the target area to the extent that it cannot be identified. For example, well-known mosaic processing, blurring processing, etc. may be performed as the confidentiality processing.

[0117] For example, in the remote maintenance service of the above embodiment, the entire maintenance work is carried out through dialogue between the operator and the engineer. However, for example, for routine tasks, guidance may be provided by a tutorial function executed by the printing device 1 or the user computer 2.

[0118] For example, if it has been determined which processing unit requires maintenance work, the user can be guided, without waiting for instructions from an engineer, by using a tutorial function that includes a graphic display as needed, as to which installation point to attach the imaging unit 3. This allows maintenance work to begin immediately after communication with the engineer is established, further improving work efficiency.

[0119] Furthermore, for example, although the printing device 1 in the above embodiment performs printing using an inkjet method, the printing method is not limited to this and can be any method. For example, the same remote maintenance service as described above can also be provided for an electrophotographic printing device. Furthermore, the printing target is not limited to a continuous web as described above, but may be, for example, sheet-like recording paper. Furthermore, the transport mode is not limited to roller transport as described above, but may be another transport method, such as belt transport.

[0120] As described above with reference to specific embodiments, in the printing system according to the present invention, for example, at least a portion of the housing may be a door that can be opened and closed, and at least one installation point may be provided in an exposed portion of the housing that is covered when the door is closed and exposed when the door is open. With this configuration, the imaging unit is installed only when maintenance work is being performed. This eliminates user concerns that images may be constantly being transmitted.

[0121] In this case, an interlock mechanism may be further provided that allows operation of the printing mechanism when the door is closed, but restricts operation of the printing mechanism when the door is open. The imaging unit may be configured to restrict the door from closing when the imaging unit is attached to the exposed portion. With this configuration, the door cannot be closed when the imaging unit is attached, and the interlock mechanism is activated, preventing the printing mechanism from operating during maintenance work. This also prevents operational errors such as forgetting to remove the imaging unit.

[0122] Furthermore, for example, a display unit may be provided that displays an image containing the same content as the output image. With this configuration, the person operating the printing device and the person issuing instructions at a remote location can share the same image. This allows for smoother maintenance work, which involves interaction between the two parties.

[0123] Furthermore, for example, an input unit may be further provided to receive an input for specifying one of the installation points at which the imaging unit is to be attached. In order to determine the target area to be confidentialized, the image processing unit needs to know at which installation point the imaging unit is to be attached. By providing the input unit, it becomes possible to receive such information from the user.

[0124] For example, the housing may be provided with visual information that visually indicates each installation point to the user. With this configuration, the user can identify the installation points based on the visual information. This allows the user to properly install the imaging unit.

[0125] Alternatively or additionally, for example, each of the installation points may be provided with a holding member that holds the imaging unit in a predetermined orientation. Also, an engagement portion that determines the orientation of the imaging unit by engaging with at least a portion of the imaging unit may be provided. With this configuration, the positions where the imaging unit can be attached are mechanically limited, thereby preventing the imaging unit from being attached in an inappropriate position or orientation.

[0126] For example, the printing mechanism may have at least one processing unit that is subject to maintenance by a user, and the processing unit may be configured so that the imaging field of an imaging unit attached to one of multiple installation points includes the processing unit. With this configuration, maintenance of the processing unit can be performed using an image that includes the processing unit in its imaging field. Examples of such a processing unit include a print head that prints by ejecting ink from nozzles, and a drying unit that dries ink that has adhered to a print medium.

[0127] Furthermore, for example, if the imaging field of view of the imaging unit attached to at least one installation point can be changed, it is preferable to set a target area for each imaging field of view. Even if the imaging unit is attached to the same installation point, if the imaging field of view is different, the area in the image to be confidentialized will change. By changing the target area accordingly, it is possible to more reliably protect the user's privacy.

[0128] Furthermore, the confidentiality processing can be at least one of masking the target area, mosaic processing for the target area, blurring the target area, etc. These processing processes make it impossible to identify the object being imaged in the target area, that is, they can make it invisible.

[0129] Furthermore, for example, the imaging unit may have an alarm that notifies the user that imaging is in progress. When imaging is in progress, the alarm clearly indicates this. This can ease the user's anxiety that the image may be transmitted at an undesired time.

[0130] In addition, in the remote maintenance system for a printing device according to the present invention, it is preferable that one of the pair of communication devices is located together with the printing system and the other is located together with the external display device. With this configuration, the operator who actually performs the maintenance work on the printing system and the person at the remote location who gives instructions by viewing the image transmitted to the external display device can proceed with the work while communicating via the communication devices.

[0131] For example, the printing system may further include a display unit that displays an image containing the same content as the output image. With this configuration, the operator and the person giving instructions at a remote location can share the same image, making it possible to more smoothly proceed with maintenance work that involves interaction between the two.

[0132] Furthermore, for example, an input device that is operated integrally with the external display device and accepts human operation may be further provided. In this case, operation input to the input device may enable operation of the image displayed on the display unit via the communication unit. Alternatively, operation input to the input device may enable operation of the imaging unit via the communication unit. By providing a function for remotely operating some of the functions of the printing system in this way, for example, a skilled technician may directly operate the printing system in place of an operator with limited knowledge, allowing maintenance work to proceed efficiently.

[0133] Furthermore, in the remote maintenance method for a printing device according to the present invention, for example, a setting point may be set for each type of maintenance work to be performed by an operator. The type of maintenance work will require different objects to be imaged, different imaging fields, etc. By setting a setting point for each type of maintenance work, it becomes possible to provide a remote maintenance service using images for those maintenance works.

[0134] While the invention has been described with reference to specific embodiments, this description is not intended to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications of the disclosed embodiments, as well as other embodiments of the invention, will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reference to the description of the invention. It is therefore contemplated that the appended claims will cover such modifications or embodiments within the true scope of the invention.

[0135] The present invention is applicable to various printing devices, and is particularly suitable for industrial printing devices that require maintenance work by service engineers.

[0136] REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 1 Printing device (printing system) 2 User-side computer (printing system, maintenance system) 3 Imaging unit (printing system, maintenance system) 4, 7 Mobile phone (pair of communication devices) 10 Printing system 12 Transport unit 13 Head unit 14 Interlock mechanism 20 Support system 24 Interface unit (communication unit) 100 Housing 101 Frame (exposed portion) 102a, 102b Door 126 Drying unit (processing unit, printing mechanism) 130 Print head (processing unit, printing mechanism) 212 Image processing unit 242 Display unit 313 Pilot lamp (alarm) 641 Input unit (input device) 642 Display unit (external display device)

Claims

1. A printing system comprising: a printing device having a printing mechanism that performs printing processing and a housing that houses the printing mechanism; an imaging unit that is detachable from the housing; an image processing unit that performs image processing on an image captured by the imaging unit; and a communication unit that outputs an image generated by the image processing unit to the outside via a communication line, wherein the housing is provided with a plurality of installation points that are set in advance as positions for attaching the imaging unit, and the image processing unit performs, as the image processing, a secrecy process that sets a partial area of ​​the image captured by the imaging unit as a target area and makes the imaged object within the target area invisible, the target areas are set individually in advance corresponding to each of the installation points, and the communication unit outputs the image after the secrecy process as an output image.

2. A printing system as described in claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the housing is a door that can be opened and closed, and at least one of the installation points is provided in an exposed portion of the housing that is covered by the door when the door is closed and is exposed when the door is open.

3. The printing system according to claim 2, further comprising an interlock mechanism that allows operation of the printing mechanism when the door is closed, but restricts operation of the printing mechanism when the door is open, and that restricts the closing movement of the door when the imaging unit is attached to the exposed portion.

4. The printing system according to claim 1, further comprising a display unit that displays an image containing the same content as the output image.

5. The printing system according to claim 1, further comprising an input unit that receives an input for specifying one of the plurality of installation points at which the imaging unit is to be attached.

6. The printing system according to claim 1, wherein the housing is provided with visual information that visually indicates each of the installation points to a user.

7. The printing system according to claim 1, wherein each of the installation points is provided with a holding member that holds the imaging unit in a predetermined position.

8. The printing system according to claim 1, wherein each of the installation points is provided with an engagement portion that determines the attitude of the imaging unit by engaging with at least a part of the imaging unit.

9. The printing system according to claim 1, wherein the printing mechanism has at least one processing unit that is subject to maintenance work by the user, and the processing unit is included in the imaging field of view of the imaging unit attached to any one of the plurality of installation points.

10. The printing system according to claim 9, wherein the printing mechanism includes a print head as the processing unit, which performs printing by ejecting ink from nozzles.

11. The printing system according to claim 9, wherein the printing mechanism includes, as the processing unit, a drying section that dries ink that has adhered to the print medium.

12. A printing system as described in claim 1, wherein the imaging field of view of the imaging unit attached to at least one of the installation points can be changed and set, and the target area is set for each imaging field of view.

13. The printing system according to claim 1, wherein the confidentiality processing includes at least one of a masking process for masking the target area, a mosaic process for the target area, and a blurring process for the target area.

14. The printing system according to claim 1, wherein the imaging unit has an alarm that notifies the user that imaging is being performed.

15. A maintenance system for a printing device, comprising: an imaging unit; an image processing unit that performs image processing on an image captured by the imaging unit; and a communication unit that outputs an image generated by the image processing unit to the outside via a communication line, wherein the imaging unit is detachably attached to a plurality of installation points that are pre-installed on the housing of the printing device, and the image processing unit performs, as the image processing, a secrecy process that sets a partial area of ​​the image captured by the imaging unit as a target area and makes the imaged object within the target area invisible, the target area is individually set in advance corresponding to each of the installation points, and the communication unit outputs the image after the secrecy process as an output image.

16. A computer program that causes a computer device to execute the following steps: acquiring an image captured by an imaging unit; acquiring information for identifying one of a plurality of installation points pre-installed in a printing device at which the imaging unit was installed when the image was acquired; determining the target area in the image based on the information and a table that associates each of the plurality of installation points with the corresponding target area in the image; executing a secrecy process on the image to make the imaged object in the target area invisible; and outputting the image after the secrecy process to the outside via a communication line.

17. A computer-readable recording medium having the computer program according to claim 16 recorded thereon.

18. A remote maintenance system for a printing device comprising: the printing system according to claim 1; an external display device that is remotely located from the printing system and that displays the output image transmitted from the communication unit via the communication line; and a pair of communication devices that are capable of communicating with each other.

19. The remote maintenance system for a printing device according to claim 18, wherein one of the pair of communicators is located with the printing system and the other is located with the external display device.

20. The remote maintenance system for a printing device according to claim 18, wherein the printing system further comprises a display unit that displays an image containing the same content as the output image.

21. A remote maintenance system for a printing device as described in claim 20, further comprising an input device that is operated integrally with the external display device and accepts human operation, and wherein operation input to the input device enables operation of the image displayed on the display unit via the communication unit.

22. The remote maintenance system for a printing device according to claim 21, wherein the imaging unit can be operated via the communication unit by operating the input device.

23. A remote maintenance method for a printing device having a printing mechanism that executes printing processing and a housing that houses the printing mechanism, comprising: connecting the printing system described in claim 1 and an external display device, which are arranged remotely from each other, so that they can communicate with each other via the communication line; displaying the output image transmitted from the communication unit via the communication line on the external display device; and communicating between an instructor who can access the external display device and an operator who can access the printing system via a communication device, while the operator performs maintenance work on the printing system.

24. The remote maintenance method for a printing device according to claim 23, wherein the installation point is set for each type of maintenance work that the operator is to perform.

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