JP2017105156A - Printer - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a printer enabling continuous printing with a small burden to a user.SOLUTION: A printer 200 includes: a slot 230 from which a memory unit 100 storing allowable use amount information of ink is detachable; and a processing section 210 performing updating processing of ink estimation amount information being information estimating an ink amount of an ink storage section 220. The processing section 210 performs charge processing for updating the ink estimation amount information by the allowable use amount information of the memory unit 100 based on determination processing of whether or not ink consumption represented by the ink estimation amount information exceeds a given threshold value WTH in a state of the memory unit 100 being attached to the slot 230. The processing section 210 performs setting processing for making the given threshold value WTH variable.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

  The present invention relates to a printing apparatus.

  An ink cartridge (an example of an ink storage unit) that can be replaced by a user (user) used in an ink jet printer that is an example of a printing apparatus is used to manage the ink consumption of ink consumed from the ink cartridge. In some cases, a storage device is provided. Also, there is a method of managing ink consumption by attaching a memory unit including a storage device to a printing apparatus in a method of filling ink in an ink tank (an example of an ink storage unit) provided in the printing apparatus. This storage device stores information such as ink color and ink consumption.

  Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2005-228867 describes a main body side total ink consumption managed on the main body side each time the total ink consumption on the printing apparatus main body (hereinafter, also simply referred to as main body) exceeds a first threshold (WTH1). A technique for writing information to a memory unit is disclosed. Further, in Patent Document 1, the above writing is performed until the total ink consumption on the main body side exceeds the second threshold (WTH2), and when it exceeds WTH2, the memory unit is set to an invalid state, and thereafter A technique that does not perform writing is also disclosed.

  Patent Document 2 discloses a technique for storing the identification number and capacity of a set memory card in a storage unit of a printing apparatus. In Patent Document 2, the storage unit of the printing apparatus stocks the liquid stock amount information so as to add the liquid stock amount based on the information of the set memory card regardless of whether or not the ink is replenished. Patent Document 3 also discloses a method of adding the ink capacity of a separate memory to the amount of ink that can be used by the printer.

JP 2014-46545 A JP 2008-254395 A JP 2011-73208 A

  In the method of Patent Document 1, since writing processing is performed on the memory unit until the total ink consumption on the main body side exceeds WTH2, the user removes the memory unit before the total ink consumption on the main body exceeds WTH2. If this happens, the printing operation stops. Therefore, in order to perform continuous printing, after the main body side total ink consumption exceeds WTH2, and the printing operation is stopped by determining that the ink has ended (the main body side total ink consumption exceeds the third threshold WTH3). The user will be forced to replace the memory unit within a specific period of time before. Moreover, since the printing operation is stopped without such replacement, there is a problem that it is difficult to use continuously for a long time.

  In the methods of Patent Document 2 and Patent Document 3, it is possible to collectively add information from a plurality of memory cards and separate memories to the liquid stock amount on the main body side, and the ink amount stored on the main body side is eliminated. Continuous printing is possible. However, if an abnormality occurs in the main body of the printing apparatus and the ink amount information is lost, there is a possibility that the ink for the stock (charge) may not be used, which is not preferable.

  Therefore, there is a need for a printing apparatus that can perform continuous printing with a small user burden and can appropriately manage ink even in the event of a failure.

  SUMMARY An advantage of some aspects of the invention is to solve at least a part of the problems described above, and the invention can be implemented as the following forms or application examples.

  Application Example 1 In the printing apparatus according to this application example, ink estimated amount information which is information for estimating the amount of ink in the ink storage unit and a slot in which a memory unit storing ink use permission amount information is removable. A processing unit that performs an update process for the ink, wherein the processing unit determines whether an ink consumption amount represented by the estimated ink amount information exceeds a given threshold in a state where the memory unit is installed in the slot. Based on the determination process of whether or not, a charge process for updating the estimated ink amount information with the use permission amount information of the memory unit is performed, and the processing unit performs a setting process for making the given threshold variable. It is characterized by that.

  According to the configuration of this application example, when a memory unit is installed in the slot, the charging process is performed based on the determination result using the given threshold value, and the given threshold value is variably set. Thereby, it is possible to realize a continuous printing operation. Furthermore, since the threshold value for determining whether or not to perform the charge process is variably set, a flexible charge process according to the situation can be performed.

  Application Example 2 In the printing apparatus according to the application example, the processing unit includes a reference value, a first reference value smaller than the reference value, and a second reference value larger than the reference value. A menu screen display process may be performed to allow the user to select any of the above as the given threshold.

  According to the configuration of this application example, since a given threshold value can be selected from several values, the threshold value can be set by a user with an easy input operation.

  Application Example 3 In the printing apparatus according to the application example, the processing unit performs a counting process for obtaining the ink consumption, and the processing unit consumes a predetermined amount of the ink in the ink storage unit. When this is done, the given threshold may be set based on the ink consumption determined by the counting process.

  According to the configuration of this application example, it is possible to set the threshold with high accuracy by using the counting process when it is determined that a predetermined amount of ink has been consumed.

  Application Example 4 In the printing apparatus according to the application example described above, the processing unit may input the first input information that teaches that the ink in the ink storage unit is the first ink amount by the user. , Receiving input by the user of second input information that teaches that the ink in the ink storage unit is the second ink amount, and the processing unit detects input of the first input information The given threshold value may be set based on the ink consumption determined by the counting process during a period from when the input of the second input information is detected.

  According to the configuration of this application example, it is possible to set a given threshold value based on the ink consumption obtained by the count process for an appropriate period.

  Application Example 5 The printing apparatus according to the application example described above, further including a user interface unit, wherein the processing unit has a first menu screen for allowing a user to input the first input information; A second menu screen for allowing the user to input the second input information may be displayed on the user interface unit.

  According to the configuration of this application example, it is possible to prompt the user to input teaching information by displaying the menu screen (first menu screen, second menu screen) on the user interface unit. Become.

  Application Example 6 In the printing apparatus according to the application example described above, the processing unit detects a period from when the input of the first input information is detected to when the input of the second input information is detected. A comparison process between the count process result and the predetermined amount may be performed, and based on the comparison process result, it may be determined whether or not to set the given threshold value.

  According to the configuration of this application example, it is possible to determine whether or not the threshold value can be set by comparing the ink consumption obtained by the count process with a predetermined amount.

  Application Example 7 In the printing apparatus according to the application example described above, the processing unit is a period from when the input of the first input information is detected to when the input of the second input information is detected. When the error between the ink consumption determined by the counting process and the predetermined amount is not more than a given error threshold, the ink consumption is determined based on the ink consumption determined by the counting process. A given threshold value is set, and when the error between the ink consumption obtained by the counting process and the predetermined amount is larger than the given error threshold value, the given threshold value is set. It does not have to be.

  According to the configuration of this application example, when the error between the ink consumption counted by the counting process and the predetermined amount is large, it is possible to prevent an inappropriate threshold value from being set.

  Application Example 8 In the printing apparatus according to the application example described above, the processing unit may include the estimated ink amount information when the second memory unit is installed in the slot after the charging process by the memory unit. The charging process by the second memory unit is not performed until the ink consumption amount represented by the second memory unit exceeds the given threshold value, and the ink consumption amount exceeds the given threshold value, You may perform the said charge process by a 2nd memory unit.

  According to the configuration of this application example, the charge processing reservation (reservation) by the second memory unit and the charge by the second memory unit when the estimated ink consumption in the ink storage unit exceeds a given threshold value Since processing (automatic charging) is possible, it is possible to realize a continuous printing operation with a small user burden.

  Application Example 9 In the printing apparatus according to the application example described above, the processing unit is configured to be able to execute an update time extension that sets the given threshold value so as to delay the time to execute the charge process. May be.

  According to the configuration of this application example, it is possible to set a given threshold value so as to delay the timing for executing the charge process. Therefore, for example, in the case where clogging occurs, when the estimated ink consumption is ahead of the actual ink consumption, by delaying the timing for executing the charge process (automatic charging) by extending the update time, The estimated ink consumption can be associated with the actual ink consumption. As a result, when an error occurs that causes the actual ink consumption to be smaller than the estimated ink consumption based on the permitted use amount information of the ink stored in the memory unit, the error is reduced, and the subsequent charging process is performed on the ink. It can be executed at a timing requiring replenishment.

  Application Example 10 In the printing apparatus according to the application example described above, the processing unit is configured such that the ink consumption amount represented by the ink estimation amount information is less than an initial set value of the given threshold value. The update time extension may be executable.

  According to the configuration of this application example, when the user grasps that the ink needs to be replenished visually, if the ink consumption is less than a predetermined threshold value, the estimated ink consumption is Since it is considered that it is ahead of the actual ink consumption, it is possible to extend the update period.

  Application Example 11 In the printing apparatus according to the application example described above, the processing unit is a predetermined device in which the ink consumption amount represented by the estimated ink amount information is lower than the initial setting value of the given threshold value. If it is less than the value, the update time extension may be executable.

  According to the configuration of this application example, when the user grasps that the ink needs to be replenished visually, the ink consumption is less than a predetermined value lower than a predetermined threshold initial value, Since it is considered that the estimated ink consumption precedes the actual ink consumption, the update time can be extended.

  Application Example 12 In the printing apparatus according to the application example described above, the processing unit executes a process of displaying a third menu screen on which a user can select whether or not to extend the update time. Also good.

  According to the configuration of this application example, by displaying the third menu screen, the user can select whether or not to extend the update time.

  Application Example 13 The printing apparatus according to the application example may further include a user interface unit, and the processing unit may display the third menu screen on the user interface unit.

  According to the configuration of this application example, the third menu screen can be displayed on the user interface unit.

  Application Example 14 In the printing apparatus according to the application example described above, the processing unit performs a process of causing the user interface unit to display a usage status of the ink consumption of the memory unit on which the charge process has been executed. And when the user selects to execute the update time extension on the third menu screen, a fourth notification is made as to whether or not the update time extension can be executed according to the use status. You may perform the process which displays a menu screen.

  According to the configuration of this application example, the fourth menu screen is displayed on the user interface unit in accordance with the usage state of the ink consumption when the user selects to execute the update time extension on the third menu screen. By doing this, it is possible to notify the user whether or not the update time extension can be executed.

1 is a diagram illustrating a system configuration example of a printing apparatus according to an embodiment. The schematic diagram which shows the flow of the charge process by two memory units, and a reserve process. FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating a configuration example of a printing apparatus according to the present embodiment. FIG. 3 is an enlarged view showing the vicinity of an ink tank of a printing apparatus. The figure which shows the structural example of the UI part which concerns on this embodiment. FIG. 3 is a side view illustrating a configuration example of an ink tank and a slider according to the present embodiment. The perspective view which shows the structural example of the slider which concerns on this embodiment. The perspective view which shows the structural example of the memory unit which concerns on this embodiment. The perspective view which shows the structural example of the front-end | tip part of the slider in which the memory unit which concerns on this embodiment was mounted. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating a configuration example of an ink pack set according to the present embodiment. FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a slot, a memory unit, and a processing unit of the printing apparatus according to the present embodiment. The flowchart explaining the charge process and reserve process using the flag according to the mounting state of a memory unit. FIG. 10 is another flowchart for explaining processing when the total ink consumption information exceeds a given threshold value. FIG. The state transition diagram corresponding to the process which concerns on this embodiment. The figure which shows the example of a transition of the display screen used for the setting process of a threshold value. The figure explaining the time-sequential change of the process in a process part until it sets a threshold value, a display screen, operation by a user, and the change of an actual ink amount. The flowchart explaining an automatic charge time extension process. The figure which shows the example of a transition of the display screen used for an automatic charge time extension process. The flowchart explaining a forced charge process. The figure which shows the example of a transition of the display screen used for the forced charge process for users. The figure which shows the example of a transition of the display screen used for the forced charge process for maintenance.

  Hereinafter, this embodiment will be described. In addition, this embodiment demonstrated below does not unduly limit the content of this invention described in the claim. In addition, all the configurations described in the present embodiment are not necessarily essential configuration requirements of the present invention.

1. First, the method of this embodiment will be described in comparison with the conventional method. 2. Description of the Related Art Printing apparatuses that perform a count process (soft count process) that counts a cumulative value of consumed ink amount during operation of the printing apparatus to obtain an estimated ink consumption amount of ink in an ink tank are widely known. Further, as shown in FIG. 6 of Patent Document 1, an ink replenishing container (ink pack 310) in which ink is enclosed and information on the ink enclosed in the ink replenishing container, for example, information on color, capacity, etc. There is also widely known a printing apparatus that is provided separately from a memory unit 100 that is provided to a general user (hereinafter also referred to as a user) of the printing apparatus.

  In the printing apparatus, managing the remaining amount of ink in the ink storage unit is important in an appropriate printing process, and for this purpose, the ink consumption determined by the counting process may be used. Specifically, since the amount of ink that can be used is defined by the use permission amount information stored in the memory unit 100, printing is performed until it is determined that the amount of ink specified by the use permission amount information has been consumed. When it is determined that the amount of ink specified by the use permission amount information has been consumed, the user may be instructed to replenish ink, or the printing operation may be stopped.

  However, when the ink pack 310 and the memory unit 100 are separate, the timing at which ink is replenished from the ink pack 310 to the ink container (ink tank) of the printing apparatus, and the memory unit 100 is attached to the printing apparatus. The timing does not always match. For this reason, there is a possibility that a deviation may occur between the amount of ink determined to be usable by the printing apparatus main body (hereinafter also simply referred to as the main body) and the amount of ink actually contained in the ink tank.

  Patent Document 1 is a method that assumes management for suppressing this shift. Specifically, every time the difference in ink consumption exceeds WTH1, the ink consumption information is read and written in order to make the ink consumption information compatible between the memory unit 100 and the printing apparatus main body. Manage the amount. According to the method of Patent Document 1, (1) the ink is replenished from the ink pack 310 and the memory unit 100 is mounted, and (2) the total ink consumption on the main body side is written while the total ink consumption is written to the memory unit. Printing is performed until the total ink consumption is equal to or greater than WTH2, and (3) a new ink pack provided by the vendor is returned to (1) with the total ink consumption being WTH3> total ink consumption ≧ WTH2. Ink is replenished from 310 and a new memory unit 100 included in the ink pack 310 is attached, and the total ink consumption on the main body side is rewritten with the total ink consumption on the memory unit side of the new memory unit 100. , The user can use the printing apparatus.

  However, it has been found by the applicant's investigation that the actual usage is not as described above. As disclosed in Patent Document 1, the printing apparatus executes a printing operation on condition that a new valid memory unit 100 is mounted. Therefore, if the memory unit 100 is not properly installed, printing cannot be executed even if the ink in the ink pack 310 is replenished to the ink tank.

  In addition, although it is not a preferable mode of use, as long as the memory unit 100 is in an effective state, it is assumed that the ink that is actually replenished is not ink provided by the printing apparatus vendor (not included in the ink pack set 300). However, a temporary printing operation is possible. When the ink provided by the vendor is not used, in the ink pack set 300, the memory unit 100 has a relatively high value and the ink pack 310 has a relatively low value.

  As a result, a difference occurs in the management system between the memory unit 100 and the ink pack 310. For example, when the printing apparatus is used in a factory, the users of the printing apparatus are an administrator and a general employee who works under the administrator. Since the ink pack 310 does not require strict management, there is no restriction on the handling of the ink pack 310 by a general employee, and the ink tank can be refilled with ink at an appropriate timing. On the other hand, the memory unit 100 is managed by an administrator.

  In such a case, replenishment of the ink stored in the ink pack 310 to the ink tank can be performed at any time as long as the ink does not overflow from the ink tank, whereas the administrator is working to install the memory unit 100. Can only be done for a limited time. In recent years, the ink contained in the ink pack 310 has increased in capacity of 1 L, but the printing apparatus itself has also increased in size, and even if all the ink in the ink pack 310 is replenished to the ink tank, for example, 12 hours Only about continuous printing is possible. Therefore, in the case of the management system as described above, a small number of managers must execute the mounting of the memory unit 100 to the printing apparatus at least every 12 hours. The user burden will increase.

  As described above, in the method of Patent Document 1, when continuous printing is performed, there is a restriction on the replacement timing of the memory unit 100, and as a result, the user burden for continuous printing is large or continuous printing is difficult. There is a problem.

  For such problems, as in Patent Document 2 and Patent Document 3, when a memory card or separate memory is installed, the capacity (ink capacity) stored in the memory card or separate memory is set to the main body. A method of adding to the liquid stock amount on the side is conceivable. In Patent Documents 2 and 3, since the information of the memory card and the separate memory is transferred to the main body side, the printing operation can be continued even after the memory card and the separate memory are removed from the printing apparatus. In addition, even when multiple memory cards or separate memories are installed, the capacity of each memory is added and managed on the main unit side, so continuous printing can be performed for a long time without installing new memory. Is possible.

  However, in Patent Literature 2 and Patent Literature 3, it is assumed that the memory card and the separate memory in which the stored capacity is added to the liquid stock amount on the main body side are set to an invalid state. Otherwise, one memory card and another memory can be used repeatedly, which is unreasonable. For this reason, memory cards with additional capacity added to the main unit and separate memory are not expected to be used any further, and the amount of ink actually consumed relative to the capacity stored in the memory card or separate memory. Cannot hold information about.

  As a result, if an error occurs on the main unit and information on the amount of liquid stock managed on the main unit is lost, information on how much capacity has been added and how much of that amount has been restored is restored. Can not do it. If the usable ink amount is 0 after the printer is restored (repaired), the user who consumed only a part of the ink corresponding to the capacity stored in the memory card or separate memory Can be detrimental. However, if the liquid stock amount is the sum of the capacities stored in the memory card or the separate memory (or the maximum value that can be added on the main body side), there is a possibility of excessive compensation for the user. That is, the methods of Patent Document 2 and Patent Document 3 have a problem that it is difficult to appropriately deal with a failure.

  Hereinafter, a system configuration of the printing apparatus 200 according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a system configuration example of a printing apparatus 200 according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the printing apparatus 200 according to the present embodiment includes a slot 230 into which the memory unit 100 can be attached and detached, and a processing unit 210. The memory unit 100 stores ink use permission amount information (information based on the amount of ink filled in an ink refill container described later). The processing unit 210 performs update processing of ink estimation amount information (estimated ink amount information in the ink storage unit 220), which is information for estimating the amount of ink in the ink storage unit 220 (see FIG. 2).

  Then, in the state in which the memory unit 100 is mounted in the slot 230, the processing unit 210 determines whether the ink consumption represented by the ink estimation amount information (hereinafter referred to as the estimated ink consumption) exceeds a given threshold value WTH. Based on the determination process of whether or not, a charge process for updating the estimated ink amount information with the use permission amount information of the memory unit 100 is performed. Further, the processing unit 210 performs setting processing for making the given threshold value WTH variable.

  Here, the permitted usage amount information is information stored in the memory unit 100, and is information indicating the amount of ink permitted to be used by the user who owns the memory unit 100 (usable usage amount). . In a narrow sense, the usage permission amount information is already consumed with respect to the initial filling amount of ink stored in the ink pack 310 (see FIG. 10) in which the memory unit 100 is bundled and the initial filling amount. Stored as ink consumption information. The ink consumption is stored as data of the ratio of the amount consumed with respect to the initial ink filling amount. When the user purchases the ink pack set 300 (see FIG. 10), the use permission amount information and the ink consumption amount are stored as 0%.

  By purchasing the ink pack set 300, the user purchases the right to use only the ink contained in the ink pack 310, and the printing apparatus 200 determines the printing apparatus 200 based on the usage permission amount information of the memory unit 100. Processing such as continuing / stopping the printing operation is executed.

  The estimated ink amount information is information for estimating the amount of ink in the ink storage unit 220 and is stored in the storage unit 212 of the printing apparatus 200 in a rewritable manner in a nonvolatile manner. In the present embodiment, the estimated ink amount information is represented by an ink consumption amount, and the ink consumption amount here is a ratio of the estimated ink consumption amount that is consumed cumulatively to the initial filling amount read from the installed memory unit 100 ( It is also referred to as total ink consumption information WD on the main body side.). As will be described later, the total ink consumption information WD on the main body side is replaced with the ink consumption of the memory unit 100 in the charging process when the memory unit 100 is mounted. The processing unit 210 of the printing apparatus 200 controls continuation / stop of the operation of the printing apparatus 200 based on the estimated ink amount information.

  That is, the estimated ink amount information is represented as information indicating the degree of ink consumption with respect to the usable ink amount (usable use amount, initial filling amount). The amount of ink consumed after the memory unit 100 is mounted and the usage-permitted amount information of the memory unit 100 is charged to the main body is counted, and the estimated ink consumption obtained by the counting process is the percentage of the initial filling amount. Is the total ink consumption information WD on the main body side.

  The total ink consumption amount information WD is expressed as a relative value (0 to 100%), for example, where the amount of ink stored in the ink pack 310 (here, the storage amount of the ink pack 310 is 1 L) is 100%. Can do. The processing unit 210 reads the initial filling amount of the ink pack 310 from the memory unit 100, calculates a relative value from the initial filling amount and the consumed ink amount, and sets this as an estimated ink consumption amount.

  However, since the actual printing apparatus 200 is used in various situations by a user (user), there is a tolerance in ink consumption efficiency (printing efficiency). That is, there is a printing apparatus 200 that is used in a situation where the actual ink consumption (hereinafter referred to as actual ink consumption) is relatively large, or a printing apparatus 200 that is used in a situation where the actual ink consumption is relatively small. Therefore, even if the printing process is performed with the same print data, the actual ink consumption (the amount of ink actually consumed) may not match the estimated ink consumption obtained by the counting process.

  Therefore, in the present embodiment, it is assumed that the printing apparatus 200 (the printing apparatus with the largest amount of actual ink consumption) 200 whose ink consumption efficiency is the lower limit of the predetermined range is used in the usage environment recommended by the printing apparatus vendor. Then, assuming that the ink consumption estimated when the ink stored in the ink pack 310 is consumed is 100%, the estimated ink consumption is expressed as a relative value.

  In this way, even the printing apparatus 200 having the worst ink consumption efficiency can print up to 100%, and when it reaches 100%, a process for displaying a message for prompting the user to replenish ink can be performed. .

  In this way, when the printing apparatus 200 with standard ink consumption efficiency is used in a standard environment, the ink consumption (ratio of ink consumption) when the ink amount actually filled in the ink pack 310 is actually consumed. Becomes more than 100%, for example, 117%. The printing apparatus vendor previously stores the total ink consumption information WD (117% in this case) of the processing unit 210 when all the ink amount filled in the ink pack 310 is consumed by the printing apparatus 200 with standard ink consumption efficiency. The data is stored in the storage unit 212. The processing unit 210 obtains total ink consumption information WD from this value, the initial filling amount (expressed in weight units) read from the memory unit 100, and the cumulative ink consumption (expressed in weight units). Calculate and store in the storage unit 212.

  The ink pack 310 is a 1 L ink pack, but the filling amount may vary somewhat for each ink pack 310. However, since the variation in the initial filling amount for storing the initial filling amount in the memory unit 100 for each ink pack 310 is not large compared with the variation in the ink consumption efficiency, the printing apparatus in which the ink consumption efficiency preset by the vendor is standard. 200, the total ink consumption information WD may be calculated assuming that the total ink consumption information WD (117%) when the ink amount 1L filled in the ink pack 310 is completely consumed corresponds to the initial filling amount. .

  However, instead of storing the ratio of the ink consumption amount on the main body side as the estimated ink amount information, the initial filling amount and the cumulative ink consumption weight may be stored on the main body side. In this case, the processing unit 210 may appropriately calculate the ratio of the ink consumption on the main body side based on the information as the total ink consumption information WD.

  The charging process of the present embodiment refers to the total ink consumption information WD (estimated ink amount) of the estimated ink amount information on the main body side based on the ink consumption amount of the permitted use amount information stored in the memory unit 100 mounted in the slot 230. (Consumption amount) update processing, and the initial filling amount stored in the memory unit 100 is set in the storage unit 212 as information for the main unit processing unit 210 to calculate the total ink consumption amount information WD. It is.

  Note that, as in the present embodiment, when the estimated ink amount information on the main body side matches the format of the permitted usage amount information on the memory unit 100 side, the update processing simply uses the ink consumption amount of the permitted usage amount information. Thus, the estimated ink consumption amount in the estimated ink amount information may be replaced. However, if the format of the estimated ink amount information does not match the format of the permitted usage amount information, for example, the memory unit 100 stores the ratio and the main body stores the consumed ink capacity itself. A process for replacing the estimated ink amount information may be performed based on a result of performing some conversion process on the permitted amount information. “Substitution” in the present embodiment can be said to be processing including substitution after conversion.

  In the method of the present embodiment, when the memory unit 100 is mounted, charge processing for updating (substituting) the estimated ink amount information with the use permission amount information of the memory unit 100 is performed.

  At this time, whether or not to perform the charge process is determined based on a determination process using a given threshold value WTH. When the charging process is performed, the memory unit 100 is set to an invalid state, and cannot be reused. In the case of a user who uses a large number of printing apparatuses 200, there may be a case where it is impossible to predict in advance how much printing will be performed by which printing apparatus 200. In that case, there is a request to transfer usage permission amount information charged for a given printing apparatus 200 to another printing apparatus 200. In this case, since the charged memory unit 100 cannot be reused by the methods of Patent Document 2 and Patent Document 3, exchange of charged use amount information (ink estimated amount information) between the printing apparatus 200 main bodies is realized. I have to do it.

  In this regard, in the present embodiment, the threshold determination as to whether or not the estimated ink consumption of the estimated ink amount information on the main body side exceeds a predetermined threshold is a condition for the charge process. For this reason, depending on the estimated ink consumption on the main body side, it is possible to perform processing such that a given memory unit 100 is installed in the slot 230 but is not charged. In this case, the memory unit 100 has the slot 230. Can be removed and reused.

  As can be seen from the above, the given threshold value WTH in the present embodiment is whether or not the memory unit 100 mounted in the slot 230 is in an invalid state, in other words, whether the reusable state is maintained or reused. It is an important parameter that determines whether it is impossible. In the method of the present embodiment, the given threshold value WTH can be set variably, so that it is possible to realize appropriate processing according to the situation.

  Note that the printing operation cannot be performed in an uncharged state where the charge process is not performed at all (a state where the estimated ink consumption exceeds a given threshold value (WTH)), and therefore the slot 230 is not charged. When the memory unit 100 is mounted on the battery, the charging process is executed without performing the threshold determination.

  In the processing unit 210 of the present embodiment, after the charging process by the memory unit 100 (first memory unit 100-1), a new memory unit 100 (second memory unit 100-2) is installed in the slot 230. In this case, the charging process by the second memory unit 100-2 is not performed until the estimated ink consumption exceeds a given threshold value (WTH). In this case, the processing unit 210 performs a charging process by the second memory unit 100-2 when the estimated ink consumption exceeds a given threshold value.

  FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing the flow of charge processing and reserve processing by the two memory units 100. First, when the first memory unit 100-1 is mounted in the slot 230 in a state where the charging process is not performed, the storage unit of the printing apparatus 200 is determined based on the usage permission amount information of the first memory unit 100-1. A charge process for updating the estimated ink amount information stored in 212 is executed. After the charging process, even if the first memory unit 100-1 is removed, the ink consumption operation of the printing apparatus 200 is not affected and the printing operation can be performed.

  While the ink consumption operation of the printing apparatus 200 based on the permitted usage amount information of the first memory unit 100-1 is being performed, the second memory unit 100-2 is mounted in the slot 230, so that the processing unit 210. Executes reserve processing for setting the second memory unit 100-2 in the reserved state. That is, the user of the printing apparatus 200 can implement the charge process and the reserve process by appropriately attaching and detaching the memory unit 100 to / from the slot 230.

  When the first memory unit 100-1 is attached while the ink consumption operation based on the use permission amount information of the first memory unit 100-1 is being performed, the first memory unit 100 is attached. The ink consumption on the first memory unit 100-1 side may be updated so that the ink consumption on the -1 side and the total ink consumption stored in the storage unit 212 are synchronized.

  Here, until the total ink consumption information WD based on the estimated ink amount information of the main body exceeds a given threshold value WTH (corresponding to the use permission amount information), even if the second memory unit 100-2 is attached, the charge is performed. No processing is done. Therefore, even if the ink estimation amount information on the main body side is in an error state due to a failure of the storage unit 212 on the main body side in that state, the usage permission amount information of the first memory unit 100-1 is lost. The second memory unit 100-2 remains unaffected. That is, the second memory unit 100-2 before the charge process is still usable and is not affected by the failure.

  If the total ink consumption information WD exceeds a given threshold value, the processing unit 210 of the printing apparatus 200 automatically executes the charging process of the second memory unit 100-2 regardless of a user instruction. . This automatically executed charging process is based on the usage permission amount information of the second memory unit 100-2 from the ink consumption operation of the printing apparatus 200 based on the usage permission amount information of the first memory unit 100-1. This is an automatic switching to the ink consumption operation of the printing apparatus 200, and is also referred to as “automatic charge” in the following specification. As described above, if the second memory unit 100-2 is mounted in the slot 230, the charging process is automatically executed without any involvement of the user. There is an advantage that the mounting timing is not limited.

  The mounting of the second memory unit 100-2 until the total ink consumption information WD charged by the first memory unit 100-1 exceeds a given threshold value WTH is subject to charge processing if the condition is satisfied. In other words, it can be considered that a reservation (reservation) for charge processing is being performed. Therefore, in the following specification, the second memory unit mounted before the total ink consumption information WD of the estimated ink amount information charged by the first memory unit 100-1 exceeds a given threshold value WTH. Reference numeral 100-2 denotes a “reserved state”, and processing of the processing unit 210 that places the second memory unit 100-2 in a reserved state is referred to as a “reserved process”.

  In this embodiment, since it is possible to continuously use the amount of ink corresponding to the permitted use amount information of the memory unit 100 that has been charged and the memory unit 100 that is in the reserved state, the ink storage unit 220 includes By appropriately replenishing ink, it is possible to continuously perform printing for a longer time (for example, 24 hours) than the usage time for one memory unit 100.

  As described above, when the reserve process and the automatic charge process by the second memory unit 100-2 after the charge process by the first memory unit 100-1 are taken into consideration, the given threshold value WTH is set to the first memory unit 100-1. The usage permission amount corresponding to the usage permission amount information of the unit 100-1 may be set to a value that can be used by the user without being insufficient. By doing so, the user cannot use up the ink amount corresponding to the first memory unit 100-1 (the amount allowed to be used and the initial filling amount if it is not used), or the ink amount is greatly increased. Inappropriate use, such as causing the ink to exceed the limit, can be suppressed. In other words, the given threshold value WTH may be a value indicating the use permission amount or a value having a given margin. For example, the total ink consumption information WD corresponding to the use permission amount is 117 as described above. If it is%, a value of 117% to 120% may be used.

  However, if an error occurs between the estimated ink consumption counted by the counting process and the actual ink consumption, the possibility that automatic charging is performed at an inappropriate timing cannot be denied.

  For example, when the printing apparatus 200 is used in a situation where the temperature is higher than the appropriate temperature range, the amount of ink consumed (discharged) by one ink discharge is used in the appropriate temperature range. It becomes larger than the ink amount in the case. In this case, the actual ink consumption amount is larger than the estimated ink consumption amount estimated by the counting process. Therefore, in the state where the estimated ink consumption amount has reached the given threshold value WTH, the initial filling amount (above described above) In this example, more ink than 1 L) has been consumed.

  The timing at which automatic charging is performed is a guideline for ink replenishment for the user. In the above-described case, ink exceeding the initial filling amount has already been consumed at the timing of automatic charging. There is a possibility that the ink in the storage unit 220 runs out and the printing operation stops. For such users, the given threshold value WTH may be reduced so that automatic charging is executed at a relatively early timing. For example, WTH = 110% is set.

  On the other hand, when the printing apparatus 200 is used in a situation where the temperature is lower than the appropriate temperature range, or when clogging of ink occurs in the ink flow path from the print head or the ink storage unit 220 to the print head. The amount of ink consumed (discharged) by a predetermined number of ink discharges is smaller than that in a normal printing state, and may be zero until head cleaning is performed in some cases.

  In this case, since the actual ink consumption is smaller than the estimated ink consumption estimated by the counting process, when the estimated ink consumption reaches a given threshold value WTH, the ink for the initial filling amount is consumed. I'm not sure. As a result, the user can use only a smaller amount of ink even though the user has legally acquired the right to use the amount of ink corresponding to the permitted usage amount information. For such a user, a given threshold value WTH may be increased so that automatic charging is executed at a relatively late timing. For example, WTH = 130% is set.

  Hereinafter, configuration examples of the printing apparatus 200 and the memory unit 100 will be described.

2. Configuration Example of Printing Apparatus and Memory Unit FIG. 3 is a perspective view illustrating a configuration example of the printing apparatus 200 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 4 is an enlarged view showing the vicinity of the ink tank 221 of the printing apparatus 200. As shown in FIG. 3, the printing apparatus 200 according to the present embodiment includes four ink tanks 221-a to 221-d as the ink storage unit 220, and a plurality of four slots 230-a to 230-d, 4. A print execution unit (not shown) including four memory units 100-a to 100-d (see FIG. 11), four sliders 240-a to 240-d, a processing unit 210, an operation unit 250, and a print head. Including. In this embodiment, the number of ink tanks 221 is four. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the number of ink tanks 221 may be two, three, or five or more.

  In the following description, when there is no need to distinguish between the four ink tanks 221-a to 221-d, the ink tanks 221 are appropriately described as ink tanks 221. The same applies to the slots 230-a to 230-d, the memory units 100-a to 100-d, and the sliders 240-a to 240-d.

  Each of the four ink tanks 221-a to 221-d is filled with ink stored in an ink pack 310 (see FIG. 4) provided by the printing apparatus vendor. For example, as shown in FIG. 4, the ink tank 221-a has black (BK), the ink tank 221-b has yellow (Y), the ink tank 221-c has magenta (M), and the ink tank 221- d is filled with cyan (C) ink. These inks are stored in separate ink packs 310 and provided to the user. The user can fill (supplement) ink into the ink tank 221 corresponding to the ink color from the ink pack 310 of the required ink color.

  In the ink tank 221, the amount of ink in the ink tank is visible to the user. For example, as shown in FIG. 3, the ink tank 221 is visible to the user by exposing at least a part of the ink tank 221 to the outside. The ink is configured to be visible.

  The ink tank 221 may be provided with a lower limit line (not shown). The lower limit line is a linear mark provided in the horizontal direction on the surface of the ink tank 221 where the ink inside can be visually recognized. For example, the lower limit line is provided at a position 7 cm from the bottom surface of the ink tank 221. If the ink amount has decreased to the lower limit line (if the ink surface has decreased to the position of the lower limit line), it indicates that all the ink in the ink pack 310 can be filled. By visually recognizing the relationship between the ink amount and the lower limit line, the user can appropriately replenish ink even during printing.

  Further, instead of providing a lower limit line in the ink tank 221, a scale 312 including a lower limit line 314 may be printed on the surface of the ink pack 310 as shown in FIG. In this case, the user applies the ink pack 310 to the ink tank 221 so that the reference line 313 of the scale 312 is positioned on the bottom surface of the ink tank 221, so that the ink surface is lowered to the position of the lower limit line 314. Can be confirmed.

  The printing apparatus 200 includes an operation unit 250. The operation unit 250 is an input device for a user to perform various instructions and settings, and includes a user interface unit (hereinafter referred to as a UI unit) 252 and operation buttons. The UI unit 252 can display information related to ink replenishment to the user, display a menu that can be selected by the user, and accept user operation input.

  Therefore, the user can replenish ink from the ink pack 310 to the ink tank 221 while checking the ink in the UI unit 252 and the ink tank 221 of the printing apparatus 200. There are cases where the user visually confirms that the ink surface has fallen below the lower limit line and replenishes ink, or cases where the user replenishes ink upon receiving a warning from the UI unit 252. In order to replenish ink at an appropriate timing according to the actual ink consumption status, it is desirable to replenish ink into the ink tank 221 when the ink surface reaches the lower limit line by visual observation.

  The flow path between the ink tank 221 and the print head has a sensor (not shown) that detects the presence or absence of ink. If this sensor detects the absence of ink, the value of the total ink consumption information WD of the main body is detected. Regardless, the printing apparatus 200 always stops operating. For this reason, even if the user forgets to replenish ink in the ink tank, it is possible to prevent a print head failure due to idle printing of the print head (ink ejection operation in a state where there is no ink in the print head). If ink is replenished at an appropriate timing, the printing operation of the printing apparatus 200 can be continued without being stopped by detecting the absence of ink by the sensor.

  The plurality of slots 230-a to 230-d are for mounting sliders 240-a to 240-d that can be attached to and detached from the printing apparatus 200 to the printing apparatus 200, and are provided in the ink tanks 221-a to 221-d. Correspondingly provided. For example, the four slots 230-a to 230-d are provided corresponding to the respective ink tanks 221-a to 221-d for black, yellow, magenta, and cyan.

  The memory units 100-a to 100-d are packaged with the ink pack 310 and provided to the user, and are detachably mounted on the sliders 240-a to 240-d by the user. The sliders 240-a to 240-d to which the memory units 100-a to 100-d are attached are mounted in the slots 230-a to 230-d, so that the memory unit 100 is mounted in the slot 230. In FIG. 3, since each memory unit 100 is installed in each corresponding slot 230, it cannot be seen. The memory units 100-a to 100-d have storage devices 110-a to 110-d (see FIG. 11), respectively.

  When the memory unit 100 is installed in the slot 230, that is, when the memory unit 100 is installed in the printing apparatus 200, the processing unit 210 of the printing apparatus 200 can access the storage device 110.

  The storage device 110 includes a storage area. The storage area of the storage device 110 includes communication ID information used by the processing unit 210 to identify a communication partner and ink color information corresponding to the ink color of the included ink pack 310. Usage permission amount information (the above-described initial filling amount and ink consumption amount) corresponding to the ink filling amount of the ink pack 310 is written at the time of factory shipment.

  In addition to this, the storage device 110 also has valid / invalid information (which will be described later) indicating whether the memory unit 100 is in a valid state that can be used by the printing apparatus 200 or in an invalid state. Information on the printing apparatus 200 to which the memory unit 100 can be adapted may be stored. The valid / invalid information is written with valid information indicating that the memory unit 100 is valid when the memory unit 100 is shipped from the factory. The storage device 110 can be configured by a nonvolatile memory such as an EEPROM (electrically erasable PROM).

  The processing unit 210 includes a CPU 211, a storage unit 212, and a communication processing unit 213 (see FIG. 11), and executes a printing process of the printing apparatus 200 and a communication process with each memory unit 100. Specifically, the processing unit 210 controls data reading or writing with respect to the memory units 100-a to 100-d installed in the slots 230-a to 230-d. Further, the processing unit 210 performs a process of detecting whether or not the memory units 100-a to 100-d are mounted in the slots 230-a to 230-d.

  The processing unit 210 performs a count process (soft count process) for obtaining an estimated estimated ink consumption for each ink color during printing for the ink capacity of one ink pack 310. That is, the total ink consumption information WD (WDa to WDd corresponding to each color), which is the ratio of the cumulative ink consumption of each ink color to the initial filling amount stored in the storage unit 212 from the memory unit 100 during the charging process. And a process of updating the total ink consumption information WD of its own storage unit 212 for every consumption of a predetermined amount of ink accompanying execution of printing.

  The estimated ink consumption amount counted by the processing unit 210 includes an ink consumption amount used for print head maintenance such as cleaning the print head in addition to the ink consumption amount due to printing. The processing unit 210 appropriately updates the total ink consumption information WD at the maintenance execution timing.

  The storage unit 212 has an initial filling amount corresponding to each ink color, total ink consumption information WD corresponding to each ink color, a given threshold value WTH of total ink consumption information WD to be automatically charged, and reserved. If there is not, the second threshold value WTH ′ (WTH ′ = WTH + α, α> 0) of the total ink consumption information WD that can be continued to be printed only by charging, and the second threshold value WTH ′ is larger than the permitted use amount. Set), a charged flag and a reserved flag, which will be described later, are stored. The storage unit 212 is composed of a nonvolatile memory.

  FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of the UI unit 252 according to the present embodiment. As illustrated in FIG. 5, the UI unit 252 includes a first display unit (also referred to as a menu display unit) 254 and a second display unit (also referred to as a remaining amount display unit) 260. The first display unit 254 includes, for example, a display such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL display and a touch panel. The first display unit 254 displays information related to ink replenishment, various notifications, an operation menu for user operation, and the like. Details of display contents of the first display unit 254 will be described later. The first display unit 254 and the second display unit 260 may be display units of other devices (for example, PCs) connected to the printing apparatus 200.

  The second display unit 260 is configured by a display such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL display, for example. For each color of ink stored in the ink tank 221, the second display unit 260 includes a second display unit 260K corresponding to black (BK), a second display unit 260Y corresponding to yellow (Y), and magenta (M). Are divided into a second display portion 260M corresponding to, and a second display portion 260C corresponding to cyan (C). Each of the second display units 260K, 260Y, 260M, and 260C includes an estimated ink remaining amount display unit 261 and a reserve state display unit 264. FIG. 5 shows the second display unit 260 when there is one ink tank 221 for each ink color. However, when there are a plurality of ink tanks 221 for each ink color, the second display unit 260 is shown. 260 is divided for each ink tank 221.

  In the example shown in FIG. 5, the estimated ink remaining amount display unit 261 has the estimated ink amount information (initial filling amount) charged by the memory unit 100 and the ink consumption amount (estimated ink consumption amount) estimated by the counting process. The state of ink consumption estimated based on (the remaining amount of ink in the ink tank 221) is displayed by six blocks. Of the six blocks, in the example shown in FIG. 5, the white block 262 is a block that is not lit, and the black block 263 is a block that is lit.

  The black block 263 is displayed corresponding to the ink remaining amount (estimated ink remaining amount) estimated by the counting process, and is also referred to as a charge block 263 below. The more charge blocks 263 displayed on the estimated ink remaining amount display unit 261, the more the estimated ink remaining amount is (there is less estimated ink consumption). As printing is performed to consume ink and the estimated ink remaining amount decreases (the estimated ink consumption increases), the number of white blocks 262 increases and the number of charge blocks 263 decreases.

  In the present embodiment, when the estimated ink consumption is less than 100% with respect to the estimated ink amount information (initial filling amount) charged by the memory unit 100, two or more charge blocks 263 are displayed, and the estimated ink consumption is displayed. When the amount reaches 100%, one charge block 263 is displayed. Therefore, when there is only one charge block 263 displayed on the estimated ink remaining amount display unit 261, in the counting process, the printing apparatus 200 having the worst ink consumption efficiency uses the ink for one ink pack 310 ( 1L) is consumed.

  For example, six charge blocks 263 are displayed in the estimated ink remaining amount display portion 261 of the second display portion 260Y corresponding to yellow (Y) ink, and the remaining amount of yellow (Y) ink is sufficient. It is estimated to be. On the other hand, only one charge block 263 is displayed in the estimated ink remaining amount display portion 261 of the second display portion 260M corresponding to magenta (M) ink. In this case, since it is presumed that one ink of the ink pack 310 has been consumed, the remaining amount of ink is visually confirmed, and when the ink surface falls below the lower limit line (7 cm from the bottom surface of the ink tank 221), Ink may be replenished from the ink pack 310.

  When the charge block 263 displayed on the estimated ink remaining amount display unit 261 disappears, it is estimated that the estimated ink consumption is 120% or more of the initial filling amount, and the remaining ink is low. In this case, it is desirable to replenish ink from the ink pack 310 when the ink remaining amount is confirmed visually and the ink surface is below the lower limit line (7 cm from the bottom surface of the ink tank 221). If printing is continued in this state, the ink in the ink tank 221 runs out, and the printing operation may stop.

  If the charge block 263 displayed on the estimated ink remaining amount display unit 261 is eliminated, the automatic charge process is executed when the reserved memory unit 100 is mounted. When the charge process (including the automatic charge process) is executed from the state where the charge block 263 has disappeared, the estimated ink remaining amount display part 261 is displayed in the second display part 260Y corresponding to yellow (Y) ink. Six charge blocks 263 are displayed.

  The reserve state display unit 264 displays a charge state and a reserve state by the memory unit 100. For example, nothing is displayed on the reserve state display portion 264 of the second display portion 260Y corresponding to yellow (Y) ink. In this case, the yellow (Y) ink is already charged by the memory unit 100 (first memory unit 100-1 shown in FIG. 2), and the first memory unit 100-1 is mounted as it is. It has been removed or removed, and it indicates that the reserve processing by the new memory unit 100 (second memory unit 100-2) has not been performed. The first memory unit 100-1 removed in this state has been charged and is invalidated. In this state, it is possible to reserve the second memory unit 100-2.

  On the other hand, a “C” bar is displayed in the reserved state display portion 264 of the second display portion 260C corresponding to cyan (C) ink. In this case, it is shown that a new memory unit 100 (second memory unit 100-2 shown in FIG. 2) is attached to the cyan (C) ink and has been reserved. If the second memory unit 100-2 is removed in this state, the reserve process is canceled and nothing is displayed on the reserve state display unit 264. The second memory unit 100-2 removed in this state can be used because it has not yet been charged.

  The “M” and “BK” bars are also displayed on the second display portion 260M corresponding to magenta (M) ink and the reserve state display portion 264 of the second display portion 260K corresponding to black (BK) ink. This indicates that the second memory unit 100-2 has been installed and reserved for magenta (M) ink and black (BK) ink.

  Note that in the reserved state in which the “C” bar is displayed in the reserve state display unit 264 of the second display unit 260C, the ink of the initial filling amount charged by the first memory unit 100-1 is consumed. When the estimated amount information reaches a given threshold value WTH, an automatic charging process is performed. When the automatic charging process is performed, the first memory unit 100-1 is invalidated, and the reserved state display unit 264 is in a state where nothing is displayed like the second display unit 260Y.

  FIG. 6 is a side view illustrating a configuration example of the ink tank 221 and the slider 240 according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 6, the ink tank 221 includes an ink supply port 222. The user can fill the ink stored in the ink pack 310 from the ink supply port 222. The ink tank 221 is fixed to the slot 230 (see FIG. 3) of the printing apparatus 200, and can be filled with ink in a fixed state. In a state where the slider 240 is mounted in the slot 230, the ink tank 221 can be filled with ink by opening the ink supply port cover 242 of the slider 240.

  The slider 240 can be detached from the printing apparatus 200 by sliding the upper part of the ink tank 221. When the user installs the memory unit 100 in the slot 230, the slider 240 is pulled out of the slot 230, the memory unit 100 is mounted on the tip of the slider 240 in the mounting direction, and the slider 240 is again mounted along the mounting direction. Insert into slot 230. FIG. 6 shows a state where the memory unit 100 is mounted on the slider 240.

  FIG. 7 is a perspective view illustrating a configuration example of the slider 240 according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 7, the memory unit 100 is mounted at the tip of the slider 240 on the mounting direction side. Here, “mounted” means that the memory unit 100 is placed at a predetermined location of the slider 240. The memory unit 100 does not need to be fixed at a predetermined position of the slider 240.

  FIG. 8 is a perspective view illustrating a configuration example of the memory unit 100 according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 8, the memory unit 100 includes a storage device 110 (see FIG. 11), a reset terminal TRST, a clock terminal TSCK, a data terminal TSDA, a first power supply terminal TVDD, a second power supply terminal TVSS, and a mounting detection terminal. Has a TCO. These terminals are electrically connected to the main body side terminals CRST, CSCK, CSDA, CVDD, CVSS, and CCO of the printing apparatus 200 provided in the slot 230 when the memory unit 100 is mounted in the slot 230, respectively. . Note that the reset terminal TRST, the clock terminal TSCK, the data terminal TSDA, the first power supply terminal TVDD, and the second power supply terminal TVSS are also collectively referred to as “memory device terminals”. Further, the number and arrangement of the terminals are not limited to those shown in FIG. 8, and various numbers and arrangements are possible.

  FIG. 9 is a perspective view illustrating a configuration example of a tip portion of the slider 240 on which the memory unit 100 according to the present embodiment is mounted. As shown in FIG. 9, the memory unit 100 is mounted at the tip of the slider 240 on the mounting direction side.

  FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating a configuration example of the ink pack set 300 according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 10, the ink pack set 300 includes an ink pack 310 (also referred to as an ink replenishing container) and a memory unit 100, which are bundled together. For example, the black ink pack set 300 includes an ink pack 310 in which black ink is stored and a memory unit 100 in which black ink color information is stored. The ink pack 310 is obtained by filling a bag (pouch pack) formed of a laminated film with ink, for example. The ink pack set 300 is provided to the user of the printing apparatus 200 from the printing apparatus vendor.

  FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of the slots 230-a to 230-d, the memory units 100-a to 100-d, and the processing unit 210 of the printing apparatus 200 according to the present embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 11, the memory units 100-a to 100-d include a reset terminal TRST, a clock terminal TSCK, a data terminal TSDA, a first power supply terminal TVDD, and a second power supply terminal TVSS as storage device terminals. Have each. These storage device terminals are electrically connected to the storage device 110 included in each memory unit 100.

  Further, the memory units 100-a to 100-d each have a mounting detection terminal TCO. In each memory unit 100, the mounting detection terminal TCO is electrically connected to the second power supply terminal TVSS.

  When the memory unit 100-a is mounted in the slot 230-a, the storage device terminals TRST, TSCK, TSDA, TVDD, TVSS, and the mounting detection terminal TCO are connected to the body side terminal CRST, which is provided in the slot 230-a. Electrically connected to CSCK, CSDA, CVDD, CVSS and CCO, respectively. The same applies to the memory units 100-b to 100-d.

  Among the main body side terminals provided in the slots 230-a to 230-d, the clock terminal CSCK, the data terminal CSDA, the first power supply terminal CVDD, and the second power supply terminal CVSS are the clock terminal SCK and data of the processing unit 210, respectively. The terminal SDA, the first power supply terminal VDD, and the second power supply terminal VSS are commonly connected. The processing unit 210 includes a clock signal SCK with respect to the clock terminal CSCK, a first power supply voltage (high potential side power supply voltage) VDD with respect to the first power supply terminal CVDD, and a second power supply with respect to the second power supply terminal CVSS. A power supply voltage (low potential side power supply voltage) VSS is output. Further, the processing unit 210 outputs a data signal SDA to the data terminal CSDA and receives the data signal SDA from the data terminal CSDA.

  The processing unit 210 outputs reset release signals RSTa to RSTd to reset terminals CRST provided in the slots 230-a to 230-d. The storage device from which the processing unit 210 has output the reset release signal is the storage device that is to be accessed by the processing unit 210.

  The processing unit 210 includes a CPU 211, a storage unit 212, and a communication processing unit 213. The processing unit 210 executes communication processing with each memory unit 100 via the communication processing unit 213.

  The processing unit 210 can detect that the memory unit 100 is mounted in the slot 230 by the mounting detection terminal TCO. For example, when mounting detection is performed for the slot 230-a, the processing unit 210 outputs the first power supply voltage VDD to the first power supply terminal CVDD, and stores the memory according to the voltage level of the mounting detection signal COa. The presence or absence of the unit 100-a is detected. Since the main body side mounting detection terminal CCO of the slot 230-a is connected to the first power supply terminal CVDD via the resistance element Ra, the mounting detection signal COa of the memory unit 100-a is not mounted. The voltage level becomes H level (high potential level, VDD level).

  On the other hand, when the memory unit 100-a is attached, the body side attachment detection terminal CCO, the attachment detection terminal TCO of the memory unit 100-a, and the second power supply terminal TVSS are electrically connected. The voltage level of the detection signal COa becomes L level (low potential level, VSS level). Therefore, the processing unit 210 can determine that it is not mounted when the mounting detection signal COa is at the H level, and can determine that it is mounted when it is at the L level. In this way, the processing unit 210 can detect whether or not the memory unit 100 is installed in each of the slots 230-a to 230-d.

  In the configuration example illustrated in FIG. 11, the processing unit 210 may select one memory unit 100 to read or write by activating (resetting the reset) one of the reset cancellation signals RSTa to RSTd. it can.

3. Charge Process and Reserve Process Next, details of the charge process and the reserve process will be described. FIG. 3 shows an example of a printing apparatus 200 that has four color ink tanks 221 and a plurality of slots 230 corresponding to the respective colors, and in which the memory unit 100 can be mounted in each slot. However, the first memory unit 100-1 and the second memory unit 100-2 in the charge process and the reserve process shown in FIG. 2 represent the memory unit 100 corresponding to a given color, and the slot 230 described above. Is also intended for one slot of a given color. For example, according to the method of the present embodiment, the black memory unit 100 is mounted in the black slot 230, and after the memory unit 100 is removed, another black memory unit 100 is inserted in the black slot 230. It defines the processing when it is attached.

  A charge process and a reserve process according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. As described above, the storage unit 212 stores a charged flag and a reserved flag.

  The charged flag is a flag indicating whether or not the estimated ink amount information on the main body side has been updated (charged) based on the permitted usage amount information of the given memory unit 100. The charged flag is turned on by the charging process, and the value 1 is stored in the charged flag area of the storage unit 212. Since the reserve process is performed on the premise that it has been charged, the charged flag may be considered as a reserve waiting flag.

  The reserved flag indicates whether or not the second memory unit 100-2 is attached after the charging process by the first memory unit 100-1 and the charging process is reserved by the second memory unit 100-2. Is a flag representing By performing the reserve process, the reserved flag is turned on, and a value of 1 is stored in the storage unit 212. Hereinafter, storing 1 or 0 as the flag state is also referred to as setting the 1 or 0 flag.

  FIG. 12 is a flowchart for explaining charge processing and reserve processing using a flag according to the mounting state of the memory unit 100. These processes are processes executed by the processing unit 210. In addition, each process can be arbitrarily changed in order within the range which does not produce inconsistency in a processing content, or can be performed in parallel.

  When this process is started, it is first determined whether or not the memory unit 100 is installed in the slot 230 (step S101). As described above, this is determined by the state of the terminal COa. When the memory unit 100 is mounted (step S101: YES), the process proceeds to step S102, and it is determined whether or not the memory unit 100 is appropriate (step S102).

  In step S102, it is determined whether the memory unit 100 is valid or invalid. The memory unit 100 whose use permission amount information has already been replaced (charged) is set to an invalid state by the processing unit 210 so that it cannot be reused. If the mounted memory unit 100 is in an invalid state, it is determined in step S102 that it is not appropriate (step S102: NO), and the process proceeds to step S108.

  In step S102, the correspondence between the installed memory unit 100 and the slot 230 may be determined. For example, when the memory unit 100 corresponding to another color (cyan, magenta, yellow) is mounted in the black slot 230, it is determined that the memory unit 100 is not appropriate.

  If a printing apparatus 200 that is compatible with the memory unit 100 is stored, the correspondence relationship with the printing apparatus 200 is determined. If the printing apparatus 200 and the printing apparatus 200 stored in the memory unit 100 are not compatible, or if the printing apparatus 200 compatible with the memory unit 100 is not stored, it is determined that the memory unit 100 is not appropriate.

  That is, the determination process of “whether appropriate” in the present embodiment is a process of determining one or more conditions including at least the determination of “valid state or invalid state”. When performing a plurality of condition determinations, basically, if it is determined that all conditions are appropriate, a process for determining that the final result is also appropriate is performed.

  When it is determined that the memory unit 100 is appropriate (step S102: YES), the process proceeds to step S103, and the charged flag is determined (step S103). If the state of the charged flag is 0 (step S103: NO), the charging process is performed by the appropriate memory unit 100 (first memory unit 100-1) that is attached.

  Specifically, the estimated ink amount information is updated with the permitted usage amount information of the memory unit 100 (step S104). As a result, the permitted usage amount information of the memory unit 100 has been moved to the main body of the printing apparatus 200, so that the invalid state is stored in the memory unit 100 in order to prohibit the reuse of the memory unit 100. (Step S105). Since the charging process is completed, the charged flag is set to 1 (step S106).

  Further, when the charged flag is 1 in step S103 (step S103: YES), this corresponds to a state where a more effective memory unit 100 is mounted in a state where the charging process has already been performed. Therefore, the reserved flag is set to 1 on the assumption that the charge processing has been reserved by the mounted memory unit 100 (corresponding to the second memory unit 100-2 described above) (step S107).

  Further, when the memory unit 100 is not attached or when the attached memory unit 100 is not appropriate (step S101: NO or step S102: NO), the charged flag is determined (step S108). .

  If the charged flag is 1 (step S108: YES), since the charging process is being performed, the printing operation can be continued. As described above, in this embodiment, even if the charged memory unit 100 is removed, the printing operation is not affected. In addition, although the memory unit 100 is not mounted or is not mounted even though it is charged, the reserve processing by the second memory unit 100-2 cannot be executed. For this reason, the reserve process has not been completed, and the reserved flag is set to 0 (step S109).

  Note that step S109 may be performed with the reserved flag set to 1 or may be performed with the reserved flag set to 0. A reserved flag of 1 means that after the charging process, an appropriate memory unit 100 is once mounted and the process in step S107 is performed, but then the memory unit 100 is removed (in some cases, another process is performed after that). Corresponds to a state in which an inappropriate memory unit 100 is mounted). In this case, since the reserved memory unit 100 has been removed, the reserved unit is not in a reserved state, and therefore the process of step S109 is a process of returning the reserved flag that was 1 to 0.

  Further, the case where the process of step S109 is performed when the reserved flag is 0 is a situation where the reserve process is not performed and a valid memory unit 100 is not mounted after that, so step S109 is performed. Then, the reserved flag which is 0 is maintained in the 0 state.

  Considering the display of information to the user, the two processes of (1) when the reserved flag is set from 1 to 0 in step S109, and (2) when the reserved flag remains 0 are considered separately. Also good. For example, when the reserved flag is 1 and the process of step S109 is performed (in the case of (1)), the user is notified that the reserved (reserved) that has already been cancelled. In addition, when the reserved flag is 0 and the process of step S109 is performed (in the case of (2)), information for making the user perform the reservation correctly, for example, “appropriate memory unit for reservation”. "Please wear it" is displayed. In that case, the user's operation may be facilitated by displaying information specifying the color together.

  If the charged flag is 0 in the determination in step S108 (step S108: NO), the printing operation is stopped (step S110). As will be described later with reference to FIGS. 13 and 14, the charged flag in the present embodiment is a flag that becomes 1 by the charging process, and that that becomes 0 is the estimated ink consumption (total ink consumption information WD). Is a second threshold value WTH ′ (= WTH + α) that is larger than the given threshold value WTH.

  The second threshold value WTH ′ is a value larger than the ink amount corresponding to the use permission amount. The second threshold value WTH ′ is a value of estimated total ink consumption information WD (for example, 135%) that allows the printing apparatus 200 with the highest ink consumption efficiency to use up the ink for the initial filling amount of one ink pack. ) As a guide. In this way, even if the printing apparatus 200 having the highest ink consumption efficiency exceeds a given threshold value WTH, printing can be continued when ink remains. Further, it is assumed that after a given threshold value WTH is exceeded in a state in which the automatic charging is performed after the reserve at the given threshold value WTH and the reserved threshold value WTH is exceeded in a state where the reserved value is not reserved, the ink remains at 135%. Is done. For this reason, the second threshold value WTH ′ may be set to about 170%.

  FIG. 13 is a flowchart for explaining processing when the total ink consumption information WD exceeds a given threshold value WTH. This process is a process executed by the processing unit 210. When this process is started, first, a determination of a charged flag and a reserved flag is performed (step S201, step S202, step S205).

  When the reserved flag is set to 1 and the charged flag is set to 1 (step S201: YES and step S202: YES), a valid second memory unit 100-2 is mounted and reserved. In a completed state, the total ink consumption information WD exceeds a given threshold value WTH. Therefore, the processing unit 210 performs automatic charging with the memory unit 100 attached.

  In the automatic charging process, first, both the reserved flag and the charged flag are set to 0 (step S203), and then the process returns to step S104 in FIG. The reason why the reserved flag is set to 0 in step S203 is that the reserved memory unit 100 is subject to charge processing and is not in the reserved state (that is, the second memory unit 100-2 becomes the first memory unit). 100-1). The reason why the charged flag is set to 0 is that the ink charged by the memory unit 100 mounted in front of the currently mounted memory unit 100 has been used up.

  Further, when returning to the process of FIG. 12, preparation for performing the charge process (step S104) by the reserved memory unit 100 is made. Also, when returning to the processing of FIG. 12, since the processing of step S105 and step S106 is performed, the second memory unit 100-2 (not the second memory unit 100-2 but the first memory unit 100-2 at this time) The memory unit 100-1) is set to the invalid state, and the charged flag is set to 1 again.

  If the reserved flag is set to 0 and the charged flag is set to 1 (step S201: NO and step S205: YES), the total ink consumption information WD is a given threshold value WTH. However, there is no reserve, so no automatic charging is done. Therefore, if the ink consumption further proceeds from a given threshold value WTH corresponding to the permitted usage amount information and the total ink consumption amount information WD exceeds the second threshold value WTH ′, further printing cannot be continued. Therefore, a warning display to that effect is displayed (step S206).

  Then, it is determined whether or not the appropriate memory unit 100 is installed (step S207), and whether or not the total ink consumption information WD is equal to or greater than the second threshold value WTH ′ (step S208). Step S207 is the same process as step S102. The case of YES in step S208 is a state in which the estimated ink consumption has increased so that the printing operation cannot be continued without the appropriate memory unit 100 being attached.

  Therefore, if the appropriate memory unit 100 is not mounted before the total ink consumption information WD becomes equal to or greater than the second threshold value WTH ′ (step S207: NO and step S208: YES), the charged flag and Both the reserved flags are set to 0 (step S209), and the printing operation is stopped (step S210). In step S101 in FIG. 12, it is determined that there is no memory unit. In step S108, the charged flag is determined to be 0 (the charged flag is determined to be 0 in step S108 by the process of step S209). This is a process corresponding to the transition to step S110.

  On the other hand, when the appropriate memory unit 100 is mounted before the total ink consumption information WD becomes equal to or greater than the second threshold value WTH ′ (step S207: YES), the charged flag is set to 0 (step S211). ), The process returns to the process of FIG. Step S211 is a preparation for performing the charging operation by the newly installed memory unit 100 since the charged portion has already been consumed.

  Note that when the reserved flag is set to 1 and the charged flag is set to 0 (step S201: YES and step S202: NO), the flag management in this embodiment cannot occur. State. This is because the reserve process is performed on the premise that the battery has been charged, and the reserved flag cannot be set to 1 because the battery is not charged and is in a reserved state. Therefore, error processing is performed in this case (step S204). Various specific contents of the error processing can be considered. For example, both the charged flag and the reserved flag are set to 0, and the printing operation is stopped.

  If the reserved flag is set to 0 and the charged flag is set to 0 (step S201: NO and step S205: NO), the printing operation is stopped (step S212). Step S212 is the same process as step S110.

  As described above, the charged flag becomes 0 when the estimated ink consumption exceeds the second threshold value WTH ′ (step S209) or when the charging process is ready (step S203, Or step S211). Therefore, if the charged flag is set to 0, the printing operation is stopped (step S210) or the charged flag is immediately returned to 1 (step S106), and the charged flag is 0. However, it is not assumed that the normal printing operation is continued.

  FIG. 14 is a state transition diagram corresponding to the processing according to the present embodiment. The four parameters in each state of FIG. 14 represent the mounting state of the memory unit 100, the state of the charged flag, the state of the reserved flag, and the availability of the printing operation, respectively, from the left. For example, if (None, 0, 0, Impossible), the memory unit 100 is not installed, and both the charged flag and the reserved flag are set to 0, indicating that the printing operation is impossible.

  The state S0 corresponds to a state before the initial filling of the print head, that is, a state before the user uses the printing apparatus 200 after purchasing the printing apparatus 200 and the print head is not filled with ink. In the state S0, the memory unit 100 is not attached, both the charged flag and the reserved flag are 0, and the printing operation is impossible. In this case, since neither the charging process nor the printing operation has been started, the total ink consumption information WD (estimated ink consumption) is 0%, and the appropriate memory unit 100 is waiting to be mounted.

  When the appropriate memory unit 100 is mounted in the state S0, the state transitions to the state S1 in which the charge process is executed. In the state S1, since the memory unit 100 is mounted and the memory unit 100 is appropriate, the charged flag is set to 1 by the charging process, and the printing operation can be performed. The reserved flag remains 0. In order to enable a printing operation here, the user must replenish ink in the ink tank 221 and the sensor must detect the presence of ink.

  In the state S1, it is assumed that the memory unit 100 is properly attached, but the memory unit 100 can be removed after the charging process. Therefore, after executing the charging process in the state S1, the state automatically shifts to the state S2 corresponding to the charged state.

  In the state S2, the mounting state of the memory unit 100 is different and is “ignore”. That is, in the state S2, the memory unit 100 may be attached or removed. In the state S2, the mounting state of the memory unit 100 is not questioned, but it is monitored whether the appropriate memory unit 100 is mounted as a condition for the state transition to the state S3.

  Then, when the appropriate memory unit 100 is mounted in the state S2, the state shifts to the state S3. The state S3 corresponds to the reserved state. Therefore, in the state S3, since the reserve processing is performed by the appropriate attached memory unit 100, the memory unit 100 is installed, both the charged flag and the reserved flag are set to 1, and the printing operation is performed. Is possible.

  When the memory unit 100 is removed in the state S3, the memory unit 100 for reserve disappears, so that the process returns to the state S2. That is, the state S2 corresponds to a charged and unreserved state.

  Further, when the estimated ink consumption (total ink consumption information WD) managed on the main body side in the state S3 is equal to or greater than a given threshold value WTH, a charge process (automatic charging) by the memory unit 100 for reserve is performed. )I do. For this purpose, first, the state transitions to state S4. In the state S4, both the charged flag and the reserved flag are zero. The state S4 corresponds to step S203 in FIG.

  Then, the state automatically changes from the state S4 to the state S1, and further automatically changes to the state S2, thereby executing the charge process by the reserved memory unit 100.

  On the other hand, when the total ink consumption information WD is equal to or greater than the given threshold value WTH in the state S2, the process proceeds to the state S5. The state S5 is a state in which the charge process cannot be executed because the appropriate memory unit 100 is not mounted even though the charge process by the new memory unit 100 is required. However, in the state S5, since the total ink consumption information WD has not reached the second threshold value WTH ', the printing operation can be continued.

  In the state S5, when the appropriate memory unit 100 is mounted, the process proceeds to the state S6. State S6 is a preparatory stage for the user's manual charging process, the charged flag is changed from 1 to 0, and the state transitions to state S1. Also in this case, the state automatically changes to the state S2 and the charge process is completed.

  That is, the transition of state S3 → state S4 → state S1 → state S2 is an automatic charge from the reserve, and the transition of state S2 → state S5 → state S6 → state S1 → state S2 is the installation of the memory unit 100 of the user. Represents a manual charge.

  In the state S5, when the total ink consumption information WD becomes equal to or larger than the second threshold value WTH ′ (= WTH + α) without attaching the appropriate memory unit 100, the state S7 corresponding to the count excess error is entered. Transition. In the state S7, regardless of the mounting state of the memory unit 100, both the charged flag and the reserved flag are set to 0 to disable the printing operation. Note that transition from the state S5 to the state S7 cannot be considered during normal operation, but state transition from other than the state S5 to the state S7 may be allowed in consideration of some abnormality. That is, when the total ink consumption information WD becomes equal to or larger than the second threshold value WTH ′, the process may proceed to the state S7 regardless of which state is the current state.

  In the above description, as shown in step S102 of FIG. 12, the determination of whether the memory unit 100 is valid or invalid (determining whether the memory unit 100 is appropriate in a broad sense) is the timing of the charge process. It is done independently of. The present invention is not limited to such a form. For example, it is possible to determine whether the memory unit 100 is valid or invalid at the time of mounting the memory unit 100 and omit the re-determination at the time of automatic charging. . Alternatively, the determination may be performed at the time of the charge process without determining whether the memory unit 100 is installed or not.

  Further, in order to prevent inappropriate reuse of the memory unit 100, the processing unit 210 sets the memory unit 100 to an invalid state when the memory unit 100 is charged. The process for making this setting corresponds to step S105 in FIG.

  If the reuse of the memory unit 100 once used is permitted, appropriate ink management becomes impossible. The use of the memory unit 100 in the present embodiment may be considered as the timing when the ink estimation amount information on the main body side is updated (replaced) by the use permission amount information, that is, the timing when the charging process is performed. By performing management, it is possible to use the appropriate printing apparatus 200.

4). Setting Process for Reducing Error As described above, when an error occurs between the estimated ink consumption estimated by the processing unit 210 by the counting process and the actual ink consumption, it is time to replenish ink. On the other hand, there is a possibility that automatic charging is performed at an inappropriate timing. Therefore, in the printing apparatus 200 according to the present embodiment, when an error occurs between the estimated ink consumption and the actual ink consumption, the error is reduced and automatic charging is performed at an appropriate timing. Settings can be made.

  Here, in the printing apparatus 200 according to the present embodiment, even if the printing apparatus 200 has the same model number, the actual ink consumption varies depending on the use environment and usage status of the printing apparatus 200 of the user, and the actual ink consumption is known. I can't. For this reason, it is desirable to perform setting processing based on user input. Since the user can visually check the ink amount, if there is an error between the estimated ink consumption estimated by the printing apparatus 200 and the actual ink consumption, the user notifies (teach) the printing apparatus 200 to that effect. Is possible. The processing unit 210 may present auxiliary information to the UI unit 252 so that the user can easily teach it. For example, the processing unit 210 may perform screen display including information for input instructions on the UI unit 252. Hereinafter, a specific example of setting processing for reducing errors will be described.

4.1 Preliminary Setting First, an example of setting processing for a given threshold value WTH will be described. In the case of use at a high temperature as described above, it can be recognized by the user that automatic charging is not executed despite the fact that ink consumption is progressing, that is, the timing of automatic charging is late. In addition, in cases where the ink is used at a low temperature or clogged, the user can recognize that the automatic charging is executed even though the ink is not consumed, that is, the automatic charging timing is early. .

  Specifically, through the UI unit 252 (see FIG. 5) of the printing apparatus 200, the user displays whether the printing apparatus 200 is in a charged state, whether it is in a reserved state, and current ink estimation amount information. The actual ink amount in the ink tank 221 can be visually confirmed. Therefore, when the reserved memory unit 100 does not become charged even though the ink surface has been visually reduced to a position below the lower limit line in the reserved state, the user can confirm that the automatic charging timing is late. Can be recognized. In addition, when the reserve memory unit 100 has been charged even though the ink surface has not decreased to a position below the lower limit line, the user can recognize that the automatic charging timing is early.

  If the printing apparatus 200 can accept such input based on the user's “early” and “late” recognition, an appropriate setting of the given threshold value WTH becomes possible.

  FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating a transition example of display screens used for threshold value setting processing. Each of the display screens shown in FIG. 15 is displayed by the processing unit 210 on the first display unit 254 of the UI unit 252 shown in FIG. For example, an item such as “automatic charge timing setting” is provided in one of the menu items of the first display unit 254 (see FIG. 5) of the UI unit 252 as shown in the screen A1 of FIG. Then, when an input for selecting “automatic charge timing setting” based on the menu screen is received, the processing unit 210 displays a selection screen shown in the screen A2 of FIG. 15 on the first display unit 254. I do.

  In the example shown on the screen A2 in FIG. 15, two modes of “preliminary setting” and “setting after checking the remaining ink amount” are provided, and a given threshold value WTH is set according to which one is selected. Switch setting method. The “preliminary setting” here is a mode for accepting an input based on the above-mentioned recognition of “fast” and “slow” by the user. When an input for selecting “preliminary setting” is accepted, the processing unit 210 The first display unit 254 performs processing for displaying the selection screen shown in the screen A3 in FIG.

  As shown in screen A3 of FIG. 15, in “preset”, the user can select the automatic charging time from three “early”, “standard”, and “late”. When “early” is selected on the screen A3 in FIG. 15, the screen changes to the screen A4 in FIG. 15, and by pressing “OK”, the automatic charging is executed earlier than the standard automatic charging time. Specifically, the given threshold value WTH may be set to a value smaller than a standard value (reference value). For example, when the reference value is 120%, a first reference value ( For example, 110%). As in the case of using the printing apparatus 200 at a high temperature as described above, a user who feels that the automatic charging time is late can make the automatic charging time earlier by selecting “early”, and excessive use of ink. Can stop the printing operation from being stopped.

  When "Delay" is selected on the screen A3 in FIG. 15, the screen transitions to the screen A6 in FIG. 15, and by pressing "OK", the automatic charge is executed later than the standard automatic charge time. Specifically, the given threshold value WTH may be set to a value larger than the reference value. For example, when the reference value is 120%, the second reference value (for example, 130%) larger than that is set. To do. A user who feels that the automatic charging time is early, such as the case where the printing apparatus 200 is used in a clogged state, can delay the automatic charging time by selecting “late”. Thus, it becomes possible to use the ink for the use permission amount (for example, the initial filling amount) to the end.

  When an input for selecting “standard” is performed on the screen A3 in FIG. 15, the screen transitions to the screen A5 in FIG. 15, and a setting to return the given threshold value WTH to the reference value may be performed.

  If a user who does not have any problem in the standard state sets “early”, the ink in the ink tank 221 will be left, and if set to “late”, the ink in the ink tank 221 will remain. Will disappear and the printing operation will stop. In consideration of this point, screen A4 and screen A6 in FIG. 15 present problems on the screen when “early” and “late” are set, and change the settings after calling the user's attention. I am doing so.

  Further, the width for changing the given threshold value WTH may be set based on the tolerance range allowed for the estimated ink consumption. Here, since the range to be changed is assumed to be ± 10% and the reference value is 120%, the given threshold value WTH is set in the range of 110 to 130%.

  As described above, the processing unit 210 selects the reference value, the first reference value that is smaller than the reference value, or the second reference value that is larger than the reference value as the given threshold value WTH. To display the menu screen for

  In this way, the threshold value can be selected from several preset reference values. Therefore, an appropriate threshold value can be set by easy input for the user.

4.2 Setting after checking the remaining ink level When using the above-mentioned “pre-setting”, it is possible to make settings with easy-to-understand and easy user operations. However, the actual fine ink consumption is not checked by the user. It is difficult to perform the threshold setting with high accuracy.

  Accordingly, the processing unit 210 performs a counting process for obtaining the estimated ink consumption, and based on the estimated ink consumption obtained by the counting process when it is determined that a predetermined amount of ink in the ink tank 221 has been consumed. A given threshold value WTH may be set.

  Most simply, the ink amount (for example, 1 L which is the initial filling amount) corresponding to the permitted usage amount information of the memory unit 100 is set as the predetermined amount. As described above, the process to be realized originally is to perform automatic charging at the timing when the ink amount corresponding to the use permission amount information is completely used up or down. For this reason, the initial filling amount is set to a predetermined amount, and the result of the count process when the ink is consumed by the predetermined amount may be used as it is for the threshold setting.

  For example, when there is no difference between the estimated ink consumption based on the count process and the actual ink consumption, the estimated ink consumption when the actual ink consumption becomes 1L is also 1L, or 117% as described above. It becomes. In this case, the given threshold value WTH may be 117%.

  In a case where the ink is used at a high temperature, the estimated ink consumption based on the count process when 1 L of ink is actually consumed is less than 117%. For example, the actually consumed ink volume at 117% is 1.1 L. In order to execute automatic charging when 1 L of ink is consumed under this condition (to prevent 0.1 L from being consumed), 117% × 1L / 1.1L = 106%. That is, in a case of using at a high temperature or the like, if the processing unit 210 sets a given threshold value WTH = 106%, automatic charging at the timing of 1 L ink consumption can be realized.

  In a case where clogging or the like occurs, the count processing result when 1 L of ink is actually consumed is greater than 117%. For example, the ink volume actually consumed at 117% is 0.91 L. In order for automatic charging to be executed when 1 L of ink is consumed under this condition (the remaining 0.09 L is consumed), 117% × 1L / 0.91L = 129%. That is, in a case where clogging or the like occurs, if the processing unit 210 sets a given threshold value WTH = 129%, automatic charging at the timing of 1 L ink consumption can be realized.

  The “predetermined amount” here is not limited to the ink amount (usable amount, initial filling amount) corresponding to the permitted amount information of the memory unit 100, and various modifications can be made. For example, 500 mL may be set as the predetermined amount. In this case, if the estimated ink consumption when the actual ink consumption is 500 mL is doubled, the result of the counting process when the actual ink consumption is 1 L can be estimated. In other words, if the ratio between the predetermined amount and the ink amount corresponding to the use permission amount information of the memory unit 100 is known, the result of the count process when 1 L of ink is actually consumed can be estimated based on the ratio. An appropriate given threshold value WTH can be set. Hereinafter, in order to simplify the description, it is assumed that the predetermined amount = the ink amount corresponding to the permitted usage amount information of the memory unit 100 = 1L.

  However, as described above, the printing apparatus 200 according to the present embodiment cannot acquire the actual ink consumption information. Therefore, it is necessary for the user to be informed of information that a predetermined amount of ink has actually been consumed from which timing to which timing.

  Therefore, the processing unit 210 teaches that the user inputs the first input information that teaches that the ink in the ink tank 221 is the first ink amount, and that the ink in the ink tank 221 is the second ink amount. The second input information to be input by the user is received. Then, the processing unit 210 gives a given value based on the estimated ink consumption obtained by the counting process for the period from when the input of the first input information is detected until the input of the second input information is detected. The threshold value WTH is set.

  In order to input the first input information and the second input information, the processing unit 210 inputs a first menu screen for allowing the user to input the first input information and the second input information to the user. The second menu screen is displayed on the display unit.

  For example, a scale (scale) indicating the remaining amount of ink is provided at a position corresponding to the first ink amount and the second ink amount in a portion of the ink storage unit 220 that is visible to the user. Then, the threshold is set according to the flow shown in FIG.

  FIG. 16 is a diagram for explaining a time-series change in processing in the processing unit 210 until the threshold is set, a display screen, a user operation, and an actual change in ink amount. As illustrated in FIG. 16, the processing unit 210 performs a screen display process illustrated in B <b> 1 of FIG. 16 when a selection input “set after viewing the remaining ink amount” is performed on the screen A <b> 2 of FIG. 15. . In B1, a display instructing the user to perform input when the actual ink amount (actual ink remaining amount) becomes the first ink amount (here, 1.1 L) is performed. 1 menu screen.

  Then, the user visually confirms that the actual ink amount has become the first ink amount (or that the ink has been replenished to a position corresponding to the first ink amount), and performs input (B2, B3). ). When the processing unit 210 detects this input as the first input information, the processing unit 210 stores the cumulative ink consumption at this timing (B4).

  In the printing apparatus 200 according to the present embodiment, in order to use as a guide for the component replacement timing of the printing apparatus 200, the charge processing is not updated separately from the estimated ink amount information (estimated ink consumption amount, total ink consumption amount information WD). The cumulative ink consumption, which is the cumulative ink consumption since the use of the printing apparatus 200 is started, is measured by a count process. Therefore, the difference between the cumulative ink consumption at the first input information detection timing (hereinafter referred to as T1) and the cumulative ink consumption at the second input information detection timing (hereinafter referred to as T2) is: This can be used as a result of a count process between the two timings T1 and T2 (estimated ink consumption by counting when a predetermined amount is consumed).

  When the cumulative ink consumption at T1 is stored, a screen display process shown in B5 is performed. In B5, a display for instructing the user to perform input when the actual ink amount becomes the second ink amount (here, 100 mL) is performed. Further, in B5, a display for instructing not to replenish ink is performed until the second ink amount is input. Here, the processing of the processing unit 210 is performed on the assumption that a predetermined amount of ink (first ink amount−second ink amount) is consumed between T1 and T2.

  That is, if the ink is replenished during this period, the processing unit 210 (the first ink amount) although the actual consumption amount is (first ink amount + replenishment amount−second ink amount). (Amount-second ink amount) of ink is misrecognized and proper processing cannot be performed. The display of B5 is a display for suppressing such a situation. B5 corresponds to the second menu screen. After the display of B5, a character string such as “measuring automatic charge timing” or an icon may be displayed separately to prevent the user from replenishing ink.

  The user visually confirms that the actual ink amount has reached the second ink amount, and performs input (B6, B7). When the processing unit 210 detects this input as the second input information, the processing unit 210 stores the cumulative ink consumption amount at the timing T2 (B8).

  Then, the processing unit 210 calculates a difference value between the cumulative ink consumption stored in B4 and the cumulative ink consumption stored in B8, and the estimated ink consumption obtained as a result of the counting process between T1 and T2. (B9). In the example of FIG. 16, the result of this counting process represents the estimated ink consumption when the actual ink consumption is a predetermined amount of 1L. Therefore, as described above, a given threshold value WTH is set from the result. it can.

  In FIG. 16, the user is prompted to input by specifying a specific ink volume on the first menu screen and the second menu screen, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, on the first menu screen, it may be instructed to input when the ink tank 221 is full of ink. This is because the capacity of the ink tank 221 is determined at the time of design, so that the ink amount when the ink tank 221 is full is known to the processing unit 210.

  Further, a screen for designating the position of the scale (for example, “7 cm from the bottom of the tank”) may be displayed. Depending on the shape of the ink tank 221, the scale interval may not be constant due to the volume, so the scale display may be expressed by a distance from a reference position such as the bottom surface instead of the volume. In this case, since the user can intuitively grasp the distance information, not the ink remaining volume, it is possible to realize an interface that is easier to understand if the information specified on the menu screen is also the distance information.

  Alternatively, a display such as “please replenish ink in the ink pack when 7 cm from the bottom of the tank and then press ↑” may be displayed on the first menu screen. In this case, the first ink amount is the sum of the ink amount (for example, 100 mL) when “7 cm from the bottom surface of the tank” and the ink amount (for example, 1 L) contained in the ink pack 310, and thus 1.1 L It can be seen that it is. At this time, an input at the timing when “7 cm from the bottom of the tank” may be indicated on the second menu screen. In this case, since the predetermined amount is the ink amount itself contained in the ink pack 310, the predetermined amount can be easily set to an amount corresponding to the usage permission amount information of the memory unit 100.

4.3 Modification Example of Setting after Viewing the Remaining Ink In the setting process based on the first input information and the second input information from the user in the “setting after viewing the remaining ink amount” described above, It is assumed that the first input information and the second input information are input at an appropriate timing. Therefore, an appropriate setting process cannot be executed if the user performs an incorrect operation.

  For example, the first input information is input even though the actual ink amount is not the first ink amount, the second input information is input even though the actual ink amount is not the second ink amount, or If an operation such as replenishing ink between T1 and T2 without following the instruction of B5 is performed, the actual ink consumption will be greatly different from the predetermined amount, and an appropriate threshold value cannot be set. .

  Therefore, in the present modification, processing for confirming whether or not the obtained threshold value may be used is performed. Specifically, the processing unit 210 performs a count processing result (specifically, cumulative ink consumption) from the detection of the input of the first input information to the detection of the input of the second input information. (A difference value of the amount) and the predetermined amount, and based on the result of the comparison processing, it is determined whether or not to set a given threshold value WTH.

  It can be seen that the error between the count processing result and the actual ink consumption varies approximately ± 10% when the printing apparatus 200 is used at the environmental limit recommended by the printing apparatus 200 vendor. Yes. If the variation is large enough to exceed the tolerance range, it can be estimated that some abnormality has occurred. That is, by performing a comparison process between the count process result and the predetermined amount, it is possible to determine whether or not the user has performed an incorrect operation in the threshold setting.

  Specifically, the processing unit 210 includes an estimated ink consumption obtained by a counting process for a period from when the input of the first input information is detected until the input of the second input information is detected, When the error from the predetermined amount is equal to or less than the given error threshold, the given threshold WTH is set based on the estimated ink consumption obtained by the counting process, and the estimated ink consumption obtained by the counting process is set. If the error between the quantity and the predetermined quantity is greater than a given error threshold, the given threshold WTH is not set.

  In this way, since a given threshold value WTH obtained by a user's erroneous operation is not adopted, appropriate processing becomes possible. As described above, the variation here may be set based on the tolerance, for example, ± 20% with respect to the reference value (120%). Of course, it is possible to perform a modification such as a condition that is stricter than the tolerance or a condition that is looser, and the error threshold may be set from a different viewpoint.

4.4 Set by looking at the display after checking the actual ink level (automatic charging time extension)
As described above, the user can know the timing of ink replenishment based on the number of charge blocks 263 displayed on the estimated ink remaining amount display unit 261 of the UI unit 252 shown in FIG. Specifically, when the number of charge blocks 263 displayed on the estimated ink remaining amount display unit 261 becomes one, it is understood that it is a timing to replenish ink in the counting process.

  However, due to the usage environment (high temperature, low temperature, etc.) and usage status (clogging, printing pattern, etc.) of the printing apparatus 200, an error occurs between the estimated ink consumption and the actual ink consumption in the counting process. Thus, if the number of charge blocks 263 displayed on the estimated ink remaining amount display unit 261 does not correspond to the actual ink remaining amount in the ink tank 221, the user will be confused.

  For example, if the actual ink consumption is less than the estimated ink consumption in a case where the ink is used at a low temperature or in a case such as clogging, it is estimated even though the ink surface is above 7 cm from the bottom surface of the ink tank 221. There are cases where the charge block 263 displayed on the ink remaining amount display unit 261 disappears and automatic charging is executed. In other words, when the estimated ink consumption precedes the actual ink consumption, the timing for replenishing ink based on the visual actual ink consumption (hereinafter referred to as ink replenishment timing). , The timing of automatic charging will be accelerated.

  In such a case, an “automatic charge time extension (update time extension)” process for delaying the timing at which the automatic charge is executed when an instruction is given from the operator in order to synchronize the automatic charge timing with the ink replenishment timing. Can be executed. FIG. 17 is a flowchart for explaining the automatic charge time extension process. FIG. 18 is a diagram showing a transition example of the display screen used for the automatic charge time extension process. Each of the display screens illustrated in FIG. 18 is displayed on the first display unit 254 of the UI unit 252 illustrated in FIG. 5 by the processing unit 210.

  As described above, when the ink is replenished at an appropriate timing based on the actual ink consumption, the ink tank 221 may be replenished when the ink surface reaches the lower limit line by visual confirmation by the user. desirable. Therefore, the “automatic charge time extension” processing is executed by the user when the ink is consumed after the automatic charging processing is executed and the ink surface is visually positioned 7 cm from the bottom surface of the ink tank 221. Is the recommended process.

  Actually, the printing apparatus 200 does not detect that the ink surface is 7 cm from the bottom surface of the ink tank 221, and it is not clear to the printing apparatus 200 whether or not the user has confirmed visually. Therefore, the process is started when the user selects execution of the automatic charge time extension process from the menu screen.

  However, when a certain amount of ink is consumed in the counting process and the estimated ink consumption is less than the reference value (120%) that is the initial setting value of the given threshold value WTH, “automatic charge time extension” It is assumed that processing can be executed. In the present embodiment, when the number of charge blocks 263 is 4 or less and the number of charge blocks 263 is 2 or more, that is, the estimated ink consumption is lower than the reference value of a given threshold value WTH. It is assumed that the “automatic charge time extension” process can be executed when the value is less than the low predetermined value (100%).

  Therefore, in the “automatic charge time extension” process shown in the flowchart of FIG. 17, when the user performs the printing operation of the printing apparatus 200, the number of charge blocks 263 displayed on the estimated ink remaining amount display unit 261 is two or more. And when it is four or less, it is started by a user's operation.

  First, in step S301 in FIG. 17, the user selects “charge setting” from the menu screen for the user (user) shown in the screen C1 in FIG. 18, and selects “automatic” from the charge setting menu screen in the screen C2. Select “Charge extension”. The screen C2 is a screen on which the user can select whether or not to extend the automatic charge time, and corresponds to the third menu screen.

  When the user selects the automatic charge time extension on the screen C2, the information “Please execute if there are two or more charge blocks when refilling ink” is displayed to the user. This information is for allowing the user to confirm that the number of charge blocks 263 displayed on the estimated ink remaining amount display unit 261 is four or less. In other words, the screen C3 is for notifying the user whether or not the automatic charge time extension can be executed according to the usage state of the ink consumption, and corresponds to the fourth menu screen. When the user presses “OK (Next)” on the screen C3, the screen transitions to the screen C4.

  Subsequently, in step S302 in FIG. 17, the user selects an ink tank 221 to be subjected to automatic charge time extension from the screen C4 in FIG. 18 is a selection screen when there is one ink tank 221 for each ink color, but when there are a plurality of ink tanks 221 for each ink color, each ink tank 221 is displayed on the screen C4. The selection screen is displayed.

  When the user selects the target ink tank 221, the process proceeds to step S <b> 303 in FIG. 17, and the processing unit 210 (see FIG. 11) determines the ink consumption amount estimated by the processing unit 210 for the target ink tank 221. It is determined whether it is less than 100%.

  When the estimated ink consumption is 100% or more in step S303 in FIG. 17 (step S303: NO), the process proceeds to step S304, and the processing unit 210 displays “Now this function is displayed on screen C5 in FIG. Information indicating that automatic charge time extension cannot be executed, such as “Cannot be executed” is displayed. In this case, when the user visually confirms that the ink surface is 7 cm from the bottom surface of the ink tank 221, the estimated ink consumption is 100% or more, and the estimated ink consumption precedes the actual ink consumption. Because it cannot be said. The screen C5 is for notifying the user whether or not the automatic charge time extension can be executed according to the usage state of the ink consumption, and corresponds to the fourth menu screen.

  When the estimated ink consumption is less than 100% in step S303 in FIG. 17 (step S303: YES), the processing unit 210 displays to select ON / OFF of the automatic charge timing extension shown in the screen C6 in FIG. The screen is changed to determine whether or not ON is selected by the user (step S305 in FIG. 17). In the default state, as shown in the screen C6, it is set to OFF (automatic charge time extension is not executed).

  When the user selects ON (executes automatic charge time extension) and presses OK on screen C6 in FIG. 18 (step S305: YES), the processing unit 210 proceeds to step S306 in FIG. The threshold value WTH is changed to, for example, the second reference value (130%). Thereby, the timing of the automatic charge performed next becomes later than the case where the given threshold value WTH is the reference value (120%).

  In addition, when the user selects ON on the screen C6 of FIG. 18 (step S305: YES), information shown on the screen C7 is displayed. The information shown on screen C7 indicates that when the ink surface is 7 cm from the bottom surface of the ink tank 221, the number of charge blocks 263 is full (5 or more), and the automatic charge time extension that is turned on is extended. Is to prompt the user to set to OFF.

  If automatic charging is repeated with the automatic charge time extension set (ON selected), not only the estimated ink consumption precedes the actual ink consumption, but also the ink The automatic charging timing may be delayed with respect to the replenishment timing.

  For example, even though the ink surface is at a position 7 cm from the bottom surface of the ink tank 221, the estimated ink consumption does not catch up with the actual ink consumption, and the number of charge blocks 263 is displayed in the estimated ink remaining amount display portion 261. If five or more are displayed, the user will be confused. In such a state, the user can cancel the automatic charge time extension setting by operating from the screen C1 of FIG. 18 and selecting OFF on the screen C6.

  When the user selects OFF (do not execute automatic charge time extension) on screen C6 in FIG. 18 and presses OK (step S305: NO), the processing unit 210 proceeds to step S307 in FIG. Is changed to a reference value (120%). Thereby, the setting of the automatic charge time extension is canceled, and it becomes possible to eliminate the delay of the automatic charge timing with respect to the ink replenishment timing.

4.5 After checking the actual ink level, charge the battery by looking at the display (forced charge)
In the above “automatic charge time extension”, the actual ink consumption is less than the estimated ink consumption in the case of using at low temperature or clogging, etc., so that the automatic charging timing is earlier than the ink replenishment timing. In such a case, the timing of automatic charging can be delayed.

  On the other hand, if the actual ink consumption is greater than the estimated ink consumption due to use under high temperature, a printing pattern, or the like, the charge block displayed on the estimated ink remaining amount display unit 261 with respect to the actual ink remaining amount In some cases, the automatic charge is not executed even though the number of H.263 is larger and the ink surface is 7 cm or less from the bottom surface of the ink tank 221. In other words, when the actual ink consumption precedes the estimated ink consumption, the automatic charging timing is delayed with respect to the ink replenishment timing.

  In this state, the user determines that ink remains from the number of charge blocks 263 displayed on the estimated ink remaining amount display unit 261 without visually confirming the actual ink remaining amount, and performs a printing operation. Is continued, the ink runs out, the sensor detects no ink, and the printing apparatus 200 stops operating.

  In addition, if automatic charging is repeated with the above-mentioned “automatic charge timing extension” set, and the automatic charging timing is delayed with respect to the ink replenishment timing, the automatic charging timing extension is set. There are cases where it is difficult to eliminate the delay in automatic charging timing with respect to the ink replenishment timing only by canceling.

  In such a case, in order to synchronize the timing of automatic charging with the ink replenishment timing, when there is an instruction from the operator, the forced charging process is executed and the current charging state is discarded. Processing can be executed.

  FIG. 19 is a flowchart for explaining the forced charging process. The process according to FIG. 19 is a process executed by the processing unit 210 of the printing apparatus 200. FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating a transition example of the display screen used for the forced charging process for the user. FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating a transition example of the display screen used for the forced charging process for maintenance. Each of the display screens shown in FIGS. 20 and 21 is displayed by the processing unit 210 on the first display unit 254 of the UI unit 252 shown in FIG.

  It is recommended that the forced charging process for the user be performed according to a user instruction when the ink surface is visually positioned 7 cm from the bottom surface of the ink tank 221 before the automatic charging process is performed. It is processing. Since the forced charge process is a process of charging from a new memory unit 100 (second memory unit 100-2), it is assumed that the reserved state has been reached.

  However, if the user inadvertently executes the forced charging process without confirming that the ink surface is 7 cm from the bottom surface of the ink tank 221, the current first memory unit 100-1 causes Since the estimated ink amount information based on the charged ink usage permission amount information is discarded, the actual ink corresponding to the estimated ink consumption amount cannot be consumed even though there is an estimated ink consumption amount. There is a fear. Therefore, the forced charge process can be executed when the estimated ink consumption is equal to or greater than a predetermined value lower than a given threshold value WTH.

  In the present embodiment, the given threshold value WTH is set to 120%, which is the reference value, and the predetermined value lower than the given threshold value WTH is set to 100%. Accordingly, the user estimates that the estimated ink consumption estimated by the processing unit 210 (see FIG. 11) for the target ink tank 221 is 100% or more of the predetermined value and less than 120% of the given threshold value WTH. Sometimes a forced charge process can be performed. When the estimated ink consumption is 100% or more and less than 120%, the charge block 263 displayed on the estimated ink remaining amount display unit 261 is one.

  Here, in the maintenance and repair of the printing apparatus 200 by the printing apparatus vendor, the forced charging process may be required regardless of the ink consumption value (regardless of the estimated ink amount information and the actual remaining ink amount). is there. For example, when discarding and replacing the ink tank 221 that has been left for a long time and the internal ink has deteriorated, it is necessary to discard the previously estimated ink amount information.

  In such a case, whether or not the estimated ink consumption is 100% or more and less than 120% when there is an instruction from an engineer who performs maintenance or repair (hereinafter referred to as a maintenance person). Regardless, the forced charge process (hereinafter referred to as “unlimited forced charge”) can be executed. Therefore, a configuration is adopted in which the operator when executing the “unlimited forced charge” process can be limited to the maintenance person.

  First, the “forced charge” process executed by the user will be described. The “forced charge” process shown in the flowchart of FIG. 19 is an estimated ink remaining amount when the ink surface is visually positioned 7 cm from the bottom surface of the ink tank 221 before the automatic charge process is executed in the reserved state. This process is recommended to be started by an operation (instruction) of a user who is an operator of the printing apparatus 200 when the number of charge blocks 263 displayed on the display unit 261 is one. Actually, since the printing apparatus 200 does not detect that the ink surface is 7 cm from the bottom surface of the ink tank 221, the printing apparatus 200 is started when the user selects execution of the forced charging process from the menu screen. .

  In step S401 of FIG. 19, the user selects “Charge setting” from the menu screen shown in the screen C1 of FIG. 20, and selects “Forced charge” from the menu screen of charge setting shown in the screen C2. In the present embodiment, the screens C1 and C2 in FIG. 20 are the same as the screens C1 and C2 in FIG. When the user selects “forced charge” on the screen C2, the screen transitions to the screen D1.

  In step S402 in FIG. 19, the user selects an ink tank 221 to be subjected to forced charging from the screen D1 in FIG. Note that the screen D1 in FIG. 20 is a selection screen when there is one ink tank 221 for each ink color, but when there are a plurality of ink tanks 221 for each ink color, each ink tank 221 is displayed on the screen D1. The selection screen is displayed.

  When the user selects the target ink tank 221, the processing unit 210 proceeds to step S <b> 403 in FIG. 19, and the estimated ink consumption amount for the target ink tank 221 is equal to or greater than a predetermined value (100%). It is determined whether it is less than the threshold value WTH (120%). This is equivalent to confirming that there is only one charge block 263 displayed on the estimated ink remaining amount display unit 261.

  In step S403 in FIG. 19, if the estimated ink consumption is less than a predetermined value or greater than or equal to a given threshold value WTH (step S403: NO), forced charging cannot be executed. Therefore, the processing unit 210 proceeds to step S404, and “Use when the memory unit is reserved when the ink is replenished and the remaining charge block remains” shown in the screen D2 (when execution is impossible) in FIG. Information indicating that such forced charging cannot be executed is displayed. Thereby, it is possible to notify the user of the reason why the forced charge cannot be executed. When the user presses OK (Close) on the screen D2, the display screen of the first display unit 254 returns to the screen D1 in FIG.

  In step S403 in FIG. 19, if the estimated ink consumption is equal to or greater than the predetermined value and less than the given threshold value WTH (step S403: YES), the forced charge can be executed. Accordingly, the processing unit 210 proceeds to step S407 and determines whether or not the reserved state is set (whether or not the reserved flag is 1).

  In step S407 of FIG. 19, if the reserve state is set (the reserved flag is 1) (step S407: YES), the forced charge can be executed. Accordingly, the processing unit 210 prompts the user to confirm whether or not to execute forced charging, as shown in a screen D3 in FIG. This is to prevent the user from inadvertently executing the forced charge process.

  When the user presses OK (execute) on the screen D3 in FIG. 20, the processing unit 210 proceeds to step S408 in FIG. 19 to execute the charge process, and invalidates the reserved memory unit 100 (step S409). The reserved flag is set to 0 (step S410). As a result, the display screen of the first display unit 254 returns to the screen C1 of FIG.

  In step S407 in FIG. 19, if the reserved state is not set (the reserved flag is 0) (step S407: NO), the forced charge cannot be executed. Therefore, in step S411, the processing unit 210 displays information that prompts the user to start the forced charging process after executing the reserve. This information may be the same as the information shown on the screen D2 in FIG.

  In the above-described forced charging process, even if the ink surface is visually positioned 7 cm from the bottom surface of the ink tank 221, it is before the charge block 263 becomes one (the estimated ink consumption is less than a predetermined value). Then, the screen D2 in FIG. 20 is returned to the screen D1, and the user needs to select the ink tank 221 again. The present invention is not limited to such a form. For example, the user can select the ink tank 221 even when the estimated ink consumption is less than a predetermined value, and the estimated ink consumption of the selected ink tank 221 is equal to or greater than a given predetermined value. You may make it display that when it becomes. In this way, the user can execute the forced charge process without selecting the ink tank 221 again.

  Next, the “unlimited forced charge” process executed by the maintenance person will be described. In the printing apparatus 200, a maintenance menu is prepared separately from the menu for the user in order to execute the “unlimited forced charge” process. In order to prevent the general user from inadvertently executing the unlimited forced charging process, the maintenance menu performs, for example, a first operation of the UI unit 252 by performing a specific operation such as pressing a plurality of buttons simultaneously. Displayed on the part 254.

  19 is started by an operation (instruction) from a maintenance menu for a maintenance person who is an operator of the printing apparatus 200. In step S405 of FIG. 19, the maintenance person selects “unlimited forced charge” from the maintenance menu screen shown in the screen E1 of FIG. When the maintenance person selects “unlimited forced charge” on the screen E1, the screen transitions to the screen E2.

  In step S406 in FIG. 19, the maintenance person selects an ink tank 221 to be subjected to unlimited forced charging from the screen E2 in FIG. Since the unlimited compulsory charge process can be executed regardless of the estimated ink consumption, when the ink tank 221 is selected in step S406, the processing unit 210 proceeds to step S407 and determines whether or not it is in a reserved state ( Whether or not the reserved flag is 1).

  The processing steps after step S407 in unlimited compulsory charging are the same as in the case of compulsory charging for users. When the reserved state is executable (step S407: YES), the processing unit 210 confirms whether or not to perform a forced charge on the screen E4 in FIG. 21, and the maintenance person performs OK (execution). Press to execute the charge process. Thereby, the display screen of the 1st display part 254 returns to the screen E1 of FIG. If not in the reserved state (step S407: NO), the processing unit 210 displays the information shown on the screen E3 in FIG.

  Here, although not shown in the flowchart of FIG. 19, when the maintenance person executes the unlimited compulsory charge process from the maintenance menu, the processing unit 210 can specify the date on which the unlimited compulsory charge process is performed. (For example, date) is stored in the storage unit 212. As a result, it is possible to specify the date when maintenance or repair was performed on the printing apparatus 200 by the maintenance person, so that it is possible to track the trouble occurrence status of the printing apparatus 200, the presence or absence of misuse of the user, and the like as necessary. .

  For example, if the unlimited forced charging process is repeatedly performed in a relatively short period of time, there may be some trouble in the printing apparatus 200. In addition, referring to the separately recorded maintenance and repair records, if maintenance and repairs are not performed on the day when unlimited compulsory charge processing is performed, there is a possibility of misuse by the user. You can provide feedback to the user accordingly.

  In the setting process for reducing the error described above, a plurality of examples from 4.1 to 4.5 have been described, but the present embodiment is an example from 4.1 to 4.4. Among these, a configuration in which any one of them can be executed or a configuration in which a plurality of embodiments can be executed may be used. Moreover, it is good also as a structure which can implement all the Examples.

5). The above-described embodiment is merely an aspect of the present invention, and can be arbitrarily modified and applied within the scope of the present invention. Hereinafter, some modified examples will be described.

  In this embodiment, the case where there is an area for storing the valid / invalid state in the storage device 110 of the memory unit 100 has been described as an example, but various methods for setting the memory unit 100 to the invalid state are conceivable. For example, when the charging process by the memory unit 100 is performed, the processing unit 210 writes invalidation data in an area in the storage area of the memory unit 100 where usage permission amount information is stored. The memory unit may be set to an invalid state. For example, when the ink consumption amount on the memory unit side (information that becomes 0% in an unused state) is stored as use permission amount information, the value corresponding to the initial filling amount (117%) is exceeded in the storage area. Just write a value like this: In this way, it becomes possible to set the memory unit 100 to an invalid state using the storage area for the permitted usage amount information. However, the setting method for the invalid state is not limited to this, and an area for storing the valid flag (invalid flag) is provided separately from the area (address) for storing the usage permission amount information, and the data in the area is stored. The memory unit 100 may be set to an invalid state by rewriting the value corresponding to the invalid state.

  Note that the storage area of the memory unit 100 may be managed by an address. For example, the ID information of the memory unit 100 is stored using 8 bits of the storage area corresponding to the address ad1 (for example, the area having ad1 as the head address), and the ink information is stored using 2 bits of the storage area corresponding to the address ad2. Color information representing a color may be stored, and use permission amount information may be stored using 8 bits of a storage area corresponding to the address ad3. When the use permission amount information is represented by the initial filling amount and the ink consumption amount with respect to the initial filling amount, the region for storing the use permission amount information is divided into two regions, and the initial filling amount is stored in the first region. However, the ink consumption may be stored in the second area.

  In the present embodiment, the permitted usage amount information of the memory unit 100 is the initial filling amount and the ink consumption amount relative to the initial filling amount, and the estimated ink amount information of the printing apparatus 200 is the total ink consumption amount information WD and the initial filling amount. However, it is not limited to this. For example, information on the remaining amount may be used instead of information on the consumption. Specifically, the remaining amount of ink estimated to remain unused from the initial filling amount may be used. When the remaining ink amount is used instead of the ink consumption information, the place “exceeding a given threshold” in this embodiment may be replaced with “below the given threshold”.

  Here, the remaining ink amount is, for example, information represented by volume. In this case, without referring to the initial filling amount, it is possible to directly grasp the amount of ink that can be used as the volume and weight as long as the remaining amount of ink is referred to. Therefore, the update (charge process) of the estimated ink amount information based on the permitted use amount information is realized by a process of replacing the remaining ink amount in the permitted use amount information with the remaining ink amount in the permitted use amount information.

  Further, the remaining amount of ink may be information indicating the ratio of the remaining amount with respect to the initial filling amount. In this case, the charging process is a process of updating the estimated ink amount information of the printing apparatus 200 based on both the initial filling amount of the use permission amount information and the remaining ink amount.

  Further, the initial filling amount of the present embodiment may be represented by a capacity (volume) or may be represented by a weight. Further, the ink consumption amount and the ink remaining amount are not limited to those represented by the ratio and the volume, but can be represented by the weight.

  In the present embodiment, the ink consumption efficiency is a lower limit value within a predetermined range, and is estimated when the initial filling amount is consumed assuming use in a usage environment recommended by a printing apparatus vendor. The ink consumption was expressed as 100%. However, the reference in the case of expressing the ink consumption as a ratio is not limited to this, and various modifications can be made. For example, if the warning is displayed with a margin, the reference may be set to a value smaller than the initial filling amount.

  Various types of information can also be used as information used when the processing unit 210 obtains ink estimated amount information (estimated ink consumption). The processing unit 210 counts the number of ink ejections by a soft count process, and the count number may be used as estimated ink amount information, or information obtained by multiplying the count number by an ink amount that is assumed to be consumed by one ejection, That is, information representing the volume of ejected ink may be used as the estimated ink amount information. In any case, the estimated ink amount information is information indicating the consumption degree of the target ink.

  Further, in the present embodiment, considering the case where there is a variation in the amount of ink filled in the ink pack 310, and the case where there are a plurality of sizes of ink packs 310 (for example, 1L and 2L), Information on the initial filling amount is held in the memory unit 100 and the printing apparatus 200. However, when the ink pack 310 has only a predetermined capacity, and the variation need not be considered, the initial filling amount can be set to a fixed value. In this case, it is not significant to store the initial filling amount which is a fixed value in the memory unit 100 bundled with all the ink packs 310. Therefore, the storage unit 212 of the printing apparatus 200 can store an initial filling amount (ink pack capacity) and a ratio corresponding to the initial filling amount in advance. Thereby, the initial filling amount can be omitted from the permitted usage amount information of the memory unit 100. In this case, since it is not necessary to consider the update (replacement) of the initial filling amount in the charging process, the update (replacement) based on the ink consumption (ink remaining amount) may be performed.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the memory unit 100 that has been used halfway, specifically, the ink consumption is larger than the unused state (0%), and is larger than the value corresponding to the initial filling amount (for example, WTH%). We are also considering installing a small memory unit 100. Such a memory unit 100 can be produced, for example, when the technique of Patent Document 1 is used in combination. In the present embodiment, since the ink consumption of the memory unit 100 is used in the charging process, an appropriate process is possible regardless of whether the memory unit 100 is unused or used halfway.

  However, it may be assumed that a new and effective memory unit 100 is always used. For example, according to the method of the present embodiment, the memory unit 100 that has been subjected to the charge process is in an invalid state, and therefore the ink consumption is between 0% and WTH%, and the memory unit 100 in the valid state is not exist. In other words, the memory unit 100 takes into consideration two things: new and valid, or invalid. In that case, since the ink consumption is always 0% for the effective memory unit 100, it is not significant to store the ink consumption in the memory units 100 included in all the ink packs 310. Therefore, the ink consumption amount may be omitted from the use permission amount information in this embodiment, and only the initial filling amount may be used.

  Further, when the initial filling amount is preset in the printing apparatus 200 and when it is assumed that the memory unit 100 is always new and effective, both the initial filling amount and the ink consumption amount can be omitted. . As long as at least the memory unit 100 can be confirmed, the ink estimation information may be charged (ink consumption is reset). In this case, the use permission amount information can confirm that the memory unit 100 is valid. Any information may be used.

  Further, as described above with reference to FIG. 3, the color printing apparatus 200 is assumed, and the description has been made assuming that there are a plurality of ink tanks 221, slots 230, memory units 100, and sliders 240. However, in the case of the monochrome printing apparatus 200, the ink tank 221, the slot 230, the memory unit 100, and the slider 240 may each be one.

  In the present embodiment, the printing operation is stopped when the sensor for detecting the presence or absence of ink detects the absence of ink. However, the present invention is not limited to this. The printing operation may be stopped when a predetermined number of count processes are performed (when the soft count is equal to or greater than a given threshold). In addition, when the presence of ink is detected by the sensor after the stop of the printing operation based on the detection of the absence of ink by the sensor, the printing apparatus 200 returns to the state before the stop of the printing operation. For example, the states of the charged flag and the reserved flag are set to values before the printing operation is stopped. In the example of the state transition diagram of FIG. 14, since the detection of the absence of ink by the sensor is performed during the printing operation, the printing operation by the sensor can be stopped in each of the states S1 to S6. In this case, the state Si (i is an integer satisfying 1 ≦ i ≦ 6) is shifted to a printing stop state (not shown), and the state Si that is the state before the stop is held (for example, stored in the storage unit 212). When the presence of ink is detected, a process of shifting from the print stop state to the state Si is performed.

  Further, the method for detecting the mounting of the memory unit 100 is not limited to that shown in FIG. For example, two mounting detection terminals that are electrically connected are provided in the memory unit 100, and the processing unit 210 electrically connects between two main body side (slot side) mounting detection terminals corresponding to the two mounting detection terminals. You may detect mounting | wearing by detecting continuity.

  Further, the method by which the processing unit 210 selects the memory unit 100 to be accessed is not limited to the above embodiment. For example, if the processing unit 210 is configured to individually output the clock signal SCK for each slot 230, the memory unit 100 can be selected by outputting the clock signal SCK only to a given memory unit 100. . Alternatively, if the processing unit 210 is configured to individually input / output the data signal SDA for each slot 230, the data signal SDA (for example, a read command) is output only to a given memory unit 100, whereby the memory unit 100 can also be selected.

  Further, the ink replenishing container is not limited to the ink pack 310. For example, the ink replenishing container may be a container using a hard member such as resin. Even in this case, the ink replenishing container only needs to withstand the use until the ink tank 221 is replenished, and the demand for durability and the like can be lowered as compared with the ink tank 221. In addition, when using the ink pack 310 (pouch pack), it is assumed that it is necessary to replenish all the ink inside the ink tank 221 after opening. In other words, once the ink pack 310 is opened, it is difficult to use it for the purpose of properly storing ink. On the other hand, when a hard member is used for the ink replenishing container and the replenishing container itself can be plugged, the ink can be replenished in a plurality of times.

  Although the present embodiment has been described in detail as described above, it will be easily understood by those skilled in the art that many modifications can be made without departing from the novel matters and effects of the present invention. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included in the scope of the present invention. For example, a term described at least once together with a different term having a broader meaning or the same meaning in the specification or the drawings can be replaced with the different term in any part of the specification or the drawings. Further, the configuration and operation of the printing apparatus 200 are not limited to those described in the present embodiment, and various modifications can be made.

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 ... Memory unit, 110 ... Memory | storage device, 200 ... Printing apparatus, 210 ... Processing part, 212 ... Memory | storage part, 213 ... Communication processing part, 220 ... Ink storage part, 221 ... Ink tank (ink storage part), 230 ... Slot , 240 ... slider, 242 ... ink supply port cover, 250 ... operation part, 252 ... UI part (user interface part), 300 ... ink pack set, 310 ... ink pack.

Claims (14)

A slot in which a memory unit for storing ink usage permission information can be attached and detached;
A processing unit that performs update processing of ink estimation amount information that is information for estimating the amount of ink in the ink storage unit;
Including
The processor is
In the state where the memory unit is installed in the slot, the use permission amount of the memory unit is determined based on a determination process of whether or not the ink consumption amount represented by the estimated ink amount information exceeds a given threshold value. Performing a charge process for updating the estimated ink amount information according to the information;
The processor is
A printing apparatus that performs a setting process for making the given threshold variable. The printing apparatus according to claim 1,
The processor is
A menu screen for causing a user to select any one of a reference value, a first reference value smaller than the reference value, and a second reference value larger than the reference value as the given threshold value. A printing apparatus that performs display processing. The printing apparatus according to claim 1,
The processor is
Performing a counting process to determine the ink consumption,
The processor is
The printing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein when the predetermined amount of the ink in the ink storage unit is consumed, the given threshold is set based on the ink consumption obtained by the counting process. The printing apparatus according to claim 3,
The processor is
Input by the user of first input information that teaches that the ink in the ink reservoir is a first ink amount, and a first that teaches that the ink in the ink reservoir is a second ink amount. The input of the input information of 2 by the user,
The processor is
The given threshold value is based on the ink consumption obtained by the counting process in a period from when the input of the first input information is detected to when the input of the second input information is detected. A printing apparatus characterized by setting. The printing apparatus according to claim 4,
A user interface part,
The processor is
Processing for causing the user interface unit to display a first menu screen for allowing the user to input the first input information and a second menu screen for allowing the user to input the second input information. The printing apparatus characterized by performing. The printing apparatus according to claim 4 or 5, wherein
The processor is
A comparison process is performed between the result of the counting process in the period from when the input of the first input information is detected until the input of the second input information is detected, and the predetermined amount,
A printing apparatus that determines whether to set the given threshold based on a result of the comparison process. The printing apparatus according to claim 4 or 5, wherein
The processor is
An error between the ink consumption obtained by the counting process during the period from when the input of the first input information is detected to when the input of the second input information is detected, and the predetermined amount Is less than or equal to a given error threshold, the given threshold is set based on the ink consumption determined by the counting process,
When the error between the ink consumption obtained by the counting process and the predetermined amount is larger than the given error threshold, the given threshold is not set. . The printing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7,
The processor is
After the charging process by the memory unit, when the second memory unit is installed in the slot, the ink consumption amount represented by the ink estimated amount information is increased until the predetermined threshold value is exceeded. 2. The printing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the charging process is performed by the second memory unit when the ink consumption exceeds the given threshold without performing the charging process by the second memory unit. The printing apparatus according to claim 1,
The processor is
A printing apparatus configured to be able to execute an update time extension for setting the given threshold so as to delay a time for executing the charge process. The printing apparatus according to claim 9, wherein
The processor is
The printing apparatus, wherein the update time extension can be executed when the ink consumption amount represented by the estimated ink amount information is less than an initial set value of the given threshold value. The printing apparatus according to claim 10,
The processor is
The update time extension can be executed when the ink consumption amount represented by the estimated ink amount information is less than a predetermined value lower than the initial setting value of the given threshold value. Printing device. The printing apparatus according to claim 10 or 11,
The processor is
A printing apparatus that executes a process of displaying a third menu screen on which a user can select whether or not to extend the update time. The printing apparatus according to claim 12, wherein
A user interface part,
The printing apparatus, wherein the processing unit causes the user interface unit to display the third menu screen. The printing apparatus according to claim 13,
The processing unit executes a process of causing the user interface unit to display a usage status of the ink consumption of the memory unit on which the charging process has been executed,
A fourth menu screen for notifying whether or not the update time extension can be executed according to the use situation when the user selects to execute the update time extension on the third menu screen; A printing apparatus characterized by executing a process of displaying a message.

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