JP2005018493A - Information processor, printer, purchase processing method of consumable unit, computer readable storage medium, and program - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To employ a genuine consumable unit from which reasonable print result is obtained without anxiety by rapidly promoting user's purchasing eagerness of the consumable unit. <P>SOLUTION: A host computer PC is configured to acquire the number of times of exchange of the consumable unit which is consumed by a printer 404, and to make a printer 404 printed out discount information to discount a purchase price of the consumable unit which user purchases in accordance with the frequency of exchange. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2005,JPO&NCIPI

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to an information processing apparatus, a printing apparatus, and a consumable unit purchase process capable of communicating with a printing apparatus capable of outputting purchase information about consumables to a user when purchasing the consumables consumed when printing is performed by the printing apparatus. The present invention relates to a method and a computer-readable storage medium and program.
[0002]
[Prior art]
Conventionally, as a method of selling various consumables consumed by the printing apparatus, such as ink cartridges and toner cartridges, for users who newly purchase printing apparatuses, consumables such as ink at the time of purchase at the store where the printer is purchased. For users who have been using the same product for a long time. Did not provide any service for purchasing the consumables.
[0003]
In addition, for consumables that are rarely replaced, such as the head, the replacement time is "If the print condition is not good even if the ink is changed, it is the replacement time." Was difficult to judge.
[0004]
For example, in Patent Document 1, a replacement history in an apparatus composed of a plurality of replaceable units is recorded in correspondence with an identification number (manufacturing number), transmitted to an external management center, and centrally managed by the management center. The mechanism is disclosed.
[0005]
[Patent Document 1]
JP-A-01-142913
[0006]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
In this way, a printing device such as a printer consumes a user who has been using the product for a long time, even though it has benefited from using more consumables than selling the main unit. There were no steps to make purchases more convenient or to further promote purchases. In addition, the contents disclosed in Patent Document 1 are merely for managing the replacement of units, and as described above, means for facilitating the purchase of consumables and further promoting the purchase. I didn't come to take it.
[0007]
The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and an object of the present invention is to acquire the number of replacements of a consumable unit consumed by a printing apparatus and to purchase the user according to the number of replacements. By printing out discount information that discounts the purchase price of the unit, the user's willingness to purchase consumable units can be dramatically promoted, and a legitimate consumable unit that can obtain an appropriate printing result can be used with peace of mind. It is an object to provide an information processing apparatus and a printing apparatus, a purchasing method for a consumable unit, a computer-readable storage medium, and a program that can reduce the economic burden on the consumable unit to be paid.
[0008]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
The present invention is an information processing apparatus capable of communicating with a printing apparatus including a plurality of consumable color units that are consumed by printing of a printing unit (corresponding to the printing unit 604 shown in FIG. 2). Acquisition means (corresponding to an acquisition processing program stored in the ROM 3 shown in FIG. 2) that acquires the number of replacements of the consumable unit, and whether the number of replacements acquired by the acquisition means exceeds a predetermined number Discount purchase of the consumable unit when the determination means (corresponding to a determination processing program stored in the ROM 3 shown in FIG. 2) determines that the number of replacements exceeds a predetermined number. And a control means (corresponding to an instruction processing program stored in the ROM 3 shown in FIG. 2) for instructing the printing apparatus to start printing information.
[0009]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[First Embodiment]
FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining the configuration of a printing system to which an information processing apparatus and a printing apparatus according to the present invention can be applied. A system example in which a host computer PC and a printer 404 can communicate bidirectionally via a predetermined interface. Corresponding to
[0010]
In FIG. 1, reference numeral 401 denotes a display device, which includes a CRT device or an LCD display. A control unit 402 controls access to an FD driver, a CD-ROM drive, a keyboard 403, and an input / output device such as a pointing device connected via a bus on a control board (not shown). The control unit (controller unit) 402 includes an external storage device such as a hard disk, and a print control program such as a printer driver is installed, and print information is printed via the printer driver according to a print request from an application. The data is transferred to 404.
[0011]
FIG. 2 is a block diagram for explaining the control configuration of the printing apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention, and corresponds to the control configuration in the printer 404 shown in FIG.
[0012]
In FIG. 2, a PC is a host computer, and a CPU 1 that executes document processing in which graphics, images, characters, tables (including spreadsheets), etc. are mixed based on a document processing program stored in a program ROM of the ROM 3. The CPU 1 generally controls each device connected to the system bus 4.
[0013]
The ROM 3 program ROM or a hard disk (not shown) as the external memory 11 stores a control program of the CPU 1 as shown in the flowchart of FIG. 5, and the font ROM of the ROM 3 stores the above document. Font data used for processing is stored, and the ROM 3 data ROM stores various data used for the above document processing (for example, various page description language programs and font rasterization data). is doing.
[0014]
In the controller unit 402, reference numeral 2 denotes a RAM that can be expanded by an optional RAM or the like, and functions as a main memory, a work area, and the like of the CPU 1. A keyboard controller (KBC) 5 controls key input from a keyboard (KB) 403 or a pointing device (not shown).
[0015]
Reference numeral 6 denotes a CRT controller (CRTC) which controls display on a CRT display (CRT) 401. A disk controller (DKC) 7 controls access to the external memory 11 such as a hard disk (HD) or a flexible disk (FD) that stores a boot program, various applications, font data, user files, edit files, and the like.
[0016]
A printer controller (PRTC) 8 is connected to the printer 404 via a predetermined bidirectional interface (interface) 606, and executes communication control processing with the printer 404. Note that the CPU 1 executes, for example, an outline font rasterization process on the display information RAM area set on the RAM 2 to enable WYSIWYG on the CRT 10.
[0017]
Further, the CPU 1 opens various windows registered based on commands instructed by a mouse cursor (not shown) on the CRT 10 and executes various data processing.
[0018]
In the controller unit 404A of the printer 404, reference numeral 602 denotes a printer CPU (CPU), which is connected to the system bus 15 based on a control program or the like stored in the program ROM of the ROM 601 or a control program stored in the external memory 14 or the like. Access to various devices is comprehensively controlled, and an image signal as output information is output to a printing unit (printer engine) 604 connected via the printing unit interface 16.
[0019]
Further, a control program that can be executed by the CPU 602 is stored in the program ROM of the ROM 601. Further, the font ROM of the ROM 601 stores font data (including outline font data) used when generating the output information. The ROM 601 data ROM stores a printer that does not have an external memory 14 such as a hard disk. In this case, information used on the host computer PC is stored.
[0020]
The CPU 602 can communicate with the host computer PC via the interface 18, information in the printer 404 (consumable unit stored in the NVRAM 603 (including the number of ink cartridge replacements in this embodiment), etc. Can be notified to the host computer PC.
[0021]
Reference numeral 605 denotes a RAM which mainly functions as a main memory, work area, and the like of the CPU 602, and is configured such that the memory capacity can be expanded by an optional RAM connected to an expansion port (not shown).
[0022]
The RAM 605 is used as an output information expansion area, an environment data storage area, and the like. Access to the external memory 14 such as the hard disk (HD) and IC card is controlled by a disk controller (DKC) 20. The external memory 14 is connected as an option, and includes font data (including font data downloaded from the host computer PC or the like), emulation program (including emulation program downloaded from the host computer PC or the like), form data (host computer PC) Etc.) and the like are downloaded.
[0023]
Reference numeral 1012 denotes the above-described operation panel, on which switches for operation, LED indicators, and the like are arranged.
[0024]
Further, the above-mentioned external memory is not limited to one, and at least one external memory is provided. In addition to the built-in font, an optional font card and a plurality of external memories storing programs for interpreting printer control languages having different language systems can be connected. It may be configured as follows. Further, an NVRAM (not shown) may be provided, and printer mode setting information from the operation panel 1012 may be stored for each user and each group. In this embodiment, a printing system in which the host computer PC and the printer 404 can communicate with each other via the interface 606 is taken as an example. However, printing in which the host computer PC and the printer 404 can communicate with each other via a network such as a LAN. The present invention can be applied even to a system. However, the I / F portion is composed of a network controller (NC).
[0025]
The nonvolatile RAM (NVRAM) 603 stores printing conditions input from an operation unit (not shown) or print setting information notified from the host computer PC.
[0026]
The RAM 605 is configured to be able to secure a buffer area for holding print information received from the host computer PC and a work area for the CPU 602. Although the printing unit (printer engine) 604 differs depending on the printing method, in this embodiment, the printing unit (printer engine) 604 includes a printer cartridge and a carriage for performing printing according to the ink jet method.
[0027]
The interface 606 performs processing for receiving print data and notifying status information generated by the printer 404 according to a predetermined protocol with the host computer PC. The CPU 602 is configured to be able to control a power supply state from a power supply unit (not shown), and performs sleep control to save power supply to each unit when data is not received from the host computer PC for a certain period of time. Yes.
[0028]
Further, although not shown, the printer 404 is configured to be able to replace a consumable unit loaded with a plurality of colors of ink such as YMCK.
[0029]
FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a user interface displayed on the display device 401 of the host computer PC shown in FIG. 1, and corresponds to an example of an ink cartridge replacement prompt dialog displayed by the printer driver.
[0030]
In FIG. 3, reference numeral 901 denotes an ink cartridge replacement prompt dialog, which includes a message and a button 902. When the button 902 is pressed by the pointing device, the printing process is stopped. When the ink cartridge is replaced, it is automatically erased.
[0031]
FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a user interface displayed on the display device 401 of the host computer PC shown in FIG. 1, and corresponds to an example of a dialog informing printing of a discount purchase ticket for ink displayed by the printer driver. .
[0032]
In FIG. 4, reference numeral 301 denotes a dialog for informing printing of an ink discount purchase voucher, which includes a message and buttons 302 and 303. When the button 302 is instructed to be pressed by a pointing device, an ink discount purchase voucher is displayed. It is printed immediately according to a predetermined format.
[0033]
When the button 303 is instructed to be pressed by the pointing device, the immediate printing of the ink discount purchase ticket is suspended and the dialog is displayed again at a predetermined timing.
[0034]
Note that the print data of the ink discount purchase ticket is stored in the ROM 601 of the printer 404 and is printed by the printer driver of the host computer PC instructing a print command together with predetermined processing information, and the printer of the host computer PC. There is a case where the driver develops a bitmap and transfers the image data of the discount purchase ticket of the ink to the printer 404 for printing processing. However, which one is to be adopted can be appropriately determined according to the specifications of the printer 404. Either can be configured to be selectable. Further, the discount period may be printed on the discount ticket so as to limit the discount period, and the discount rate may be changed at the store.
[0035]
FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing an example of a first data processing procedure in the printing apparatus according to the present invention, and corresponds to a control flow for counting the number of cartridge replacements of a printer having, for example, four color ink tanks. Note that the number of cartridge replacements is updated separately for each color for which no ink has been detected, and thus is repeated for the number of colors. Reference numerals (901) to (908) denote steps.
[0036]
FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of a second data processing procedure in the printing apparatus according to the present invention, and corresponds to the ink cartridge replacement counter update processing procedure in the control flow of FIG. Note that the ink cartridge replacement counter update process is performed for each ink cartridge, but the content of the process does not change, and is shown in one figure. Also, (1001) to (1003) indicate each step.
[0037]
In FIG. 5, when the ink cartridge replacement process is performed by the user after the absence of ink is detected, it is first determined whether the ink tank in which no ink has been detected is black (901). If it is black, the black ink tank replacement counter is updated (902). If it is not black, the next color (yellow) is determined without doing anything (903), and it is determined that the ink is yellow. If so, the yellow ink tank replacement counter is updated (904).
[0038]
On the other hand, in step (903), if it is not yellow ink, the next color (magenta) is determined without doing anything (905). If it is determined that the ink is magenta ink, the magenta ink tank replacement counter is checked. Update is performed (906).
[0039]
On the other hand, if the ink is not magenta ink in step (905), the next color (cyan) is determined without doing anything (907). If it is determined that the ink is cyan ink, the cyan ink tank replacement counter is checked. Update is performed (908), and the process is terminated.
[0040]
In the update process of the ink tank replacement counter, the user performed the same procedure as the ink cartridge replacement process when a message prompting the ink replacement was displayed. However, as shown in FIG. In order to prevent the number of cartridge replacements from being duplicated and added when the printer is used as it is, the ink usage from the previous ink tank replacement to the current replacement is measured as a dot count, and that value If the dot counter value is smaller than the prescribed value, the process is terminated. If the dot counter value is larger than the prescribed value, the previous ink cartridge replacement procedure is performed. If the ink cartridge has been replaced in step 1, “1” is added to the ink cartridge replacement counter (1002), and the dot counter Is cleared to zero (1003), the process is terminated.
[0041]
Here, the specified value to be compared with the dot counter is set to a value that can only be reached when the ink cartridge is replaced with a new one. The determination of whether or not the ink has been used in excess of the specified amount may be based on the number of printed sheets and the operation time.
[0042]
When adding the number of ink cartridge replacements for each color, whether or not the number of ink cartridge replacements exceeds an arbitrary number is determined based on whether the total number of replacements for each color exceeds an arbitrary number of times or for each color. Either can be done if the number of times is exceeded.
[0043]
FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of a third data processing procedure in the printing apparatus according to the present invention, and corresponds to an example of the ink out processing procedure by the CPU 602 of the printer 404. In addition, (101)-(104) shows each step.
[0044]
If the CPU 602 of the printer 404 detects ink out based on status information from a sensor or the like (not shown), whether the cartridge replacement counter indicating the number of ink cartridge replacement has reached a predetermined arbitrary number (N). If it is determined (101) that it is determined that the value of the cartridge replacement counter is greater than N, the ink cartridge discount purchase ticket is printed according to the discount purchase ticket image data stored in the ROM 601 (102). As the number of ink cartridge replacements, the number of replacements for each color determined based on the flowchart of FIG. 5 may be adopted individually, and the flowchart of FIG. 7 may be executed, or may be determined based on the flowchart of FIG. Alternatively, the total number of replacements for each color may be adopted, and the process may be executed based on the total number of ink cartridge replacements.
[0045]
Then, after printing, the cartridge exchange counter is cleared to zero (103), and this process is terminated.
[0046]
On the other hand, if it is determined in step (101) that the value of the cartridge replacement counter is N or less, “1” is added to the value of the cartridge replacement counter (104), and this process ends.
[0047]
In the case of printing the discount purchase ticket, when the color printing unit 604 is capable of color printing and the Y, M, and C color inks and the black ink have different tank configurations, the black ink is particularly used. If it has run out, print with other color inks so that the print result is black, and if the color other than black runs out of ink, print in black. It is assumed that it is in control.
[0048]
Also, discount purchase tickets can be used when purchasing ink cartridges at general retailers, and abuse can be prevented by printing a number that indicates that the ticket is a valid ticket. . Also, it is possible to collect information from the user by attaching a questionnaire item to the discount purchase ticket.
[0049]
Furthermore, the number of cartridge replacements is basically incremented by 1 each time it is replaced, but for a large capacity cartridge, the number to be added is increased in proportion to the internal capacity of a normal size cartridge.
[0050]
For example, when there are a 20 ml cartridge and a 40 ml cartridge, the 20 ml cartridge is controlled to be incremented by 1 for one exchange, and the 40 ml cartridge is incremented by 2 for one exchange. . Thereby, it is possible to accurately know the amount of ink used.
[0051]
It should be noted that if an arbitrary number (N) of cartridge replacement times for issuing a discount purchase ticket is set to occur at the same timing as the guide for the replacement timing of the head, at the same time as printing the ink discount purchase ticket, Control may be performed so as to notify the user that the replacement time is approaching. For example, N × 2 may be controlled so as to be the number of cartridge replacements that serves as a guide for the head replacement time.
[0052]
[Second Embodiment]
FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of a first data processing procedure in the data processing apparatus according to the present invention, and corresponds to an example of a data processing procedure by the printer driver on the host computer PC side. In addition, (501)-(511) shows each step. Further, the flowchart of FIG. 8 is performed by distinguishing replacement of consumable units of each color that can be attached to and detached from the printing apparatus. As consumable units of each color, a consumable unit of YMCK, a consumable unit of six colors, and the like are assumed.
[0053]
First, when the printer driver installed in the host computer PC receives a print command from an application, the printer driver acquires information indicating the printer status from the printer 404 (501).
[0054]
Then, it is determined whether the ink remaining amount is low or not (502). If it is determined that there is no ink, a dialog is displayed on the display device 401 for prompting ink replacement (503).
[0055]
Then, according to the dialog prompting the user to replace the ink, it is determined whether or not the cartridge has been replaced after the user has performed the cartridge replacement operation (504). The cartridge replacement counter managed on the volatile RAM 603 is incremented by “1” (505).
[0056]
Next, the number of cartridge replacements is acquired from the cartridge replacement counter managed on the nonvolatile RAM 603, and it is determined whether the number of cartridge replacements is equal to or greater than a predetermined number N (506). If it is determined that the number of times is equal to or less than the predetermined number N, the print information is printed as it is (511), and the process is terminated.
[0057]
On the other hand, if it is determined in step (506) that the number of cartridge replacements is equal to or greater than the predetermined number N, a dialog (see FIG. 3) informing that a discount purchase ticket is printed is displayed on the display device 401 of the host computer PC. Displayed above (507).
[0058]
Next, in the dialog displayed on the display device 401, it is determined whether or not the button 302 indicating “print now” has been selected (509), and it is determined that the button 302 has not been selected. If yes, go to Step (512).
[0059]
On the other hand, if it is determined in step (508) that the button 302 indicating “print now” has been pressed and selected, the discount purchase ticket is printed by the printing unit 604 (509) on the non-volatile RAM 603. The contents of the managed cartridge exchange counter are cleared to zero (510), and the process proceeds to step (511).
[0060]
In the present embodiment, the discount purchase voucher is not printed without the user's consent, and printing can be performed at a timing convenient for the user.
[0061]
In the flowchart shown in FIG. 8, the discount purchase voucher can be printed only when the print command is executed, but only when the discount purchase voucher can be printed in the printer driver setting dialog. If a discount purchase ticket printing button appears, it seems that the user can use it more easily.
[0062]
[Third Embodiment]
FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of a second data processing procedure in the information processing apparatus according to the present invention, and corresponds to an example of a data processing procedure by the printer driver on the host computer PC side. In addition, (801)-(813) shows each step. Further, the flowchart of FIG. 9 is performed by distinguishing the replacement of the consumable units for each color that can be attached to and detached from the printing apparatus. As the consumable units for each color, a YMCK consumable unit, a six-color consumable unit, and the like are assumed.
[0063]
First, when the printer driver installed in the host computer PC receives a print command from an application, the printer driver acquires information indicating the printer status from the printer 404 (801).
[0064]
Then, it is determined whether or not the ink is in a low ink state (802). If it is determined that there is no ink, a dialog is displayed on the display device 401 to prompt ink replacement (803).
[0065]
Then, according to the dialog prompting the user to replace the ink, it is determined whether or not the cartridge has been replaced after the user has performed the cartridge replacement operation (804). The cartridge replacement counter managed on the volatile RAM 603 is incremented by “1” (805).
[0066]
Next, the number of cartridge replacements is acquired from a cartridge replacement counter managed on the nonvolatile RAM 603 (806). It is determined whether the number of cartridge replacements is equal to or greater than a predetermined number N (807). If it is determined that the cartridge replacement counter is equal to or less than the predetermined number N, the print information is printed as it is ( 813), the process is terminated.
[0067]
On the other hand, if it is determined in step (807) that the number of cartridge replacements is equal to or greater than the predetermined number N, a dialog (see FIG. 3) informing that a discount purchase ticket is printed is displayed on the display device 401 of the host computer PC. Displayed above (808).
[0068]
Next, in the dialog displayed on the display device 401, it is determined whether or not the button 302 indicating “print now” has been selected (809), and it is determined that the button 302 has not been selected. If yes, go to Step (813).
[0069]
On the other hand, if it is determined in step (809) that the button 302 indicating “print now” has been pressed, the discount purchase ticket image data is created (810), and the discount purchase ticket image data is generated. Transfer to the printer (811). The contents of the cartridge exchange counter managed on the nonvolatile RAM 603 are cleared to zero (812), and the process proceeds to step (813).
[0070]
In the present embodiment, the discount purchase voucher is not printed without the user's consent, and printing can be performed at a timing convenient for the user.
[0071]
In the flowchart shown in FIG. 9, the discount purchase ticket can be printed only when the print command is executed as in the second embodiment, but the discount purchase ticket can be printed in the setting dialog of the printer driver. If the discount purchase voucher print button appears only when it is in the state, it seems that the user can use it more easily.
[0072]
In the second embodiment and the third embodiment, it has been described that the flowcharts of FIGS. 8 and 9 are executed for each consumable unit of each color used in the printer. The flowcharts of FIGS. 8 and 9 may be performed based on the total number of replacements of the consumable units of the respective colors. If the flowcharts of FIGS. 8 and 9 are executed according to the total number of replacements, there is an advantage that a user who uses only a predetermined color can assign the number of replacements of consumable units of colors that are not frequently used to the service.
[0073]
[Fourth Embodiment]
In the second embodiment, a tab is provided on the printer setting screen where the number of ink cartridge replacements can be confirmed at any time.
[0074]
FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a tab for confirming the number of ink cartridge replacements displayed in the information processing apparatus according to the present invention.
[0075]
In FIG. 10, reference numeral 1201 denotes a tab for confirming the number of exchanges of the ink cartridge. The tab 1201 indicates the cumulative replacement number of each color cartridge when the number of cartridge replacements has not exceeded an arbitrary number of times, and the number of cartridge replacements when the number of cartridge replacements has exceeded an arbitrary number of times. 1202 is a display of the number of cartridge replacements for each color after the color is cleared, a display 1203 of the total number of replacements of ink cartridges for each color 1202, a discount rate 1204 for the number of used cartridges up to the present, and printing of a discount purchase ticket It consists of an instruction button 1205. This discount rate 1204 is determined based on the total number of replacements of consumable units for each color (total number of replacements of ink cartridges), determined based on the average number of replacements of consumable units for each color, It may be determined based on the highest number of exchanges among the number of exchanges.
[0076]
FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a dialog displayed in the information processing apparatus according to the present invention, corresponding to the dialog example displayed when the discount purchase ticket print instruction button 1205 shown in FIG. 10 is pressed. .
[0077]
In FIG. 11, when the dialog is displayed when the discount purchase voucher print instruction button 1205 is pressed, an area 1302 for inputting the user's name, address, and telephone number with the description items necessary for the discount purchase voucher. , 1303, 1304, a questionnaire item 1305, and a discount purchase ticket print instruction button 1306. Note that Microsoft Windows (registered trademark) 98 displayed in the column 1305 is a registered trademark.
[0078]
FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an example of a third data processing procedure in the information processing apparatus according to the present invention, and corresponds to the processing procedure when a tab for checking the number of ink cartridge replacements is selected. In addition, (1401)-(1410) shows each step.
[0079]
When the tab is selected, the ink cartridge replacement count is acquired from the printer (1401), and the display of the ink cartridge replacement count is updated (1402). It is determined whether the number of ink cartridge replacements exceeds an arbitrary number N (1403). If not, the discount purchase ticket print instruction button 1205 cannot be selected (1404), and the number of ink cartridge replacements is an arbitrary number N. If it exceeds, a discount purchase ticket print instruction button 1205 can be selected (1405).
[0080]
Regarding “N” in the determination (1403) of whether or not the number of ink cartridge replacements exceeds an arbitrary number N, as described in the description of FIG. 10, the consumable unit for each color (the number of ink cartridge replacements). The total number of replacements of the consumable units of each color may be employed, or the highest number of replacements of the consumable units of each color may be employed.
[0081]
Next, the discount rate is calculated from the current number of cartridge replacements, and the display is updated (1406). The discount rate is calculated by a formula such as the number of cartridge replacements / N × the discount rate calculation coefficient. It is determined whether the print instruction button 1205 is pressed in a state where the discount purchase ticket print instruction button can be selected (1407), and when the discount purchase ticket print instruction button 1205 is pressed, the discount purchase ticket is printed. (1408).
[0082]
In the discount purchase ticket printing process, a dialog shown in FIG. 11 is displayed so that user information can be input. After the discount ticket is printed, the cartridge exchange counter is cleared (1409), the discount purchase ticket print instruction button 1205 cannot be selected (1410), and the process is terminated.
[0083]
It should be noted that the discount rate 1204 is changed with respect to the number of exchanges with a wide range, such as 1% discount for 1 to 5 exchanges, 2% discount for 6 to 10 exchanges, and 3% discount for 11 to 15 exchanges. However, in the case of FIG. 10, since the total number of exchanges is “11”, the calculation process is performed so that the number of exchanges of “10” is a discount target. Will be done. In such a case, the update process is performed so that the cartridge replacement counter is cleared so as not to clear the remaining number of times of replacement.
[0084]
[Fifth Embodiment]
In the fourth embodiment, when the host computer PC connected to the printer is connected to the network, an arbitrary number of times N to be compared with the number of cartridge replacements and the calculation coefficient of the discount rate are externally connected via the network. You may comprise so that it may acquire from. By obtaining an arbitrary number N to be compared with the number of cartridge replacements and a discount rate calculation coefficient via the network, it is possible to set a value in accordance with the market situation at that time.
[0085]
[Sixth Embodiment]
In the first to fifth embodiments, the case where a user prints a discount purchase ticket to be brought into a store or the like has been described. However, instead of the discount purchase ticket, a discount purchase application form for applying for a cartridge by mail is provided. You may comprise so that it may print. The embodiment will be described below.
[0086]
FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a discount purchase application form printing form by the information processing apparatus and the printing apparatus according to the present invention.
[0087]
In FIG. 13, reference numeral 201 denotes an entire sheet to be printed. Reference numeral 202 denotes a cutting line. A cutting line 202 is cut with a cutter or scissors, and a glue margin 206 and a glue margin 207 are attached to form an envelope shape.
[0088]
Reference numerals 203, 204, and 205 denote entry fields, which are an entry table for an ink cartridge to be purchased by the user, a questionnaire, and an entry field for a delivery destination of the ink cartridge. Reference numeral 208 denotes a destination column.
[0089]
In the case of the application method by mail, if the fee is paid by the recipient, the user can use it easily.
[0090]
[Seventh Embodiment]
In the first to sixth embodiments, a discount purchase application form for applying with a facsimile machine (FAX) may be printed.
[0091]
The configuration of a data processing program that can be read by a printing system to which the information processing apparatus and the printing apparatus according to the present invention can be applied will be described below with reference to the memory map shown in FIG.
[0092]
FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating a memory map of a storage medium that stores various data processing programs that can be read by a printing system to which the information processing apparatus and the printing apparatus according to the present invention can be applied.
[0093]
Although not particularly illustrated, information for managing a program group stored in the storage medium, for example, version information, creator, etc. is also stored, and information depending on the OS on the program reading side, for example, a program is identified and displayed. Icons may also be stored.
[0094]
Further, data depending on various programs is also managed in the directory. In addition, a program for installing various programs in the computer, and a program for decompressing when the program to be installed is compressed may be stored.
[0095]
The functions shown in FIGS. 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 12 in this embodiment may be performed by a host computer by a program installed from the outside. In this case, the present invention is applied even when an information group including a program is supplied to the output device from a storage medium such as a CD-ROM, a flash memory, or an FD, or from an external storage medium via a network. Is.
[0096]
As described above, a storage medium storing software program codes for realizing the functions of the above-described embodiments is supplied to the system or apparatus, and the computer (or CPU or MPU) of the system or apparatus stores the storage medium in the storage medium. It goes without saying that the object of the present invention can also be achieved by reading and executing the programmed program code.
[0097]
In this case, the program code itself read from the storage medium realizes the novel function of the present invention, and the storage medium storing the program code constitutes the present invention.
[0098]
As a storage medium for supplying the program code, for example, floppy (registered trademark) disk, hard disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, CD-ROM, CD-R, magnetic tape, nonvolatile memory card, ROM, EEPROM, etc. Can be used.
[0099]
Further, by executing the program code read by the computer, not only the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized, but also an OS (operating system) or the like running on the computer based on the instruction of the program code. It goes without saying that a case where the function of the above-described embodiment is realized by performing part or all of the actual processing and the processing is included.
[0100]
Further, after the program code read from the storage medium is written to a memory provided in a function expansion board inserted into the computer or a function expansion unit connected to the computer, the function expansion is performed based on the instruction of the program code. It goes without saying that the case where the CPU or the like provided in the board or the function expansion unit performs part or all of the actual processing and the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized by the processing.
[0101]
In this embodiment, the case where the printing system in which the printer 404 is locally connected to the host computer PC via a bidirectional interface is described as an example. However, the printer 404 is connected to a plurality of client computers via a network. The present invention can also be applied to a form or a form in which the printer 404 is locally connected to a server device and connected to a plurality of client computers via a network.
[0102]
In the above embodiment, the case where the number of replacement of the consumable units is cleared when the predetermined number is exceeded is described. However, the predetermined number N is variably set according to the accumulated value. Thus, it may be configured such that a user who frequently performs the printing process and other users are identified and a discount service unique to each user can be provided.
[0103]
According to the above-described embodiment, by providing such a service to a user who has been using the same product for a long time, the possibility of continuing to use it increases, and the purchase of consumables such as ink may be continued. Be expected.
[0104]
In addition, by attaching a questionnaire to the discount purchase ticket, it also leads to an increase in the route for collecting information from the user.
[0105]
In addition, by storing the number of consumables exchanged, the amount of consumables actually consumed can be determined. If there are parts that should be replaced after use to some extent, such as inkjet heads and waste ink sheets, etc. It is also possible to inform the time of replacement.
[0106]
【The invention's effect】
As described above, according to the first to twenty-third aspects of the present invention, the number of replacements of consumable units consumed by the printing apparatus is acquired, and the purchase of consumable units purchased by the user according to the number of replacements is obtained. Since discount information discounting the price is printed out, the user's willingness to purchase a consumable unit can be dramatically promoted, and a legitimate consumable unit that can obtain an appropriate printing result can be used with peace of mind, and the consumable unit that the user should pay There is an effect that the economic burden on the can be reduced.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 illustrates a configuration of a printing system to which an information processing apparatus and a printing apparatus according to the present invention can be applied.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a control configuration of the printing apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
3 is a diagram showing an example of a user interface displayed on the display device of the host computer shown in FIG. 1. FIG.
4 is a diagram showing an example of a user interface displayed on the display device of the host computer shown in FIG. 1. FIG.
FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a first data processing procedure in the printing apparatus according to the present invention.
FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of a second data processing procedure in the printing apparatus according to the present invention.
FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of a third data processing procedure in the printing apparatus according to the present invention.
FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of a first data processing procedure in the information processing apparatus according to the present invention.
FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of a second data processing procedure in the information processing apparatus according to the present invention.
FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a tab for confirming the number of ink cartridge replacements displayed in the information processing apparatus according to the present invention.
FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a dialog displayed in the information processing apparatus according to the present invention.
FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an example of a third data processing procedure in the information processing apparatus according to the present invention.
FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a discount purchase application form printing form by the information processing apparatus and the printing apparatus according to the present invention.
FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating a memory map of a storage medium that stores various data processing programs that can be read by a printing system to which an information processing apparatus and a printing apparatus according to the present invention can be applied.
[Explanation of symbols]
601 ROM
602 CPU
603 Nonvolatile RAM
604 Print section
605 RAM
606 interface
PC host computer

Claims (23)

An information processing apparatus capable of communicating with a printing apparatus including a plurality of replaceable color consumable units that are consumed by printing of a printing unit,
Obtaining means for obtaining the number of replacements of the consumable unit stored in the printing apparatus;
Determining means for determining whether the number of exchanges acquired by the acquiring means exceeds a predetermined number;
Control means for instructing the printing apparatus to start printing discounted purchase information for the consumable unit when the determination means determines that the number of replacements exceeds a predetermined number. apparatus. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the discount purchase information is a discount ticket that proves that the consumable unit is purchased at a discount price. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the discount purchase information is a mail order form for purchasing the consumable unit at a discount price. When the determination unit determines that the number of replacements exceeds a predetermined number, the display unit includes a display control unit that displays on the display device a dialog asking the user whether or not the consumable unit can start printing the discount purchase information. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the predetermined number can be variably set according to a capacity of a consumable material of the consumable unit. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the discount purchase information includes verification information for approving that the purchase is a valid purchase. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the discount ticket includes a questionnaire item including predetermined items. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein user information to be printed on the discount coupon is transferred to the printing apparatus. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the discount purchase information includes volume discount information. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the consumable unit includes an ink cartridge and a toner cartridge. 5. The information processing apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the display control means displays on the display device a replacement unit name to be replaced based on the number of replacements of the consumable unit. A printing apparatus comprising a plurality of replaceable consumable units that are consumed by printing of a printing unit, and that prints received print information by communicating with an information processing apparatus,
Storage means for storing the number of replacements of the consumable unit;
Based on an acquisition request from the information processing apparatus, a notification unit that notifies the number of exchanges stored in the storage unit;
A printing apparatus comprising: Image storage means for storing image data for printing discount coupons for discount purchase of the consumable units;
Based on the discount information from the information processing device, a discount voucher that certifies that the printing unit purchases the consumable unit at a discount price by combining the image data stored in the image storage means and the discount information. First printing control means for printing;
The printing apparatus according to claim 12, further comprising: Image storage means for storing image data for printing a mail purchase application form for mail ordering for discount purchase of the consumable unit;
Based on the discount information from the information processing apparatus, the mail purchase that orders the mail unit to purchase the consumable unit at a discount price by combining the image data stored in the image storage means and the discount information. A second print control means for printing the application form;
The printing apparatus according to claim 12, further comprising: The printing apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the mail purchase application form is laid out so as to form an envelope shape by bonding. The printing apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the second print control unit writes and prints an optimum destination corresponding to a user address in a destination column in the mail purchase application form. A method for purchasing a consumable unit in an information processing apparatus capable of communicating with a printing apparatus including a plurality of color consumable units that can be exchanged by printing of a printing unit,
An acquisition step of acquiring a replacement number of the consumable unit stored in the printing apparatus;
A determination step for determining whether or not the number of exchanges acquired by the acquisition step exceeds a predetermined number;
A control step of instructing the printing apparatus to start printing discount purchase information for the consumable unit when it is determined in the determination step that the number of replacements exceeds a predetermined number;
A process for purchasing a consumable unit, comprising: Printing that includes a plurality of replaceable consumable units that are consumed by printing of the printing unit and a storage unit that stores the number of replacements of the consumable units, and prints received print information by communicating with an information processing apparatus A method for purchasing a consumable unit in an apparatus,
A consumable unit purchase processing method comprising a notification step of notifying the number of exchanges stored in the storage unit based on an acquisition request from the information processing apparatus. A plurality of color consumable units that can be exchanged by printing of the printing unit, storage means for storing the number of exchanges of the consumable units, and image data for printing discount coupons for discount purchase of the consumable units A purchase processing method for a consumable unit in a printing apparatus that prints received print information in communication with an information processing apparatus.
Based on the discount information from the information processing device, a discount voucher that certifies that the printing unit purchases the consumable unit at a discount price by combining the image data stored in the image storage means and the discount information. A consumable unit purchase processing method comprising a first print control step for printing. A plurality of color consumable units that can be exchanged by printing of the printing unit, storage means for storing the number of exchanges of the consumable units, and a mail purchase application form for mailing orders for discount purchase of the consumable units An image storage means for storing image data for printing, and a purchase processing method for a consumable unit in a printing apparatus that prints received print information by communicating with an information processing apparatus,
Based on the discount information from the information processing apparatus, the mail purchase that orders the mail unit to purchase the consumable unit at a discount price by combining the image data stored in the image storage means and the discount information. A consumable unit purchase processing method comprising a second print control step for printing an application form. A computer-readable storage medium storing a program for realizing the consumable unit purchase processing method according to any one of claims 17 to 20. 21. A program that realizes the consumable unit purchase processing method according to claim 17. An information processing apparatus capable of communicating with a printing apparatus including a plurality of replaceable color consumable units that are consumed by printing of a printing unit,
Obtaining means for obtaining the number of replacements of the consumable unit stored in the printing apparatus;
Determining means for determining whether the number of exchanges acquired by the acquiring means exceeds a predetermined number;
Control means for creating image data for printing discount information for discount purchase of the consumable unit and transferring it to the printing apparatus when the judgment means judges that the number of replacements exceeds a predetermined number When,
An information processing apparatus comprising:

Images