JP2015133670A - Charging device and image forming apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To achieve charging corresponding to a use amount of a user when the user continuously uses a device being an object of charging.SOLUTION: A compound machine includes: an operation reception device for receiving an instruction of a user; an image forming apparatus for forming an image on a recording material in response to the received instruction; a total output counting section 152 for counting the number of recording materials on which the image is formed; a charging operation section 155 for changing a calculation method of a charging amount charged on the user in accordance with the number of total outputs which the total output counting section 152 counts; and a clocking section 151 for clocking previously determined setting time with a start of reception of the instruction by the operation reception device as a trigger. The number of total outputs is prevented from being updated after the setting time elapses. The clocking section 151 updates the setting time when the operation reception device receives another instruction before the setting time elapses.

Description

  The present invention relates to a charging apparatus and an image forming apparatus.

  As an image forming apparatus including an image output unit that forms and outputs an image on a recording medium as a conventional technique described in the publication, the number of image formations by the image output unit is counted, and the obtained count result is less than a predetermined number of times. If the count result is multiplied by a certain unit price, the normal billing method is used. If the obtained count result exceeds the specified number of times, the count result is less than the specified number. The modal billing method is used, in which a certain unit price is multiplied for the amount of which is to be charged, and for a portion of the counting result that is a predetermined number of times or more, for example, is multiplied by another unit price that is lower than the certain unit price. There exists a thing (refer patent document 1).

  Also, as a prior art described in other publications, the number of prints is counted over the charging period to be charged, and if the counting result obtained in the charging period is less than the predetermined number, the normal charging method is used. If the count result obtained during the charging period exceeds a predetermined number of times, there is one that charges by a modal charging method (see Patent Document 2).

  Furthermore, as a conventional technique described in another publication, in a multi-function machine having a plurality of application functions such as a copy, a printer, and a facsimile, an ID code is set for each of a plurality of users who use this multi-function machine, and each ID There is a code that allows a usage fee for each application function to be presented for each user by storing the usage status of each application function in association with a code (see Patent Document 3).

JP 2001-341388 A JP 2010-142984 A Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 10-224593

  An object of the present invention is to realize charging according to a usage amount of a user when a user continuously uses a device to be charged.

According to the first aspect of the present invention, a receiving unit that receives an instruction from a user, an execution unit that executes a process corresponding to the instruction received by the receiving unit, and a count of the number of times that the execution unit has executed. A counting means, a changing means for changing a calculation method of a charge amount imposed on the user according to a total value of the number of times counted by the counting means, and that the accepting means has started accepting the instruction. As a trigger, it includes a timing unit that counts a predetermined set time, and the timing unit sets the set time when another instruction is received by the receiving unit before the set time elapses. The charging device is characterized by updating.
The invention according to claim 2 is the charging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the timing means stops timing while the instruction is received by the reception means.
According to a third aspect of the present invention, the changing means is changed to a first calculation method in which charging is performed by multiplying the total value by a first unit price when the total value falls below a predetermined threshold value. If the total value exceeds the threshold, the portion of the total value that is less than or equal to the threshold is charged by multiplying the first unit price, and the total value exceeds the threshold. The billing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the second calculation method for billing is multiplied by a second unit price that is cheaper than the first unit price.
According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, a receiving unit that receives an instruction from a user, an image forming unit that forms an image on a recording material based on the instruction received by the receiving unit, and an image is formed by the image forming unit. Counting means for counting the number of recording materials received, changing means for changing a calculation method of a charge amount imposed on a user according to a total value of the number of recording materials counted by the counting means, and the reception A timing unit that counts a predetermined set time triggered by the start of reception of the instruction, and the timing unit is configured to receive another time at the reception unit before the set time elapses. The image forming apparatus updates the set time when an instruction is received.
According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus according to the fourth aspect, the timing unit stops timing while the image forming unit forms an image on the recording material.
A sixth aspect of the present invention is the image forming apparatus according to the fourth or fifth aspect, wherein the time counting unit stops timing while the instruction is received by the reception unit.
The invention according to claim 7 further comprises a printing means for printing a receipt according to the billing amount,
The image forming apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the timing unit stops timing while the receipt is printed by the printing unit.
According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, the changing means is changed to a first calculation method in which charging is performed by multiplying the total value by a first unit price when the total value falls below a predetermined threshold. If the total value exceeds the threshold, the portion of the total value that is less than or equal to the threshold is charged by multiplying the first unit price, and the total value exceeds the threshold. 8. The method according to claim 4, wherein a change is made to the second calculation method in which charging is performed by multiplying the second unit price, which is lower than the first unit price, with respect to An image forming apparatus.

According to the first aspect of the present invention, when the user continuously uses the device to be charged, the user is charged according to the usage amount of the user as compared with the case where the present configuration is not provided. Can be realized.
According to invention of Claim 2, compared with the case where this structure is not provided, it can suppress that a user is misidentified as another user.
According to the third aspect of the present invention, it is possible to reduce the charge amount when the usage amount of the user is large as compared with the case where the present configuration is not provided.
According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, when the user continuously uses the device to be charged, the user is charged according to the usage amount of the user as compared with the case where the present configuration is not provided. Can be realized.
According to invention of Claim 5, compared with the case where this structure is not provided, it can suppress that a user is misidentified as another user.
According to invention of Claim 6, compared with the case where this structure is not provided, it can suppress that a user is misidentified as another user.
According to invention of Claim 7, compared with the case where this structure is not provided, it can suppress that a user is misidentified as another user.
According to the eighth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to reduce the billing amount when the usage amount of the user is large as compared with the case where the present configuration is not provided.

1 is a diagram illustrating an example of the overall configuration of a multifunction machine to which an embodiment is applied. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a hardware configuration of a control device provided in the multifunction machine. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a software configuration of a control device provided in the multifunction machine. It is the figure which showed the software structure of the charge control part. It is the figure which showed the structural example of the main menu screen displayed on the display panel of an operation reception apparatus. (A)-(D) are time charts for demonstrating the 1st usage example of a multifunctional device. (A)-(D) is a time chart for demonstrating the 2nd usage example of a multifunctional device. (A)-(D) are time charts for demonstrating the 3rd usage example of a multifunctional device. (A)-(D) are time charts for demonstrating the 4th usage example of a multifunction peripheral.

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.
FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of the overall configuration of a multifunction machine 1 to which the embodiment is applied. A multi-function machine 1 shown in FIG. 1 is a copier having a copy function, a scan function, and a print function, further provided with a facsimile function. In addition to the functions of the general multifunction device 1, the multifunction device 1 according to the present embodiment is capable of bidirectional communication for handling information products such as tickets and digital contents. It also has a function as a communication terminal (so-called multimedia station).

  The multifunction device 1 includes an image forming apparatus 10 that forms an image on a recording material such as paper, an image reading apparatus 20 that reads an image formed on a document, and receives an operation instruction from a user and And an operation reception device 30 that displays various types of information. In addition, the multifunction device 1 is a data reading device that reads data from a portable storage medium including an SD card, a USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory, a CD (Compact Disc), and the like, and writes data to the portable storage medium. 40 and a card reader 50 that reads data recorded on an IC (Integrated Circuit) card. Further, the multifunction device 1 accepts cash (coins or bills, or both coins and bills) input by the user, and a coin kit 60 having a function of returning cash as necessary, from the user. And a receipt printing device 70 that prints and outputs a receipt when requested. Furthermore, the multifunction device 1 includes a communication device 80 (see FIG. 2 described later) for performing communication with the outside and a control device 100 (see FIG. 2 described later) for controlling the multifunction device 1. . In this example, the communication device 80 and the control device 100 are built in the image forming apparatus 10.

FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a hardware configuration of the control device 100 provided in the multifunction machine 1.
A control device 100 according to the present embodiment includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 101 that reads and executes a program, and a ROM (Read Only Memory) that stores a program executed by the CPU 101 and data used when the program is executed. 102, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 103 that stores data temporarily generated when the program is executed, and an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) 104 that stores a relatively large amount of data such as image data A timer 105 for measuring time, the CPU 101 to the timer 105, the image forming apparatus 10, the image reading apparatus 20, the operation receiving apparatus 30, the data reading apparatus 40, the card reading apparatus 50, the coin kit 60, and the receipt printing apparatus 70. And an interface circuit (referred to as “I / F” in the figure) 106 for connecting the communication device 80. Eteiru.

  The program executed by the CPU 101 is stored in a storage medium such as a CD-ROM, for example, in addition to a form stored in the ROM 102 in advance, or provided to the CPU 101 or externally transmitted to the CPU 101 via the communication device 80. It is also possible to provide it.

FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a software configuration of the control device 100 provided in the multifunction machine 1.
The control device 100 according to the present embodiment includes an image formation control unit 110 that controls the image forming device 10, an image reading control unit 120 that controls the image reading device 20, and an operation reception control unit 130 that controls the operation reception device 30. A data reading control unit 140 that controls the data reading device 40, a charge control unit 150 that controls the card reading device 50 and the coin kit 60, a receipt print control unit 170 that controls the receipt printing device 70, and communication. And a communication control unit 180 that controls the device 80. Further, the control device 100 controls the image formation control unit 110, the image reading control unit 120, the operation reception control unit 130, the data reading control unit 140, the charging control unit 150, the receipt printing control unit 170, and the communication control unit 180. The main control unit 190 is further provided.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a software configuration of charging control unit 150 shown in FIG.
The charging control unit 150 according to the present embodiment includes a time measuring unit 151 that measures time, and the number of output sheets (total output) input from the image forming apparatus 10 (see FIG. 1) via the main control unit 190. Number), and the total number of outputs counted by the total output counter 152, the number of output sheets of paper to be charged at a normal unit price (charge per output number) (normal) Normal output counting unit 153 that counts the number of outputs), and counts the number of output sheets (discounted outputs) of the billing target at a discount unit price (charge per output number) set lower than the normal unit price A discount output counting unit 154. In addition, the charging control unit 150 includes a charging calculating unit 155 that calculates a charging amount for the user based on the normal output number counted by the normal output counting unit 153 and the discount output number counted by the discount output counting unit 154. A billing data storage unit 156 that stores billing data used in computation processing in the billing computation unit 155, and a billing processing unit 157 that performs billing processing for collecting the billing amount obtained by the billing computation unit 155 from the coin kit 60 Further prepare.

  Here, the time measuring unit 151 is realized by, for example, the timer 105 (see FIG. 2), and counts down the remaining time with a predetermined set time (here, 3 minutes (3:00)) as an upper limit. It has become a thing. However, as will be described later, the countdown by the timer 151 may be temporarily stopped when a certain condition is satisfied, and then restarted. As will be described later, the countdown by the timer 151 is returned to the set time (3:00) when another certain condition is satisfied, or the end time ( 0:00).

  FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of the main menu screen 300 displayed on the display screen (touch panel) of the operation reception device 30 illustrated in FIG. 1 and the like. A plurality of selection buttons are displayed on the main menu screen 300, and when any of these selection buttons is selected (pressed) by the user, it is associated with the selected selection button. The function is executed.

  In the example shown in FIG. 5, a first button group 310 including a plurality of selection buttons on the left side of the main menu screen 300 and a second button group including a plurality of other selection buttons on the right side of the main menu screen 300. 320 are respectively displayed. Among these, the first button group 310 is associated with a function related to the so-called multifunction device 1, and is a copy button 311 for receiving a copy function execution request, and a digital camera print for receiving a digital camera print function execution request. A button 312, a document print button 313 that accepts an execution request for a document print function, a scan button 314 that accepts an execution request for a scan function, and a fax button 315 that accepts an execution request for a facsimile function are included. On the other hand, the second button group 320 is associated with a function related to a so-called multimedia station, and is a prepaid service button 321 for receiving various prepaid service execution requests, and an airline for receiving air ticket payment execution requests. Ticket payment button 322, movie / event ticket button 323 that accepts a reservation request for a movie or event ticket, qualification / certification button 324 that accepts an application request for a qualification test or certification test, and a sports that accepts a reservation request for a sports ticket A ticket button 325 and a leisure ticket button 326 for accepting a leisure ticket reservation request are included.

  When the user selects a target selection button on the main menu screen 300, submenu screens (not shown) corresponding to the respective functions are displayed. Then, after performing various settings (for example, the number of outputs) for the function selected by the user on the submenu screen, the selected function is executed by pressing a start key, a confirmation key, or the like.

  Here, in the present embodiment, each of the operation receiving device 30, the data reading device 40, the card reading device 50, and the coin kit 60 has a function as receiving means. Further, the image forming apparatus 10 has a function as an image forming unit, and each of the image forming apparatus 10, the image reading device 20, and the communication device 80 has a function as an execution unit. Furthermore, each of a copy function, a digital camera print function, a document print function, and a facsimile function has a function as a process. Furthermore, the total output counting unit 152 has a function as a counting unit, the billing calculation unit 155 has a function as a changing unit, and the timing unit 151 has a function as a timing unit. The receipt printing apparatus 70 has a function as printing means.

  Next, with reference to specific examples, four usage examples of the multifunction machine 1 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. Here, in each usage example, the preconditions are as follows. First, it is assumed that the set time by the time measuring unit 151 is 3 minutes (3:00) as described above. In the following description, it is assumed that each user performs black and white copying as each job by selecting the copy button 311 (see FIG. 5) on the main menu screen 300. If the total number of outputs is 30 or less, the normal unit price is charged, and if the total number of outputs exceeds 30 sheets, the discounted unit price is charged. Therefore, in the following description, the total number of outputs = 30 is referred to as a charging threshold Th. Here, in monochrome copying, the normal unit price as an example of the first unit price is 10 yen / sheet, and the discount unit price as an example of the second unit price is 5 yen / sheet. These normal unit price and discount unit price are stored in a charging data storage unit 156 (see FIG. 4) provided in the charging control unit 150.

[First use example]
FIG. 6 is a time chart for explaining a first usage example of the multifunction machine 1.
Here, FIG. 6A shows the relationship between the time (min) and the remaining time (min) of the set time set by the time measuring unit 151. FIG. 6B shows the relationship between time (min) and the total number of outputs (sheets) counted by the total output counting unit 152. Further, FIG. 6C shows the relationship between time (min) and the number of normal outputs (sheets) counted by the normal output counting unit 153. Further, FIG. 6D shows the relationship between time (min) and the number of discount outputs (sheets) counted by the discount output counting unit 154. The relationship between (A) to (D) is the same in FIGS. 7 to 9 described later.

Here, the time chart shown in FIG.
When one user (user A) uses the multifunction device 1 When the user A causes the multifunction device 1 to execute one job (first job (black and white copy)) An example in which 20 sheets of paper are output from the multifunction device 1 in one job is illustrated.

  First, at time (a) shown in FIG. 6 (A), an operation on the multifunction device 1 by the user A is started. Here, “operation” means that, for example, when one of the selection buttons is selected on the main menu screen 300 (see FIG. 5) of the operation reception device 30, a portable storage medium is attached to the data reading device 40. When the IC card is set in the card reader 50, or when cash is inserted into the coin kit 60 (the same applies to the following description). Then, when an operation on the multifunction device 1 is started, the timer unit 151 executes setting to the set time (3:00) and starts countdown from the set time. That is, the remaining time gradually decreases from the set time.

  Next, at time (b) shown in FIG. 6A, setting by the user A is started. Here, “setting” means, for example, a selection operation of various setting keys for confirming the contents of a job (in this case, black-and-white copy) to be executed in the submenu screen (not shown) of the operation reception device 30. (The same applies to the following description). When the setting for the multi-function device 1 is started, the time measuring unit 151 temporarily stops the countdown with the start of the setting. That is, the state shifts to a state where the remaining time does not decrease.

  Subsequently, the setting by the user A ends at time (c) shown in FIG. Then, when the setting for the multifunction device 1 is completed, the timer 151 restarts the countdown.

  Next, at time (d) shown in FIG. 6A, the first job by the user A is started. Here, the start of the job corresponds to, for example, selection of a start key or the like in the operation reception device 30. Accordingly, a black and white copy operation in which the number of outputs is set to 20 is started as the first job. Then, the time measuring unit 151 temporarily stops the countdown with the start of the first job. As the first job starts, the total output count unit 152 starts counting up the total output number as shown in FIG. 6B at time (d), and also shown in FIG. 6C. Thus, the normal output counting unit 153 starts counting up the number of normal outputs.

  Next, at the time (e) shown in FIG. 6A, the first job by the user A ends. Then, the timer 151 restarts the countdown with the end of the first job. As the first job ends, at time (e), the total output count by the total output counter 152 is stopped as shown in FIG. 6 (B), and shown in FIG. 6 (C). Thus, the normal output count by the normal output counting unit 153 is also stopped. At this time, since the total number of outputs is 20 sheets that is equal to or less than the charging threshold Th, the discount output counting unit 154 does not count up as shown in FIG. 6D.

  Subsequently, at time (f) shown in FIG. 6A, printing of a receipt corresponding to the first job using the receipt printing apparatus 70 is started. Then, the timer 151 temporarily stops the countdown with the start of receipt printing.

  Next, at the time (g) shown in FIG. 6A, the printing of the receipt corresponding to the first job using the receipt printing apparatus 70 is completed. Then, the timer 151 restarts the countdown with the completion of the receipt printing.

  Thereafter, at time (h) shown in FIG. 6 (A), the remaining time becomes 0:00 and shifts to the time-out state with the countdown by the timer 151. Accordingly, at time (h), the total output number in the total output counting unit 152 is reset to 0 as shown in FIG. 6B, and the normal output counting unit 153 as shown in FIG. 6C. The normal output number at is reset to 0, and the charging process for user A is completed.

  In this example, a total of 20 black and white copies are made by the user A, so that the final total output number of the total output counting unit 152 is 20 (sheets), and the final output of the normal output counting unit 153 is final. The normal output number is 20 (sheets), and the final discount output number of the discount output counting unit 154 is 0 (sheets). Therefore, in this example, the billing calculation unit 155 (see FIG. 4) provided in the billing control unit 150 has a normal billing amount = normal output number × normal unit price = 20 × 10 = 200 (yen) and a discount billing amount = Calculate the number of discount outputs x discount unit price = 0 x 5 = 0 (yen), and further calculate charge amount = normal charge amount + discount charge amount = 200 + 0 = 200 (yen). The billing processing unit 157 provided in the billing control unit 150 collects the billing amount (200 (yen)) thus obtained from the user A via the coin kit 60 or the like. This calculation method corresponds to the first calculation method.

  Here, the entire period required for execution of the first job by the user A (period from time (a) to time (h) in FIG. 6) is referred to as a first job period A1. Further, in the first job period A1, a period required for the user A to set the first job (a period from time (b) to time (c) in FIG. 6) is referred to as a first job setting period A11. Further, of the first job period A1, a period required for execution of the first job by the user A (a period from time (d) to time (e) in FIG. 6) is referred to as a first job execution period A12. Furthermore, in the first job period A1, the period required for printing the receipt corresponding to the first job by the user A (the period from time (f) to time (g) in FIG. 6) is the first receipt. This is called a letter printing period A13. In this example, the countdown by the timer 151 is temporarily stopped in the first job setting period A11, the first job execution period A12, and the first receipt printing period A13 in the first job period A1. However, even within the first job setting period A11, for example, the countdown may be resumed during a period in which the setting by the user A is interrupted (for example, a waiting time for input by the user A).

[Second use example]
FIG. 7 is a time chart for explaining a second usage example of the multifunction machine 1.
Here, the time chart shown in FIG.
When one user (user A) uses the multifunction device 1 When the user A causes the multifunction device 1 to execute one job (first job (black and white copy)) The case where 40 sheets of paper are output from the multifunction device 1 in one job is illustrated.

  First, at time (a) shown in FIG. 7 (A), an operation on the multifunction device 1 by the user A is started. Then, when an operation on the multifunction device 1 is started, the timer unit 151 executes setting to the set time (3:00) and starts countdown from the set time.

  Next, the setting by the user A is started at time (b) shown in FIG. When the setting for the multi-function device 1 is started, the time measuring unit 151 temporarily stops the countdown with the start of the setting.

  Subsequently, the setting by the user A ends at time (c) shown in FIG. Then, when the setting for the multifunction device 1 is completed, the timer 151 restarts the countdown.

  Next, at time (d) shown in FIG. 7A, the first job by the user A is started. Accordingly, a black and white copy operation with the number of outputs set to 40 is started as the first job. Then, the time measuring unit 151 temporarily stops the countdown with the start of the first job. Further, at the time (d) with the start of the first job, the total output count unit 152 starts counting up the total output number as shown in FIG. 7B, and as shown in FIG. 7C. Thus, the normal output counting unit 153 starts counting up the number of normal outputs.

  In this example, with the execution of the first job, the total number of outputs by the total output counting unit 152 exceeds 30 at time (x) shown in FIG. 7B. Accordingly, at time (x), the normal output count by the normal output counting unit 153 is stopped as shown in FIG. 7C, and the discount output counting unit is shown in FIG. 7D. Counting up the number of discounted outputs by 154 is started. The count up by the total output counting unit 152 is continued as it is.

  Next, at the time (e) shown in FIG. 7A, the first job by the user A ends. Then, at the time (e), the time counting unit 151 stops counting up the total number of outputs by the total output counting unit 152 as shown in FIG. As shown in (D), the discount output count by the discount output counting unit 154 is also stopped. At this time, as shown in FIG. 7C, the count up by the normal output counting unit 153 is kept stopped.

  Subsequently, at time (f) shown in FIG. 7A, printing of a receipt corresponding to the first job using the receipt printing apparatus 70 is started. Then, the timer 151 temporarily stops the countdown with the start of receipt printing.

  Next, at time (g) shown in FIG. 7A, printing of the receipt corresponding to the first job using the receipt printing apparatus 70 is completed. Then, the timer 151 restarts the countdown with the completion of the receipt printing.

  Thereafter, at the time (h) shown in FIG. 7A, the remaining time becomes 0:00 and shifts to the time-out state with the countdown by the timer 151. Accordingly, at time (h), the total number of outputs in the total output counting unit 152 is reset to 0 as shown in FIG. 7B, and the normal output in the normal output counting unit 153 as shown in FIG. 7C. The number of outputs is reset to 0. Further, as shown in FIG. 7D, the number of discount outputs in the discount output counting unit 154 is reset to 0, and the charging process for the user A is completed.

  In this example, a total of 40 black and white copies are made by the user A, so that the final total output number of the total output counting unit 152 is 40 (sheets), and the final output by the normal output counting unit 153 is final. The normal output number is 30 (sheets), and the final discount output number of the discount output counting unit 154 is 10 (sheets). Therefore, in this example, the billing calculation unit 155 (see FIG. 4) provided in the billing control unit 150 has a normal billing amount = normal output number × normal unit price = 30 × 10 = 300 (yen) and a discount billing amount = Calculate the number of discount outputs x discount unit price = 10 x 5 = 50 (yen), and further calculate billing amount = normal billing amount + discount billing amount = 300 + 50 = 350 (yen). The billing processing unit 157 provided in the billing control unit 150 collects the billing amount (350 (yen)) thus obtained from the user A via the coin kit 60 or the like. This calculation method corresponds to the second calculation method.

[Third use example]
FIG. 8 is a time chart for explaining a third usage example of the multifunction machine 1.
Here, the time chart shown in FIG.
・ When one user (user A) uses the multifunction device 1 ・ User A executes two jobs (first job (monochrome copy) and second job (monochrome copy)) on the multifunction device 1 Case where user A outputs 20 sheets in the first job and 20 sheets in the second job from the multi-function device 1 is illustrated.

  First, at time (a) shown in FIG. 8A, an operation on the multifunction device 1 by the user A is started. Then, when an operation on the multifunction device 1 is started, the timer unit 151 executes setting to the set time (3:00) and starts countdown from the set time.

  Next, at time (b) shown in FIG. 8A, setting by the user A is started. When the setting for the multi-function device 1 is started, the time measuring unit 151 temporarily stops the countdown with the start of the setting.

  Subsequently, the setting by the user A ends at time (c) shown in FIG. Then, when the setting for the multifunction device 1 is completed, the timer 151 restarts the countdown.

  Next, at time (d) shown in FIG. 8A, the first job by the user A is started. Accordingly, a black and white copy operation in which the number of outputs is set to 20 is started as the first job. Then, the time measuring unit 151 temporarily stops the countdown with the start of the first job. Further, at the time (d) with the start of the first job, the total output counter 152 starts counting up the total output number as shown in FIG. 8B, and as shown in FIG. 8C. Thus, the normal output counting unit 153 starts counting up the number of normal outputs.

  Next, at the time (e) shown in FIG. 8A, the first job by the user A ends. Then, the timer 151 restarts the countdown with the end of the first job. As the first job ends, at time (e), the total output count by the total output counter 152 is stopped as shown in FIG. 8B, and shown in FIG. 8C. Thus, the normal output count by the normal output counting unit 153 is also stopped. At this time, since the total number of outputs is 20 sheets that is equal to or less than the charging threshold Th, the discount output counting unit 154 does not count up as shown in FIG. 8D.

  Subsequently, at time (f) shown in FIG. 8A, printing of a receipt corresponding to the first job using the receipt printing apparatus 70 is started. Then, the timer 151 temporarily stops the countdown with the start of receipt printing.

  Next, at the time (g) shown in FIG. 8A, the printing of the receipt corresponding to the first job using the receipt printing apparatus 70 is completed. Then, the timer 151 restarts the countdown with the completion of the receipt printing.

  Thereafter, at time (h) shown in FIG. 8A, before the remaining time by the time measuring unit 151 reaches 0:00, an operation on the multifunction device 1 by the user A is started. When the operation on the multifunction device 1 is started again, the time measuring unit 151 executes setting to the set time (3:00) and starts countdown from the set time.

  Next, at time (i) shown in FIG. 8A, setting by the user A is started. When the setting for the multi-function device 1 is started, the time measuring unit 151 temporarily stops the countdown with the start of the setting.

  Subsequently, the setting by the user A ends at time (j) shown in FIG. Then, when the setting for the multifunction device 1 is completed, the timer 151 restarts the countdown.

  Next, at the time (k) shown in FIG. 8A, the second job by the user A is started. Accordingly, a black and white copy operation in which the number of outputs is set to 20 is started as the second job. Then, the time measuring unit 151 temporarily stops the countdown with the start of the second job. Further, with the start of the second job, at time (k), counting up of the total output number by the total output counting unit 152 is resumed as shown in FIG. 8B, and as shown in FIG. 8C. In this way, the normal output count by the normal output counting unit 153 is restarted.

  In this example, with the execution of the second job following the first job, the total number of outputs by the total output counting unit 152 exceeds 30 at time (y) shown in FIG. 8B. Accordingly, at time (y), the normal output number counting by the normal output counting unit 153 is stopped as shown in FIG. 8C, and the discount output counting unit is shown in FIG. 8D. Counting up the number of discounted outputs by 154 is started. The count up by the total output counting unit 152 is continued as it is.

  Next, at the time (l) shown in FIG. 8A, the second job by the user A ends. Then, with the end of the second job, the timer 151 stops counting up the total number of outputs by the total output counter 152 as shown in FIG. 8B at time (l), and FIG. As shown in (D), the discount output count by the discount output counting unit 154 is also stopped. At this time, as shown in FIG. 8C, the count up by the normal output counting unit 153 is kept stopped.

  Subsequently, at time (m) shown in FIG. 8A, printing of a receipt corresponding to the second job using the receipt printing apparatus 70 is started. Then, the timer 151 temporarily stops the countdown with the start of receipt printing.

  Next, at the time (n) shown in FIG. 8A, the printing of the receipt corresponding to the second job using the receipt printing apparatus 70 is completed. Then, the timer 151 restarts the countdown with the completion of the receipt printing.

  Thereafter, at time (o) shown in FIG. 8 (A), the remaining time becomes 0:00 and shifts to the time-out state in accordance with the countdown by the timer 151. Accordingly, at time (o), the total output number in the total output counting unit 152 is reset to 0 as shown in FIG. 8B, and the normal output in the normal output counting unit 153 is shown in FIG. 8C. The number of outputs is reset to 0, and the charging process for user A is completed.

  In this example, a total of 40 black and white copies are made by the user A, so that the final total output number of the total output counting unit 152 is 40 (sheets), and the final output by the normal output counting unit 153 is final. The normal output number is 30 (sheets), and the final discount output number of the discount output counting unit 154 is 10 (sheets). Therefore, in this example, the billing calculation unit 155 (see FIG. 4) provided in the billing control unit 150 has a normal billing amount = normal output number × normal unit price = 30 × 10 = 300 (yen) and a discount billing amount = Calculate the number of discount outputs x discount unit price = 10 x 5 = 50 (yen), and further calculate billing amount = normal billing amount + discount billing amount = 300 + 50 = 350 (yen). The billing processing unit 157 provided in the billing control unit 150 collects the billing amount (350 (yen)) thus obtained from the user A via the coin kit 60 or the like.

  Here, the entire period required for execution of the second job by the user A (period from time (h) to time (o) in FIG. 8) is referred to as a second job period A2. Further, in the second job period A2, a period required for setting the second job by the user A (a period from time (i) to time (j) in FIG. 8) is referred to as a second job setting period A21. Further, in the second job period A2, a period required for execution of the second job by the user A (a period from time (k) to time (l) in FIG. 8) is referred to as a second job execution period A22. Furthermore, in the second job period A2, the period required for printing the receipt corresponding to the second job by the user A (the period from time (m) to time (n) in FIG. 8) is the second receipt. This is called a letter printing period A23. In this example, in the second job period A2, the countdown by the timer 151 is temporarily stopped in the second job setting period A21, the second job execution period A22, and the second receipt printing period A23. However, as in the case of the first job described above, for example, even within the second job setting period A21, the period during which the setting by the user A is suspended (for example, the waiting time for input by the user A) The countdown may be resumed.

[Fourth use example]
FIG. 9 is a time chart for explaining a fourth usage example of the multifunction machine 1.
Here, the time chart shown in FIG.
-When two users (user A and user B) use the multifunction device 1-The user A causes the multifunction device 1 to execute one job (first job (black and white copy)), and the user When B executes one job (first job (black and white copy)) to the multifunction device 1-User A has 20 sheets in the first job and User B has 20 sheets in the first job This is an example of outputting from the multifunction device 1.

  First, at time (a) shown in FIG. 9A, an operation on the multifunction device 1 by the user A is started. Then, when an operation on the multifunction device 1 is started, the timer unit 151 executes setting to the set time (3:00) and starts countdown from the set time.

  Next, at time (b) shown in FIG. 9A, setting by the user A is started. When the setting for the multi-function device 1 is started, the time measuring unit 151 temporarily stops the countdown with the start of the setting.

  Subsequently, the setting by the user A ends at time (c) shown in FIG. Then, when the setting for the multifunction device 1 is completed, the timer 151 restarts the countdown.

  Next, at time (d) shown in FIG. 9A, the first job by the user A is started. Accordingly, a black and white copy operation in which the number of outputs is set to 20 is started as the first job. Then, the time measuring unit 151 temporarily stops the countdown with the start of the first job. As the first job starts, the total output count unit 152 starts counting up the total output number as shown in FIG. 9B at time (d), and also shown in FIG. 9C. Thus, the normal output counting unit 153 starts counting up the number of normal outputs.

  Next, at the time (e) shown in FIG. 9A, the first job by the user A ends. Then, the timer 151 restarts the countdown with the end of the first job. As the first job ends, at time (e), the total output count by the total output counter 152 is stopped as shown in FIG. 9 (B), and shown in FIG. 9 (C). Thus, the normal output count by the normal output counting unit 153 is also stopped. At this time, since the total number of outputs is 20 sheets that is equal to or less than the charging threshold Th, the discount output counting unit 154 does not count up as shown in FIG. 9D.

  Subsequently, at time (f) shown in FIG. 9A, printing of a receipt corresponding to the first job using the receipt printing apparatus 70 is started. Then, the timer 151 temporarily stops the countdown with the start of receipt printing.

  Next, at the time (g) shown in FIG. 9A, the printing of the receipt corresponding to the first job using the receipt printing apparatus 70 is completed. Then, the timer 151 restarts the countdown with the completion of the receipt printing.

  Thereafter, at the time (h) shown in FIG. 9A, the remaining time becomes 0:00 and shifts to the time-out state in accordance with the countdown by the timer 151. Accordingly, at time (h), the total output number in the total output counter 152 is reset to 0 as shown in FIG. 9B, and the normal output counter 153 as shown in FIG. 9C. The normal output number at is reset to 0, and the charging process for user A is completed.

  Then, at time (i) when a certain time has elapsed from time (h) shown in FIG. 9 (A), an operation on the multifunction device 1 by the user B is started. Then, when an operation on the multifunction device 1 is started, the timer unit 151 executes setting to the set time (3:00) and starts countdown from the set time.

  Next, the setting by the user B is started at time (j) shown in FIG. When the setting for the multi-function device 1 is started, the time measuring unit 151 temporarily stops the countdown with the start of the setting.

  Subsequently, the setting by the user B ends at time (k) shown in FIG. Then, when the setting for the multifunction device 1 is completed, the timer 151 restarts the countdown.

  Next, the first job by the user B is started at time (l) shown in FIG. Accordingly, a black and white copy operation in which the number of outputs is set to 20 is started as the first job. Then, the time measuring unit 151 temporarily stops the countdown with the start of the first job. As the first job starts, the total output count unit 152 starts counting up the total number of outputs at time (l) as shown in FIG. 9B, and as shown in FIG. 9C. Thus, the normal output counting unit 153 starts counting up the number of normal outputs.

  Next, at the time (m) shown in FIG. 9A, the first job by the user B ends. Then, the timer 151 restarts the countdown with the end of the first job. As the first job ends, at time (m), the total output count by the total output counter 152 is stopped as shown in FIG. 9B, and shown in FIG. 9C. Thus, the normal output count by the normal output counting unit 153 is also stopped. At this time, since the total number of outputs is 20 sheets that is equal to or less than the charging threshold Th, the discount output counting unit 154 does not count up as shown in FIG. 9D.

  Subsequently, at time (n) shown in FIG. 9A, printing of a receipt corresponding to the first job using the receipt printing apparatus 70 is started. Then, the timer 151 temporarily stops the countdown with the start of receipt printing.

  Next, at time (o) shown in FIG. 9A, printing of the receipt corresponding to the first job using the receipt printing apparatus 70 is completed. Then, the timer 151 restarts the countdown with the completion of the receipt printing.

  Thereafter, at the time (p) shown in FIG. 9A, the remaining time becomes 0:00 and shifts to the time-out state with the countdown by the timer 151. Accordingly, at time (p), the total output number in the total output counter 152 is reset to 0 as shown in FIG. 9B, and the normal output counter 153 as shown in FIG. 9C. The normal output number at is reset to 0, and the charging process for user B is completed.

  In this example, a total of 20 black and white copies are made by the user A, so that the final total output number of the total output counting unit 152 is 20 (sheets), and the final output of the normal output counting unit 153 is final. The normal output number is 20 (sheets), and the final discount output number of the discount output counting unit 154 is 0 (sheets). Therefore, in this example, the billing calculation unit 155 (see FIG. 4) provided in the billing control unit 150 has a normal billing amount = normal output number × normal unit price = 20 × 10 = 200 (yen) and a discount billing amount = Calculate the number of discount outputs x discount unit price = 0 x 5 = 0 (yen), and further calculate charge amount = normal charge amount + discount charge amount = 200 + 0 = 200 (yen). The billing processing unit 157 provided in the billing control unit 150 collects the billing amount (200 (yen)) thus obtained from the user A via the coin kit 60 or the like.

  In this example, a total of 20 black and white copies are made by a user B different from the user A, so that the final total output number of the total output counting unit 152 is 20 (sheets), which is a normal output. The final normal output number of the counting unit 153 is 20 (sheets), and the final discount output number of the discount output counting unit 154 is 0 (sheets). Therefore, in this example, the billing calculation unit 155 (see FIG. 4) provided in the billing control unit 150 has a normal billing amount = normal output number × normal unit price = 20 × 10 = 200 (yen) and a discount billing amount = Calculate the number of discount outputs x discount unit price = 0 x 5 = 0 (yen), and further calculate charge amount = normal charge amount + discount charge amount = 200 + 0 = 200 (yen). The billing processing unit 157 provided in the billing control unit 150 collects the billing amount (200 (yen)) thus obtained from the user B via the coin kit 60 or the like.

  Here, the entire period required for execution of the first job by the user B (period from time (i) to time (p) in FIG. 9) is referred to as a first job period B1. Further, in the first job period B1, a period required for setting the first job by the user B (a period from time (j) to time (k) in FIG. 9) is referred to as a first job setting period B11. Further, in the first job period B1, a period required for execution of the first job by the user B (a period from time (l) to time (m) in FIG. 9) is referred to as a first job execution period B12. Furthermore, in the first job period B1, the period required for printing the receipt corresponding to the first job by the user B (the period from time (n) to time (o) in FIG. 9) is the first receipt. This is called a letter printing period B13. In this example, the countdown by the timer 151 is temporarily stopped in the first job setting period B11, the first job execution period B12, and the first receipt printing period B13 in the first job period B1. However, for example, even within the first job setting period B11, the countdown may be resumed during a period in which the setting by the user B is interrupted (for example, a waiting time for input by the user B).

  In each of the use examples described above, for example, when the balance of the cash inserted into the coin kit 60 becomes 0 yen during the execution of the job, the cash is obtained by operating the refund lever provided in the coin kit 60. When the card is returned or when the IC card set in the card reader 50 is removed, the remaining time of the timer 151 is forcibly skipped to 0:00. As a result, the total output count stored in the total output count section 152, the normal output count stored in the normal output count section 153, and the discount output count stored in the discount output count section 154 are all reset to zero. .

  However, when the remaining time of the timing unit 151 reaches 0:00, the number of outputs does not have to be reset to 0, and at least the number of outputs need not be updated.

  In the above description, the card reader 50 provided in the multi-function device 1 reads data recorded on an IC card, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, when a portable information terminal having a function as an IC card such as a smartphone or a tablet computer is set, the card reading device 50 may have a function of reading data recorded in the portable information terminal. .

  In each example of use described above, the set time is set to 3 minutes (3:00), but the length of the set time is not limited to this. Further, for example, the first set time set for a certain user may be set to 3 minutes, for example, and the next set time subsequently set for the user may be set to 4 minutes or 2 minutes, for example.

  Furthermore, in each use example mentioned above, although it waited until the remaining time by the time measuring part 151 becomes 0:00, it is not restricted to this. For example, a reset button may be provided in the operation reception device 30, and when the reset button is pressed by the user, the remaining time may be forcibly skipped to 0:00.

  In the third usage example described above, different receipts are printed when the first job is completed and when the second job is completed. In such a case, In this case, after the second job is completed, a receipt including the first job and the second job may be printed.

  Furthermore, in the third usage example described above, the same job (both monochrome copies) is performed in the first job and the second job. However, the first job and the second job have different contents. The present invention may be applied when executing a job (for example, black and white copy and color copy, black and white copy and digital camera print, digital camera print and scan).

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... MFP, 10 ... Image forming apparatus, 20 ... Image reading apparatus, 30 ... Operation reception apparatus, 40 ... Data reading apparatus, 50 ... Card reading apparatus, 60 ... Coin kit, 70 ... Receipt printing apparatus, 80 ... Communication , 100 ... control device, 110 ... image formation control unit, 120 ... image reading control unit, 130 ... operation reception control unit, 140 ... data reading control unit, 150 ... billing control unit, 151 ... timing unit, 152 ... total output Counting unit, 153 ... Normal output counting unit, 154 ... Discount output counting unit, 155 ... Billing calculation unit, 156 ... Billing data storage unit, 157 ... Billing processing unit, 170 ... Receipt print control unit, 180 ... Communication control unit, 190 ... Main control unit

Claims (8)

A receiving means for receiving instructions from the user;
Execution means for executing processing corresponding to the instruction received by the reception means;
Counting means for counting the number of times of the processing executed by the execution means;
A change unit that changes a calculation method of a charge amount imposed on a user according to a total value of the number of times of the processing counted by the counting unit;
A timing unit that counts a predetermined set time, triggered by the reception unit starting to receive the instruction,
The time counting means updates the set time when another instruction is received by the receiving means before the set time elapses.   2. The charging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the time counting unit stops timing while the instruction is received by the reception unit.   The changing means changes to a first calculation method in which charging is performed by multiplying the total value by a first unit price when the total value falls below a predetermined threshold, and the total value is When the threshold value is exceeded, the portion of the total value that is less than or equal to the threshold value is charged by multiplying the first unit price, and the portion of the total value that exceeds the threshold value is the first value. 3. The charging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a change is made to the second calculation method in which charging is performed by multiplying by a second unit price that is lower than the unit price. A receiving means for receiving instructions from the user;
Image forming means for forming an image on a recording material based on the instructions received by the receiving means;
Counting means for counting the number of the recording materials on which image formation has been performed by the image forming means;
A changing unit that changes a calculation method of a charge amount imposed on a user according to a total value of the number of the recording materials counted by the counting unit;
A timing unit that counts a predetermined set time, triggered by the reception unit starting to receive the instruction,
2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the time measuring unit updates the set time when another instruction is received by the receiving unit before the set time elapses.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the timing unit stops timing while the image forming unit forms an image on the recording material.   6. The image forming apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the timing unit stops timing while the instruction is received by the reception unit. A printing means for printing a receipt corresponding to the billing amount;
The image forming apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the timing unit stops timing while the receipt is printed by the printing unit.   The changing means changes to a first calculation method in which charging is performed by multiplying the total value by a first unit price when the total value falls below a predetermined threshold, and the total value is When the threshold value is exceeded, the portion of the total value that is less than or equal to the threshold value is charged by multiplying the first unit price, and the portion of the total value that exceeds the threshold value is the first value. 8. The image forming apparatus according to claim 4, wherein a change is made to the second calculation method of charging by multiplying a second unit price that is cheaper than the unit price.

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