JP2012163757A - Support system for additionally purchasing greenhouse gas emission right transaction expense, image forming apparatus using the system, and support method for additionally purchasing the expense - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide: a support system for additionally purchasing a greenhouse gas emission right transaction expense allowing simple purchase of an excess amount even if a greenhouse gas emission amount equivalent to a greenhouse gas emission right transaction expense is excessive; an image forming apparatus using the system; and a support method for additionally purchasing the expense.SOLUTION: A support system for additionally purchasing a greenhouse gas emission right transaction expense for a consumable supply used in an image forming apparatus, the system includes: greenhouse gas emission right transaction expense calculation means for calculating a greenhouse gas emission right transaction expense; greenhouse gas emission right transaction expense determination means for determining whether the calculated expense exceeds a pre-purchased greenhouse gas emission right transaction expense; additional purchase notification means for notifying that it is necessary to additionally purchase a greenhouse gas emission right transaction expense; greenhouse gas emission right transaction information display means for displaying information of an additional purchase expense on a display part 101c; and additional purchase expense notification means for notifying a seller of an additional purchase.

Description

  The present invention relates to an additional purchase support system for greenhouse gas emission trading costs, an image forming apparatus using the same, and an additional purchase support method for greenhouse gas emission trading costs, and more particularly to an image forming apparatus purchased or leased. The present invention relates to an additional purchase support system for greenhouse gas emission trading costs of consumables to which greenhouse gas emission rights are used, an image forming apparatus using the same, and an additional purchase support method for greenhouse gas emission trading costs.

  In recent years, in consideration of the global environment, copiers, facsimiles, printers, and other image forming apparatuses use consumables and replacement parts used in the image forming apparatus that have reduced the burden on the global environment. Has been promoted.

As conventional technology, for example, in an image forming apparatus, conversion information for converting energy consumption required for various operations of the apparatus and necessary consumption resources into an expected amount of greenhouse gas (for example, carbon dioxide) is stored. A CO ₂ conversion type parameter storage area, an in-device information collection module for collecting information on energy consumption and required consumption resources associated with the operation when the image forming apparatus operates, and operation information collected by the module Has been proposed (see Patent Document 1), which has a CO ₂ conversion counter calculation module that converts the value into an estimated greenhouse gas emission amount using conversion information.
Accordingly, it is possible to provide an image forming apparatus capable of presenting a user with a method of using the image forming apparatus optimal for the environment.

JP 2009-58749 A

  However, according to the above-described image forming apparatus, although it is possible to present the user with a method of using the image forming apparatus that is most suitable for the environment, the presentation content is burdensome for users who use the image forming apparatus frequently. It may become. In particular, there may be a complaint that a user who has earned profits (business) through a printing service using an image forming apparatus may not be able to protect the content presented and is troublesome.

  In addition, even when using consumables that have been granted greenhouse gas emission rights as a response to the global environment in the image forming apparatus, if they are used for longer than the set life, the greenhouse gas emissions will be exceeded. Therefore, there is a problem that the carbon offset is not supported.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above-described conventional problems, and enables mass printing with peace of mind even for users who frequently use image forming apparatuses, and corresponds to the purchase cost of greenhouse gas emission trading. Additional purchase support system for greenhouse gas emission trading costs that can easily purchase excess greenhouse gas emissions even when greenhouse gas emissions exceed, image forming apparatus using this, and greenhouse gas emission rights The purpose is to provide an additional purchase support method for transaction costs.

  An additional purchase support system for greenhouse gas emission trading costs, an image forming apparatus using the same, and an additional purchase support method for greenhouse gas emission trading costs according to the present invention for solving the above-described problems are as follows. is there.

  The present invention is an additional purchase support system for a greenhouse gas emission trading cost of a consumable product to which a greenhouse gas emission right is used, which is used for an image forming apparatus that is purchased or leased. A consumable sales destination data management server is connected via a communication means so that the sales destination can monitor the status of use of the consumables of the image forming apparatus. The greenhouse gas emission trading cost calculation means for calculating the greenhouse gas emission trading cost, and the consumables purchased in advance by the greenhouse gas emission trading cost calculated by the greenhouse gas emission trading cost calculation means Calculated by a greenhouse gas emission credit transaction cost judging means for judging whether or not the greenhouse gas emission credit transaction cost is exceeded, and the greenhouse gas emission credit transaction cost calculating means. If the greenhouse gas emission trading cost exceeds the greenhouse gas emission trading cost of the consumables purchased in advance, the greenhouse gas emission of the consumables is sent from the sales destination to the image forming apparatus. Additional purchase notification means for notifying that additional purchase of the right transaction cost is required, and information on the additional purchase cost of the greenhouse gas emission right transaction required according to the use state of the consumables, the display unit of the image forming apparatus And the additional purchase of the greenhouse gas emission trading transaction based on the information on the additional purchase cost of the greenhouse gas emission trading transaction displayed on the display unit And an additional purchase cost notifying means that notifies the user in advance, and supports a procedure for additionally purchasing the greenhouse gas emission trading cost for the user.

  In addition, according to the present invention, it is preferable that a notice for additionally purchasing the greenhouse gas emission trading cost is displayed on the display unit of the image forming apparatus when the image forming apparatus is ready.

  Further, in the present invention, it is preferable that the usage of the purchase cost of the greenhouse gas emission right is a greenhouse gas absorption business, and the greenhouse gas absorption source is a tree that absorbs the greenhouse gas.

In the present invention, greenhouse gas absorption sources include, for example, marine absorption (dissolving CO ₂ in the atmosphere and accumulating in the deep ocean and the sea floor by marine organisms) and soil absorption (in addition to tree planting). CO ₂ may be absorbed by a dead plant or living carcass), or CO ₂ storage (separation in the ground or ocean).

  Furthermore, renewable energy that can reduce greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuel power generation (including solar power generation, wind power generation, geothermal power generation, hydroelectric power generation (including agricultural hydropower generation, sabo dam power generation, and hydroelectric power generation), Replaced with greenhouse gas reductions by tidal power generation (movement of seawater, tidal flow of estuaries), ocean temperature difference power generation, solar thermal power generation, vibration power generation, nuclear power generation, piezoelectric element power generation, wave power generation, biomass power generation) Also good.

In the present invention, it is preferable that the tree that absorbs the greenhouse gas is a mangrove.
In addition to trees, plants having high CO ₂ absorption by photosynthesis or artificial materials (for example, porous metal complexes and ceramic materials) may be used.

  Further, the present invention provides the greenhouse gas emission trading purchase support system as a storage means or recording means (for example, an IC chip (wireless IC tag or contact type CRUM), bar code, or QR provided in the consumables). Detection means for detecting information stored in a code (registered trademark, etc.), and determination means for determining whether the consumable is a genuine consumable based on a detection result detected by the detection means It is preferable that the image forming apparatus is activated in a ready state when the determination unit determines that the consumable is a genuine consumable.

  In addition, the present invention includes a touch panel or operation keys substantially integrally as a configuration of the display unit, and the additional purchase of the greenhouse gas emission right transaction cost by operating the touch panel or the operation key on the display unit. It is preferable to perform the procedure.

In the present invention, it is preferable that the consumable item to which the greenhouse gas emission right is given is provided with a carbon footprint mark.
Moreover, it is preferable that an explanatory text explaining the carbon footprint mark is provided, and it is preferable that the carbon footprint mark or an explanatory text is provided on the consumable item itself or the packing material of the consumable item.

  According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image forming apparatus using the additional purchase support system for greenhouse gas emission trading costs according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

  According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided an additional purchase support method for greenhouse gas emission trading costs, wherein the image forming apparatus according to claim 8 is used.

  According to the additional purchase support system for greenhouse gas emission rights transaction costs of the present invention, the greenhouse gas emission rights transaction costs of consumables to which the greenhouse gas emission rights used for the image forming apparatus purchased or leased are granted. And a greenhouse gas emission trading cost calculation means for calculating a greenhouse gas emission trading cost according to a use state of the consumables, and a greenhouse gas emission trading cost calculation means. Greenhouse gas emission trading cost judging means for judging whether the calculated greenhouse gas emission trading cost exceeds the greenhouse gas emission trading cost of the consumables purchased in advance, and the greenhouse gas When the greenhouse gas emission trading cost calculated by the emission trading cost calculation means exceeds the greenhouse gas emission trading cost of the consumables purchased in advance An additional purchase notification means for notifying the image forming apparatus that an additional purchase of the greenhouse gas emission trading cost of the consumables is necessary from the sales destination, and a greenhouse required according to the use status of the consumables Greenhouse gas emission trading information display means for displaying information on additional purchase costs of effect gas emission trading on the display unit of the image forming apparatus, and additional purchase of greenhouse gas emission trading transactions displayed on the display unit And an additional purchase cost notification means for notifying the seller of the additional purchase of the greenhouse gas emission credit transaction cost based on the cost information, so that the frequency of use of the image forming apparatus by the user is the initial greenhouse gas emission amount. Even if the amount exceeds the limit, the consumables sales company will notify the excess of greenhouse gas emissions, so that the user can use the image forming apparatus without worrying about the frequency of use of the image forming apparatus. You can use.

  In addition, the purchase procedure for excess greenhouse gas emissions can be simplified by displaying the additional purchase cost of greenhouse gas emission trading costs on the display unit of the image forming apparatus. Improves. Furthermore, if the greenhouse gas emission trading costs are exceeded, additional purchase of the emissions trading costs will be notified, so it will be possible to provide funds to the greenhouse gas absorption business without omission, As a result, it can contribute to the prevention of global warming.

  Further, according to the present invention, the notification of the additional purchase of the greenhouse gas emission right transaction cost is displayed on the display unit of the image forming apparatus when the image forming apparatus is ready, so that the image forming apparatus can be used by a plurality of users. Even in an environment where the image forming apparatus is used, the administrator of the image forming apparatus does not use the image forming apparatus exclusively. Can be operated.

  Note that when the image forming apparatus is ready, when warming up, between print jobs, or when there is no input signal from the input unit (when the user is not operating the image forming apparatus), an original is placed on the scanner unit. This is when there is no signal.

  Further, according to the present invention, the usage of the purchase cost of the greenhouse gas emission right is used as a greenhouse gas absorption business, that is, as a tree planting business, a greenhouse gas absorption source, a tree that absorbs the greenhouse gas, and By doing so, it will be possible to provide funds to the greenhouse gas absorption business without omissions, and in turn, contribute to social contribution and prevention of global warming.

  In addition, according to the present invention, since the tree that absorbs the greenhouse gas is a mangrove, a large amount of the greenhouse gas can be absorbed by photosynthesis of the mangrove, so that the greenhouse gas can be reduced more efficiently. be able to.

  According to the present invention, as the greenhouse gas emission trading purchase support system, storage means or recording means (for example, an IC chip (wireless IC tag or contact type CRUM), bar code, Or a detection means for detecting information stored in a QR code (registered trademark), and a determination for determining whether or not the consumable is a genuine consumable based on the detection result detected by the detection means. A non-genuine consumable that is not sold through a regular sales route by activating the image forming apparatus to a ready state when the determination means determines that the consumable is a genuine consumable. Failure of image forming apparatus due to use (for example, storage means or recording means provided for non-genuine consumables (for example, IC chip (wireless IC tag or contact type CRUM)) When the information stored in the bar code or QR code (registered trademark) is detected by the detection means of the image forming apparatus, an error occurs in the detection means, causing the image forming apparatus to malfunction, soft bug, communication failure, etc. ), And non-genuine consumable toner can prevent image quality deterioration, fixing failure, dirt on the recording paper transport roller, and the like, and can contribute to improved sales at sales companies and leasing companies.

Further, according to the present invention, as a configuration of the display unit, a touch panel or an operation key is provided substantially integrally, and by operating the touch panel or the operation key on the display unit, additional purchase of the emission credit transaction cost can be performed. By performing the procedure, you can easily display and operate each information directly from the image forming device, and perform procedures for additional purchase of emission credit transaction costs with manufacturers, dealers, agents, or lease stores of image forming devices etc. It can be done easily.
Note that the touch panel and the operation keys may be provided separately, or a display unit using the touch panel and a display unit that performs only display, that is, a plurality of display units may be provided.

  According to the present invention, the consumable item to which the greenhouse gas emission right is granted is provided with a carbon footprint mark, so that the amount of greenhouse gas generated in the life cycle of the consumable item can be determined by the user. Can be confirmed and contribute to the promotion of environmental activities.

  In addition, according to the image forming apparatus of the present invention, the use of the image forming apparatus by the user by using the additional purchase support system for the greenhouse gas emission trading cost according to any one of claims 1 to 7. Even if the frequency exceeds the initial greenhouse gas emissions, the consumables sales company will notify you of the excess greenhouse gas emissions, so the user will not have to worry about the frequency of use of the image forming device. An image forming apparatus can be used. In addition, it is possible to provide satisfaction to social contributions, such as reducing the burden on the global environment, even for users who are particularly conscious of the environment.

  Further, according to the additional purchase support method of the greenhouse gas emission rights transaction cost of the present invention, by using the image forming apparatus according to claim 8, the frequency of use of the image forming apparatus by the user is the initial greenhouse gas emission amount. Even if the amount exceeds the limit, the consumables sales company notifies the excess amount of greenhouse gas emissions, so that the user can use the image forming apparatus without worrying about the frequency of use of the image forming apparatus. In addition, it is possible to provide satisfaction to social contributions, such as reducing the burden on the global environment, even for users who are particularly conscious of the environment.

1 is an explanatory diagram showing an overall configuration of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of the image forming apparatus. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the communication network which comprises the additional purchase assistance system of the greenhouse gas emission credit transaction cost of the said image forming apparatus. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structure of the operation panel which comprises the additional purchase assistance system of the greenhouse gas emission credit transaction cost of the said image forming apparatus. It is explanatory drawing which shows the initial screen of DOCUMENT FILING mode displayed on the display part which comprises the said operation panel. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the preview display of the notification mail from the store displayed on the said display part. It is explanatory drawing which shows the initial screen of the IMAGE SEND mode displayed on the said display part. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the selection screen for acquiring the greenhouse gas emission information displayed on the display part of the said operation panel. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the list display when a component is selected on the said selection screen. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the consumable used in the said image forming apparatus displayed on the said display part, a greenhouse gas emission credit transaction purchase cost, an excess, and a greenhouse gas emission credit transaction additional purchase cost. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the order screen transmitted to the store from the said image forming apparatus. The flowchart which shows the procedure which orders the additional purchase of the greenhouse gas emission trading cost of the part which exceeded the greenhouse gas emission trading cost of the consumables by the additional purchase support system of the greenhouse gas emission trading cost of the image forming apparatus It is.

Hereinafter, embodiments for carrying out the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing an overall configuration of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention, which is an example of an embodiment of the present invention.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the present embodiment is used in an image forming apparatus 1 that is purchased or leased and that is connected to a data management server and forms an image using toner by electrophotography. As the additional purchase support system for the greenhouse gas emission trading cost, the configuration of the additional purchase support system for the characteristic greenhouse gas emission trading cost according to the present invention is adopted.

First, the overall configuration of the image forming apparatus 1 will be described.
The image forming apparatus 1 forms an image on a predetermined sheet (recording paper, recording medium) according to image data transmitted from the outside. As shown in FIG. 1, the image forming apparatus 1 mainly includes an image forming unit 3 including an electrophotographic process unit (not shown) which is a main unit, an operation panel 100, and a scanner unit (not shown). The image reading unit 2 is provided.

  The image data obtained by reading the original image with the scanner unit is subjected to various processes and then temporarily stored in the memory. In response to an output instruction, the image data is output from the memory to the image forming unit 3 and is exposed to light. After being reproduced as a visible image on a body drum (not shown), the image is transferred onto a sheet to form a toner image.

A paper feed unit 4 for supplying paper adjacent to the image forming unit 3 is configured.
The sheet feeding unit 4 includes first to third cassettes 31, 32, and 33, and a large-capacity cassette 34 as an option. The large-capacity cassette 34 can accommodate a large amount of standard paper that is most frequently used, for example, A4 size.

A paper discharge tray 51 is formed between the image reading unit 2 and the image forming unit 3.
A post-processing device 5 is configured adjacent to the image forming unit 3.
The post-processing device 5 is provided with a first paper discharge tray 52 and a second paper discharge tray 53.

  The image forming apparatus 1 is connected to a PC, FAX, and a data management server such as a manufacturer, sales destination or lease destination via a network line (LAN, telephone line, etc.) not shown.

Here, the configuration of the image forming apparatus 1 will be described with reference to a block diagram.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of the image forming apparatus according to the present exemplary embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the image forming apparatus 1 includes, as an electrical configuration, a control unit 501 that controls the operation of the image forming apparatus 1, a storage unit 502, a calculation unit 503, a display unit 101, an input unit 505, and a network line. A communication unit 506 that performs LAN connection with a PC or the like, an image processing unit 508 that performs image processing, an image forming unit 509 that performs image formation, a fixing unit 510 that performs toner image fixing processing, and a scanner that reads an image A reading unit 507, a control unit 511 for controlling the operation of the post-processing device 5 (referring to the peripheral device in FIG. 2), and the like are provided.

  In the present embodiment, the consumables used in the image forming apparatus 1 include an IC chip (wireless IC tag or contact type CRUM), bar code, QR code (registered trademark), or the like as a storage unit or a recording unit. It has been.

  The image forming apparatus 1 includes a detection unit (detection unit) 509a that detects information stored in the storage unit or the recording unit of the consumables.

The detecting unit 509a detects whether or not the consumable purchased by the user is a genuine consumable.
The calculation unit 503 performs a collation operation on the detection value (detection result) detected by the detection unit 509a and the data indicating that it is a genuine consumable item (not shown) stored in the storage unit 502.

  The control unit 501 has a function of determining whether the consumable item detected by the detection unit 509a is a genuine consumable item based on the calculation result by the calculation unit 503.

  In the present embodiment, when the consumable item detected by the detection unit 509a is a genuine consumable item, the control unit 501 displays product information of the genuine consumable item and information on the purchase cost of the greenhouse gas emission right of the consumable item. Further, the image forming apparatus 1 is activated to a ready state.

Next, a characteristic greenhouse gas emission trading transaction additional purchase support system used in the image forming apparatus 1 of the present embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a communication network that constitutes an additional purchase support system for greenhouse gas emission trading costs of the image forming apparatus of the present embodiment, and FIG. 4 is a greenhouse gas of the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment. FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration of an operation panel constituting the additional purchase support system for emission credit transaction costs, FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing an initial screen of a DOCUMENT FILING mode displayed on a display unit constituting the operation panel, and FIG. FIG. 7 is an explanatory view showing an example of a preview display of a notice mail from a store displayed on the display unit, and FIG. 7 is an explanatory view showing an initial screen of IMAGE SEND mode displayed on the display unit.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the additional purchase support system for greenhouse gas emission trading costs of the image forming apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment is performed by a communication unit 506 via a LAN (local area network) 700. An additional purchase support system for a greenhouse gas emission trading transaction cost of consumables used for an image forming apparatus 1 connected to a data management server 701 such as a leasing destination, the data management server The business operator managing 701 supports the procedure for additionally purchasing the greenhouse gas emission trading cost for the user.

  In this additional purchase support system for greenhouse gas emission trading costs, the image forming apparatus 1 and the data management server 701 that sells consumables are connected via a LAN (local area network (communication means)) 700 and sold. The usage status of the consumables of the image forming apparatus 1 can be monitored in advance, and the data management server 701 side can calculate the greenhouse gas emission right transaction cost according to the usage status of the consumables (greenhouse gas emission Rights trading cost calculation means) and a function to determine whether the calculated greenhouse gas emission credit transaction cost exceeds the greenhouse gas emission trading cost of consumables purchased in advance (greenhouse gas emission trading) Image), and if the calculated greenhouse gas emission trading cost exceeds the greenhouse gas emission trading cost of consumables purchased in advance, A function for notifying the image forming apparatus 1 that an additional purchase of consumable greenhouse gas emission trading costs is necessary (additional purchase notification means) A function (greenhouse gas emission right transaction information display means) for displaying information on the additional purchase cost of the required greenhouse gas emission right transaction cost on the display unit 101 of the operation panel 100 of the image forming apparatus 1, and a display unit 101 And a function of notifying the seller of the additional purchase of the emission credit transaction cost based on the information of the additional purchase cost of the greenhouse gas emission credit transaction cost displayed in (Additional purchase cost notification means).

  In the present embodiment, the display unit 101 of the operation panel 100 is configured to function as a display unit of an additional purchase support system for greenhouse gas emission rights transaction costs.

As shown in FIG. 4, the operation panel 100 has an operation surface (input unit) 100 a configured in a substantially planar shape, and a display unit 101 configured in a substantially central portion thereof.
The display unit 101 may not be flush with the operation surface (input unit) 100a, but may be openable / closable with respect to the operation surface (input unit) 100a. It may be provided separately. Moreover, you may combine them.

  As shown in FIGS. 5 and 7, the display unit 101 displays operation keys 110 for selecting a processing mode by the image forming apparatus 1. The operation key 110 is provided with an icon 111a for DOCUMENT FILING mode, an icon 111b for IMAGE SEND mode, and an icon 111c for COPY mode. By using the operation key 110, a COPY mode, an IMAGE SEND mode, and a DOCUMENT FILING mode can be selected.

  When the power of the image forming apparatus 1 is turned on, an initial screen (not shown) is displayed on the display unit 101. When the icon 111a for the DOCUMENT FILING mode is selected from the operation keys 110, as shown in FIG. The initial screen 110a of the DOCUMENT FILING mode is displayed.

  A preview confirmation icon 120a as an operation key is displayed at the lower left of the initial screen 110a in the DOCUMENT FILING mode. When the preview confirmation icon 120 a is touched, information such as an email received by the image forming apparatus 1 is displayed on the display unit 101.

  In the present embodiment, when a new mail is received by the image forming apparatus 1, the icon 111 a for DOCUMENT FILING mode blinks. When the preview confirmation icon 120a is selected, as shown in FIG. 6, for example, a preview screen 101a of a notification mail from a store is displayed on the display unit 101.

  When the IMAGE SEND mode icon 111b of the operation keys 110 is selected, an initial screen 110b in the IMAGE SEND mode is displayed as shown in FIG.

An Ecoview icon 120b as an operation key is displayed at the lower left of the initial screen 110b in the IMAGE SEND mode. When the Ecoview icon 120b is touched, the display unit 101 displays a selection screen for acquiring greenhouse gas emission information regarding the image forming apparatus 1 being used.
The information regarding the image forming apparatus 1 includes information on consumables used for the image forming apparatus 1.
In this embodiment, the consumable is a consumable with a greenhouse gas emission right.

  The operation panel 100 also includes an icon (not shown) for switching between list display and thumbnail display, and an icon (not shown) for returning to the initial screen 110b in the IMAGE SEND mode.

  In this embodiment, the selection screen displayed on the display unit 101 is, for example, information on each list display or thumbnail display by touching a list display or thumbnail display displayed on the screen using a touch panel. It is configured to function as a consumable item selection means for selecting a consumable item based on the above. That is, the selection screen functions as a consumable selection unit.

  In this embodiment, a control unit (not shown) on the data management server 701 side supplies consumable product information (including consumables environmental performance information) and greenhouse gas from the data management server 701 side via a network line. It is configured to function as an information transmission means for transmitting emissions trading information (including information on greenhouse gas emissions trading costs and greenhouse gas emissions trading additional purchase costs), as well as consumable product information and greenhouse It is configured to function as information display means for displaying the effect gas emission right transaction information on the display unit 101 of the image forming apparatus 1.

  Further, the control unit on the data management server 701 side functions as a greenhouse gas emission trading cost calculation means for calculating the greenhouse gas emission trading cost according to the use state of the consumables, and also calculates the calculated greenhouse effect. It functions as a greenhouse gas emission trading cost judgment means that determines whether the gas emission trading cost exceeds the greenhouse gas emission trading cost of consumables purchased in advance, and the calculated greenhouse gas emissions If the rights transaction cost exceeds the greenhouse gas emissions trading cost of consumables purchased in advance, it is necessary to purchase additional greenhouse gas emissions trading costs for the consumables from the distributor to the image forming apparatus 1 It is configured so as to function as an additional purchase notification means for notifying the effect.

Further, in the image forming apparatus 1, the control unit 501 displays information on the additional purchase cost of the greenhouse gas emission credit transaction cost required according to the usage status of the consumables on the display unit 101 of the operation panel 100 of the image forming apparatus 1. It is configured to function as a greenhouse gas emission trading information display means for displaying.
Further, the communication unit 506 functions as an additional purchase cost notifying unit that notifies the seller of the additional purchase of the emission trading cost based on the information on the additional purchase cost of the greenhouse gas emission trading cost displayed on the display unit 101. It is configured as follows.

Next, a display screen displayed on the display unit 101 of the operation panel 100 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a selection screen for acquiring greenhouse gas emission information displayed on the display unit of the operation panel of the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating selection of components on the selection screen. FIG. 10 is an explanatory view showing an example of a list display when it is done, FIG. 10 is a consumable used in the image forming apparatus displayed on the display unit, purchase cost of greenhouse gas emission trading, excess, and greenhouse gas emission FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of an order screen transmitted from the image forming apparatus to a store.

  In the present embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 7, when the Ecoview icon 120 b is touched on the initial screen 110 b in the IMAGE SEND mode displayed on the display unit 101 of the operation panel 100 of the image forming apparatus 1, First, as shown in FIG. 8, a greenhouse gas emission information selection screen 101b for acquiring greenhouse gas emission information is displayed.

  The greenhouse gas emission information selection screen 101b includes, as thumbnails of image display and selection switches, an appearance display 111, a return icon 112, a transmission icon 113, an image forming apparatus main body selection icon 114, an image forming apparatus 1 currently used, A document feeder selection icon 115, a large-capacity paper feeder selection icon 116, a sorter selection icon 117, a consumables selection icon 118, and an icon 119 for selecting “all” are displayed.

  In the greenhouse gas emission information selection screen 101b, as shown in FIG. 9, when the consumable item selection icon 118 is touched, the background of the consumable item selection icon 118 changes to yellow, and the selection is visibly displayed. Then, by touching the transmission icon 113, the selection result is transmitted to the data management server 701.

  Then, as shown in FIG. 10, a greenhouse gas emission trading information display screen 101c is displayed on which product information of consumables currently in use and information on greenhouse gas emission trading are displayed at the same time.

  Specifically, as shown in FIG. 10, the product information and consumables used in the image forming apparatus 1 are acquired, certified, or verified on the greenhouse gas emission trading information display screen 101c. Environmental eco-label information is displayed as thumbnails, and a list of consumable greenhouse gas emission trading purchase costs, excess greenhouse gas emission trading purchase costs, and additional purchase costs for greenhouse gas emission trading is displayed. ing. A return icon 121 and a next screen switching icon (for ordering) 122 are displayed at the bottom of the screen.

  In the present embodiment, a black toner cartridge is displayed as a display of the consumable currently in use. For example, as product information of a black toner cartridge, it is displayed that recycled plastic is used, 50,000 sheets are printed, and the selling price is 5,000 yen (of which 20% is greenhouse gas emission trading cost). In addition, a thumbnail of the carbon footprint label is displayed as environmental eco label information.

  In addition, as information on the purchase cost of greenhouse gas emission trading, information on emission trading cost at the time of purchase (1,000 yen), excess emission trading cost (100 yen) (equivalent to 5,000 printed sheets) Is displayed.

  Also, as information on additional purchase costs for greenhouse gas emissions trading, product code: 1 is 100 yen (equivalent to 5,000 printed sheets), product code: 2 is 200 yen (equivalent to 10,000 printed sheets), product Code: 3 displays a list of 300 yen (equivalent to 15,000 printed sheets).

The carbon footprint label uses an LCA (life cycle assessment) method that quantitatively calculates the environmental load throughout the life cycle from procurement of raw materials for products and services to disposal and recycling, and greenhouse gas emissions throughout the life cycle. The amount is converted into CO ₂ and displayed.

  After confirming the greenhouse gas emission credit transaction information of the consumables, the order screen 101d is displayed on the display unit 101 as shown in FIG. 11 by touching the next screen switching icon (for ordering) 122. . Based on this order screen 101d, the confirmed contents are notified to the manufacturer and the dealer.

  Specifically, as shown in FIG. 11, a preview image 521 of an order form for ordering consumables from a manufacturer or a dealer, a confirmation icon 522 for confirming the order form, and an order form are transmitted (notified) to the order screen 101 d. ) A transmission icon 523, a return icon 524 for returning to the previous screen, a return icon 525 for returning to the IMAGE SEND mode screen, and a return icon 526 for returning to the initial screen.

  According to the present embodiment, the environmental eco label information and the greenhouse gas emission trading information are displayed together with the toner cartridge product information on the display unit 101 of the operation panel 100, so that the user can display the information on the screen based on the displayed information. You can select additional purchase costs for the greenhouse gas emissions trading costs of the consumables you need.

Further, according to the present embodiment, since the value of the CO ₂ emission amount is written on the carbon footprint label of the toner cartridge, the CO ₂ emission amount of the toner cartridge can be confirmed.

In addition, the weight (kg) displayed in the mark of the carbon footprint label shown in FIG. 10 is the total CO ₂ emission conversion value from raw material procurement to disposal / recycling in the life cycle stage of each toner cartridge. Indicates the amount.

  Here, the information in the life cycle of toner cartridges refers to the types and emissions of greenhouse gases that begin during the raw material procurement stage of toner cartridges and during the production, distribution, use / maintenance, and disposal / recycling stages. It is quantity information.

There are 6 types of greenhouse gases: CO ₂ , CH ₄ , N ₂ O, HFCs, PFCs, and SF ₆ that are targeted by the Kyoto Protocol, but the value converted to CO ₂ is recorded on the label. since, CO ₂ conversion value of the toner cartridge is displayed on the Ecoview thumbnail display.
The CO ₂ emission amount is calculated by the following general formula (I) using an LCA (life cycle assessment) method.

CO ₂ emissions = Σ (activity i x CO ₂ emissions intensity) (I)
i is an activity amount (process) from the above-mentioned raw material procurement to disposal / recycling.
Each stage of the life cycle and an example of the amount of activity (process) are shown in (1) to (5).
(1) The amount of activity at the raw material procurement stage is the amount of material used.
(2) The amount of activity at the production stage is the assembly weight and the power consumption during production.
(3) The amount of activity in the distribution stage is the transport amount (the product of the transport distance, the loading rate, and the truck loading amount).
(4) The amount of activity at the usage / maintenance stage is the amount of power consumed during use.
(5) The amount of activity at the disposal / recycling stage is landfill weight and recycled weight.
The unit of CO ₂ emission is (kg).
Thus, the label information of the character and the CO ₂ emissions CO ₂ (kg) is described.
Further, the unit of the CO ₂ emission amount may be a unit representing a weight such as (g) or (t) in addition to (kg).

  Next, the additional purchase support system for the greenhouse gas emission trading cost used in the image forming apparatus 1 of the present embodiment exceeds the greenhouse gas emission trading cost of the toner cartridge (consumable) used by the user. Explain the case of purchasing additional greenhouse gas emission trading costs.

  In the present embodiment, overall control of the image forming apparatus 1 is performed by a control unit 501 as shown in FIG. Further, product information of toner cartridges used in the image forming apparatus 1, ecolabel information that is environment-acquisition acquisition information of toner cartridges, and greenhouse gas emission rights transaction information are stored in the storage unit 502. The storage unit 502 may be an HDD device, a Blu-ray disk device, a ROM or RAM, a USB memory, or a memory card memory.

  Further, the product information, eco label information, and greenhouse gas emission trading information of the toner cartridge are, for example, a manufacturer, a dealer, a leasing company, or a cloud that has the environmental eco label information of the toner cartridge via a network through a LAN connection in the communication unit 506. It can also be obtained by accessing a website such as a provider.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 3, a plurality of users A, B, and C are connected to a store, a leasing company, etc. via a LAN (local area network) 700 by the communication unit 506 of the image forming apparatus 1 that is each terminal. It is possible to access the data management server 701 or the satellite communication infrastructure 710 using the communication satellite 711.

  As the LAN (local area network) 700, in the case of wired, Ethernet IEEE standards 10BASE-T, 100BASE-TX, 10GBASE-T, etc., and their optical multimode 10BASE-F, 100BASE-F, 1000BASE-X 10GBASE-R, 10GBASE-W, 10GBASE-X, in the case of wireless, WiMAX IEEE 802.16 (broadband wireless standard), IEEE 802.16a (standard wireless communication standard, modified frequency band of IEEE 802.16 standard) ), IEEE 802.16-2004 (method used for fixed sections, also known as IEEE 802.16a / REVd), WAN, and cloud computing services (dedicated operators: cloud providers) can also be used.

Next, an operation procedure for additionally purchasing the greenhouse gas emission trading cost for the amount exceeding the greenhouse gas emission trading cost of the toner cartridge by the additional purchase support system for the greenhouse gas emission trading cost of the image forming apparatus 1 is performed. It demonstrates along a flowchart.
FIG. 12 shows the additional purchase of the greenhouse gas emission trading cost that exceeds the greenhouse gas emission trading cost of the consumables by the additional purchase support system for the greenhouse gas emission trading cost of the image forming apparatus of the present embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows a procedure.

  Turn on the image forming apparatus 1 and operate to purchase additional greenhouse gas emissions trading costs that exceed the greenhouse gas emissions trading costs of consumables using the additional purchase support system for greenhouse gas emissions trading costs. First, in the image forming apparatus 1, the consumable currently in use is detected by the detection unit 509a. Then, in the control unit 501, the calculation unit 503 performs a collation operation on the detected detected value of the consumable item in use and the data indicating that the consumable item is a genuine consumable item stored in the storage unit 502, and based on the calculation result. It is then determined whether the consumable is a genuine consumable.

  In this embodiment, the consumable is provided with an IC chip (wireless IC tag or contact type CRUM) (not shown), a bar code, a QR code (registered trademark), and the like, and these are detected by the detection unit 509a. .

When the detected value of the consumable item in use detected by the detection unit 509a matches the data indicating that it is a genuine consumable item, the control unit 501 activates the image forming apparatus 1 to the Ready state.
On the other hand, if the consumable being used is not a genuine consumable, it is displayed on the display unit 101 as a non-genuine consumable.

  The data management server 701 on the store side and the image forming apparatus 1 on the user side are always connected via the LAN 700 so that the store can manage the state of the image forming apparatus 1 of the user. That is, the sales store can monitor what consumables are currently used in the image forming apparatus 1, the usage status of the consumables, the malfunction of the image forming apparatus 1, the maintenance timing of the image forming apparatus 1, and the like.

  If the consumable item in use is a genuine consumable item, the image forming apparatus 1 is properly activated, and the dealer sends a notification mail from the data management server 701 while the image forming apparatus 1 is in the Ready state. The image forming apparatus 1 is remotely controlled so as to be transmitted to the image forming apparatus 1 and displayed on the display unit 101 of the operation panel 100.

  In the flowchart shown in FIG. 12, the procedure for additionally purchasing the greenhouse gas emission trading cost for the amount exceeding the greenhouse gas emission trading cost of the consumables by the additional purchase support system for the greenhouse gas emission trading cost will be described below. It explains along.

  When the image forming apparatus 1 receives the notification mail from the data management server 701 (step S1), as shown in FIG. 5, the icon 111a for the DOCUMENT FILING mode among the operation keys 110 displayed on the display unit 101 is displayed. Blink. As a result, the user can know that an information mail (new mail) such as a notification mail from the store has been received.

  When the user selects the DOCUMENT FILE mode icon 111a displayed on the display unit 101, the DOCUMENT FILE mode is executed, and the initial screen 110a of the DOCUMENT FILE mode is displayed on the display unit 101 as shown in FIG. Is done. Then, by selecting the preview confirmation icon 120a on the initial screen 110a in the DOCUMENT FILING mode, as shown in FIG. 6, a preview screen 101a of the notification email from the dealer is displayed on the display unit 101, and the notification email is displayed. Can be confirmed (step S2).

  Here, in the notification mail, as shown in FIG. 6, the text “We are working on a greenhouse gas absorption business” is displayed. This means a mangrove planting project for a greenhouse gas absorption project (not shown).

For example, if 40 mangroves are planted in a mangrove planting business, 10 (tons) of CO ₂ can be absorbed in about 30 years (about 360 months). Accordingly, as shown in FIG. 10, since the greenhouse gas emission amount (CO ₂ conversion value) of the black toner cartridge currently used by the user is 5 (kg), the greenhouse gas emission right transaction cost is 1,000 yen. Is equivalent to the purchase cost for 5 mangroves (fetal seeds grown to about 20cm are generally around 30-40 yen, calculated as 1/200 yen considering the shipping cost and planting effort) It absorbs 1.25 (ton) of CO ₂ in about 30 years (about 360 months).

In addition, with an excess emission trading cost of 100 yen, it absorbs 125 (kg) of CO ₂ in about 30 years (about 360 months) for 0.5 mangroves, and is converted to about 0.35 (one month). kg) of CO ₂ is absorbed.

For example, a user who frequently uses the image forming apparatus prints 50,000 sheets in one month, and in this embodiment, the number of printed sheets exceeds 5,000. That is, the amount of greenhouse gas emissions (CO ₂ equivalent value) is 0.5 (kg), the amount of CO ₂ absorption per month for 0.5 mangroves is about 0.35 (kg), and one mangrove By purchasing an additional portion (200 yen, CO ₂ absorption amount of about 0.7 (kg)), CO ₂ emissions exceeding 5,000 copies can be offset, and mangrove for greenhouse gas absorption business Funded for afforestation projects.

  Therefore, in addition to the message “Apply with ease when purchasing” in FIG. 6, a message or display recommending “Product code: 2” or “200 yen” in FIG. 10 may be added. .

Some mangroves are grass-like or tree-like, but a tree of the kind of green grass is particularly good. Among the mangroves, the hillaceae, including this mackerel, is preferable because it has the largest amount of CO ₂ absorption and saving and can contribute to lower carbon.

  Returning to the flowchart, after confirming the contents of the notification mail, the screen returns to the initial screen 110a in the DOCUMENT FILE mode (step S3).

  The information corresponding to the notification email, that is, consumables product information and greenhouse gas emission trading information (consumables greenhouse gas emission trading purchase cost and excess greenhouse gas emission trading purchase cost) Information and greenhouse gas emissions trading additional purchase cost information), select the IMAGE SEND mode icon 111b from among the operation keys 110 displayed on the initial screen 110a of the DOCUMENT FILING mode. Transition to the SEND mode (step S4). At this time, the display unit 101 displays an initial screen 110b in the IMAGE SEND mode as shown in FIG.

  If the consumable used in the image forming apparatus 1 is not a genuine consumable, the image forming apparatus 1 starts up, but the initial screen 110b in the IMAGE SEND mode is not displayed on the display unit 101. It is set so that greenhouse gas exhaust information on consumables to be described and information on emission rights of consumables cannot be obtained.

  In the IMAGE SEND mode, an Ecoview icon 120b is displayed at the lower left of the initial screen 110b displayed on the display unit 101. Then, it is determined whether or not the Ecoview icon 120b is touched (step S5).

  If it is determined in step S5 that the Ecoview icon 120b is not touched, the process proceeds to step S6, and it is determined whether or not to return to the initial screen 110b. If it is determined in step S6 that the screen returns to the initial screen 110b, the process returns to the initial screen 110b and the process ends. If it is determined in step S6 that the screen does not return to the initial screen 110b, the process returns to step S5 again.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S5 that the Ecoview icon 120b has been touched, a greenhouse gas emission information selection screen 101b is displayed on the display unit 101 as shown in FIG. Then, on the greenhouse gas emission information selection screen 101b, an object for acquiring greenhouse gas exhaust information is selected. Here, the consumable item selection icon 118 for selecting the consumable item is selected (step S7).

  Then, it is determined whether or not to obtain consumable product information and greenhouse gas emission trading information (step S8).

  If it is determined in step S8 that product information on consumables or greenhouse gas emission trading information is not obtained, the process proceeds to step S6 to determine whether or not to return to the initial screen 110b. If it is determined in step S6 that the screen returns to the initial screen 110b, the process returns to the initial screen 110b and the process ends. If it is determined in step S6 that the screen does not return to the initial screen 110b, the process returns to step S5 again.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S8 that the product information of the consumables or the greenhouse gas emission trading information is obtained, the manufacturer or sales having the information of the image forming apparatus 1 via the network through the LAN connection in the communication unit 506. Access websites of companies, distributors, leasing companies, cloud providers, etc. to obtain consumables product information and greenhouse gas emission trading information.

  When the selection result of the consumables in the image forming apparatus 1 is transmitted to the store data management server 701 via the LAN 700, the store data management server 701 analyzes the transmission data from the user. Returns a program that generates a preview screen of the order screen for ordering additional purchase costs for consumables product information, greenhouse gas emissions trading information, and consumables greenhouse gas emissions trading. .

  The product information of the consumables and the greenhouse gas emission credit transaction information obtained are temporarily stored in the storage unit 502, and then the information is displayed on the display unit 101 (step S9). As shown in FIG. 10, a greenhouse gas emission trading information display screen 101 c is displayed on the display unit 101.

  The email addresses of manufacturers, sales companies, sales agents, leasing companies, etc. of the image forming apparatus 1 are registered in advance in the image forming apparatus 1 to obtain consumable product information and greenhouse gas emission trading information. By selecting to do, it is automatically sent to the e-mail address.

  In addition, the name and model number of the image forming apparatus 1 itself are automatically attached to the email sent to the manufacturer, sales company, sales agent, leasing company, etc., and the sales company that received the sent email Or the like, based on information such as the name and model number of the image forming apparatus 1, product information of consumables used in the image forming apparatus 1 and greenhouse gas emission trading information may be transmitted to the user. This may be transmitted manually or may be set so that it can be transmitted automatically.

  The reason why the image forming apparatus 1 temporarily stores consumable product information, greenhouse gas emission trading information, and the like in the storage unit 502 is that the consumable product information and greenhouse gas emission trading information are not requested repeatedly. By simply reading from the storage unit 502, it is possible to make additional purchases of consumable greenhouse gas emission trading costs based on such information, which has the advantage of reducing communication costs.

  Note that information (data) such as devices and consumables displayed on the greenhouse gas emission information selection screen 101b may be stored in the storage unit 502 in advance.

  The greenhouse gas emission trading information display screen 101c displays the product information of the consumables currently in use, the thumbnail display of the environmental ecolabel information of the consumables, and the greenhouse gas emission trading information. Displayed simultaneously (step S10).

  Thus, as shown in FIG. 10, the user can obtain the product information of the consumables currently in use and the greenhouse gas emission trading information, that is, the greenhouse gas emission trading that has already been paid when purchasing the consumables. You can view information on the list of costs, costs exceeding them, and additional purchase costs for greenhouse gas emissions trading.

  Since the dealer can monitor the image forming apparatus 1 used by the user, the use history (for example, black print dots) from the start of using the initial consumables (here, the black toner cartridge) in the image forming apparatus 1 can be monitored. The amount of consumables used for printing is estimated from the number of consumables consumed and the remaining amount of consumables), and compared with the guaranteed number of consumables (for example, 50,000). It is possible to grasp how much the greenhouse gas emission credit transaction cost paid by the user at the time of purchase is exceeded.

  For example, it is assumed that the user uses 5,000 sheets of consumables having a print guarantee number of 50,000 sheets (A4 size paper and a character area ratio of 4%). In this case, the consumable driving power and communication power for 5,000 sheets have been exceeded. Therefore, the excess emission credit transaction cost shown in FIG. 10 is calculated as 100 yen.

  In this embodiment, three types of product codes: 1 to 3 are prepared as additional purchase costs for greenhouse gas emission trading, and the user can select any one of them. For the additional purchase of the greenhouse gas emission trading cost, the user selects the product code: 2 (200 yen) shown in FIG. 10 from the guidance (see FIG. 6) that the purchase is made with an allowance for the number of printed sheets.

  For example, if product code: 1 (100 yen) is selected, it has already exceeded 100 yen, so additional purchase of emission credit transaction costs is required again, which is troublesome twice. On the other hand, if the product code: 2 (200 yen) is selected, even if you encounter a case where you purchase a new consumable when the excess number of printed sheets is less than 10,000, you will be divided by 200 yen. Since the remaining money can be allocated to the purchase cost of new consumables (discount), there is no economic loss for the user.

  Returning to the flowchart, when the user selects the product code of the additional greenhouse gas emission trading cost and then selects the next screen switching icon (for ordering) 122, as shown in FIG. 11, the user places an order on the display unit 101. A screen 101d is displayed.

  In order to additionally order the product code: 2 (200 yen) for the additional purchase cost of greenhouse gas emission trading, the user inputs the product code 2 using the numeric keypad (step S11). The input product code can be confirmed on the preview image 521 of the purchase order (step S12).

  Then, it is determined whether or not a consumable item is ordered on the order screen 101d (step S13). If it is determined in step S13 that no consumables are to be ordered, the process proceeds to step S19, transitions to the IMAGE SEND mode, and the display unit 101 displays the initial screen 110b in the IMAGE SEND mode (step S20). The processing of the additional purchase support system for the effect gas emission trading costs ends.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S13 that the consumable item is ordered, the user confirms the order form preview image 521 and selects an icon 522 for confirming the order form and an icon 523 for transmitting the order form. . The order form for the selected consumables is data of a toner cartridge manufacturer, sales company, sales agency, leasing company, etc. (herein, a sales shop) via the LAN 700 by the communication unit 506 of the image forming apparatus 1. It is transmitted to the management server 701 (step S14). A FAX may be used as the transmission means.
This completes the order for additional purchases in excess of the greenhouse gas emission trading costs.

  When the store receives the order form (step S15), it returns an e-mail to the user that the order form has been received and the order has been accepted. This reply document is sent to the image forming apparatus 1 of the user, and the user can check the reply document in the same way as a new mail.

  Then, the image forming apparatus 1 receives the reception completion mail transmitted from the store (step S16).

Then, it is determined whether or not the order for the additional purchase cost of greenhouse gas emission trading is to be continued (step S17).
If it is determined in step S17 that the order is not continued, the process for ordering consumables ends.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S17 that the order is to be continued, processing for selecting and confirming the product code of the additional purchase cost of the greenhouse gas emission right transaction to be ordered is performed (step S18). Then, the process proceeds to step S19, shifts to the IMAGE SEND mode, displays the initial screen 110b in the IMAGE SEND mode on the display unit 101 (step S20), and orders processing in the additional purchase support system for the greenhouse gas emission right transaction cost Ends.

  Note that the ordering process may be performed from the warm-up of the image forming apparatus to the ready state in which printing can be performed, or may be performed between printing jobs. Further, it may be performed when there is no input signal in the input unit 505, that is, while the user is not performing an input operation, or when there is no document placement signal in the scanner unit. By performing the ordering process for the additional purchase cost of greenhouse gas emission trading during any period, for example, there is an effect that it does not interfere with the use of the image forming apparatus by other users.

  Since it comprised as mentioned above, according to this embodiment, as a structure of the additional purchase support system of the greenhouse gas emission credit transaction cost of the consumables used for the image forming apparatus 1 with the greenhouse gas emission right, The image forming apparatus 1 and the data management server 701 of the consumables sales destination are connected via the LAN 700 so that the usage status of the consumables of the image forming apparatus 1 can be monitored by the sales destination. It functions as a greenhouse gas emission trading cost calculation means for calculating greenhouse gas emission trading costs according to the usage of consumables. Acts as a greenhouse gas emission trading cost judgment means to determine whether or not it exceeds the effect gas emission trading cost, and calculates the calculated greenhouse gas emission trading cost When the greenhouse gas emission trading cost of consumables purchased in advance has been exceeded, the seller notifies the image forming apparatus 1 that it is necessary to purchase additional greenhouse gas emission trading costs for consumables. The control unit 501 in the image forming apparatus 1 is configured to function as additional purchase notification means for performing additional purchase cost information on the greenhouse gas emission right transaction cost required according to the use state of the consumables. 1 is configured to function as a greenhouse gas emission right transaction information display means to be displayed on the display unit 101 of the operation panel 100, and the communication unit 506 is configured to display the greenhouse gas emission right transaction cost displayed on the display unit 101. Use of the image forming apparatus 1 is configured so as to function as an additional purchase cost notification means for notifying the seller of the additional purchase of emission credit transaction costs based on the information of the additional purchase cost. Even if the amount of greenhouse gas emissions exceeds the initial greenhouse gas emissions, the excess greenhouse gas emissions will be notified by the consumables sales company. You can easily purchase additional gas emission trading costs. Accordingly, the image forming apparatus can be continuously used without worrying about the frequency of use of the image forming apparatus, and can contribute to the prevention of global warming.

  In the present embodiment, when an additional purchase cost of consumable greenhouse gas emission trading is purchased, the purchase order is sent to the dealer and the dealer receives the purchase order. When the image forming apparatus 1 receives the reception completion mail transmitted from the dealer when the reply to the effect is received, it can be confirmed that the order to the dealer has been performed.

  In the present embodiment, the environmental performance information (carbon footprint label) of consumables is obtained and displayed, so that the burden on the global environment can be reduced even for highly environmentally conscious users. Can be notified that it is a consumable item.

  In addition, environmental performance information (carbon footprint label) may be displayed on consumable packaging materials, and an explanation of environmental performance information (carbon footprint label) on consumables and consumable packaging materials. It may be displayed. This makes it easier to know what the carbon footprint label indicates, and knowing the consumables before opening them from the packaging material reduces the burden on the global environment without the hassle of opening them. It can be notified that the consumable can be reduced.

  In the present embodiment, the display unit 101 includes the Ecoview icon 120 and is used as a display changeover switch. However, the screen size is small and the operation unit (menu key, numeric keypad, print key, etc.) is small, and an Ecoview icon is provided. If not, an Ecoview operation key can be provided at a place other than the display unit 101. In the present embodiment, the Ecoview icon 120 is provided at the lower right portion of the display unit 101, but is not particularly limited, and may be provided at any of the upper, lower, left, and right sides of the display unit 101.

In the above-described embodiment, the example in which the configuration of the additional purchase support system for greenhouse gas emission trading costs according to the present invention is applied to the image forming apparatus 1 having the operation panel 100 as shown in FIG. 1 has been described. As long as the apparatus includes a display unit capable of displaying consumable product information and greenhouse gas emission trading information, the apparatus is not limited to the image forming apparatus and the copying machine having the above-described configuration, and an inkjet recording apparatus , Or other devices such as home appliances, consumer devices (electronic devices or devices related to video, sound, communication, etc., or terminals intended for use by general consumers or in homes, Or, a product / standard developed / designed based on that premise, and a business device (corporate (company, school, government office), etc.) Expansion to developed products), such as Te is possible.
Further, although a touch panel is used as the input unit 505, a gesture input device using a Ubi-Finger device or the like may be used.

  Furthermore, the personal computer and the portable information terminal which can operate the image forming apparatus 1 and the image forming apparatus 1 via the LAN 700, a liquid crystal display (Liquid Crystal Display), an organic EL display (Organic Electro-Luminescence Display), plasma Display (Plasma Display Panel), plasma tube array display (Plasma Tubes Array Display), electronic paper display using electrophoresis, display using electron-emitting devices (Field Emission Display, Surface-conduction Electron-emitter Display), etc. Electronic devices with a display are also available.

  As described above, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications can be made within the scope of the claims. That is, embodiments obtained by combining technical means appropriately changed within the scope not departing from the gist of the present invention are also included in the technical scope of the present invention.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Image forming apparatus 100 Operation panel 101 Display part 101a Preview screen 101b Greenhouse gas emission information selection screen 101c Greenhouse gas emission right transaction information display screen 101d Order screen 110 Operation key 110a Initial screen of DOCUMENT FILING mode 110b IMAGE SEND mode initial stage Screen 120a Preview confirmation icon 120b Ecoview icon 501 Control unit (Greenhouse gas emission trading information display means)
502 storage unit 503 calculation unit 505 input unit 506 communication unit (additional purchase cost notification means)
509a detection unit 521 preview image (order book)
700 LAN (Local Area Network)
701 Data management server (Greenhouse gas emission trading cost calculation means,
Greenhouse gas emission trading cost judgment means,
Additional purchase notification means)
710 Satellite communication infrastructure

Claims (9)

An additional purchase support system for greenhouse gas emission trading costs of consumables that have been granted greenhouse gas emission rights used for purchased or leased image forming devices,
The image forming apparatus and a data management server of the consumable sales destination are connected via a communication unit, and the sales status of the consumable of the image forming apparatus can be monitored by the sales destination.
A greenhouse gas emission trading cost calculating means for calculating a greenhouse gas emission trading cost according to the use status of the consumables;
Greenhouse gas emission for determining whether the greenhouse gas emission trading cost calculated by the greenhouse gas emission trading cost calculating means exceeds the greenhouse gas emission trading cost of the consumables purchased in advance. Right transaction cost judgment means,
When the greenhouse gas emission trading cost calculated by the greenhouse gas emission trading cost calculation means exceeds the greenhouse gas emission trading cost of the consumables purchased in advance, the image from the seller An additional purchase notification means for notifying the forming apparatus that an additional purchase of the greenhouse gas emission trading cost of the consumables is necessary;
Greenhouse gas emission trading information display means for displaying information on the additional purchase cost of the greenhouse gas emission trading necessary depending on the use status of the consumables on the display unit of the image forming apparatus,
An additional purchase cost notifying means for notifying the seller of the additional purchase of the greenhouse gas emission trading cost based on the information of the additional purchase cost of the greenhouse gas emission trading cost displayed on the display unit;
An additional purchase support system for greenhouse gas emission trading costs.   The greenhouse gas emission trading cost according to claim 1, wherein the notification of the additional purchase of the greenhouse gas emission trading cost is displayed on a display unit of the image forming apparatus when the image forming apparatus is ready. Additional purchase support system. The usage of the greenhouse gas emission trading cost is a greenhouse gas absorption business,
The additional purchase support system for greenhouse gas emission trading costs according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the greenhouse gas absorption source is a tree that absorbs the greenhouse gas.   The additional purchase support system for greenhouse gas emission trading costs according to claim 3, wherein the tree that absorbs the greenhouse gas is a mangrove. The additional purchase support system for greenhouse gas emission trading costs is based on a detection means for detecting information stored in a storage means or a recording means provided in the consumables, and a detection result detected by the detection means. And a determination means for determining whether the consumable is a genuine consumable,
5. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein when the determination unit determines that the consumable item is a genuine consumable item, the image forming apparatus is activated to a ready state. 6. Support system for additional purchase of greenhouse gas emission trading costs. The display unit includes a touch panel or operation keys substantially integrally,
The additional purchase procedure for the greenhouse gas emission trading fee is performed by operating the touch panel or the operation key on the display unit, according to any one of claims 1 to 5. Additional purchase support system for greenhouse gas emission trading costs.   7. The greenhouse gas emission trading cost according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the consumable item to which the greenhouse gas emission right is granted is provided with a carbon footprint mark. Additional purchase support system.   An image forming apparatus using the additional purchase support system for greenhouse gas emission trading costs according to any one of claims 1 to 7.   A method for supporting additional purchase of greenhouse gas emission trading costs, wherein the image forming apparatus according to claim 8 is used.

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