JP2002341703A - Image recorder, information processor, management server, management system for image recorder, and their control method - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a management system for an image recorder for managing the usage of functional members being a consumable parts used in the image recorder, and its control method. SOLUTION: In this management system of the image recorder, the usage of the functional members is detected on the user side of the image recorder, and data on the user and the identification data of the functional member ares transmitted to a service center. The service center changes the registered data of the functional members stored in user units or functional member units. When the registered data exceeds a specified value, privilege information in accordance with the specified value and the order giving service of the functional members reaching a use upper limit are provided.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an image recording apparatus, an information processing apparatus, a management server, a management system for an image recording apparatus, and an image recording apparatus to which a functional member (such as a toner cartridge) having a non-volatile memory can be removably mounted. With respect to the control method, for example, the identification data and the usage amount of the functional member are stored in a database for each functional member and each user in a management server connected via the Internet, and the provision of the privilege according to the usage amount of the functional member or The present invention relates to a management system for an image recording apparatus that provides a collection guide for used functional members and a new purchase guide.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, in an image recording apparatus using an electrophotographic image recording process, for example, in a laser beam printer, an electrophotographic photosensitive member and a charger acting on the electrophotographic photosensitive member,
A cartridge system is adopted in which a part or all of the process means such as a developing device and a cleaning device is integrally formed into a cartridge and is detachably mountable to a laser beam printer main body.

[0003] By adopting this cartridge system, it is possible for the user to easily exchange the functional members without having to ask the service person.

As an example of the above-mentioned functional member, for example,
In addition to toner cartridges and electrophotographic photoreceptor cartridges, in the case of laser beam printers with monochromatic output, a process cartridge in which a charger, a developing device or a cleaning device and an electrophotographic photoreceptor are integrated, a charger, a developing device,
There are a process cartridge in which a cleaning device and an electrophotographic photosensitive member are integrated, and a process cartridge in which a developing device and an electrophotographic photosensitive member are integrated.

In the case of a color laser beam printer having a large developing device, there is a process cartridge in which an electrophotographic photosensitive member, a charging device, a cleaning device, and a removed toner container are integrated.

Other functional members include a toner cartridge containing magenta, cyan, yellow, and black toners. When an ink jet printer is used as an image recording device instead of a laser beam printer, an ink cartridge is used as a functional member instead of a toner cartridge.

[0007] By the way, since the above-described functional members basically include consumables, when these consumables are consumed,
Users have to buy new functional components,
There are various purchasing methods.

For example, a method in which a user goes to a store directly to purchase a desired functional member, a method in which the user contacts the store with a desired functional member and a service person goes out for exchange, or a method in which the delivery company provides the user with There are ways to deliver. Also, there are various methods for collecting the waste functional member,
There are a method in which the user brings it to the store, a method in which a service person visits the user by contact from the user, and a method in which the user requests a delivery company.

A functional member including a consumable part has a life when the remaining amount of each consumable (for example, the amount of toner in the case of a toner cartridge) falls below a specified amount. Even when the toner is used up, it is possible to re-use the used functional member by filling the toner container with new toner, and to reuse the used functional member for image output.

[0010] Therefore, there is a recycling business in which used functional members such as toner cartridges are recycled and sold, and there are companies that perform the recycling business.

As for the functional members, there are also companies that manufacture or sell functional members that are compatible with functional members used in laser beam printers, inkjet printers, and the like made by other companies.

[0012] For this reason, when purchasing a new functional member, the general user, while referring to past experience such as the amount of use, immediately before the life of the functional member being used, becomes optimal in terms of price and performance. At present, it is a matter of practice to arbitrarily select and purchase a supplier that provides various functional members.

[0013]

However, if the user purchases and saves a functional member at a predetermined time in accordance with the past usage amount, the user saves when temporarily using a large amount of the functional member. There is a problem that the functional members are insufficient.

[0014] Further, purchasing and securing an extra functional member so that the user is worried about a shortage of the inventory of the functional member is not only in terms of cost but also requiring an extra storage space. It is useless.

On the other hand, from the standpoint of a manufacturer or a seller of a functional member, when a user purchases a functional member at random according to the usage amount, it is difficult to predict annual fluctuations in demand for the functional member. In addition, there has been a problem that it is difficult to manage a necessary amount of functional members as inventory.

When a user purchases (orders) a new functional member or requests a collection company to recycle a used functional member, the user collects a new supplier or used functional member. It is necessary to know the location of the printer.However, when contacting a laser beam printer or inkjet printer retailer for that purpose, there is a problem that it takes time to obtain information such as the purchaser of the functional parts and the location of the collection company. Had occurred.

Also, there has been a problem that manufacturers and sellers of functional members cannot differentiate themselves from manufacturers and sellers of other functional members.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems of the prior art, and an object of the present invention is to manage the use amount of a functional member in an image recording apparatus in which the functional member can be detachably mounted. Another object of the present invention is to provide a system capable of providing privilege information according to the usage amount and information on processing of used functional members, an information processing apparatus used for the system, a management server, and a control method thereof.

[0019]

An image recording apparatus management system according to an embodiment of the present invention for achieving the above object has the following configuration. That is, an image recording apparatus that detachably holds a functional member for image recording having a storage unit, wherein a usage amount detection unit that detects a usage amount of the functional member, and the usage amount is stored in the storage unit. Transmission means for transmitting the identification data of the functional member and the input user data.

Further, for example, the transmission means transmits the data when the functional member is installed or when the usage amount exceeds a specified usage amount. Further, for example, the transmission unit stores the record of the transmission as a transmission record in the storage unit.

Further, for example, when the usage detecting means detects the mounting of the functional member, the transmitting means requests the input of the user data.

Further, for example, the apparatus further comprises mounting means for indicating an irreversible change when the functional member is mounted, and the usage amount detecting means detects the mounting based on the irreversible change.

Further, for example, the identification data includes an ID and / or a password for identifying the functional member.

Further, for example, the storage means is a nonvolatile memory.

Further, for example, the functional member is a cartridge divided so that consumables used in the image recording apparatus can be replaced, and the cartridge includes a toner cartridge, an ink cartridge, and a photosensitive drum cartridge. , A developing device cartridge or a process cartridge.

An information processing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention for achieving the above object has the following configuration. That is, an information processing apparatus connected to an image recording apparatus that detachably holds a functional member for image recording having storage means, wherein input means for inputting user data of the functional member; It has a privilege information receiving means for receiving privilege information transmitted according to the usage amount, and a reply means for returning desired information according to the privilege information.

Also, for example, when the user is a new user, the input means requests input of the user's name, address, and E-mail address as the user data,
When the user is a registered user, the user is required to input a user ID and / or password as the user data.

Further, for example, the usage amount is the number of recording media used by the image recording apparatus for image recording.

Further, for example, the used amount is the remaining amount of toner used for image recording by the image recording apparatus.

Further, for example, the amount of use is an irradiation time of a laser beam used for image recording by the image recording apparatus.

A management server according to an embodiment of the present invention for achieving the above object has the following configuration. That is, a management server that performs processing related to the functional member used in the image recording apparatus, the receiving unit that receives the usage amount of the functional member, user data and identification data, and based on the received data, A data change unit that changes the registered data stored by classifying the user unit and the functional member unit; and an information transmitting unit that transmits information according to the specified value when the registered data exceeds a specified value. , Is characterized by having.

Further, for example, it is characterized in that it is managed by a manufacturer or a seller of the functional member.

For example, if the data of the user is a user of the functional member who desires a new registration including a name, an address, and an E-mail address of the user, the data changing means may use the data changing means. A user is newly registered in the registration data, and user data including a user ID and / or a password that can be used from the next time is transmitted.

Further, for example, the data changing means adds the received usage amount to the usage amount included in the stored registration data.

For example, when it is detected that the usage amount included in the registration data has reached a preset set value, the information transmitting means transmits privilege data according to the set value. Features.

Also, for example, when the usage amount included in the registration data reaches a set value indicating the usage limit of the functional member, the information transmitting means transmits the functional member near the location of the user. It is characterized by transmitting the contact data of the store.

[0037] For example, when the usage amount included in the registration data reaches a set value indicating the usage limit of the functional member, the information transmitting means transmits the information of the functional member near the location of the user. It is characterized in that the contact data of the collection company is transmitted.

Further, for example, when the usage amount included in the registration data reaches a set value indicating a usage limit of the functional member, the information transmitting means sends the information to a store near the location of the user. It is characterized by transmitting order confirmation data for ordering a functional member.

An image forming apparatus management system according to an embodiment of the present invention for achieving the above object has the following configuration. In other words, a management server that manages the image recording device by a user site having an image recording device that detachably holds a functional member for image recording having storage means and an information processing device connected to the image recording device A management system for an image recording apparatus connected via a network to a service center having a function of detecting a usage amount of the functional member at the user site; Transmitting means for transmitting together with the data of the user using the member and the identification data of the functional member stored in the storage means; and at the service center, the user unit based on the transmitted data, Data changing means for changing the registered data stored in units of functional members, and the specified value when the registered data exceeds a specified value And having an information transmission means for transmitting the response information to the user site, the.

[0040] For example, the user site is characterized by further comprising a reply means for returning desired information in accordance with the received information.

Further, for example, reading means for reading the identification data of the functional member exceeding the specified value, the number of collected functional members exceeding the specified value, and data for inputting user data of the functional member The information processing apparatus further includes a collection information processing apparatus including an input unit and a collection data transmission unit that transmits the identification data, the collection number, and the user data.

A control method of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention for achieving the above object has the following configuration. That is, a method for controlling an image recording apparatus that detachably holds a functional member including a memory for storing identification data, wherein a usage amount detecting step of detecting the usage amount of the functional member, and And transmitting the user data together with the input user data.

An information processing apparatus control method according to an embodiment of the present invention for achieving the above object has the following configuration. That is, a method of controlling an information processing device connected to an image recording apparatus that detachably holds a functional member for image recording having a storage unit, wherein an input step of inputting user data of the functional member; It has a privilege information receiving step of receiving privilege information transmitted according to the usage amount of the functional member, and a reply step of returning desired information according to the privilege information.

The control method of the management server according to one embodiment of the present invention for achieving the above object has the following configuration. That is, a method of controlling a management server that performs processing related to a functional member used in an image recording apparatus, the receiving step of receiving usage of the functional member, user data and identification data, A data change step of changing registered data stored by classifying the user unit and the functional member unit based on the information, and transmitting information according to the specified value when the registered data exceeds a specified value. And a transmitting step.

A method for controlling an image forming apparatus management system according to an embodiment of the present invention to achieve the above object is as follows.
It has the following configuration. That is, a user site having an image recording device that detachably holds a functional member for image recording having storage means for storing identification data of the functional member and an information processing device connected to the image recording device, A method for controlling an image recording apparatus management system connected via a network to a service center having a management server for managing the apparatus, wherein the user site
A use amount detection step of detecting the use amount of the functional member, a transmitting step of transmitting the use amount together with data of the user who uses the functional member and the identification data, A data change step of changing registered data stored in units of the user and the functional members based on the data, and when the registered data exceeds a specified value, information corresponding to the specified value is transmitted to the user site. And transmitting an information.

A computer-readable storage medium according to an embodiment of the present invention for achieving the above object has the following configuration. That is, a computer-readable storage medium storing a control program for controlling an image recording apparatus which detachably holds a functional member including a memory for storing identification data, wherein the control program detects a usage amount of the functional member. And a program code of a transmission step of transmitting the usage amount together with the identification data and the input user data.

A computer-readable storage medium according to an embodiment of the present invention for achieving the above object has the following configuration. That is, a computer-readable storage medium storing a control program for controlling an information processing apparatus connected to an image recording apparatus detachably holding a functional member for image recording having a storage unit, wherein the control program includes:
A program code of an input step of inputting user data of the functional member, a program code of a privilege information receiving step of receiving privilege information transmitted according to the usage amount of the functional member, and a request according to the privilege information And a program code of a replying step for returning information.

A computer-readable storage medium according to an embodiment of the present invention for achieving the above object has the following configuration. That is, a computer-readable storage medium that stores a control program that controls a management server that performs processing related to a functional member used in the image recording apparatus, wherein the control program includes a usage amount of the functional member, user data, and A program code of a receiving step of receiving identification data, and a program code of a data changing step of changing registered data stored by classifying the user unit and the functional member unit based on the received data, A program code for an information transmission step of transmitting information according to the specified value when the registered data exceeds a specified value.

A computer-readable storage medium according to an embodiment of the present invention for achieving the above object has the following configuration. That is, a user site having an image recording device that detachably holds a functional member for image recording having storage means for storing identification data of the functional member and an information processing device connected to the image recording device, A computer-readable storage medium storing a control program for controlling a management system of an image recording apparatus connected via a network to a service center having a management server for managing the apparatus, wherein the control program is executed at the user site. A use amount detection step of detecting the use amount of the functional member, a transmission step of transmitting the use amount together with data of the user who uses the functional member and the identification data, Change the registered data stored for each user and each functional member based on the received data And data changing step that is characterized by having a information transmission step of transmitting the information which the registration data corresponding to the specified value exceeds the prescribed value to said user site.

[0050]

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a system for managing a functional member of an image recording apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention;

In the embodiment described below, a laser beam printer is used as an example of an image recording device, and a toner cartridge having a non-volatile memory detachably mounted on the laser beam printer as a functional member is used as an example. A description will be given of a management server as an example of an information processing apparatus used in a management system for functional members of the apparatus, and a personal computer (PC) as an example of an information processing apparatus used by a user, a service center, or a collection company.

However, it is not intended to limit the scope of the present invention to the above-described examples.

For example, toner cartridges used as an example of the functional member include magenta, cyan, yellow,
There is a toner cartridge containing toner of each color of black.However, when using a printer of another printing method instead of the laser beam printer, for example, an ink jet printer, an ink cartridge and an ink ribbon cartridge are used instead of the toner cartridge. Will be used.

The functional members include, for example, a process cartridge in which a charging device, a developing device or a cleaning device and an electrophotographic photosensitive member are integrated, a charging device, a developing device,
In the case of a process cartridge in which a cleaning device and an electrophotographic photosensitive member are integrated, a process cartridge in which a developing device and an electrophotographic photosensitive member are integrated, and an electrophotographic photosensitive member in the case of a color laser beam printer having a large developing device. It is also possible to use a process cartridge in which a charging device, a cleaning device, and a removed toner container are integrated.

In the following description, first, the outline of the management system of the functional members of the laser beam printer in each embodiment will be described, then the configuration of the management system will be described, and finally, the control method of the management system will be described. Will be described.

[First Embodiment] First, an outline of a toner cartridge management system of a laser beam printer according to a first embodiment will be described. In this management system, a user who has made a management contract for the toner cartridge with the service center can receive a privilege from the service center according to the amount of toner cartridge used.

That is, in the first management system,
When the toner cartridge is mounted on the laser beam printer, first, the identification data and the user data of the toner cartridge are registered in the database of the service center. When the registration is completed, the service center starts recording the usage amount (for example, the number of sheets passed) of the toner cartridge in units of users and toner cartridges based on the registered user data and identification data. Manage usage. Further, the service center can provide a privilege service to the user according to the usage amount.

[System Configuration] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a system configuration of a toner cartridge management system of a laser beam printer.

This system has a manufacturer service center 101 and a user site 102 connected via a telephone line such as a public line or a dedicated line or a remote communication network 205 such as the Internet. Although not shown in FIG. 1, it is assumed that a plurality of user sites 102 are connected to the service center 101. Although FIG. 1 shows one service center 101, a plurality of service centers may exist.

In the following description, only one service center 101 and one user site 102 will be described as shown in FIG.

The user of this embodiment is a user who has made a contract with a manufacturer or a store to request the management of the toner cartridge.

Further, the service center is provided by a manufacturer or a store contracted with the user, and manages the toner cartridge and provides necessary information to the user.

[Service Center] Service Center 101
, The gateway 202 is connected to the remote communication network 205. The gateway 202 includes a database server 201 for managing a database described later,
A personal computer (PC) 203 and a network server 204 for managing a LAN are connected by a LAN. The gateway here includes a router.

In the database server 201, a database 1999 described later is constructed. PC203
Are used as terminals for performing processing in the service center 101. The PC 203 also displays a user interface screen and the like.

Note that the configuration of this service center is an example, and a mechanism for taking in data from the remote communication network 205 into the PC 203 and a database 1999 from the PC 203.
It is enough if there is a mechanism to access.

[User Site] The user site 102
Gateway 207 is connected to telecommunications network 205. Personal computers (PCs) 208 and 209 and the laser beam printer 100 are connected to the gateway 207 via a LAN.

Printer 100 and PCs 208 and 209
Can access the telecommunications network 205 via a LAN. The PCs 208 and 209 are used as terminals that execute processing at the user site.

The laser beam printer 100 can directly access the remote communication network 205.

As described above, the user site 102
These devices and the service center 101 are connected constantly or as needed, and can communicate with each other.

[Computer] FIG.
FIG. 21 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a personal computer that can be used as 08 and 209.

The PC realizes various controls by causing the CPU 301 to execute a program written in the ROM 307 or an OS or application program written in the RAM 302.

The HD 303 and FD / CD (floppy disk drive or CD drive) 308 are file storage media for storing program files and data files. In particular, the FD / CD 308 has a replaceable storage medium, and can supply data and programs to the PC from the medium.

The keyboard and the pointing device 309 are input devices for the user to make an input, and realize a user interface and the like together with the display 304.

The LAN interface 306 is an interface circuit for connecting to a LAN. A printer interface 305 is an interface for locally connecting a printer to a PC. The remote interface 310 is a remote communication network 2 such as a modem or a router.
The device is connected to the gateway 05 and is used by the gateway 202 and the gateway 207 in FIG.

Since the telecommunications network is not limited to a telephone line, if it is not a telephone line (for example, a cable TV line or a wireless communication line), an interface suitable for the communication network is used. With such a configuration, the service center and the computer at the user site are connected to each other.

[Laser Beam Printer] FIG. 4 is a sectional view showing the structure of a laser beam printer. In FIG. 4, a laser beam printer 100 inputs and stores recording information (character codes and the like), form information, macro instructions, and the like supplied from externally connected host computers (PCs 208 and 209). A corresponding character pattern, form pattern, or the like is created according to the information described above, and an image is formed on a recording medium, such as recording paper.

The operation panel 1001 is provided with switches for operation, an LED display, and the like. The printer control unit 1000 includes the laser beam printer 100
The entire control and character information supplied from the host computer are analyzed, and a character pattern mainly corresponding to the character information is converted into a video signal and output to the laser driver 1002.

The laser driver 1002 is a circuit for driving the semiconductor laser 1003, and switches on / off a laser beam 1004 emitted from the semiconductor laser 1003 according to an input video signal.

The laser beam 1004 is applied to the rotating polygon mirror 1005
And scans and exposes the surface of the electrostatic drum 1006. As a result, an electrostatic latent image of a character pattern is formed on the electrostatic drum 1006.

This electrostatic latent image is developed by a developing unit 1007 disposed around the electrostatic drum 1006 and then transferred to the recording paper P. As the recording paper P, a cut sheet recording paper is used, is stored in a paper cassette 1008 mounted on the LBP 1500, and has a paper feed roller 1009, a transport roller 1010, and a transport roller 101.
1, the electrostatic drum 10
06.

The toner cartridge 11 is a process cartridge in which an electrostatic drum 1006, a developing unit 1007, and the like are integrated, and the toner cartridge 21
1 is provided with a memory chip that stores information (ID, password, etc.) unique to each toner cartridge, that is, a nonvolatile memory 212.

The laser beam printer 100 can read and write data stored in the nonvolatile memory 212.

[Control Configuration of Laser Beam Printer] FIG.
Is a control configuration of the laser beam printer 100.

In FIG. 5, a control program and font data for driving a printer are stored in a ROM 606, and a printing operation is realized by executing the program by the CPU 601.

The external memory 605 stores data supplied from outside. The operation unit 607 is a panel integrated with the display unit. The operation unit 607 displays a state and allows the user to perform a simple operation input.

The host interface 603 is an interface for connecting a printer as a local printer such as a personal computer, and the LAN interface 604 is an interface for connecting to a LAN.

The printing section 608 is the mechanism itself shown in FIG. 4, and has the toner cartridge 211 mounted thereon. The toner cartridge 211 includes a nonvolatile rewritable memory 212.

When the toner cartridge 211 is mounted, the nonvolatile memory 212
CPU 601 or a CPU (not shown) that the printing unit 608 has locally, which is electrically connected to the control unit
From this, writing and reading can be performed.

The data read from the nonvolatile memory 212 can be sent to the LAN or the host via the LAN interface 604 or the host interface 603.

Next, referring to FIG. 6, the nonvolatile memory 212 mounted on the toner cartridge 211 detachable from the laser beam printer 100 and the laser beam printer 100
Will be described.

Reference numeral 201 denotes a video controller for expanding image code data sent from an external device (PC 208, 209) such as a host computer into bit data necessary for printing by a printer, reading information inside the printer, and displaying it. It is.

Reference numeral 202 denotes an engine control unit for controlling the operation of each unit of the printer engine in accordance with an instruction from the video controller 201 and notifying the video controller 201 of printer internal information. Reference numeral 209 denotes a sequential remaining amount detection unit that calculates the remaining amount of toner based on information in the nonvolatile memory 212 and stores the calculation result as a status in a RAM (not shown) in the engine control unit 202.

Reference numeral 204 denotes a drive of motors, rollers, and the like for conveying the recording paper in accordance with an instruction from the engine control unit 202.
A paper transport control unit 205 for performing and stopping is a high-voltage control unit that performs output control of each high voltage in the above-described processes such as charging, development, and transfer in accordance with an instruction from the printer engine control unit 202.

Reference numeral 206 denotes drive / stop of the scanner motor,
An optical system control unit that controls lighting of the laser beam in accordance with an instruction from the engine control unit 202. 207, a sensor input unit for inputting an ON / OFF signal from each sensor;
Reference numeral 208 denotes a fixing temperature control unit for adjusting the temperature of the fixing unit to a temperature designated by the engine control unit 202.

Reference numeral 212 denotes a non-volatile memory which is built in the toner cartridge 211 which is a process cartridge detachable from the printer and stores data relating to the usage status of the toner cartridge 212.

Reference numeral 213 denotes a data management unit for instructing the read / write (R / W) control unit 210 which data in the nonvolatile memory 212 is to be read or written.

A read / write control unit 210 relays data transfer between the data management unit 213 and the nonvolatile memory 212.

[Toner Cartridge] Next, the toner cartridge will be described.

FIG. 7 shows a removable toner cartridge 2.
11 is a schematic diagram of FIG.

A toner container 301 stores toner.
302, a stirring rod for stirring the toner in the toner container 301; 303, a sleeve for carrying and transporting the toner;
Denotes a photosensitive drum. The toner contained in the toner container 301 is stirred by the stirring rod 302 and is sent to the sleeve as needed.

The engine control unit 202 uses the information stored in the nonvolatile memory 212 to
1, the usage status is grasped, and the remaining toner amount is detected. Reference numeral 212 denotes a non-volatile memory that stores unique information for identifying the toner cartridge, for example, identification data such as password, ID information, or usage status.

These identification data can be set or changed by instruction data transmitted from the operation panel 13 of the laser beam printer 100 or a connected service center.

[Control Method of Management System] Next, a control method of the above-described toner cartridge management system will be described.

First, the overall outline will be described with reference to FIG.

When the user side 102 wishes to register a new toner cartridge (step S1), the service center 101 uses the service center 101 to confirm whether the user wishing to register a new toner cartridge is a registered user or a newly registered user. User data (step S
2) The user side 102 transmits an ID, a password, identification data of a new toner cartridge and the like for a registered user, and user data (name, address, E-mail address) for a newly registered user. ) And transmitting the identification data of the new toner cartridge (step S3), the service center 101 registers the new toner cartridge and starts the operation of the toner cartridge management system (step S4).

Next, the laser beam printer on the user side 102 records the number of recording media to be used (the number of sheets passed) each time an image is recorded. The number of sheets is notified to the service center 101 (step S5).

The service center 101 converts the received number of passed sheets into points and converts the points into point data, and adds the received point data to the point data stored for each user and for each toner cartridge in a stored database, and stores the data. At the same time, the privilege contents that can be selected according to the usage amount are transmitted to the user side 102 (step S
6).

The user side 102 selects a desired privilege from the presented privilege contents, and notifies the service center 101 (step S7). After this, the service center 10
The privilege selected from 1 is provided to the user side 102.

With this toner cartridge management system, the manufacturer or the seller managing the service center 101 can grasp the user information and the usage status of the toner cartridge for each user, and can determine the number of passed toner cartridges in the market by the manufacturer or the manufacturer. Knowing the seller allows the manufacturer and the seller to manage the number of units manufactured and the number of units in stock.

Further, it is possible to provide a user with a privilege commensurate with the frequency of use of the laser beam printer, and it is easy to secure customers.

Next, the control method of the above-described toner cartridge management system will be described in detail with reference to FIGS.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of items and contents of data stored in the nonvolatile memory 212. As shown in FIG. 30
0 is a unique ID number of the nonvolatile memory 212 “****
** ”. Reference numeral 310 indicates whether or not the nonvolatile memory 212 has been registered in the database 1999. For example, "1" indicates that the non-volatile memory 212 has been registered, and "0" indicates that it has not been registered.

Reference numeral 320 denotes a cumulative value of the number of paper sheets recorded by the laser beam printer each time an image is recorded. Reference numeral 330 denotes an accumulated pixel count value recorded by the laser beam printer every time an image is recorded.

Reference numeral 340 denotes a user ID or a user password which is an ID number or a password when the user of the toner cartridge is registered in the database 1999. Reference numeral 350 denotes a user of the toner cartridge which is not registered in the database 1999. An address, a name, and an e-mail address which are user information for storing user information input in the case are provided.
This is a transmission record indicating that the usage amount to 99, for example, the number of passed sheets has been transmitted.

Although not shown, the nonvolatile memory 21
For example, a predetermined amount of the number of passed sheets is stored as the data stored in the second sheet. This predetermined amount is used to notify the service center 101 of the number of passed sheets when the cumulative value of the number of passed sheets reaches the predetermined amount. The predetermined amount is, for example, 500 sheets, 1000 sheets,
And the like, as well as the preset amount, the usage limit of the number of sheets passed by the toner cartridge, and the like are stored.

FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of data items and contents stored in the database 1999. As shown in FIG. 26
0 is a user ID for identifying registered users
Number. Reference numeral 261 denotes a password of a registered user. 262 is registered user information;
For example, “address”, “name”, and “E-mail address”. 263 is an accumulation point.

[Registration of New Toner Cartridge]
A method of registering a new toner cartridge controlled by the laser beam printer will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. Note that the above control is performed by the CPU 601 based on a control program stored in the ROM 606.
Is performed under the control of

When it is confirmed in step S401 that the toner cartridge has been mounted on the laser beam printer,
Proceeding to step S402, it is determined whether or not the mounted toner cartridge is unregistered. If it is not registered, the process proceeds to step S411, and a series of operations is completed. If it is not registered, the process proceeds to step S403.

Here, the unregistered state is determined by the data management unit 213 shown in FIG.
The determination is made based on the data of “database registration” shown in FIG. For example, when the “database registration” shown at 310 is “1”, it has been registered, and when “0”, it has not been registered.

Next, in step S403, input of user data is displayed on the screens of the PCs 208 and 209 and requested, and "ID, password" and the like are set as P as user data.
If the user data is input from a keyboard or the like of C208 or 209 and the user data is received, it is determined that the user is a registered user, and the process proceeds to step S410.
In 3, the user data is "ID, password"
If the information indicating "unregistered" is input instead of the above, it is determined that the user is a new user, and the process proceeds to step S404.

In step S404, the new user is requested to input user data (address, name, E-mail address) by displaying them on the screens of the PCs 208 and 209. In step S405, the new user newly registers the user. When the user data (address, name, E-mail address) is received, the service center is accessed, and the user data (address, name, E-mail) indicating the newly registered user is received.
After transmitting the il address) and the identification data of the toner cartridge, the process proceeds to step S407. On the other hand, in step S410, the service center is accessed,
After transmitting the data (ID, password, and the like) input by the registered user and the identification data of the toner cartridge, the process proceeds to step S407.

In step S407, upon receiving the user data (ID, password, etc.) and the registered signal for the identification data from the service center, step S40
8 and the user data (ID,
Password) and the information registered in the identification data are stored in the non-volatile memory of the toner cartridge,
Proceeding to step S411, a series of operations ends.

[Automatic Detection of Number of Passed Sheets] Next, a method of automatically detecting the number of passed sheets controlled by a laser beam printer will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

In step S401, if the number of recording media to be used (the number of sheets passed) is detected each time an image is recorded, the process proceeds to step S402, where the number of sheets detected as the number of sheets stored in the nonvolatile memory is detected. The number is added and the accumulated value is stored.

In step S422, it is checked whether or not the accumulated value stored in the nonvolatile memory has reached a predetermined amount. If the accumulated value has not reached the predetermined amount, the process proceeds to step S422.
Returning to step 420, the operation described above is continued, and if the accumulated value has reached the predetermined amount, the process proceeds to step S423.

At step S423, the service center 1
01, and transmits the user data and the identification data of the toner cartridge to notify that the toner cartridge has exceeded the specified value, and then proceeds to step S424 to end a series of operations.

[Provision of Privilege According to Usage Amount] Next, FIG.
With reference to the flowchart, a privilege providing method according to the usage amount controlled by the management server of the service center managed by the manufacturer or the seller will be described.

In step S430, when it is received from the user data and toner cartridge identification data received from the laser beam printer that the number of sheets passed through the toner cartridge has exceeded the specified value, the flow advances to step S431, and the received sheet passing The number of sheets is converted into points to obtain point data. The received point data is added to the point values stored for each user and for each toner cartridge in the database held, and the point values are stored. Then, the process proceeds to step S432.

In step S432, it is checked whether or not the point value has reached the specified value. If the point value has not reached the specified value, the process waits. If the point value has reached the specified value, the flow advances to step S433.

In step S433, the user is notified of the contents of the privilege according to the usage amount of the toner cartridge from the point value. These benefits include, for example, cash refunds,
There are compensation for the purchase cost of the next toner cartridge and compensation for the purchase cost of other types of toner cartridges sold.

Next, in step S434, upon receiving the privilege selected by the user from the notified benefits, the flow advances to step S435 to display the content of the privilege selected by the user and instruct the user to provide the privilege. End a series of work.

[Identifying Method of Unregistered Toner Cartridge] In step S402 described above, it is determined whether the installed toner cartridge is unregistered by checking whether data stored in the nonvolatile memory is unregistered or registered in the database. Was determined.

However, the data stored in the non-volatile memory is rewritable, which may cause a problem. In this case, a mechanism that indicates an irreversible change when the toner cartridge is mounted and a mechanism that detects the irreversible change may be held in the toner cartridge, and the irreversible change may be detected and used.

An example of the irreversible change will be described.

A fuse is installed in the toner cartridge,
A potential difference detecting unit for detecting a potential difference between both ends is installed in the laser beam printer main body. When the toner cartridge is mounted on the laser beam printer, the potential difference between both ends of the fuse is almost 0 [V].

At the time of image recording, when a predetermined voltage, for example, a [V] is applied to both ends of the fuse, the fuse is cut off by applying the current, and the potential difference between both ends of the fuse becomes about a [V]. By detecting, it is possible to determine whether the nonvolatile memory is unregistered or registered.

An example of another irreversible change will be described.

A projection is provided on the toner cartridge, and when the toner cartridge is mounted on the main body of the laser beam printer, a storage portion for storing the projection is provided in the main body of the laser beam printer. An optical path detector and a photo interrupter are installed in the storage unit, and the optical path is constantly monitored. Here, when the toner cartridge is mounted, the mounting of the toner cartridge can be detected since the optical path is blocked by the protrusion.

[Second Embodiment] Next, an outline of a toner cartridge management system of a laser beam printer according to a second embodiment will be described.

The toner cartridge management system according to the second embodiment constantly manages the usage status of the toner cartridge used by the user, and when the replacement of the toner cartridge is detected, the user is notified of the necessity of replacing the toner cartridge. When the notification is made and the user desires to purchase a new toner cartridge, the system searches the stored database and automatically places an order for a new toner cartridge at a store nearest to the user.

In the following description of the second embodiment, only points different from the first embodiment will be described, and the description of the parts common to the first embodiment will be omitted because they are duplicated.

FIG. 13 shows the configuration of a toner cartridge management system according to the second embodiment.
The configuration is exactly the same as that of the toner cartridge management system of the laser beam printer of the first embodiment shown in FIG.
Therefore, the description is omitted because it is duplicated.

Next, an outline of a toner cartridge management system according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

In FIG. 14, the steps of registering a new toner cartridge from step S1 to step S4 are the same as the steps described in the first embodiment, and a description thereof will be omitted.

Next, the laser beam printer of the user 1102 constantly manages the usage status of the toner cartridge by checking the number of sheets used for image recording, the laser light lighting time, the remaining amount of toner, and the like. Is reached, the exchange information is notified to the service center 1101 (step S1005).

Upon receiving the toner cartridge replacement information, the service center 1101 confirms whether the user 1102 wants to purchase a new toner cartridge (step S1006), and confirms the user 1102's intention to purchase a new toner cartridge. And automatically order a new toner cartridge from the store nearest to the user (step S1007).

With this toner cartridge management system, a manufacturer or a seller managing a service center can use a user's usage status, such as receiving an order for a toner cartridge from a user and ordering a new toner cartridge to a store nearest to the user. Can be performed automatically in accordance with the schedule, and the number of personnel involved in those tasks can be reduced. Further, by automatically selecting a store close to the user's location and placing an order, the cost and delivery time of the ink cartridge can be reduced, so that differentiation from other manufacturers or sellers is possible.

Also, the user can save the time required for ordering the toner cartridge, and can purchase the ink cartridge at an appropriate timing.

Next, a control method of the toner cartridge management system according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

[Automatic Detection of Toner Cartridge Replacement] An automatic detection method of toner cartridge replacement time controlled by a laser beam printer will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS.

FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing the entire flow of the automatic detection method, and FIGS. 16 to 18 are flowcharts showing the details of steps S1401 to S1403 in FIG.

First, FIG. 15 will be described.

In step S1401, it is checked whether or not the number of passed sheets has reached a specified value. If the number of passed sheets has reached the specified value, the flow advances to step S1404. Proceeds to step S1402.

In step S1402, it is checked whether or not the laser light lighting time has reached a specified time. If the laser light lighting time has reached the specified time, the flow advances to step S1404, where the laser light lighting time has reached the specified time. If not, the process proceeds to step S1403.

In step S1403, it is checked whether or not the remaining amount of toner has reached the specified value or less. If not, step S140
Return to 1.

In step S1404, it is determined that the used toner cartridge has reached the replacement time.
If it is detected from either the laser light lighting time or the remaining amount of toner, the replacement information of the toner cartridge is notified to the service center, and the process proceeds to step S1405.
End a series of work.

Hereinafter, a method for automatically detecting the replacement time based on the number of sheets passed, the laser light lighting time, and the remaining amount of toner will be described.

[Automatic Detection of Replacement Time Based on Number of Passed Sheets] Next, a method for automatically detecting the replacement time of toner cartridges based on the number of passed sheets will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

In step S1411, when the number of recording media to be used (number of sheets passed) is detected each time image recording is performed,
In step S1412, the detected number of passed sheets is added to the number of passed sheets stored in the nonvolatile memory, and the accumulated value is stored.

In step S1412, it is determined whether or not the accumulated value stored in the nonvolatile memory has reached a predetermined amount indicating the replacement time. If the accumulated value has not reached the predetermined amount indicating the replacement time, the process proceeds to step S1412. Returning to step S1411, the above-described operation is continued, and when the accumulated value has reached the predetermined amount indicating the replacement time, the process proceeds to step S1413.

In step S1413, it is notified that the cumulative value of the number of passed sheets has reached a predetermined amount indicating the replacement time, and the flow advances to step S1415 to end a series of operations.

[Automatic Detection of Replacement Timing Based on Laser Light Lighting Time] Next, a method for automatically detecting the toner cartridge replacement timing based on the laser light lighting time will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

In step S1421, when the laser light lighting time used for each image recording is detected, the flow advances to step S1422 to add the detected laser light lighting time to the laser light lighting time stored in the nonvolatile memory. , Save the accumulated time.

In step S1423, it is determined whether or not the accumulated time stored in the nonvolatile memory has reached the predetermined time indicating the replacement time. If the accumulated value has not reached the predetermined time indicating the replacement time, the process proceeds to step S1423. Returning to S1421, the above-described operation is continued, and when the accumulated value has reached the predetermined time indicating the replacement time, the flow proceeds to Step S1424.

In step S1424, after notifying that the accumulated value of the laser light lighting time has reached a predetermined time indicating the replacement time, the flow advances to step S1425 to end a series of operations.

[Automatic Detection of Replacement Time Based on Toner Remaining]
Next, a method for automatically detecting the timing of replacing the toner cartridge based on the remaining amount of toner will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

In step S1431, when the remaining amount of toner is detected each time an image is recorded, the flow advances to step S1432, where the detected remaining amount of toner has reached the specified value of the remaining amount of toner stored in the nonvolatile memory. Check whether or not
If the remaining amount of toner has not reached the prescribed value or less, the process returns to step S1431 to continue the above-described operation, and if the remaining amount of toner has reached the prescribed value or less, step S143.
Proceed to 3.

In step S1433, it is notified that the remaining amount of toner has reached the specified value or less.
Proceed to 34 to end a series of operations.

[Provision of Privilege According to Usage] Next, FIG.
An automatic toner cartridge ordering method controlled by a management server of a service center managed by a manufacturer or a seller will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

In step S1441, if it is received from the user data and the toner cartridge identification data received from the laser beam printer that the toner cartridge used by the user 1102 has reached the replacement time, the process advances to step S1442, and the user 1102 is notified. A confirmation signal as to whether a purchase of a new toner cartridge is desired is transmitted.

In the step S1443, the user 1102
If the user does not purchase a new toner cartridge, the process proceeds to step S1446, and a series of operations is completed.
If the user 2 wishes to purchase a new toner cartridge, the process advances to step S1444.

In step S1444, based on the user data and the identification data, the database owned by the user is searched to extract the store nearest to the user. Then, the flow advances to step S1445 to select the new store desired by the user from the selected store. After automatically ordering the toner cartridge, the flow advances to step S1446 to end a series of operations.

[Third Embodiment] Next, an outline of a toner cartridge management system of a laser beam printer according to a third embodiment will be described.

The toner cartridge management system according to the third embodiment constantly manages the usage status of the toner cartridge used by the user, and when it detects that the toner cartridge has reached the replacement time, searches the database held by the user and searches the user database. Is a system for notifying the user of the contact information of the nearest dealer and new toner cartridge information (model number and the like).

In the toner cartridge management system according to the third embodiment, when the toner amount of the toner cartridge becomes equal to or less than the lower limit of use, information necessary for purchasing a new toner cartridge can be obtained without the user being conscious. It is characterized by.

In the following description of the third embodiment, only points different from the second embodiment will be described, and the description of the parts common to the second embodiment will be omitted because they are duplicated.

The configuration of the toner cartridge management system according to the third embodiment is exactly the same as the configuration of the toner cartridge management system of the laser beam printer according to the second embodiment. .

Next, an outline of a toner cartridge management system according to the third embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

In FIG. 20, the steps of registering a new toner cartridge from step S1 to step S4 and the step of notifying the replacement timing of the toner cartridge shown in step S1005 are the same as the steps described in the second embodiment. Omitted.

Upon receiving the toner cartridge replacement information, the service center 2101 searches a database held by the service center 2101 and notifies the contact information of the nearest store of the user 2102 and new toner cartridge information (model number, etc.) (step S2006). .

With this toner cartridge management system, a manufacturer or a seller managing a service center can select a toner cartridge according to a user's usage status.
Since the user can be provided with the new toner cartridge information and the contact information of the store nearest to the user, differentiation from other manufacturers or distributors is possible.

Further, the user can save the time required for ordering the toner cartridge, and can purchase the ink cartridge at an appropriate timing.

Next, referring to FIG. 21, the third
A control method of the toner cartridge management system according to the embodiment will be described.

The automatic detection method of toner cartridge replacement is the same as the control method described in the toner cartridge management system according to the second embodiment with reference to FIGS. 15 to 18, and the description thereof will not be repeated here. I do.

[Provision of new toner cartridge product information]
Next, a method of providing new toner cartridge product information controlled by the management server of the service center 2101 managed by the manufacturer or the seller will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

In step S2441, the fact that the toner cartridge used by the user 2102 has reached the replacement time is received from the user data and the toner cartridge identification data received from the laser beam printer.

In step S1443, based on the user data and the identification data, the stored database is searched to extract the nearest dealer information (contact information, etc.) and the product information (model number, etc.) of the new ink cartridge.

At step S1445, the user's P
Contact information of the nearest dealer on the display screen of C208, 209 and product information of new ink cartridge (model number etc.)
Is transmitted, and the flow advances to step S24444 to end a series of operations.

[Fourth Embodiment] Next, an outline of a toner cartridge management system of a laser beam printer according to a fourth embodiment will be described.

The toner cartridge management system according to the fourth embodiment constantly manages the usage status of the toner cartridge used by the user, and when it detects that the toner cartridge has reached the time for replacement, searches the possessed database and searches the user database. Is a system for notifying the user of the contact information of the nearest collection company.

A feature of the toner cartridge management system according to the fourth embodiment is that when a toner cartridge is used to some extent, necessary information regarding a used toner cartridge collection company can be obtained without the user being conscious.

In the following description of the fourth embodiment, only the points different from the second embodiment will be described, and the description of the parts common to the second embodiment will be omitted because they are duplicated.

The configuration of the toner cartridge management system according to the fourth embodiment is exactly the same as the configuration of the toner cartridge management system of the laser beam printer according to the second embodiment. .

Next, a toner cartridge management system according to the fourth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

In FIG. 22, the steps of registering a new toner cartridge from step S1 to step S4 and the step of notifying the replacement timing of the toner cartridge shown in step S1005 are the same as the steps described in the second embodiment. Omitted.

When the service center 3101 receives the exchange information of the toner cartridge, the service center 3101 searches the possessed database and notifies the user of the contact information of the nearest collecting company of the user 2102 (step S3006).

According to this toner cartridge management system, a manufacturer or a seller managing a service center can select a toner cartridge according to a user's usage status.
Since the contact information of the used toner cartridge collection company near the user can be provided, differentiation from other manufacturers or sales companies is possible.

Also, the user can save the time required to request the collection of the used toner cartridge, and can request the collection of the used toner cartridge at an appropriate timing.

Next, the fourth described above with reference to FIG.
A control method of the toner cartridge management system according to the embodiment will be described.

The automatic detection method of toner cartridge replacement is the same as the control method described in the toner cartridge management system of the second embodiment with reference to FIGS. 15 to 18, and the description is omitted here because it is redundant. I do.

[Provision of information on collection company] Next, FIG.
The method of providing new toner cartridge product information controlled by the management server of the service center 2101 managed by the manufacturer or the seller will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

In step S3441, the fact that the toner cartridge used by the user 3102 has reached the replacement time is received from the user data and the toner cartridge identification data received from the laser beam printer.

In step S3442, based on the user data and the identification data, a database held is searched to retrieve information on the nearest collecting company (eg, contact information) of the user.
Is extracted.

[0204] In step S3443, the contact information of the nearest collection company is transmitted to the user.
Proceeding to 4444, a series of operations is completed.

[Fifth Embodiment] Next, an outline of a toner cartridge management system of a laser beam printer according to a fifth embodiment will be described.

The toner cartridge management system according to the fifth embodiment constantly manages the usage status of the toner cartridge used by the user, and when it is detected that the toner cartridge has reached the replacement time, the contact information of the collection company closest to the user. Is notified, the user brings or mails the used toner cartridge together with the user information (ID, etc.) to the designated collection company, and the collection company sends the collected toner cartridge and the user information to the service center when the used toner cartridge is collected. And it is a system which provides a privilege to a user according to the number of collections.

In the toner cartridge management system according to the fifth embodiment, a privilege is given each time a user requests a designated collection company for collection of used toner cartridges, so that the user can request collection of used toner cartridges. The feature is that you can save time and get benefits at every collection.

Also, since a toner cartridge collection company can also increase the collection ratio of the toner cartridge, it can be differentiated from other collection companies.

In the following description of the fifth embodiment, only points different from the first embodiment will be described, and description of parts common to the first embodiment will be omitted because they are duplicated.

FIG. 24 shows the configuration of a toner cartridge management system according to the fifth embodiment.

FIG. 24 is the same as the toner cartridge management system of the laser beam printer of the first embodiment shown in FIG. 1 except that a collection site 4103 is added. Therefore, in the following description, the service center 4101 and the user 410
The description of 2 will be omitted because it is redundant, and only the collection company 4103 will be described.

[Collection Company] In the collection company 4103, the gateway 4210 is connected to the remote communication network 4205. A personal computer (PC) 4211 and a network server 4212 for managing a LAN are connected to the gateway 4210 via the LAN. The gateway here includes a router.

[0213] The PC 4211 is used as a terminal for performing processing in the collection company 4103. Note that the configuration of this service center is an example, and the remote communication network 4205
To import data from PC into PC 4211
It is sufficient if there is a mechanism for accessing the database 1999 from the 4211.

Next, a toner cartridge management system according to the fifth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

In FIG. 25, the steps from step S1 to step S7 for registering a new toner cartridge to the step of notifying a privilege according to the used amount are the same as the steps described in the first embodiment, and a description thereof will be omitted.

When the service center 4101 receives the replacement information of the toner cartridge, the service center 4101 searches the stored database and notifies the user of the contact information of the nearest collecting company of the user 4102 (step S4008). Then, the user brings or mails the used toner cartridge to the designated collection company along with the user information (ID and the like).

The collection company 4103 transmits the identification data of the collected toner cartridges, user information, and collection information (such as the number of collections) to the service center 4103 (step S4009).

The service center 4101 converts the number of times received into points data (for example, 100 points for one number of times), and stores the point data stored in a database held for each user and each toner cartridge. The received point data is added and stored, and the contents of the privilege that can be selected according to the usage amount are transmitted to the user 4102 (step S401)
0).

The user side 102 selects a desired privilege from the presented privilege contents and notifies the service center 4101 (step S 4011). Thereafter, the privilege selected from the service center 101 is provided to the user side 102.

Next, referring to FIG. 27, the fifth
A control method of the toner cartridge management system will be described.

The method of registering the replacement of a new toner cartridge and detecting the passage of paper is the same as the control method described in the toner cartridge management system of the first embodiment with reference to FIGS. Are duplicated and will be omitted.

FIG. 26 shows an example of data stored in the database. Reference numeral 400 denotes an ID which is identification data of the toner cartridge, 410 denotes a user ID which is user data, 420 denotes the number of sheets passed, and 430 denotes data indicating whether or not the toner cartridge has been returned.

[Providing Benefits According to Recovered Amount] Next, FIG.
With reference to the flowchart of FIG. 5, a privilege providing method according to the collection amount controlled by the management server of the service center 2101 managed by the manufacturer or the seller will be described. In step S4430, when the user data, identification data, and data of the number of collections received from the collection company 4103 are received, the process advances to step S4431 to convert the number of times of reception into points data, and to store in the database held by each user, various The received point data is added to the point value stored for each toner cartridge, and the point value is stored.
Go to 32.

In step S4432, it is checked whether or not the point value has reached the specified value. If the point value has not reached the specified value, the process waits. If the point value has reached the specified value, the flow advances to step S4433.

In step S4433, the user is notified of the contents of the privilege according to the amount of use of the toner cartridge from the point value. The benefits include, for example, cash refunds, compensation for the purchase cost of the next toner cartridge, and compensation for the purchase cost of other types of toner cartridges sold.

Next, in step S4434, upon receiving the privilege selected by the user from the notified benefits, the flow advances to step S4435 to display the content of the privilege selected by the user and issue an instruction to provide the privilege. End a series of work.

As described above, the following effects can be obtained by the toner cartridge management system according to the embodiment of the present invention.

[0228] 1. The manufacturer (manufacturer) of the toner cartridge can grasp user data and usage status of each toner cartridge for each user.

[0229] 2. A privilege commensurate with the frequency and use situation of the toner cartridge of the laser beam printer by the user can be provided to each user, and it is easy to secure customers.

[0230] 3. By giving a privilege to the user for collecting used toner cartridges, the collection rate of used toner cartridges is increased.

[0231] 4. By automatically placing an order for a new toner cartridge, it is possible to reduce the number of personnel involved in ordering / accepting, eliminate the trouble of the user, and place an order at an accurate timing.

[0232] 5. By placing an order at a store close to the user's location, labor for delivering a new toner cartridge is reduced.

[0233] 6. The point is that the user can obtain information on a new toner cartridge purchasing means at a point in time when the spinning of the toner cartridge has progressed to some extent without the user being conscious.

[0234] 7. It is possible to inform the user of the location of the used toner cartridge collection company at an accurate timing when the toner has run out and without any trouble for the user.

[0235]

[Other Embodiments] Even if the present invention is applied to a system including a plurality of devices (for example, a host computer, an interface device, a reader, a printer, etc.), an apparatus (for example, a copying machine) Machine, facsimile machine, etc.).

Further, an object of the present invention is to supply a storage medium (or a recording medium) in which a program code of software for realizing the functions of the above-described embodiments is recorded to a system or an apparatus, and to provide a computer (or a computer) of the system or the apparatus. Or a CPU or MPU) reads out and executes the program code stored in the storage medium,
It goes without saying that this is achieved. In this case, the program code itself read from the storage medium implements the functions of the above-described embodiment, and the storage medium storing the program code constitutes the present invention.
In addition, by executing the program code read by the computer, not only the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized, but also based on the instructions of the program code,
The operating system (OS) running on the computer performs part or all of the actual processing,
It goes without saying that a case where the function of the above-described embodiment is realized by the processing is also included.

Further, after the program code read from the storage medium is written into the memory provided in the function expansion card inserted into the computer or the function expansion unit connected to the computer, the program code is read based on the instruction of the program code. , The CPU provided in the function expansion card or the function expansion unit performs a part or all of the actual processing,
It goes without saying that a case where the function of the above-described embodiment is realized by the processing is also included.

When the present invention is applied to the storage medium described above, the storage medium has the above-described structure (FIGS. 10 to 12 and 15 to 15).
Program codes corresponding to the flowcharts (shown in FIGS. 19, 21, 23 and 27) are stored.

[0239]

As described above, according to the present invention, in an image recording apparatus in which a functional member can be detachably mounted,
A system capable of managing the usage amount of the functional member and providing privilege information and information on processing of the used functional member according to the usage amount, an information processing apparatus used in the system, a management server, and a control method thereof. Can be provided.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a toner cartridge management system of a laser beam printer according to a first embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a diagram schematically illustrating a toner cartridge management system of the laser beam printer according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a personal computer.

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a configuration of a laser beam printer.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram of a laser beam printer.

FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating data transfer between a laser beam printer and a nonvolatile memory mounted on a toner cartridge.

FIG. 7 is a schematic view of a toner cartridge.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of data stored in a nonvolatile memory.

FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of data stored in a database.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a method for registering a new toner cartridge.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating a method for automatically detecting the number of passed sheets.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating a privilege providing method according to a usage amount.

FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a toner cartridge management system of a laser beam printer according to a second embodiment.

FIG. 14 is a diagram schematically illustrating a toner cartridge management system of a laser beam printer according to a second embodiment.

FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating a method for automatically detecting the replacement time of a toner cartridge.

FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating a method for automatically detecting the number of passed sheets.

FIG. 17 is a flowchart illustrating a method for automatically detecting the lighting time of laser light.

FIG. 18 is a flowchart illustrating a method for automatically detecting the remaining amount of toner.

FIG. 19 is a flowchart illustrating a method for automatically ordering a new toner cartridge.

FIG. 20 is a diagram schematically illustrating a toner cartridge management system of a laser beam printer according to a third embodiment.

FIG. 21 is a flowchart illustrating a method for providing information on a new toner cartridge product.

FIG. 22 is a diagram schematically illustrating a toner cartridge management system of a laser beam printer according to a fourth embodiment.

FIG. 23 is a flowchart illustrating a method of providing information regarding a collection company.

FIG. 24 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a toner cartridge management system of a laser beam printer according to a fifth embodiment.

FIG. 25 is a diagram schematically illustrating a toner cartridge management system of a laser beam printer according to a fifth embodiment.

FIG. 26 is a diagram illustrating an example of data stored in a database.

FIG. 27 is a flowchart illustrating a privilege providing method according to the usage amount.

[Explanation of symbols]

 Reference Signs List 100 image recording device 110 information processing device (user) 120 information processing device (network administrator) 130 information processing device (manufacturer) 140 database 150 LAN 160 external communication network 170 information processing device (seller) 180 information processing device (toner) Cartridge collection company) 200 user ID 210 password 220 user information 230 accumulated points 300 toner cartridge ID 330 pixel count number 400 CRT ID 410 user ID 420 number of sheets passed 430 return flag 11 toner cartridge 15 non-volatile memory 1002 laser controller 1003 laser unit 1004 Laser beam path 1005 Polygon mirror 1006 Photoconductor 1007 Waste toner container 1008 Paper cassette 1009 Pickup row L 1010 Transport roller 1011 Transport roller

Continued on the front page F term (reference) 2C061 AP01 AP03 AP04 AQ05 AQ06 AS02 HK11 HK15 HN15 HR07 2C087 AA03 AA09 AA15 AB05 AC08 BA03 BC07 BD46 2H027 DA27 DA39 DA45 DD02 EC10 ED06 EE08 EE10 EJ14 H13 EJ04 EJ04 EJ04 EJ04 EJ04 HB16 ZA07 ZA09 5B021 AA01 AA02 BB10 CC05 DD19 NN18 NN19

Claims (32)

[Claims] 1. An image recording apparatus having an image recording function member having a storage means for detachably holding a function member for image recording, wherein a usage amount detection means for detecting a usage amount of the function member, and the storage means for storing the usage amount Transmission means for transmitting together with the identification data of the functional member stored in the storage device and the input user data. 2. The image recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the transmitting unit transmits the image when the functional member is installed or when the amount of use exceeds a specified amount of use. 3. The image recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the transmission unit stores a record of the transmission as a transmission record in the storage unit. 4. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein when the usage amount detecting unit detects the attachment of the functional member, the transmitting unit requests input of the user data. The image recording apparatus according to claim 1. 5. The apparatus according to claim 5, further comprising: a mounting unit that indicates an irreversible change when the functional member is mounted.
The image recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the attachment is detected based on the irreversible change. 6. The image recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the identification data includes an ID and / or a password for identifying the functional member. 7. The image recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the storage unit is a nonvolatile memory. 8. The functional member is a cartridge divided so that consumables used in the image recording apparatus can be replaced, and the cartridge includes a toner cartridge, an ink cartridge, a photosensitive drum cartridge, The image recording apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a developing cartridge or a process cartridge. 9. An information processing apparatus connected to an image recording apparatus which detachably holds an image recording function member having storage means, wherein the input means inputs user data of the function member; Privilege information receiving means for receiving privilege information transmitted according to the usage amount of the functional member, and reply means for returning desired information according to the privilege information,
An information processing apparatus comprising: 10. The input means, when the user is a new user, a name of the user as the user data,
Requesting input of an address and an e-mail address, and when the user is a registered user, requesting input of a user ID and / or password as the user data. Item 10. The information processing device according to item 9. 11. The information processing apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the used amount is the number of recording media used by the image recording apparatus for recording an image. 12. The information processing apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the used amount is a remaining amount of toner used for image recording by the image recording apparatus. 13. The information processing apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the used amount is an irradiation time of a laser beam used for image recording by the image recording apparatus. 14. A management server for performing processing related to a functional member used in an image recording apparatus, comprising: a receiving unit configured to receive a usage amount of the functional member, user data, and identification data; A data changing unit that changes registered data stored in the user unit and the functional member unit based on the user information, and information that transmits information according to the specified value when the registered data exceeds a specified value. And a transmission means. 15. The management server according to claim 14, wherein the management server is managed by a manufacturer or a seller of the functional member. 16. In a case where the data of the user is a user of the functional member who desires new registration including a name, an address, and an E-mail address of the user, the data changing means includes the user 16. Newly registered in the registration data, and transmitting user data including a user ID and / or a password which can be used from the next time. The management server according to. 17. The apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the data change unit adds the received usage amount to a usage amount included in the stored registration data.
7. The management server according to any one of 6. 18. When detecting that the amount of use included in the registration data has reached a preset set value, the information transmitting means transmits privilege data according to the set value. The management server according to any one of claims 14 to 16, wherein: 19. When the usage amount included in the registration data reaches a set value indicating a usage limit of the functional member, the information transmitting unit sells the functional member near the location of the user. The management server according to any one of claims 14 to 16, wherein the contact data of the store is transmitted. 20. When the usage amount included in the registration data reaches a set value indicating a usage limit of the functional member, the information transmitting unit collects the functional member near the location of the user. The management server according to any one of claims 14 to 16, wherein contact information of a trader is transmitted. 21. When the usage amount included in the registration data reaches a set value indicating a usage limit of the functional member, the information transmitting means transmits the function to a store near the location of the user. 17. The management server according to claim 14, wherein order confirmation data for ordering a member is transmitted. 22. A user site having an image recording apparatus detachably holding a functional member for image recording having storage means and an information processing apparatus connected to the image recording apparatus manages the image recording apparatus. A management system for an image recording apparatus connected via a network to a service center having a management server to perform the usage, wherein at the user site, usage detection means for detecting usage of the functional member; Transmitting means for transmitting together with data of a user who uses the functional member and identification data of the functional member stored in the storage means; and at the service center, the user based on the transmitted data. unit,
A data change unit that changes registration data stored in units of the functional members; and an information transmission unit that transmits information corresponding to the specified value to the user site when the registered data exceeds a specified value. A management system for an image recording apparatus, comprising: 23. The management system according to claim 22, wherein the user site further includes a reply unit that returns desired information in accordance with the received information. 24. A reading means for reading the identification data of the functional member exceeding the prescribed value, a data input for inputting the number of collected functional members exceeding the prescribed value and user data of the functional member. 23. The image recording apparatus management system according to claim 22, further comprising: an information processing apparatus having: a unit; and a collection data transmitting unit configured to transmit the identification data, the collection number, and the user data. . 25. A method for controlling an image recording apparatus which detachably holds a functional member having a memory for storing identification data, comprising: a use amount detecting step of detecting a use amount of the functional member; A transmitting step of transmitting both the identification data and the input user data. 26. A method for controlling an information processing apparatus connected to an image recording apparatus which detachably holds a functional member for image recording having a storage means, wherein an input step of inputting user data of the functional member And a privilege information receiving step of receiving privilege information transmitted according to the usage amount of the functional member; a reply step of returning desired information according to the privilege information;
A method for controlling an information processing apparatus, comprising: 27. A control method of a management server for performing processing relating to a functional member used in an image recording apparatus, comprising: a receiving step of receiving a usage amount of the functional member, user data, and identification data; A data change step of changing registered data classified and stored in the user unit and the functional member unit based on the obtained data, and, when the registered data exceeds a specified value, information corresponding to the specified value. A method of transmitting information to a management server. 28. A user site comprising: an image recording device for detachably holding an image recording functional member having storage means for storing identification data of the functional member; and an information processing device connected to the image recording device. A method for controlling an image recording apparatus management system connected via a network to a service center having a management server for managing the image recording apparatus, the method comprising: detecting use of the functional member at the user site An amount detecting step, a transmitting step of transmitting the usage amount together with data and identification data of a user who uses the functional member, and at the service center, the user unit based on the transmitted data,
A data change step of changing registration data stored in units of the functional members; and an information transmission step of transmitting information corresponding to the specified value to the user site when the registered data exceeds a specified value. A method for controlling a management system for an image recording apparatus, comprising: 29. A computer-readable storage medium storing a control program for controlling an image recording apparatus that detachably holds a functional member including a memory for storing identification data, wherein the control program uses the functional member. A computer-readable storage medium, comprising: a program code of a use amount detecting step of detecting an amount; and a program code of a transmitting step of transmitting the used amount together with the identification data and input user data. 30. A computer-readable storage medium storing a control program for controlling an information processing apparatus connected to an image recording apparatus detachably holding a functional member for image recording having a storage means, wherein the control program A program code of an input step of inputting user data of the functional member, a program code of a privilege information receiving step of receiving privilege information transmitted according to a usage amount of the functional member, And a program code for a reply step of returning desired information. 31. A computer-readable storage medium storing a control program for controlling a management server that performs processing relating to a functional member used in an image recording apparatus, wherein the control program comprises: a use amount and a use amount of the functional member. A program code of a receiving step of receiving user data and identification data; and a program of a data changing step of changing registered data classified and stored in the user unit and the functional member unit based on the received data. A computer-readable storage medium comprising: a code; and a program code of an information transmission step of transmitting information according to the specified value when the registered data exceeds a specified value. 32. A user site having an image recording apparatus for detachably holding a functional member for image recording having storage means for storing identification data of the functional member, and an information processing apparatus connected to the image recording apparatus, A computer-readable storage medium storing a control program for controlling a management system of an image recording apparatus connected via a network to a service center having a management server for managing the image recording apparatus, wherein the control program includes: A user site, a use amount detecting step of detecting the use amount of the functional member, a transmitting step of transmitting the use amount together with data of the user using the functional member and the identification data, The user unit based on the transmitted data,
A data change step of changing registration data stored in units of the functional members; and an information transmission step of transmitting information corresponding to the specified value to the user site when the registered data exceeds a specified value. A computer-readable storage medium characterized by the above-mentioned.