JP3923465B2 - Service management method, computer-readable recording medium recording a program for executing the service management method, and service management program - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a service management method for consumable goods / consumable goods and a service management network system related thereto, and preferably as a service recipient including consumable goods / consumable goods for image forming apparatuses such as copying machines and printers. The present invention relates to a consumable article / consumable article management method, a delivery method, a billing method, etc. that can be delivered and can be charged according to the number of uses.

  When image forming apparatuses such as copying machines and printers are continuously used, it is necessary to replace consumable parts and consumables such as toner cartridges and photosensitive cartridges.

  Here, a consumable part means a part such as a photoreceptor cartridge having a photoconductor as a consumable material, while a consumable article means a toner cartridge or ink cartridge having a member such as toner or ink as a consumable material. It means parts such as. However, consumable parts are also consumables in the sense that they are replaced with new consumable parts, and there are also cartridge forms in which the photosensitive cartridge and toner cartridge are formed as a single cartridge. Therefore, in particular, when there is no need to distinguish between the two, consumer goods are used in the sense of integrating the two.

  In such a device on the premise of exchanging the consumable goods, in order to avoid the inoperative state of the equipment due to the exhaustion of the consumable goods, the equipment user purchases and prepares the spare consumable goods in advance. It is common to leave.

  At this time, of course, there is a charge. In other words, since the current billing service method is a system in which the right to hold the consumption article is generated after the purchase process of the consumption article, it is not possible to obtain the ownership right without the purchase process. This is because it is necessary to purchase consumables in order to prepare the item.

  In situations where budget applications are difficult, it is necessary to reduce expenses for consumables. One solution is to reduce the number of consumables to be purchased in advance, but since the cycle for replenishing spare consumables is also shortened, the remaining amount of consumables currently used and Work such as confirmation of the number of spare consumables must also be performed frequently, increasing the burden. Such an operation is usually performed by a device user or an administrator, but since it is performed in the middle of the original work, there is a high possibility that it cannot or cannot be handled.

  For these reasons, in many cases, it is often the case that, as a result, more than the number of consumer goods that are currently required are purchased as spares.

In addition, as a prior art document relevant to this invention, there exist the following nonpatent literature 1 and patent documents 1-5.
Development of Remote Maintenance System for Facsimile, NTT Technical Journal, Japan, Telecommunications Association, November 1, 1995, Vol. 7, No. 11, 68-69 JP-A-8-152825 (published on June 11, 1996) JP 10-52964 A (published February 24, 1998) JP-A-3-220572 (published on September 27, 1991) Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 10-234825 (published on September 8, 1998) Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 10-105011 (published on April 24, 1998)

  However, when the current image forming apparatus is returned to the leasing company due to a lease expiration, or when the amortization of the image forming apparatus is completed and discarded, the user of the device can dispose of the conventional consumables for the apparatus. If so, the consumer goods are totally wasted.

  In addition, even if the model is changed at the time of lease contract renewal, if the compatibility between the consumables for the previous device and the consumable for the new device is not maintained, the old The consumer goods for the device are completely wasted.

  In particular, in a large-volume printing scene such as an office, it is necessary to purchase a large amount of consumer goods in order to meet the demand, which entails a large advance expenditure. Therefore, the damage caused by the above situation is also significant.

  As a method to solve the above problems as much as possible, information on the usage status of the device, for example, the last replacement date and time of the consumption article, the usage time of the appliance since the consumption article was replaced, the number of printed sheets, etc. was equipped on the consumption article There is a technique for predicting the lifetime of a photoreceptor and toner by storing it in an IC chip or the like and referring to the information.

  According to the image forming apparatus having such a function, if the life prediction of the photosensitive cartridge, the toner cartridge, and the like is accurately performed by electronic means, the number of pre-purchased items is reduced as much as possible. However, it is not impossible to automate the management of daily consumables.

  However, even if the accuracy of the prediction can be improved, there is no change in that a spare consumer product is necessary, and the acquisition of the consumer product is accompanied by an expense. Furthermore, depending on the performance of the algorithm that performs the prediction, the prediction accuracy varies greatly, and as long as it is a prediction, essentially 100% accuracy cannot be obtained.

  As described above, it is necessary to secure spare consumable goods in order to avoid the inoperative state of the equipment due to depletion of consumable goods, but in the current billing system, it is necessary to purchase to secure the consumable goods Furthermore, there is a problem in that the spare consumer goods obtained by the expense may not be actually needed and may be wasted.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above problem, and is a consumable article delivered to a service recipient in order to avoid inoperability of equipment due to exhaustion of consumer goods and inconvenience associated with exhaustion of consumer goods. A method that can suppress unnecessary expenses without having to take an uncertain method such as prediction by accounting only for consumables and consumables that are actually used among the consumables, and Provide system etc. In addition, examples of distribution items as service objects are not limited to consumables used in devices that require consumables, but are used for office supplies such as recording paper, daily necessities such as soap, and products in factories. It is possible to apply any article that can be said to be convenient and convenient for the service recipient, such as parts used in the manufacture of products, which are delivered in advance and charged for the amount used.

  The service management method of the present invention is a computer table (computer) that records information (identified) on a product to be delivered to a service recipient and usage status of the product delivered by the service recipient at any time (in a computer storage unit). And a step of reading out the number of distributions that can be recognized as purchased by the service receiver, and a charge amount to be charged to the service receiver based on the number of distribution items read out (the calculation processing unit And a step of calculating is performed by a programmed computer.

  As a result, unused distribution items that have only been delivered to the service recipient are not subject to billing processing, and the charge amount obtained only for the distribution items that the service recipient can certify has been Will be charged. As a result, it is possible to provide a reasonable service by charging the service recipient with a lean billing amount, and for the service provider, by providing the above services, it is possible to secure customers. , The sale of the distribution can be performed stably.

  In addition, since the information on the distribution delivered to the service recipient is recorded in the management table in the service provider's computer as needed, it is possible to eliminate the distribution as a pirated version not applicable to this service. That is, since the distribution used by the service recipient is directly provided by the service provider and recorded on the service provider's own computer, the pirated version is not recorded. This is because the service is never applied.

  In addition, since the service provider can centrally manage the distribution items used by a plurality of service recipients by using the management table, when the use of the same distribution item is detected by different service recipients Therefore, it is possible to distinguish between a genuine product and a pirated version, and therefore, it is possible to eliminate a pirated version by giving a warning or the like to a service recipient who uses a distribution product certified as a pirated version.

  As described above, the use of the same distribution can be easily checked by the service provider, and the distribution is delivered based on the information of the distribution registered by the service provider. Therefore, it is possible to easily identify the service recipient using the pirated version.

  The service management method according to the present invention includes a step of registering information on a product to be delivered to a service recipient in a terminal (for example, a management table of a computer), and obtaining a use status of the product by the service recipient (for example, , And a step of authorizing the use as a purchase action (in other words, authorizing that the service recipient has purchased). And a charge amount is calculated based on the number of distributions certified as the purchase action in the number of deliveries of the distribution (for example, the step of identifying the possible distributions on the management table in which the usage situation is input) , Having a computer calculate) (execute using a computer).

  According to this, since it is a system which charges only for the actually used distribution, not charged for the unused distribution that is delivered in advance, the service recipient can suppress unnecessary advance expenditure. be able to.

  On the other hand, since the service provider can surely secure customers, it is possible to stably sell distribution items. In addition, since the service provider registers the information on the products to be delivered in advance, it is possible to eliminate the products as pirated editions that are not applicable to this service. That is, since the service provider provides the service provider directly to the service receiver and registers it on his / her terminal, the pirated version is not registered, and therefore the pirated version is not used. Absent.

  In addition, the service provider can centrally manage the distribution items used by multiple service recipients, so if different service recipients detect the use of the same distribution item, It is possible to distinguish pirated editions, and therefore, pirated editions can be eliminated by giving a warning or the like to a service recipient who uses a product that is certified as pirated edition.

  As described above, the use of the same distribution can be easily checked by the service provider, and the distribution is delivered based on the information of the distribution registered by the service provider. Therefore, it is possible to easily identify the service recipient using the pirated version.

  The service management method of the present invention includes a step of registering unique information of a product to be delivered to a service recipient in a terminal (for example, a management table of a computer), and the use of the product by the service recipient via a network. (E.g., based on the detection of the unique information), a step of certifying the use as a purchase action, and a charge amount based on the number of circulated products certified as the purchase action out of the number of circulated products delivered. And (computing executed by a computer).

  According to this, in addition to the above-described effects, since the use of the distribution material by the service recipient is detected via the network, the service provider can confirm the purchase status of the service recipient in a reliable and almost real-time while being in a remote place. It can be obtained.

  Even if there are a plurality of service recipients, it is easy to obtain them.

  The unique information of the distribution is information for individually identifying (identifying) the distribution and is registered in the service provider's terminal. This makes it possible to detect the use of the distribution item by the service recipient. For example, if the unique information is transmitted from the service recipient's computer to the service provider's terminal via the network, the service recipient has the unique information by collating with the registered unique information. You can certify that you have used a distribution.

  Such processing of registration of specific information, verification, authorization of use, and calculation of a charge amount based on the number of certified distribution items can be realized by a computer program.

  -In the service management method of the present invention, the step of detecting the use of the distribution product by the service receiver via the network is to detect the unique information of the distribution product and the unique information of the service receiver. It is a feature.

  According to this, even if there are a plurality of service recipients, it is possible to specify the service recipients who use the distribution goods, so that accurate billing amount management can be performed for each service recipient. The form of transmission is not limited as long as the service provider side can detect the unique information of the distribution and the unique information of the service recipient. For example, the unique information of the distribution and the unique information of the service receiver are collected together. In addition to the transmission of information, it may be possible to transmit the information in two apparently. That is, the two information can be received as related information on the service provider side by making the two pieces of information the same transmission time although they are in different networks.

  In addition, if multiple service recipients transmit the above information at the same time, the service provider will not be able to detect in advance the association between the unique information of the distribution item and the unique information of the service recipient. Was it possible to avoid this by setting the transmission time of information so that it does not overlap for each recipient, or was it possible to detect by associating the unique information of the distribution with the unique information of the service recipient on the service provider side? If the result of the determination is that the transmission of information is detected from a plurality of service recipients at the same time, the information transmission is invalidated and the service recipient who has transmitted the information is invalidated. An error notification and an instruction to transmit information again are issued. The error notification, instruction, etc. may be sent back to the service recipient's terminal.

  Further, a method of adding auxiliary information for associating the two information to the two information may be used. In this case, for example, the transmission time can be used as auxiliary information.

  The service management method of the present invention is a management table in which unique information for specifying a distribution to be delivered to a service recipient is recorded, and the usage status of the distribution by the service recipient is indicated to the service recipient. Access the management table that is updated as needed based on the receipt of the unique information of the distribution items installed in the installed device from the device, and determine the number of distribution items that the service recipient can certify as purchased. It is characterized by causing a programmed computer to execute a reading step and a step of calculating a charge amount to be charged to the service recipient based on the read number of distribution items.

  According to this, the said distribution thing is a distribution thing with which the apparatus installed in the service receiver is mounted | worn. Further, in the management table stored in the storage means, for example, in the service provider's computer, there are specific information for specifying the distribution to be delivered to the service receiver and the usage status of the distribution by the service receiver. The usage status is updated from time to time based on the receipt of the unique information of the attached distribution item from the type of device to which the distribution item is attached. That is, regarding the distribution item that has received the unique information, the service recipient is considered to have purchased the distribution item and is recorded in the management table.

  Therefore, by accessing such a management table, it is possible to read the number of distribution items that can be recognized as purchased by the service recipient, so that the same effect as described above can be obtained.

  The service management method of the present invention is a service management method that uses a computer for providing a distribution necessary for operating a device. In this service management method, a service provider supplies a distribution to a service recipient. A step of registering unique information in a terminal (for example, a management table of a computer on the service provider side), and a step of reading (for example, the device) the unique information of a distribution item attached to a device installed in the service recipient Transmitting information including at least the read information (for example, the device) to the service provider (side computer), and the service provider (for example, using the computer on the service provider side) A step of detecting the above information via a network, and a step of certifying attachment to the device as a purchase action based on the unique information. (In other words, a step in which the service provider identifies on the management table a distribution that can be recognized by the service recipient based on the specific information received from the device) and delivery of the distribution And a step of calculating a charge amount based on the purchase action and the number of certified distribution items (processing is executed using a computer on the service provider side).

  According to this, the use of the distribution is detected by a simple step on the service receiver side of reading the unique information of the distribution item mounted on the device, and the use corresponds to the purchase on the service provider side. By certifying whether or not to do so based on the unique information, it is possible to accurately know the actual number of goods consumed.

  Note that the step of reading the unique information of the distribution and the step of transmitting the information including at least the read information to the service provider can be performed if the equipment installed in the service receiver is automatically performed. Without the user's consciousness, and without having to bother the service recipient. In addition, since the processing is via the network, real-time processing is possible.

  In addition, the step of obtaining the usage status of the distribution product by the service receiver by the step of reading the unique information of the distribution product installed in the equipment installed in the service receiver, and the usage status is the use of the distribution product In the case of the information determined to be, it is possible to simultaneously perform the step of authorizing the use as a purchase action, so that the processing can be simplified.

  In addition, when information including at least information read on the device side is detected via a network, if the detected information includes new unique information, use of the distribution product by the service recipient, That is, it is preferable to certify as purchase. This is because the information detected via the network contains unique information that has already been detected, such as when the distribution item once attached to the device is removed for some reason and then attached again. Because there is also.

  In addition, since the information formed in the distribution is unique information, if the distribution having the same information has already been registered by the service provider, two or more distributions having the same information can be obtained. The check operation is performed because it exists, and in general, there is a high possibility that the circulation detected later in time is a pirated version (= copying the unique information of the genuine product) and is excluded.

  The service management method of the present invention includes a step of identifying (for example, on the management table) an unused state of the distribution that has been delivered to the service receiver and that is to be collected from the service receiver after a certain period of time. It is characterized by having.

  According to this, it is possible to collect unused goods from the service recipient by specifying the goods to be collected, so that the delivered goods can be used for a long time by the service recipient. Therefore, it is possible to eliminate the state of being stored without being purchased. In addition, the collected distribution items can be delivered to other service recipients. In other words, a distribution item that has not been used for a certain period is determined not to be purchased by the delivered service recipient, and is provided to other service recipients. Or sales opportunities can be increased.

  The service management device of the present invention includes a first storage unit for registering information on a distribution product to be delivered to a service recipient, an input unit for inputting the usage status of the distribution product, and the number of deliveries of the distribution product. And an arithmetic processing unit that calculates a charge amount based on the number used.

  According to this, the arithmetic processing unit takes in the number of deliveries from the information on the circulation registered in the first storage unit, and takes in the number of deliveries from the information on the use situation input through the input unit, Since the actual number of consumption can be obtained by subtracting the number of uses from the Services can be managed centrally.

  If the distribution information and the service receiver information are stored in pairs at the time of registration, the service receiver transmits only the distribution information to the service management device in the process of using the distribution. Even so, it is possible to identify the service recipient who uses the distribution item in the service management apparatus. Therefore, the amount of information to be received can be reduced compared with the case where the unique information of the distribution and the service receiver information are received in pairs when the distribution is used, thereby reducing the input load and the processing load. can do.

  The service management device of the present invention includes a first storage unit that registers unique information of a distribution item delivered to a service recipient, a communication unit for detecting use of the distribution item via a network, The service management apparatus includes an arithmetic processing unit that calculates a charge amount based on the number of the distributions that have been detected for use.

  According to this, by registering the unique information in the storage unit, it becomes easy to specify the distribution items delivered to the service recipient, and the arithmetic processing unit manages the usage status of the distribution items for each distribution item. It becomes possible to carry out every detail. In addition, since the communication unit detects the use of the distribution item via the network, the service provider can obtain the purchase status of the service recipient reliably and almost in real time while being at a remote place.

  Furthermore, since the unique information is assigned and registered in the storage unit for each product to be provided to the service recipient, when the unique information is detected by the communication unit via the network, the arithmetic processing unit It can be identified that the recipient has used the distribution product with the specific information.

  Furthermore, by determining whether or not the detected unique information matches the registered unique information, it is possible to easily detect whether or not the service recipient is using a pirated version. Also, when the same unique information is detected from different service recipients, it can be detected that pirated copies are on the market.

  In addition, when the distribution item is used by being attached to the device, and the device reads the unique information of the distribution item and transmits it to the service management apparatus, the distribution item attached to the device is Depending on whether the information is the same or different, for example, in the case of an image forming apparatus, the arithmetic processing unit electronically determines whether the same circulation is inserted / removed at the time of paper jam treatment, or whether a new circulation is installed by replacement. Can be judged. Accordingly, when the information on the attached distribution item is new, it is possible to identify the purchase action of the distribution item based on the notification result.

  If the unique information of the distribution and the service receiver information are stored in pairs at the time of registration, the service receiver transmits only the distribution information to the service management device in the process of using the distribution. Even in this case, it is possible to identify the service recipient using the distribution item in the service management apparatus. Therefore, the amount of information to be received can be reduced as compared with the case where the unique information of the distribution and the contractor information are received in pairs when the distribution is used, thereby reducing the network load and the processing load. be able to.

  The service management apparatus of the present invention is characterized in that the first storage unit registers and registers the unique information of the goods to be delivered to the service recipient and the information of the service recipient.

  According to this, even a plurality of service recipients can identify the service recipient based on the unique information of the distribution item. In other words, by using the unique information of the distribution as basic management information, not only the distribution management but also the service recipient management can be performed. In addition, because it is possible to manage delivery information and purchase information (delivered distributions that have actually been purchased) for each service recipient, each service recipient can use unique information on the distribution for each service recipient. A wide variety of individual services can be performed.

  -In the service management device of the present invention, the arithmetic processing unit further calculates the number of unused circulations held by the service recipient based on information on the exchange of circulations, and the calculation result is a specified value. When the number of distribution items reaches a specified value, the service receiver is instructed to send a new distribution item.

  As a result, in addition to the above effects, the inventory status of spare circulation items is monitored, and new distribution items are shipped when the amount falls below the specified value. Therefore, the distribution items are depleted at the service recipient's home. There is nothing to do.

  -The service management device of the present invention further includes that the arithmetic processing unit calculates the charge of the distribution used by the service recipient within the corresponding period based on the date and time information exchanged with the use information of the distribution. It is a feature. As a result, in addition to the above effects, periodic charging processing can be automatically performed.

  The service management apparatus of the present invention further includes a second storage unit that stores information transmitted from the service recipient, and the arithmetic processing unit stores the stored information and the latest information transmitted. The stored information is updated when they are compared and are different.

  As a result, when the same unique information is transmitted many times, the contents of the second storage unit are not updated, so that there is no possibility of double counting during billing management or the like. In addition, processing such as billing management can be performed at the timing when the contents of the second storage unit are updated.

  The service management apparatus of the present invention further includes a third storage unit that registers a list of distribution items that can be delivered to the service recipient, and the list registered in the third storage unit is a network. It is characterized in that it can be accessed from outside.

  According to this, since the list registered in the third storage unit is in an accessible state from the outside via the network, it is possible to allow the service recipient to select a candidate for the circulation to be delivered. As a result, it is possible to deliver the optimal distribution to the service recipient, and to improve the purchase probability by the service recipient. In addition, since the service provider can prepare the distribution based on the result of such advance request, the service provider can perform ordering / inventory management, etc. Can be reduced.

  In addition, since it is possible to know popular distribution items and conversely unpopular distribution items based on the selection results of the service recipients, such prior request results can be used when selecting distribution items for service. If the feedback is made promptly, the purchase probability can be further improved.

  -The distribution of the present invention is characterized by being used in the above service management method.

  Since the distribution is managed by the service management method according to the present invention, the service provider has an advantage that the usage status can be accurately grasped. Produces the advantage of not having to pay extra.

  The distribution product of the present invention is further characterized in that unique information of the distribution product is formed in advance.

  Based on the unique information of the distribution product, the service provider can confirm “what distribution product has been delivered in advance to which service recipient” at the time of delivery of the distribution product.

  In addition, when electronically detecting the use information of the service recipient's distribution, for example, it is possible to determine whether the same distribution is used or whether a new distribution is used by exchange. When the information of the product is new, it is possible to identify the purchase of the distribution product with the notification result.

  The unique information formed in the distribution is, for example, code information that does not make sense on its own, and the code information of the distribution is used as the product name for the first time by referring to the product table prepared on the service provider side. You may make it translate.

  In this case, the unique information of the distribution in the present invention is information that is low risk for both the service provider and the service recipient even if it is leaked to a third party or decrypted. There is no need for advanced processing. Therefore, compared to reading out such information as a security measure, the hardware and software scale can be reduced, and the processing time can be shortened by the amount of decryption, so high-speed reading is performed. Can do.

  In addition, the service provider can specify the contractor only by obtaining the unique information of the distribution if the distribution information and the service recipient information are registered in association with each other when the distribution is delivered. That is, the amount of information transmission can be reduced and the network can be used compared to the case where service recipient information that is the user of the distribution product is obtained in addition to the unique information of the distribution product. Can reduce the communication load.

  In addition, if used in the service management method of the present invention, even if a third party manufactures and sells a copy of the distribution including the unique information of the distribution, the service target is not provided unless the service provider handles the distribution. Since it is not, pirated versions can be eliminated.

  The distribution product of the present invention is further characterized in that a first information recording body in which unique information of the distribution product is formed is attached.

  According to this, since it is not necessary to directly form the unique information for the distribution, there is no need to change the manufacturing process of the distribution at all, and the first information recording body on which the unique information is separately formed is manufactured. However, the distribution object can be made a service object according to the present invention only by adding a simple step of attaching the first information recording body to the distribution object.

  The distribution product of the present invention is a package of a plurality of products, and the first information recording body on which the unique information of the distribution product is formed is attached to the packed distribution product. It is a feature.

  According to this, it is possible to make a service object according to the present invention not only in the case of a distribution item, but also in the case where a new product is created by combining a single distribution item or a plurality of other distribution items. Become. For example, like a car tire, there are four, sometimes two (for front wheels or rear wheels), or when the temporary tire is the same as the fitted tire, the minimum unit is 5, 3 respectively. In such a case, a plurality of tires can be combined into one service object in the present invention. Further, a new set product may be created by combining different distribution items such as shampoo and rinse.

  In addition, even if there is no way to create an effective combination of distribution items depending on the manufacturer of individual distribution items, or even when combination sales are not possible quickly, service providers are sensitive to market trends. There is an advantage that an optimum combination sale can be promptly performed by reacting and using the distribution.

  The product of the present invention is a product packed with a packaging member, the first information recording body in which unique information of the product is formed is arranged inside the packaging member, and the first information in the packaging member It is characterized in that a portion corresponding to the arrangement position of the recording body is at least transparent.

  According to this, since the arrangement position of the 1st information recording body inside a packing member respond | corresponds to the transparent part of a packing member, the contents of the packed goods, ie, information, such as a kind and a classification, are opened. Therefore, there is an advantage that the product can be easily confirmed.

  In addition, since the information formed in the first information recording body can be detected visually or optically, at the time of delivery of the distribution product, the service person obtains the information of the delivered distribution item without opening the packing member. Therefore, a second information recording body to be described later can be omitted. It can be said that the structure of the packaging member is largely related to the fact that the information formed on the first information recording body does not have the confidentiality.

  -The distribution product of the present invention further includes a protective material for packing or wrapping the distribution material, and a second information record in which information having the same content as the unique information of the distribution product is formed on or inside the protective material. It is characterized by having a body.

  As a result, the service person can obtain information on the distribution product delivered at the time of delivery of the distribution item from the second information recording body affixed to the surface of the distribution item such as the packing material. It is not necessary to take out the distribution product by opening it and obtain the unique information formed in the distribution product, and there is no loss of merchantability associated with opening.

  The information formed on the second information recording body can be obtained by reading with a scanner. For example, if the unique information is formed as a barcode, it can be easily and quickly performed, and work such as delivery check at the time of delivery can be speeded up.

  Furthermore, when the second information recording body is affixed to the surface of the article to be distributed, the information can be read easily, so that the above work can be speeded up.

  In addition, when attaching the second information recording medium to the inside of the distribution item, care must be taken not to cause loss of merchantability associated with opening, but the second information recording body is more than the method of attaching to the surface. Since the information recording body is not damaged such as breakage, it is possible to avoid a situation where the information cannot be read due to loss or damage of the second information recording body.

  If the second information recording body is formed so as to be separable from the circulation, it can be determined whether the second information recording body is undelivered or already delivered according to the presence or absence of the second information recording body. In addition, since it is possible to take the second information recording body home, it is possible to avoid a situation where pre-registration cannot be performed even when the scanner is out of order, and take it home to the service provider. Information can be read and pre-registered.

  The distribution product of the present invention is further characterized in that the second information recording body is formed so as to be removable from the distribution product.

  Thereby, by confirming the presence or absence of the second information recording body, it is possible to easily distinguish whether the distribution product has been delivered or before delivery. In addition, the service provider can take the second information recording body back to the service provider's home, and the delivered goods can be registered at the service provider's home after delivery. Therefore, the delivered product can be confirmed more reliably than when the unique information of the delivered product is registered at the time of delivery. Moreover, if both are used together, the certainty is further improved.

  Further, if the second information recording medium is pasted on the distribution with an adhesive or the like that can be repeatedly applied, even if the second information recording medium is peeled off after being delivered, The second information recording body can be re-applied again without deteriorating the appearance. Such a situation occurs when the service recipient has made a maximum use of the benefits of the service according to the present invention and has not made a purchase even though the delivery has been made to a certain service recipient. This applies to cases where items are collected and delivered to other service recipients.

  The distribution product of the present invention further includes an IC chip, and unique information of the distribution product is stored in the IC chip.

  As a result, an IC chip that has been studied for the purpose of eliminating pirated copies in the past can be used as it is, and there is no need to increase the cost of hardware. Information can be stored.

  The distribution product of the present invention is further characterized by being a cartridge that stores toner.

  In general, an electrophotographic image forming apparatus is designed on the assumption that the consumables such as the toner cartridge are replaced. Since the market as an aftermarket is larger than the main body of the image forming apparatus, the manufacture and sale of pirated copies are rampant. is doing. Under such circumstances, if the service management method according to the present invention is used, it is possible to provide a regular distribution product while eliminating pirated copies. In other words, since the service provider guarantees and manages all the processes of manufacturing, distribution, and sales, there is no room for pirated copies to be included, and it is the service provider that registers the distribution at the time of delivery. Therefore, it is possible to target only the distribution items approved by the service provider.

  The distribution product of the present invention is further characterized by being a cartridge that stores ink.

  Accordingly, the same effect as that of the toner cartridge can be obtained for the ink cartridge of the ink jet printer.

  The service management network system according to the present invention is a device in which a distributed product that has unique information and is consumed or consumed is detachable and detects the unique information of the distributed product from the distributed product A first group including a reading unit for reading, a transmission unit that transmits the read information to the outside via a network, and a controller unit that controls the reading unit and the transmission unit, A communication unit for communicating with the first group, a storage unit for registering information on the distribution item in the first group, a usage status of the distribution item is confirmed, and the use amount of the distribution item is used. And a second group including a service management apparatus having an arithmetic processing unit for calculating a billing amount based on the number obtained.

  Thereby, the service management method described above can be realized by using IT technology such as a network system and an IC chip.

  In addition, information including unique information detected by the reading unit from the distribution items attached to the device is transmitted from the transmission unit to the communication unit of the service management apparatus. Thereby, the arithmetic processing unit can check the usage status of the distribution item based on the received unique information, and calculates the billing amount to be charged to the first group based on the number used. can do. Therefore, the second group can be identified as a purchase action based on the fact that the second group has been exchanged for a spare product.

  In addition, even if a pirated version is used, the device operates to read the unique information of the distributed product formed in the distributed product. Can be eliminated based on

  The service management apparatus may be provided with an input unit for inputting the usage status of the distribution item, and the usage status of the distribution item may be updated as needed by manual input from the input unit.

  In the service management network system of the present invention, in addition to the above-described configuration, the reading unit of the device detects unique information of the distribution item from the distribution item based on timing information when the distribution item is attached to the device. Is a network system characterized by

  For example, a sensor that detects whether the distribution item is mounted on the device is provided, the rising or falling timing of the sensor output signal is detected, and the reading unit is operated in synchronization with the timing to read the unique information. To do. Thereby, the operability of the device related to reading of the unique information can be improved.

  In order to exchange the circulation, it is necessary to detach the used circulation and to attach a new circulation. Therefore, the trigger signal for reading unit operation is the timing when the circulation is removed and reattached. Can be used.

  The service management network system of the present invention further compares the storage unit that stores information input from the reading unit with the latest information input from the reading unit and information that is already stored. The controller unit updates the stored content stored in the storage unit when the latest information input from the reading unit is different from the stored information. It is characterized by performing control.

  As a result, it is possible to determine by electronic operation whether the same circulating article is removed or inserted at the time of paper jam treatment or the replacement of the new circulating article by replacement, and the controller section stores the information on the mounted circulating article. Only in a new case can it be identified that a new distribution item is attached.

  Thereby, the unique information of the distribution item from the new distribution item is detected by the reading unit of the device, and is transmitted from the transmission / reception unit to the communication unit of the second group via the network. Recognize the purchase of goods.

  In the service management network system of the present invention, the arithmetic processing unit further determines the number of unused distribution items held by the first group on the basis of information on replacement of distribution items of the devices of the first group. A network system characterized by calculating, comparing the calculation result with a specified value, and issuing an instruction to send a new distributed item to the first group when the number of distributed items reaches a specified value. .

  As a result, in addition to the effects of the configuration of the service management network system described above, the inventory status of spare distribution items is monitored, and new distribution items are shipped when the value falls below the specified value. There is no depletion of distribution at home.

  The service management network system according to the present invention further includes a charge for the distribution material used by the first group within the corresponding period based on the date and time information exchanged by the arithmetic processing unit with the distribution material usage information of the device. Is a network system characterized by calculating

  As a result, the periodic billing process can be automatically performed.

  The service management network system of the present invention further includes a second storage unit that stores information transmitted from the first group, and the arithmetic processing unit transmits the stored information and the latest information transmitted. A network system characterized by comparing information and updating the stored information if they are different.

As a result, it is possible to determine by electronic and remote operation whether the same circulation is inserted or removed at the time of paper jam treatment or the replacement of the new circulation by electronic replacement, and the information on the installed circulation is new. Only in the case, it becomes possible to identify the purchase of the distribution item with the notification result. Therefore, the calculation processing unit does not need to perform unnecessary calculation such as billing processing when the information of the attached distribution items is the same.

  The service management network system according to the present invention is a network system characterized in that the device is an image forming apparatus.

  As a result, distribution information such as toner cartridges can be centrally managed through the network for the image forming apparatuses connected to the network.

  The service management network system of the present invention includes a reading unit for detecting unique information of the distribution item from the distribution item having unique information, a transmission / reception unit that transmits the read information to the outside via a network, A first group composed of devices having a controller unit that controls the reading unit and the transmission / reception unit, a communication unit for communicating with the first group, and information on the articles in the first group Service information storage unit for registering a service information, and a processing unit for confirming the use status of the product and calculating a charge amount based on the number of used products delivered. It is characterized by comprising a second group comprising devices.

  According to this, the service target is not limited to the distribution necessary for operating the device, but can be delivered to the service recipient as most ordinary products in general distribution, that is, as preparation. All products that can be charged according to the number of uses can be targeted for service.

  This is because the reading unit of the device has a function of detecting the unique information of the distribution item from the distribution item having the unique information, and the distribution item does not need to be attached to the device. In addition, most products in general distribution can be accompanied by unique information for individually identifying the products using various information recording forms such as an IC chip and a barcode.

  The service management apparatus may be provided with an input unit for inputting the usage status of the distribution item, and the usage status of the distribution item may be updated as needed by manual input from the input unit.

  In the service management network system of the present invention, the service management apparatus has a list storage unit that registers a list of distribution items that can be delivered to the first group, and the first group of devices displays the list. And a selection unit for selecting a specific distribution item from the displayed list.

  According to this, the distribution list registered in the list storage unit of the service management device is communicated between the communication unit of the service management device and the transmission / reception unit of the device, and is displayed on the display unit of the device. While receiving the list displayed on the display unit, the service recipient can select a distribution item that suits his / her preference by the selection unit and set it as a service target. Therefore, it is possible to eliminate the delivery of the circulated product that has almost no possibility of purchase, and to greatly increase the probability of purchase.

  Since the service provider can automatically obtain the information selected by the service recipient, if the analysis of the information or statistical analysis is further added, the service provider can meet the preference of the service recipient. The service provider can make a proposal to the service recipient, such as adding the distributed product to the list of deliverable products.

  If the Internet is used as a network and a browser is used as a means for displaying a list of registered deliverables, this service can be realized by using existing technology.

  The computer-readable recording medium of the present invention is characterized by recording a program for executing the service management method of the present invention.

  The service management program of the present invention is characterized by causing a computer to execute each step of the service management method of the present invention.

  According to the above configuration, the service management method of the present invention can be provided to the service recipient by loading the program recorded on the recording medium or the program downloaded via the network into the service management device. Also, by loading a program recorded on the recording medium or downloaded via a network onto a computer, the service management method of the present invention can be provided to a service recipient using a general computer. it can.

  As described above, according to the present invention, only the consumption articles actually used among the consumption articles delivered to the device user in order to avoid the inoperative state of the device due to the exhaustion of the consumption items are charged. Therefore, the consumable goods can be exchanged on the contractor side without having unnecessary inventory.

  In addition, the delivery work for advance delivery and the billing work need not be at the same time, and the delivery work is determined and executed based on the actual consumption situation, while the billing work is independent of the delivery work. For example, since it can be performed periodically with a monthly unit as a delimiter, each can be performed in an efficient and convenient manner.

  In addition, according to the present invention, in order to avoid the exhaustion of general consumer goods that do not involve the operation of the equipment, only the consumer goods actually used among the consumer goods delivered to the contractor are charged. Therefore, the contractor can select and use the necessary consumer goods from the consumer goods delivered in advance without incurring unnecessary expenses. Further, by making the consumables delivered in advance according to the contractor's request, unnecessary inventory on the contractor side can be reduced.

  The details are as follows.

  The service management method of the present invention is a computer table (computer) that records information (identified) on a product to be delivered to a service recipient and usage status of the product delivered by the service recipient at any time (in a computer storage unit). And a step of reading out the number of distributions that can be recognized as purchased by the service receiver, and a charge amount to be charged to the service receiver based on the number of distribution items read out (the calculation processing unit And a step of calculating is performed by a programmed computer.

  As a result, unused distribution items that have only been delivered to the service recipient are not subject to billing processing, and the charge amount obtained only for the distribution items that the service recipient can certify has been Will be charged. As a result, it is possible to provide a reasonable service by charging the service recipient with a lean billing amount, and for the service provider, by providing the above services, it is possible to secure customers. , The sale of the distribution can be performed stably.

  In addition, since the information on the distribution delivered to the service recipient is recorded in the management table in the service provider's computer as needed, it is possible to eliminate the distribution as a pirated version not applicable to this service.

  In addition, since the service provider can centrally manage the distribution items used by a plurality of service recipients by using the management table, when the use of the same distribution item is detected by different service recipients The genuine product and the pirated edition can be distinguished from each other, and the various effects of being able to eliminate the pirated edition are also produced.

  -According to the present invention, the step of registering information on the distribution to be delivered to the service recipient in the terminal, the step of obtaining the usage status of the distribution by the service recipient, and the usage status being the usage of the distribution product In the case of information determined to be a purchase action, a step of authorizing the use as a purchase action, and a step of calculating a billing amount based on the number of the distribution of the distribution action approved as the purchase action. Since the service management method is characteristic, the service recipient does not particularly manage the distribution, and is not charged for the unused distribution that has been delivered in advance. Since the system is charged only for this, it is possible to suppress unnecessary prior expenditure.

  -In addition, since there is a step of detecting the use of the unused product through the network, the service provider obtains the purchase status of the contractor reliably and almost in real time while in a remote place. be able to.

  The step of detecting the use of the distribution product by the service recipient via the network is characterized by detecting the unique information of the distribution product and the unique information of the service receiver, so that the service reception Even if there are a plurality of service providers, it is possible to specify the service recipients who use the distribution goods, so that accurate billing amount management can be performed for each service recipient.

  The service management method of the present invention is a management table in which unique information for specifying a distribution to be delivered to a service recipient is recorded, and the usage status of the distribution by the service recipient is indicated to the service recipient. Access the management table that is updated as needed based on the receipt of the unique information of the distribution items installed in the installed device from the device, and determine the number of distribution items that the service recipient can certify as purchased. It is characterized by causing a programmed computer to execute a reading step and a step of calculating a charge amount to be charged to the service recipient based on the read number of distribution items.

  According to this, it is recognized that the service recipient has purchased the distribution item that has received the unique information by accessing the management table that the service recipient considers that the distribution item has been purchased and recorded. Since the number of possible distribution items can be read out, the same effect as described above can be obtained.

  A step of obtaining the usage status of the distribution product by the service receiver by the step of reading out the unique information of the distribution product installed on the device installed in the service receiver; and In the case of information that is determined to be used, the step of authorizing the use action as a purchase action can be performed at the same time, so that the processing can be simplified.

  ・ In addition, it is characterized in that it has a step of identifying unused products to be collected from service recipients after a certain period of the products delivered to service recipients. Can be excluded from being used for a long period of time by a person, and therefore can be stored without being purchased, and the collected circulation can be delivered to other service recipients. .

  The service management device of the present invention includes a first storage unit for registering information on a distribution product to be delivered to a service recipient, an input unit for inputting the usage status of the distribution product, and the number of deliveries of the distribution product. And an arithmetic processing unit that calculates a charge amount based on the number used.

  According to this, the arithmetic processing unit takes in the number of deliveries from the information of the distribution items registered in the storage unit, takes in the number of uses from the usage status information input via the input unit, and uses the number of deliveries as the number of uses. By subtracting, we can calculate the actual number of consumptions, so we do not charge for unused goods that have been delivered in advance, but we charge a new service that only charges for the goods actually used Centralized management is possible.

  The service management device of the present invention includes a first storage unit that registers unique information of a distribution item delivered to a service recipient, a communication unit for detecting use of the distribution item via a network, The service management apparatus includes an arithmetic processing unit that calculates a charge amount based on the number of the distributions that have been detected for use.

  According to this, since the use of the distribution product is detected via the network, the service provider can obtain the purchase status of the contractor reliably and almost in real time while being at a remote place.

  In addition, since unique information is assigned to each distribution to be provided to the service recipient and registered in the storage unit, depending on whether the information of the mounted distribution is the same or different, for example, an image In the case of the forming apparatus, the arithmetic processing unit can electronically determine whether the same circulating article is inserted and removed at the time of paper jam treatment, or whether a new circulating article is attached by replacement. Therefore, when the information on the attached distribution item is new, it is possible to identify the purchase of the distribution item with the notification result.

  The service management apparatus of the present invention is further characterized in that the first storage unit registers and registers the unique information of the goods to be delivered to the service receiver and the information of the service receiver in association with each other. . According to this, even a plurality of service recipients can identify the service recipient based on the unique information of the distribution item.

  -In the service management device of the present invention, the arithmetic processing unit further calculates the number of unused circulations held by the service recipient based on information on the exchange of circulations, and the calculation result is a specified value. When the number of distribution items reaches a specified value, the service receiver is instructed to send a new distribution item.

  As a result, in addition to the above effects, the inventory status of spare circulation items is monitored, and new circulation items are shipped when they become below the specified value. There is nothing to do.

  -The service management device of the present invention further includes that the arithmetic processing unit calculates the charge of the distribution used by the service recipient within the corresponding period based on the date and time information exchanged with the use information of the distribution. It is a feature. As a result, in addition to the above effects, periodic charging processing can be automatically performed.

  The service management apparatus of the present invention further includes a second storage unit that stores information transmitted from the service recipient, and the arithmetic processing unit stores the stored information and the latest information transmitted. The stored information is updated when they are compared and are different. As a result, even if the same unique information is transmitted many times, the contents of the second storage unit are not updated. Therefore, there is no possibility that double counting will occur during billing management or the like. In addition, processing such as billing management can be performed at the timing when the contents of the second storage unit are updated.

  The service management apparatus of the present invention further includes a third storage unit that registers a list of distribution items that can be delivered to the service recipient, and the list registered in the third storage unit is a network. It is characterized in that it can be accessed from outside.

  According to this, since it becomes possible for the service recipient to select a candidate for distribution to be delivered, the optimal distribution can be delivered to the service recipient, and the purchase probability by the service recipient can be improved. Can do. In addition, since the service provider can prepare the distribution based on the result of such advance request, the service provider can perform ordering / inventory management, etc. Can be reduced.

  -The distribution of the present invention is characterized by being used in the above service management method. Since the distribution is managed by the service management method according to the present invention, the service provider has an advantage that the usage status can be accurately grasped. Produces the advantage of not having to pay extra.

  -The distribution of the present invention is further characterized in that unique information of the distribution is formed. Based on the unique information of the distribution product, the service provider can confirm to which contractor what kind of distribution product has been delivered in advance.

  In addition, when electronically detecting usage information of the contractor's distribution, it is possible to determine whether the same distribution is used or whether a new distribution is used by exchange. When the information is new, it is possible to identify the purchase of the distribution item with the notification result.

  In addition, if used in the service management method of the present invention, even if a third party manufactures and sells a copy of the distribution including the unique information of the distribution, the service target is not provided unless the service provider handles the distribution. Since it is not, pirated versions can be eliminated.

  The distribution product of the present invention is further characterized in that a first information recording body in which unique information of the distribution product is formed is attached.

  According to this, since it is not necessary to directly form the unique information for the distribution, there is no need to change the manufacturing process of the distribution at all, and the first information recording body on which the unique information is separately formed is manufactured. However, the distribution object can be made a service object according to the present invention only by adding a simple step of attaching the first information recording body to the distribution object.

  The distribution product of the present invention is a package of a plurality of products, and the first information recording body on which the unique information of the distribution product is formed is attached to the packed distribution product. It is a feature.

  According to this, it is possible to make a service object according to the present invention not only in the case of a distribution item, but also in the case where a new product is created by combining a single distribution item or a plurality of other distribution items. Become.

  The product of the present invention is a product packed with a packaging member, the first information recording body in which unique information of the product is formed is arranged inside the packaging member, and the first information in the packaging member It is characterized in that a portion corresponding to the arrangement position of the recording body is at least transparent.

  According to this, the contents of the packed product, that is, the information such as type and type can be recognized visually or optically without opening, so there is an advantage that the product can be easily confirmed. .

  -The distribution product of the present invention further includes a protective material for packing or packaging the distribution material, and a second information in which the same information as the unique information of the distribution material is formed on or inside the protective material. It is characterized by comprising an information recording body.

  As a result, the service person can obtain information on the distribution product delivered at the time of delivery of the distribution item from the second information recording body affixed to the surface of the distribution item such as the packing material. It is not necessary to take out the distribution product by opening it and obtain the unique information formed in the distribution product, and there is no loss of merchantability associated with opening.

  In addition, when attaching the second information recording medium to the inside of the distribution item, care must be taken not to cause loss of merchantability associated with opening, but the second information recording body is more than the method of attaching to the surface. Since the information recording body is not damaged such as breakage, it is possible to avoid a situation where the information cannot be read due to loss or damage of the second information recording body.

  The distribution product of the present invention is further characterized in that the second information recording body is formed so as to be removable from the distribution product.

  Thereby, by confirming the presence or absence of the second information recording body, it is possible to easily distinguish whether the distribution product has been delivered or before delivery. In addition, the service provider can take the second information recording body back to the service provider's home, and the delivered goods can be registered at the service provider's home after delivery. Therefore, the delivered product can be confirmed more reliably than when the unique information of the delivered product is registered at the time of delivery. Moreover, if both are used together, the certainty is further improved.

  The distribution product of the present invention further includes an IC chip, and unique information of the distribution product is stored in the IC chip. As a result, an IC chip that has been studied for the purpose of eliminating pirated copies in the past can be used as it is, and there is no need to increase the cost of hardware. Information can be stored.

  The distribution product of the present invention is further characterized by being a cartridge that stores toner. In general, an electrophotographic image forming apparatus is designed on the assumption that the consumables such as the toner cartridge are replaced. Since the market as an aftermarket is larger than the main body of the image forming apparatus, the manufacture and sale of pirated copies are rampant. is doing. Under such circumstances, if the service management method according to the present invention is used, it is possible to provide a regular distribution product while eliminating pirated copies. In other words, since the service provider guarantees and manages all the processes of manufacturing, distribution, and sales, there is no room for pirated copies to be included, and it is the service provider that registers the distribution at the time of delivery. Therefore, it is possible to target only the distribution items approved by the service provider.

  The distribution product of the present invention is further characterized by being a cartridge that stores ink. Accordingly, the same effect as that of the toner cartridge can be obtained for the ink cartridge of the ink jet printer.

The service management network system according to the present invention is a device in which a distributed product that has unique information and is consumed or consumed is detachable and detects the unique information of the distributed product from the distributed product A first group including a reading unit for reading, a transmission unit that transmits the read information to the outside via a network, and a controller unit that controls the reading unit and the transmission unit, A communication unit for communicating with the first group, a first storage unit for registering information on the distribution item in the first group, a usage status of the distribution item, and a number of deliveries of the distribution item The network system is composed of a second group composed of service management devices having an arithmetic processing unit for calculating a charge amount based on the number used.

  Thereby, the service management method described above can be realized by using IT technology such as a network system and an IC chip.

  In addition, since the information including the unique information detected by the reading unit from the distribution item attached to the device is transmitted from the transmission unit to the communication unit of the service management apparatus, the second group is the first group. It can be identified as a purchase action by the fact that it was exchanged for a spare product at

  In the service management network system of the present invention, in addition to the above-described configuration, the reading unit of the device detects unique information of the distribution item from the distribution item based on timing information when the distribution item is attached to the device. Is a network system characterized by

For example, a sensor that detects whether the distribution item is mounted on the device is provided, the rising or falling timing of the sensor output signal is detected, and the reading unit is operated in synchronization with the timing to read the unique information. To do.

  In order to exchange the circulation, it is necessary to detach the used circulation and to attach a new circulation. Therefore, the trigger signal for reading unit operation is the timing when the circulation is removed and reattached. Can be used.

  Thereby, the operability of the device related to reading of the unique information can be improved.

  The service management network system of the present invention further compares the storage unit that stores information input from the reading unit with the latest information input from the reading unit and information that is already stored. The controller unit updates the stored content stored in the storage unit when the latest information input from the reading unit is different from the stored information. It is characterized by performing control.

  As a result, it is possible to determine by electronic operation whether the same circulating article is removed or inserted at the time of paper jam treatment or the replacement of the new circulating article by replacement, and the controller section stores the information on the mounted circulating article. Only in a new case, it is possible to identify the purchase of the distribution item with the notification result.

  In the service management network system of the present invention, the arithmetic processing unit further determines the number of unused distribution items held by the first group on the basis of information on replacement of distribution items of the devices of the first group. A network system characterized by calculating, comparing the calculation result with a specified value, and issuing an instruction to send a new distributed item to the first group when the number of distributed items reaches a specified value. .

  As a result, in addition to the above-described effects of the configuration of the service management network system, the inventory status of the spare circulation is monitored, and new circulation is shipped when it falls below the specified value. There is no depletion of goods in the house.

The service management network system according to the present invention further includes a charge for the distribution material used by the first group within the corresponding period based on the date and time information exchanged by the arithmetic processing unit with the distribution material usage information of the device. Is a network system characterized by calculating As a result, the periodic billing process can be automatically performed.

  The service management network system of the present invention further includes a second storage unit that stores information transmitted from the first group, and the arithmetic processing unit includes the stored information and the latest information transmitted. A network system characterized by comparing information and updating the stored information if they are different.

As a result, it is possible to determine by electronic and remote operation whether the same circulation is inserted or removed at the time of paper jam treatment or the replacement of the new circulation by electronic replacement, and the information on the installed circulation is new. Only in the case, it becomes possible to identify the purchase of the distribution item with the notification result. Therefore, the calculation processing unit does not need to perform unnecessary calculation such as billing processing when the information of the attached distribution items is the same.

  The service management network system according to the present invention is a network system characterized in that the device is an image forming apparatus. Accordingly, it is possible to centrally manage distribution information such as toner cartridges through the network for the image forming apparatuses connected to the network.

  The service management network system of the present invention includes a reading unit for detecting unique information of the distribution item from the distribution item having unique information, a transmission / reception unit that transmits the read information to the outside via a network, A first group composed of devices having a controller unit that controls the reading unit and the transmission / reception unit, a communication unit for communicating with the first group, and information on the articles in the first group Service information storage unit for registering a service information, and a processing unit for confirming the use status of the product and calculating a charge amount based on the number of used products delivered. It is characterized by comprising a second group comprising devices.

  According to this, the service target is not limited to the distribution necessary for operating the device, but can be delivered to the service recipient as most ordinary products in general distribution, that is, as preparation. All products that can be charged according to the number of uses can be targeted for service.

  In the service management network system of the present invention, the service management apparatus has a list storage unit that registers a list of distribution items that can be delivered to the first group, and the first group of devices displays the list. And a selection unit for selecting a specific distribution item from the displayed list.

  According to this, since the service recipient can select the distribution according to his / her preference and make it the service target, the delivery of the distribution with little possibility of purchase can be eliminated, Therefore, the probability of purchasing can be greatly increased.

  The computer-readable recording medium of the present invention is characterized by recording a program for executing the service management method of the present invention.

  The service management program of the present invention is characterized by causing a computer to execute each step of the service management method of the present invention.

  According to the above configuration, the service management method of the present invention can be provided to the service recipient by loading the program recorded on the recording medium or the program downloaded via the network into the service management device. Also, by loading a program recorded on the recording medium or downloaded via a network onto a computer, the service management method of the present invention can be provided to a service recipient using a general computer. it can.

[Embodiment 1]
(Distribution)
In the present embodiment, the distribution means a part that constitutes a part of the apparatus from the viewpoint of function and whose performance can be recovered and maintained by replacement. For example, when the apparatus is an image forming apparatus, a toner cartridge or a developing cartridge, a photosensitive member cartridge, a cartridge in which a developing member and a photosensitive member are integrally formed, an ink cartridge, an ink tank, and a print head are integrally formed. This corresponds to the cartridge or the like. In the industry, these products are sometimes called supplies.

  FIG. 6 shows a general example in which the distribution product 6 is a toner cartridge. The toner cartridge 60 in the distribution state is packaged and packaged by a packaging material 62 and a packaging material 63. The packaging material 62 and the packaging material 63 are used for quality maintenance or protection. The packaging material 62 is, for example, an aluminum pack, and the packaging material 63 is paper or cardboard. The top is unnecessary. Accordingly, the circulated product 6 includes the packaging material 62, the packaging material 63, and the like, but the circulated product 6 when the device is mounted refers to the toner cartridge 60.

  A feature of the present invention is that the toner cartridge 60 is provided with an IC chip 61 as a unique information forming unit in which unique information capable of individually specifying (identifying) the distribution items is formed.

  The ink cartridge of the ink jet printer has the same configuration.

(Network configuration and device configuration)
FIG. 3 shows a general configuration on the network of the service provider 10 and the contractor 1.

  The service provider 10 provides the contractor 1 (service recipient) with a service related to the distribution item 6 such as the toner cartridge 60 as described in detail below.

  When the service provider 10 is a leasing company or the like, it may be a service that concludes a lease contract for the image forming apparatus main body.

  The network 20 is a public network such as a telephone line. Below, the relationship between the specific contractor 1 and the service provider 10 is demonstrated.

  First, the service provider 10 delivers the distribution product 6 such as the toner cartridge 60 suitable for the image forming apparatus 2 together with the delivery of the image forming apparatus 2. In general, even if they are made by the same manufacturer, if the model of the image forming apparatus is different, the distribution material used for it is often different, so the model number / code number of the distribution item is determined based on the image forming apparatus main body information. Check.

  At this time, the number of deliverables 6 is not particularly limited, and it is sufficient that one or more spares are provided except for those that are immediately used in the apparatus main body.

  As shown in FIG. 1, as the network 20, the image forming apparatus 2 on the contractor 1 side is connected to the terminal 12 on the service provider 10 side by a telephone line 20A or the like.

  The configuration of the image forming apparatus 2 on the contractor 1 side will be described below. The image forming apparatus 2 includes an image forming unit (not shown), a toner cartridge 60 as a consumable part, a reading unit 4 for reading information (described later) formed on the toner cartridge 60, and the read information to the outside. And a controller unit 3 for controlling the reading unit 4 and the transmission / reception unit 5. The sensor circuit 9 includes a sensor for detecting whether or not the toner cartridge 60 is attached to the image forming apparatus 2 and its peripheral circuit, and is usually provided in a normal copying machine / printer. It is assumed that it will be used. However, in the absence of the sensor, alternative means can be used and are not necessarily required.

  As described above, the toner cartridge 60 preferably has unique information recorded on the surface or inside thereof. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, it is mounted as an IC chip 61 (first information recording body), and a product type number and an ID number are stored in advance in a nonvolatile memory such as an EEPROM or a ferroelectric memory. deep. Or you may form by simple methods, such as a barcode. In the present invention, the ID number stored in the IC chip 61 does not require special confidentiality.

  For the purpose of distribution management, inventory management, and the like, a barcode for specifying the type of distribution item may be conventionally printed. At this time, the same barcode is used for the same distribution in order to reduce the printing burden, printing time, management burden, and the like. Therefore, in this state, when the types are different, it is possible to discriminate by this barcode, but when the types are the same, individual discrimination cannot be performed.

  On the other hand, the barcode given to the distribution item 6 in the present invention is unique information that can individually identify the distribution item 6, and is a conventional barcode in that individual identification of the distribution item 6 is possible. Is different.

  In the present invention, the information stored in the IC chip 61 is basically only the product type number and the ID number of the specific product, and normally there is no need to rewrite the information, so there is little memory capacity and function. In addition, the size of software and hardware such as a memory controller can be greatly reduced.

  Further, if necessary, a toner remaining amount detection sensor is provided, so that the amount of toner currently in use can be detected relatively accurately.

  The reading unit 4 differs depending on the form of information formed in the toner cartridge 60. The reading unit 4 is a bar code reader in the case of a bar code, and includes an electric or high frequency reading unit in the case of an IC chip. .

  The transmission / reception unit 5 is, for example, a modem. The connection form is not limited to a telephone line, and may be CATV or the like. Further, the transmission form between the image forming apparatus 2 and the terminal 12 does not have to be all wired, and may be partially transmitted via wireless communication. For example, as shown in FIG. 14, the transmission mode of the transmission / reception unit 5 mounted or connected to the image forming apparatus 2 is wireless, and is transmitted in a wireless state to the second transmission / reception unit 51 installed in the contractor 1. The second transmission / reception unit 51 may adopt a form in which the second transmission / reception unit 51 is connected to the network 20 (telephone line 20A) in a wired state. Further, it may have a function for connecting to the local network 21. It should be noted that the second transmission / reception unit 51 and the communication unit 121 of the terminal 12 may naturally use a part of wireless transmission.

  The sensor circuit 9 includes various sensors and peripheral circuits that process signals from the sensors. As the sensor, a door sensor or a cartridge sensor, which has a principle such as a mechanical type or an optical type, is used. The door sensor is a sensor that detects the open / closed state of the door of the image forming apparatus 2, and the cartridge sensor is a sensor that detects whether the toner cartridge 60 is attached to the image forming apparatus 2. . Peripheral circuits include a waveform shaping circuit that shapes the waveform of the sensor output, a filter circuit, a binarization circuit, a voltage level adjustment circuit, and the like, and converts the sensor output into a digital signal having a logic level of 0-5V. .

The controller unit 3 instructs the reading unit 4 to access the IC chip 61 and read the toner cartridge information when the toner cartridge 60 is replaced. In addition, the transmitter / receiver 5 is instructed to transmit the read information to the outside as necessary. In addition, signals from various sensors are monitored, and predetermined instructions are given according to the signal contents. In the case of an image forming apparatus using a CPU for controlling the entire apparatus, the CPU can be used as the controller unit 3.

Next, the recorded contents of information formed on the toner cartridge 60 will be described. The IC chip 61 has information (ID number) for specifying the toner cartridge 60 as
0011 0001 0010 1101 1010
The binarized 20-digit numbers such as are stored in advance. The number of digits is not limited to this. The number is created and managed by the service provider 10.

  Next, the meaning of the numbers will be described.

  The most significant four-digit number is information for specifying a plurality of types of toner cartridges 60. In this case, it is possible to distinguish 16 types from 0000 to 1111. In the case of a color model, when the toner cartridge 60 of four colors of Y (yellow), M (magenta), C (cyan), and Bk (black) is necessary, the most significant two digits are color. May be assigned to information, for example

Then, it is possible to distinguish up to 4 models by the remaining 2 digits. For example, as shown in Table 2.

  Alternatively, as shown in Table 3, toner cartridges A and B and photosensitive member cartridges C and D are used.

  These correspondence tables are prepared as a distribution information table in the terminal 12 on the service provider 10 side described below.

The remaining 16 digits are the individual number (unique information) of the toner cartridge 60 having the type number 0011 in the above example.
0000 0000 0000 0000
To 1111 1111 1111 1111
Up to 65536 numbers are assigned to one toner cartridge 60 as a single and unique number. This information is also added to the distribution information table in the terminal 12 on the service provider 10 side. Although the individual number has been described as the unique information for individually identifying the toner cartridge 60, the entire combination of the type number and the individual number may be positioned as the unique information.

  Next, the configuration of the terminal 12 (service management apparatus) of the service provider 10 will be described.

  The terminal 12 is, for example, a personal computer (PC) or a workstation (WS), and includes a communication unit 121, an arithmetic processing unit 122, an input unit 123, a storage unit 124, and an output unit 125. .

  The communication unit 121 is for connecting to the network 20, and in the case of the telephone line 20A, for example, is a modem. Further, it may have a function for connecting to the local network 22.

  The arithmetic processing unit 122 is a part that performs an operation on information input from the communication unit 121 or the input unit 123, and is, for example, a CPU and a memory. The memory is a memory such as a RAM for temporarily storing the processing result. When performing arithmetic processing by software, a non-volatile memory for storing a program describing the processing procedure is prepared. Alternatively, the program may be stored in the storage unit 124 described later, read out from the storage unit 124 during program operation, and expanded on the RAM.

  The input unit 123 is, for example, a keyboard, a mouse, a pointing device, an image scanner, a barcode scanner, or the like, and is used to input information about the contractor 1.

  The storage unit 124 stores information input from the communication unit 121 or the input unit 123 and a calculation result performed by the calculation processing unit 122 (a first storage unit, a second storage unit, and a third storage unit). Storage unit, distribution information storage unit, list storage unit), for example, a hard disk or an optical disk. The stored contents include the distribution information table shown in Tables 1 to 3 described above, the contractor information table described later, the service management table for each contractor (the management table that records the usage status of the distribution as needed), and the present invention. There are application programs describing the processing flow of the service management method. The storage unit 124 corresponds to the recording medium of the present invention.

  The output unit 125 is for soft copying and hard copying of information, and the former corresponds to a display such as a CRT or a liquid crystal, and the latter corresponds to a printer.

(Registration process)
Next, the operation of the system will be described.

  First, the service provider 10 obtains information on the contractor 1 as prior information. As shown in FIG. 8A as the contractor table [1], the information may be anything as long as the contractor 1 can be specified. For example, when the contractor 1 is one company, the information is a company name. Yes, even if it is the same company, it is necessary to specify the name of the establishment when contracting for each establishment.

  Next, in order to handle the contractor information in the terminal 12, the service provider 10 issues a contractor ID for each contractor 1. The contractor ID is unique, and one ID such as a number such as 000125 is assigned to each contractor 1.

  Further, the location information is obtained in order to deliver the distribution item 6 as the service object, and the information such as the payment method is collected for collecting the fee.

  The above is stored in the storage unit 124 of the terminal 12 in the form of an electronic file. FIG. 8A described above is an example when the file is displayed on the output unit 125 of the terminal 12.

  Next, the service provider 10 dispatches a service person to the contractor 1 to install and set the image forming apparatus 2 and deliver the distribution item 6. When the image forming apparatus 2 is connected and set to be communicable with the external network 20 and becomes communicable, in addition to the given contractor ID, the model number and product of the image forming apparatus 2 Information such as individual ID numbers may be sent.

  If it is only necessary to know what kind of image forming apparatus the contractor 1 has, a model number, a product number or the like that can identify the model may be used, but the contractor 1 has the same image forming apparatus. If it is necessary to know information for each image forming apparatus individually, unique information such as a serial number that can identify the image forming apparatus is preferable.

  In the case of a copying machine, a numeric keypad is provided for designating the number of prints, etc., and therefore the contractor ID number or / and the ID number of the image forming apparatus 2 are entered using the input means. Easy to enter. If the contractor ID number once entered is stored in a non-volatile memory, it is not necessary to input it again when information is transmitted from the contractor 1 to the service provider 10. Further, if the image forming apparatus ID number is also stored in the nonvolatile memory at the time of shipment, the input operation can be omitted thereafter, and a series of operations can be automatically performed electronically. The nonvolatile memory described above is formed as a part of the constituent elements of the controller unit 3.

  As described above, necessary items are input to the contractor table [2] in the terminal 12, as shown in FIG. For example, it can be seen that the contractor with ID number 000003 is receiving services according to the present invention for two image forming apparatuses AR-2000 and AR-2001.

  The contractor table [1] and the contractor table [2] can be combined as common information for associating ID numbers (contractor IDs). Accordingly, referring to FIG. 8A, it can be seen that the contractor with ID number 000003 in FIG. 8B is “C Corporation ΔΔΔ Division”.

  Through this step, the terminal 12 can automatically detect the model of the image forming apparatus 2 of the contractor 1 and obtain model information as a service target.

  Even if the toner cartridge 60 for the image forming apparatus 2 is changed to improve performance and the type number of the toner cartridge 60 is changed, the latest toner is based on the model information of the image forming apparatus 2. A cartridge 60 can be provided. In addition, although the ID number of each product is not particularly required, there may be a partial change during the manufacture even though the model is the same, so the change related to the distribution product 6 such as the toner cartridge 60 or the like may be changed. This is in order to respond correctly to the case where the error is made. Further, it can also be used in cases where additional services such as notifying the contractor 1 of a malfunction when a malfunction of the image forming apparatus 2 is discovered before and after a partial change.

  In the terminal 12 on the service provider 10 side, a service management file (the service management table) is created for each contractor 1 and stored in the storage unit 124. An example in which the file is displayed on the output unit 125 of the terminal 12 is shown in FIG. In this case, an in-use cartridge table (FIG. 1A) and a spare cartridge table (FIG. 1B) are prepared, but only the spare cartridge table may be used. In the initial state, as shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B, the cartridge information currently used by the image forming apparatus 2 of the contractor 1 and the spare cartridge information delivered to the contractor 1 side are included. Absent.

  Next, the service provider 10 collects information on all the toner cartridges 60 that are stored in advance on the contractor 1 side, and stores the information in the terminal 12 of the service provider 10 immediately or later.

  As an information collecting method, as shown in FIG. 5, an information recording body 7 (second information recording body) in which information (specific information on the distribution object) that can individually identify the toner cartridge 60 is recorded is used. The information is formed on the information recording portion 73 of the information recording body 7 by reading it with a scanner when it is attached to the packing material 63 and delivered to the contractor 1 side. The content of the information recording body 7 is the same as the storage content of the IC chip 61 mounted on the toner cartridge 60, for example, an ID number assigned to each toner cartridge 60, but the information forming method is the same. Need not be. That is, it may be a barcode that is read by a barcode scanner. In the present invention, since the ID number stored in the IC chip 61 as the unique information of the distribution has no special confidentiality, a simple information forming method that does not require complicated data processing such as encryption and decryption is provided. Can be adopted.

  As described above, by separately attaching the information recording body 7 having the same contents as the IC chip 61 (that is, the unique information of the distribution item) to the packaging material 63 of the distribution item 6, the service person can distribute the information. It becomes possible to obtain information on the distribution item 6 delivered at the time of delivery of the item 6 from the information recording body 7 affixed to the surface of the distribution item 6 such as the packing material 63, and the distribution material 63 is opened and distributed. There is no need to take out the product 6 and obtain the unique information formed in the flowed product 6, and there is no loss of merchantability associated with opening.

  After collecting the information, the service person collects the information recording body 7 in order to confirm that the reading has been completed. In this manner, if the information recording body 7 is formed so as to be separable from the distribution product 6, it can be determined whether the information recording body 7 is undelivered or already delivered according to the presence or absence of the information recording body 7. Further, since the information recording body 7 can be taken home, it is possible to avoid a situation in which pre-registration cannot be performed even when the scanner is out of order. Can be read and pre-registered.

  In this case, as shown in FIG. 5A, the method of attaching the information recording body 7 can be obtained without opening the toner cartridge 60, as shown in FIG. A portion 71 is bonded to the surface portion by an adhesive or the like by a glue or a stapler, and a portion 72 on which information is written is configured to be cut from the portion 71 by a cut line K.

  The material of the information recording body 7 is a film member such as paper or resin, or a sheet member having a thickness that does not cause curling or the like. In the case of a hard sheet member, it is broken off from the cut line K. From the viewpoint of durability and readability of information, a hard resin is preferable.

  As another method for attaching the information recording body 7, as shown in FIG. 5 (b), the information recording body 7 on which information is not formed is attached to the packing material 63 of the distribution material 6 with an adhesive or the like on the back surface. In addition, the portion 72 where the information 73 is written is configured to be cut from the bonded portion 71 by the cut lines K1 and K2.

  Further, as another attachment method of the information recording body 7, as shown in FIG. 5C, the inside 64 of the cover portion of the protective member 63 that can be opened and closed without being damaged may be used. Thereby, in the distribution process, the information recording body 7 does not deteriorate, so there is no problem even if it is a material such as paper.

  In the above description, since the distribution item 6 is packed with the packing material 63, the location to which the information recording body 7 is attached is the packing material 63. However, the outermost surface of the distribution item 6 is in the distribution state. It means part.

  As described above, the information stored in the IC chip 61 and the information formed in the information recording body 7 are the same in content, but the formation method is not necessarily the same.

  The information read by the scanner is immediately transmitted to the terminal 12 on the service provider 10 side via communication means (not shown). Alternatively, the information read by the scanner may be stored in a medium such as a floppy disk or a memory stick and input to the terminal 12 on the service provider 10 side after being taken home.

  When transmitting immediately using the communication means, the information read by the scanner and the contractor ID number are paired and transmitted to the terminal 12. Thereby, on the terminal 12 side, the contractor 1 can be associated with the information of the distribution item 6 delivered to the contractor 1.

  The operation of the terminal 12 will be described in more detail. The contractor 1 is specified from the information received by the communication unit 121. This can be performed by the arithmetic processing unit 122 identifying the contractor ID included in the received information. Next, the arithmetic processing unit 122 calls the service management table (FIG. 9) related to the identified contractor 1. The management table is created for each contractor 1 when the service target becomes clear at the time of contract.

  Next, the arithmetic processing unit 122 extracts the ID number of the toner cartridge 60 included in the received information. The ID number is data to be input in the “all information (all digits)” field in the figure. FIG. 10B shows a state where input of all received information is completed. In the figure, serial numbers are assigned in the order of reception, but they may be sorted again for each color. Also, by temporarily storing all received information in the temporary storage area (or work area) of the storage unit 124 and identifying the color information (the most significant two digits of all information) included in all information, It is also possible to automatically input to the spare cartridge table as shown in FIG. At this time, in the case of the same color, the ID numbers may be compared and input to the table in ascending order of the numbers.

  In addition, the information read by the scanner and the contractor ID number are stored in pairs using a portable information terminal or the like at the site, and when returning to the service provider 10 home, the terminal 12 and the portable information terminal are wired. Information stored in the portable information terminal may be transferred to the terminal 12 by connection or infrared communication.

  Alternatively, without using a scanner at the site, the collected portion 72 of the information recording body 7 can be taken home and information can be read using the input unit 123 such as a barcode scanner connected to the terminal 12 on the service provider 10 side, or Alternatively, the terminal 12 may be manually input using a keyboard or the like. Also in this case, the unique information of the distribution item 6 is input in a pair with the contractor ID information. The former method of electronically reading and transmitting information on-site is more desirable because it is immediate and can eliminate the mistake that the contents of the delivery note differ from the actual delivery. .

  In addition, the process of inputting the unique information of the distribution item 6 in combination with the contractor ID information is performed on the terminal 12 on the service provider 10 side before shipping the distribution item 6 from the service provider 10 to the contractor 1. It may be in the form of manual input using a keyboard or the like.

  By the above operation, the number, type, and individual number information of the unused toner cartridge 60 delivered to the contractor 1 side are accumulated in the terminal 12 on the service provider 10 side.

  In the present embodiment, a case where information is electronically read and transmitted immediately on site will be described.

  The terminal 12 on the service provider 10 side updates information based on the received information. That is, FIG. 10B shows a case where two black, yellow, magenta, and cyan toner cartridges 60 are delivered, and different 20-digit code information is input for all of them. The delivery date is entered as other information. In the explanation of the figure, from the viewpoint of the user interface, not only the code information but also the actual name such as “black toner” is used for the display related to the type information of the toner cartridge 60 or the like. Yes. At this time, the arithmetic processing unit 122 determines for each toner cartridge 60 that information regarding each toner cartridge 60 is input to the spare cartridge table for the first time, so that all the usage status columns are “not yet (reserved)”. It is automatically displayed.

  Therefore, at the time immediately after delivery, there is no change in the cartridge information currently in use shown in FIG. 10A, which is the same as FIG. 9A.

  Next, the service person opens the toner cartridge 60 necessary for operating the image forming apparatus 2 and sets it in the image forming apparatus 2. Since the image forming apparatus 2 is already connected and set so as to be communicable with the outside and is in a communicable state, the image forming apparatus 2 sets the toner set on the terminal 12 on the service provider 10 side. Information on the cartridge 60 is transmitted. In order to determine which contractor 1 is the information on the terminal 12 side, the information is transmitted together with the contractor ID.

  The case where the above operation is automatically performed will be described below. The image forming apparatus 2 is generally provided with various sensors for detecting whether the door is opened and closed and whether or not the toner cartridge 60 is attached. The controller unit 3 has a function of monitoring each sensor. . When the mounting of the toner cartridge 60 is detected based on a signal from the toner cartridge sensor, the controller unit 3 instructs the reading unit 4 to read information stored in the IC chip 61 of the toner cartridge 60. Further, the transmission / reception unit 5 issues a transmission command to the transmission / reception unit 5 so as to transmit the information. Details of the operation will be described later.

  On the service provider 10 side, the arithmetic processing unit 122 of the terminal 12 is currently used in the image forming apparatus 2 of the contractor 1 based on the information received by the communication unit 121, as shown in FIG. Update the cartridge information column. Also, as shown in FIG. 5B, the use status column is displayed for the toner cartridge 60 that has been input as spare cartridge information and is set as currently used by the above operation. , “Not used (reserved)” is updated to “currently in use”.

  Whether the information received by the communication unit 121 includes the unique information of the newly used toner cartridge 60 is determined based on whether the same unique information is already recorded in the in-use cartridge table. 122 can detect by checking. In addition, the processing unit 122 displays the unique information of the toner cartridge 60 in which the usage status column is recorded as “Not (Reserved)” in the spare cartridge table and the unique information included in the information received by the communication unit 121. Compared with each other, for example, when the two match, it is possible to detect that the unique information of the newly used toner cartridge 60 is included in the information received by the communication unit 121.

  This completes the initial setting / registration.

  In the above description, information such as the model number of the image forming apparatus 2 and the ID number of each product is automatically sent to the terminal 12 on the service provider 10 side. It may be registered in the terminal 12 by the unit 123.

  The flowchart of FIG. 33 shows the flow of the control operation of the arithmetic processing unit 122 in the case where the new registration process for the spare cartridge table is performed manually. Hereinafter, the control operation of the arithmetic processing unit 122 will be described based on the flowchart.

Step [20] (S20)
First, a spare cartridge table new registration screen shown in FIG. 9 is displayed on the output unit 125 in response to an instruction to execute a program for newly registering a spare cartridge table. The program for newly registering the spare cartridge table is a program for performing the processes of S21 to S27 described below. The program is preinstalled in the storage unit 124 of the terminal 12, and the execution thereof is performed by detecting the click of the execution button of the program for new registration displayed on the output unit 125.

Step [21] (S21)
Next, the “contractor ID”, “main body model” information, and the “all information (all digits)” information column in the spare cartridge information column are ready for input, and input of information from the input unit 123 is awaited. Is displayed. For example, an input location is displayed and prompted using a prompt. FIG. 9 shows a state after “contractor ID” (not shown) and “main body model” information are input.

Step [22] (S22)
Next, it is detected whether or not a confirmation command has been generated for the input content of the registration screen by clicking a confirmation button (not shown). If a confirmation command is generated, the process proceeds to S23, and if it is not generated, the process enters a standby state.

Step [23] (S23)
Subsequently, in S23, it is detected whether or not all of the information and the information column (information that must be input) have been input. If the input has been completed, the process proceeds to S24, and if there is an item that has not been input, the process proceeds to S25.

Step [24] (S24)
In S24, based on the unique information input in the “all information (all digits)” column, the product name and model number are read out by referring to the “remarks” column of the distribution information table shown in FIG. Transfer to the "Color information" column, "Model information" column, etc. in the table. Also, the date for the “Delivery Date” field is entered by entering the unique information in the “All Information (All Digits)” field, so that the entered date, that is, the date when the toner cartridge 60 was delivered to the contractor 1 is displayed. It may be automatically written. The timer function of the terminal 12 is used for automatic input of this date.

  This step is intended to improve the operability for the operator of the terminal 12. That is, since the operator cannot specifically specify the product name, model number, etc. only by the unique information (here, “all information”) of the digitized toner cartridge 60, this is an additionally provided step. It is not always necessary in computer processing.

Step [25] (S25)
If all the information and information fields have not been entered in S23, an input prompt message is displayed in S25, and the process returns to S21. In more detail,
“All information (all digits) is not entered.”
And a confirmation button for the message are displayed, and when the click of the confirmation button is detected, the process returns to the state of S21. Note that the state of S21 in this case simply means that input is possible, and does not clear already input information.

Step [26] (S26)
Subsequent to S24, it is detected whether or not the new registration of the spare cartridge table is completed and a registration command is generated by clicking the registration button.

Step [27] (S27)
The above information is stored in the spare cartridge table, and the new registration process is completed. Thereby, the management screen changes as shown in FIGS.

  With the above operation, the number, type, and individual number information of the unused toner cartridge 60 delivered to the contractor 1 side are accumulated in the terminal 12 on the service provider 10 side.

(Exchange process)
Next, the operation when the toner cartridge 60 is replaced will be described.

  The device manager or device user in the contractor 1 who has contracted with the service provider 10 is newly provided as a spare based on the “toner cartridge replacement” message issued from the image forming apparatus 2. The toner cartridge 60 is replaced. In this embodiment, a case where only black toner is consumed will be described.

  The used toner cartridge 60 (spare cartridge No. 1) shown in FIG. 11B is taken out from the image forming apparatus 2, and an unused toner cartridge 60 (spare cartridge No. 5) is mounted instead.

  The internal operation of the image forming apparatus 2 will be described below using FIG.

  The image forming apparatus 2 is generally provided with a sensor for detecting whether or not the toner cartridge 60 is attached. Therefore, it is possible to detect attachment / detachment and attachment of the toner cartridge 60 using the reaction result of the sensor.

  FIGS. 7A and 7B show an example of the mounting / removal operation of the toner cartridge 60 and the sensor output at that time. The sensor output signal when the toner cartridge 60 is mounted is at a low level, and the sensor output signal when the toner cartridge 60 is detached is at a high level.

  Next, the sensor circuit 9 generates a trigger pulse as shown in FIG. 5C based on the sensor output signal. That is, a pulse signal having a constant pulse width is generated with the falling edge of the sensor output signal as a timing. In terms of circuitry, a mono-multivibrator can be used to generate a pulse that rises at the fall timing of the sensor output signal, using the sensor output signal as the input signal of the mono-multivibrator. The sensor output signal may be input to the mono multivibrator through a Schmitt trigger circuit, a filter circuit, or the like so that the mono multivibrator does not malfunction due to noise or chattering included in the sensor output signal. .

  As described above, the mounting timing of the toner cartridge 60 is detected, and this timing is used as a trigger for the reading unit 4 to operate.

  Next, when the trigger is generated, the reading unit 4 accesses the IC chip 61 of the toner cartridge 60. FIG. 4D shows a period during which the reading unit 4 accesses the IC chip 61. Specifically, it is a strobe signal, and addressing and data reading are performed during this period. The read data is stored in a volatile memory such as a RAM.

  With the falling edge of the strobe signal as a timing, a pulse signal having a constant pulse width is generated as shown in FIG.

  The trigger pulse is used as a timing signal for transmitting information read by the reading unit 4 by the transmission / reception unit 5. That is, by the trigger pulse, information processing or the like is performed in the transmission / reception unit 5 according to the communication form, and the information is transmitted as shown in FIG.

  With the above operation, the image forming apparatus 2 transmits information about the unused toner cartridge 60 to the terminal 12 of the service provider 10.

  In the above description, the image forming apparatus 2 is provided with the sensor for detecting whether or not the toner cartridge 60 is mounted. However, if there is no sensor, a door sensor may be used. The door is provided to replace the toner cartridge 60 or to remove paper when a paper jam occurs. The door is provided with a door sensor for checking the open / closed state for safety. It is common. Therefore, when the toner cartridge 60 is replaced, an operation for opening and closing the door always occurs, and thus the opening and closing operation of the door sensor can be used as an access timing to the toner cartridge 60, though indirectly.

  Further, in the case of a device that does not have any sensors, it can be dealt with by programming the controller unit 3 so that an event for reading occurs at regular intervals.

  In the terminal 12 of the service provider 10, as shown in FIG. 1 and no. 5 usage status columns are updated to “used” and “currently in use”, respectively. Also, as shown in FIG. 9A, only information on the black toner cartridge (replacement date, all information, unique information, spare cartridge correspondence) is updated in the in-use cartridge table.

  In other words, the arithmetic processing unit 122 includes the unique information of the toner cartridge 60 in which the usage status column is recorded as “Not (Reserved)” in the spare cartridge table and the unique information included in the information received by the communication unit 121. When the unique information of the toner cartridge 60 (spare cartridge No. 5) is detected, the spare cartridge No. of the same color toner is detected. 1 is a spare cartridge No. It is recognized that it was exchanged to 5. That is, the arithmetic processing unit 122 functions as an exchange authorization unit that authorizes exchange of the circulation item 6 in the contractor 1 by detecting a change in the unique information of the circulation item 6 received by the communication unit 121.

  In addition, the arithmetic processing unit 122 determines whether the spare cartridge No. 5 is updated to “currently in use”. At the same time, the arithmetic processing unit 122 detects that the newly used toner cartridge 60 (spare cartridge No. 5) is for black toner, and the same black toner cartridge 60 (spare cartridge No. 1). ) Has been used, the spare cartridge no. The usage status column of 1 is updated to “used”. The spare cartridge table is updated by such a determination operation of the arithmetic processing unit 122.

  At this stage, since there is no spare black toner cartridge, the service provider 10 sends at least the black toner cartridge to the contractor 1. 12 (a) and 12 (b) show this state, and in the same manner as the initial setting / registration process, No. Nine new spare cartridge information is added.

  As described above, the service provider 10 always monitors the spare toner cartridge information, and at the same time before or after the spare toner cartridge 60 runs out, sends a new spare toner cartridge 60 to the contractor 1. By doing so, the lack of consumer goods on the contractor 1 side is prevented.

  That is, in order for the terminal 12 to perform the above processing electronically, assuming that the number of distributed items 6 is Nf and the number of used distributed items 6 is Nu, the arithmetic processing unit 122 performs Nf− If Nf−Nu = 0 as a result of the calculation of Nu, the arithmetic processing unit 122 performs a process related to a shipping instruction. The value of Nf is stored in the storage unit 124 for each contractor 1, and when the above calculation is performed, the value is read from the storage unit 124. In addition, when a new delivery is made, the value is updated. As the value of Nf, the maximum value of the serial number (No. in the figure) can be used in FIG.

  The value of Nu is calculated as follows.

  The accumulated use number up to the previous time is stored in the storage unit 124, and the use number as the latest information input to the terminal 12 this time is added to the accumulated use number. As a result, the latest number of uses can be calculated. For example, in FIG. 12B or the like, it is possible to add all the numbers displayed as “used” and “in use” in the usage status column. Also in this case, the cumulative use numerical value stored in the storage unit 124 is updated.

  The instruction content to be sent may be displayed on the output unit 125 of the terminal 12, or the service provider 10 uses the local network 22 connected to the communication unit 121. Notification may be made to the shipping department by means of e-mail or the like. Further, the network 20 (telephone line 20A) connected to the communication unit 121 may be used to notify the contractor 1 of the shipping notice.

Note that the timing of sending the spare toner cartridge 60 to the contractor 1 and the determination thereof are set in advance as a reference number N (≠ 0), and the number stored as a spare on the contractor 1 side. By comparison with N '
N> N '
You may make it perform when it becomes. Compared to the case of N = 0, the degree of risk decreases, but the number of shipments (shipment frequency) increases. Since the degree of risk and the number of shipments are in a trade-off relationship, an appropriate N may be set based on experience.

(Billing process)
Next, a charging processing method will be described. FIG. 13 shows a list of consumables to be billed (billing lists [1] to [3]). The billing target period is, for example, in units of one month. The consumables list is used, for example, from the closing date of billing calculation (in this embodiment, 15th of every month) to one month before based on the spare cartridge table shown in FIGS. 11 (b) and 12 (b) The extracted cartridge information is extracted. The extraction method at this time is for those used or currently in use in the spare cartridge table usage column, and the usage date is one month before the accounting calculation deadline. It is done by doing.

  In FIG. 13, a list for the past three months is displayed.

  As described above, the present invention is characterized in that only the toner cartridge 60 actually used by the contractor 1 is charged, and the unused toner cartridge 60 is not charged. As a result, the contractor 1 side can use the image forming apparatus 2 without having an unnecessary inventory, without causing a lack of consumables, and without performing complicated management. It becomes possible.

  The greatest feature is that the number of spare cartridges is confirmed by detecting that a new toner cartridge 60 is mounted. Thus, both management of the conventional image forming apparatus 2 itself and inventory management of the spare toner cartridge 60 can be realized by a single management method.

  It is detected as follows that the contractor 1 uses a pirated copy such as a counterfeit product, which is not a genuine product delivered from the service provider 10.

  For example, as a result of collating the information received by the communication unit 121 with the information registered in the service management table shown in FIGS. 12A and 12B by the arithmetic processing unit 122, an ID that has already been registered as “used” If the arithmetic processing unit 122 detects that the same ID number as the number or an individual number (unique information) that is already registered as “used” is included, the counterfeit product Therefore, the arithmetic processing unit 122 performs processing (display processing, e-mail transmission processing, etc.) to notify the service provider 10 to that effect.

  As a result, the service provider 10 sends a service person to the contractor 1 who is suspected of using a pirated copy of a counterfeit product, confirms the facts, or searches for a distribution channel of the pirated copy of the counterfeit product. , Can take the necessary measures to eliminate the pirated version.

  The information received by the communication unit 121 is collated with information registered in all service management tables respectively created for all the contractors 1. Further, at the time of manufacturing or packing the distribution item 6, an ID number management file for managing the ID number assigned to each distribution item 6 is separately created and stored in a storage unit such as the storage unit 124. You may make it collate the received information with all the ID numbers registered into the ID number management file. In this case, when the communication unit 121 receives an ID number that is not registered in the ID number management file or the threshold information, the arithmetic processing unit 122 can determine that the non-genuine product is not actually manufactured. .

  In the embodiment in which the communication unit 121 always receives the contractor ID and the ID number of the distribution item 6 from the contractor 1 side as a set, both the contractor ID and the ID number of the distribution item 6 are registered. If the information is collated with each other, it is possible to improve the accuracy of checking the use of pirated copies such as counterfeits.

  The flow of the control operation of the arithmetic processing unit 122 related to the automatic update processing of the spare cartridge table, the inventory management, and the pirated copy detection processing described above will be further described based on the flowchart of FIG.

Step [30] (S30)
First, it is determined whether or not the information on the distribution item 6 (contractor ID, unique information of the toner cartridge 60, etc.) has been received from the image forming apparatus 2 of the contractor 1 via the communication unit 121. If the information is received, the process proceeds to S31.

Step [31] (S31)
The contractor ID is detected from the information of the distribution item 6 received in S30, and the corresponding contractor ID is selected from the plurality of spare cartridge tables stored in the storage unit 124 based on the detected contractor ID. Is read out from the spare cartridge table (FIG. 10B). The output unit 125 displays the read spare cartridge table as necessary.

Step [32] (S32)
Next, the “use status” column of the spare cartridge table is searched for the toner cartridge 60 including the unique information (all information) received in S30.

Step [33] (S33)
Subsequently, it is determined whether or not the corresponding “usage status” column is recorded as “not yet (reserved)”. As a result of the determination, if the “usage status” field is recorded as “not yet reserved”, the process proceeds to S34, and if not, the process proceeds to S43.

Step [34] (S34)
If it is determined in S33 that the “use status” column is “not yet (reserved)”, the color information is read out from the unique information (all information) of the toner cartridge 60 received in S30, so that Identify the color type. Explaining the specific method, according to the rules for creating the unique information described above, the most significant 4 digits of the received unique information (all information) is information on the color type and the applicable model, so the most significant 4 digits are read, By referring to the distribution information table given in Tables 1 to 3, etc., the color type and the applicable model can be specified.

  For example, in the case shown in FIG. 12B, the information on the distribution item 6 received as of June 12, 2000 is No. The toner cartridge 60 of No. 5 can be discriminated from the information “0000” in the most significant four digits as information relating to the black toner cartridge 60 adapted to the image forming apparatus 2 of the AR-2000 model.

  When there is only one image forming apparatus 2 as a service target of the contractor 1, individual recording or reading of model information can be omitted, and only the most significant two-digit color information is determined. Good.

Step [35] (S35)
Next, the “use status” column of the toner cartridge 60 including the color information specified in S34 is searched for the spare cartridge table.

Step [36] (S36)
As a result of the search in the “use status” column in S35, it is determined whether or not there is a “use status” column recorded as “currently in use”. As a result of the determination, if there is a “use status” field recorded as “currently used”, the process proceeds to S37, and if not, the process proceeds to S38.

  More specifically, if there is no “use status” field that is recorded as “currently used” in this step, the unique information is registered in the spare cartridge table and then the unique information is detected. However, this is the first case for the image forming apparatus 2 of the contractor 1. That is, one of the unused toner cartridges 60 that has been delivered to the contractor 1 is first attached to the image forming apparatus 2, and its unique information is read by the reading unit 4 and transmitted to the terminal 12.

  If there is a “use status” field recorded as “currently used” in this step, the toner cartridge 60 recorded as “currently used” has received the unique information in step S30. This corresponds to the case where the cartridge 60 is replaced. That is, as a result of removing the toner cartridge 60 attached to the image forming apparatus 2 and replacing it with one of the unused toner cartridges 60 that have been delivered to the contractor 1, the unique information is read by the reading unit 4. Is transmitted to the terminal 12.

Step [37] (S37)
Therefore, in S36, if there is a “usage status” column recorded as “currently used”, the process proceeds to this step, and the “usage status” column recorded as “currently used” is displayed. It is updated to “used”, and the process proceeds to S38.

Step [38] (S38)
In this step, the “usage status” column is updated from “not used (reserved)” to “currently used” for the toner cartridge 60 including the unique information (all information) of the toner cartridge 60 received in S30.

  As a result, both when the toner cartridge 60 is mounted in the image forming apparatus 2 for the first time and when the mounted toner cartridge 60 is replaced with another new toner cartridge 60, the “use status of the spare cartridge table” is used. In the “column”, “currently in use” is recorded, and the toner cartridge 60 attached to the image forming apparatus 2 can be identified based on the record.

Step [39] (S39)
Subsequent to S38, in this step, when the “use status” column of the toner cartridge 60 that received the unique information in S30 is “not yet reserved”, the unique information is detected in the “use date” column. Enter the date of the current day. As described above, the timer function of the terminal 12 is used for the automatic input of the date, and a method of reading and copying the timer value at the time when the unique information is received can be employed.

Step [40] (S40)
Next, for the toner cartridge 60 including the color information identified in S34, the number of “unused (reserved)” in the “use status” column is checked.

Step [41] (S41)
Subsequently, the number obtained in S40 is compared with a specified value, and it is determined whether or not the number of toner cartridges 60 whose “use status” column is “not yet (reserved)” is equal to or less than the specified value. . If the determination result is less than or equal to the specified value, the process proceeds to S42.

  If the determination result exceeds the specified value, the spare cartridge table update process is terminated. Alternatively, the process may be returned to S30 and the spare cartridge table update process may be repeated.

Step [42] (S42)
If the number of toner cartridges 60 whose “use status” column is “not yet (reserved)” in S41 is equal to or less than the specified value, the color toner placed at hand of the contractor 1 Since this means that the inventory of the cartridges 60 is low, a shipping process for supplying the contractor 1 with the toner cartridges 60 is performed. The details of inventory management are as described above.

Step [43] (S43)
On the other hand, if the “usage status” column of the toner cartridge 60 including the received unique information is not “not yet reserved” in S33, the process proceeds to this step, and the “usage status” column is displayed. It is further determined whether or not “currently in use”.

Step [44] (S44)
If the “usage status” field is “currently in use” in S43, the toner cartridge 60 is not replaced in the image forming apparatus 2, but the same toner cartridge 60 will be described later. As such, it is determined that it has been inserted or removed for some reason. Therefore, in this case, the spare cartridge table is not updated.

Step [45] (S45)
On the other hand, if the “usage status” column is not “currently used” in S43, there is no recording of the corresponding toner cartridge 60, and the “usage status” column is “used”. It corresponds to an abnormal state such as. That is, since the toner cartridge mounted on the image forming apparatus 2 is suspected of being a pirated version, the cause investigation process is performed. Specifically, a warning message is displayed on the display screen of the output unit 125, or a local network 22 connected to the communication unit 121 is used to send information to an in-house management department of the service provider 10 by means of e-mail or the like. Processing such as notification is performed.

  An example of the result of the above spare cartridge table update processing is shown in FIG. Compared with FIG. 1 and No. It can be seen that 5 records have been updated.

[Embodiment 2]
In the first embodiment, the image forming apparatus 2 as a contract target used on the contractor 1 side is always connected to the terminal 12 of the service provider 10. It may be a day or once / week, once / month, etc. The connection time for the contractor 1 to transmit information between the contractor 1 and the service provider 10 is set in advance. For example, in the case of once / day, the connection is made at 24:00, and the time of the day is 0:00. The event content generated from 23:59 to 23:59 is stored in a storage means (not shown) and transmitted to the terminal 12 on the service provider 10 side at the connection time.

  When the replacement of the toner cartridge 60 is performed, information on the newly installed toner cartridge 60 is transmitted. When the replacement of the toner cartridge 60 is not performed at all, the information of the currently installed toner cartridge 60 is transmitted. Send information or information that means no change. Even when the toner cartridge 60 has not been replaced, it is possible to distinguish whether the toner cartridge 60 has not actually been replaced or due to a malfunction in the communication itself by transmitting some information. it can.

  On the other hand, the terminal 12 on the service provider 10 side covers at least the time zone transmitted from the device on the contractor 1 side, for example, between 23:55 and 24:05 (5 minutes before and after the start of connection). Thus, the active state is set. Here, the active state means that the information transmitted from the device on the contractor 1 side can be accurately processed.

  By limiting the connection time as described above, in the case of a telephone line, the communication line cost can be reduced, and communication devices (5, 121, etc.) on both the contractor 1 side and the service provider 10 side can be reduced. Power consumption can be reduced.

  The image forming apparatus 2 is generally turned off during non-working hours such as at night, but when the connection time is set to the non-working hours as described above, the image forming apparatus 2 When the power of the communication unit is turned off at the same time as the power of the main body 2 is turned off, communication becomes impossible. It is better to do so. In addition, the memory of the storage means is a rewritable non-volatile memory so that the contents of the storage means stored up to that point will not be erased even if the communication means is turned off by mistake. It is preferable that

[Embodiment 3]
When the image forming apparatus 2 is used, there is a case where a paper jam occurs inside the apparatus due to a trouble mainly caused by the apparatus conveyance system, so-called paper jam. In this case, in order to remove the paper, it is necessary to take out the toner cartridges 60 that can be inserted and removed.

  When the same cartridge that is not related to cartridge replacement is inserted and removed, it is complicated to send information one by one according to the procedure described in the above embodiment.

  On the other hand, in the service provider 10 on the receiver side, it is meaningless to receive such unusable information, and as described with reference to FIGS. 9 to 12, the update date column and the like are updated. In the case of billing calculation, there is a risk of performing an incorrect calculation.

  Therefore, in this embodiment, when the same cartridge is inserted and removed, cartridge information is not transmitted. For this purpose, as shown in FIG. 4, the calculation unit 8 is provided in the image forming apparatus 2. The calculation unit 8 includes a storage unit 81 and a comparison unit 82. The latest information input from the reading unit 4 is compared with information already stored by the comparator 82. Then, the information is transmitted to the transmission / reception unit 5 and the stored contents stored in the storage unit 81 are updated. If they are the same, processing is performed so that neither storage update nor information transmission is performed.

  In addition, it is not necessary to provide the calculating part 8 separately, and you may comprise so that it may be included in the function of the controller part 3. FIG.

  In the case of an image forming apparatus having a storage device such as a hard disk as a part of the image forming function, the hard disk can be used as the storage unit 81.

[Embodiment 4]
In the previous embodiment, the method was handled on the contractor 1 side. However, there is a problem that it is necessary to separately provide a calculation unit 8 and the cost of the apparatus is increased.

  Therefore, in the present embodiment, when the received information is the same as the information already registered as “currently in use” on the service provider 10 side, the arithmetic processing unit 122 is the insertion / removal of the same cartridge. If it is different, it is determined that the cartridge has been replaced, and processing is performed to update the spare cartridge table and the in-use cartridge table. Such processing may be realized by hardware similar to that described in the previous embodiment, or may be performed by software processing in the terminal 12. The latter is better because of its versatility, cost, and flexibility in responding to changes in control methods.

  Note that the present invention can be applied not only to a printer but also to a system including a plurality of devices (for example, a host computer, an interface device, a reader, a printer, and the like). The present invention may be applied to a facsimile machine or the like.

  Another object of the present invention is to supply a storage medium storing software program codes for realizing the functions of the above-described embodiments to a system or apparatus, and store the computer (or CPU or MPU) of the system or apparatus. Needless to say, this can also be achieved by reading and executing the program code stored in the medium.

  In this case, the program code itself read from the storage medium realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments, and the storage medium storing the program code constitutes the present invention.

  As a storage medium for supplying the program code, for example, a floppy disk, a hard disk, an optical disk, a magneto-optical disk, a magnetic tape, a nonvolatile memory card, or the like can be used.

  The program code may be downloaded from another computer system to the storage unit 124 of the terminal 12 via a transmission medium such as a communication network.

  Further, by executing the program code read by the computer, not only the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized, but also an OS (operating system) operating on the computer based on the instruction of the program code. It goes without saying that a case where the function of the above-described embodiment is realized by performing part or all of the actual processing and the processing is included.

  Further, after the program code read from the storage medium is written in a memory provided in a function expansion board inserted into the computer or a function expansion unit connected to the computer, the function is determined based on the instruction of the program code. Needless to say, the CPU of the expansion board or the function expansion unit performs part or all of the actual processing and the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized by the processing.

  When the present invention is applied to the storage medium, the storage medium stores program codes corresponding to the flowcharts described above.

  The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the claims.

  It should be noted that since the main part of the present invention relates to the exchange service for consumable goods and consumable goods throughout, a contract for the image forming apparatus main body is not necessarily a premise and is not essential. That is, it goes without saying that the service according to the present invention can be applied to the main body of the image forming apparatus purchased by the contractor on a separate route through a lease contract, a rental contract, or a purchase. However, for a person who newly leases, rents, or purchases the main body of the image forming apparatus, the service management method of the present invention is smooth in terms of the procedure because the contract for the service according to the present invention is performed simultaneously with the main body contract / purchase Can be done.

  Further, the apparatus according to the present invention is not limited to a copying machine, a printer, or the like, and can be any replacement parts that are shorter than the consumption of the main unit and the expiry date. More preferably, the replacement part specific information is formed, and if the information can be read out by the main body apparatus, the attachment / detachment / mounting of the replacement part can be detected electronically.

[Embodiment 5]
In the first to fourth embodiments, an example in which the distribution object 6 necessary for the operation of the image forming apparatus 2 is a service target has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and more general products can be used for the contractor 1. It can also be applied to the case where it is provided.

  In the following embodiments, the normal commodity means a state that is generally available to general consumers. Therefore, in addition to the actual use or consumption, the container containing them in addition to the consumption, The case may further include members that pack and package them.

  The normal product is repackaged such that the unique information forming unit (first information recording body) such as the above-described IC chip 61 storing information such as the ID number of each product is included. A consumable article / consumable article that has been processed will be referred to as a distribution item. Therefore, several normal products can be handled as one new product in this service by packing and packaging several new products (= packing). On the other hand, when the manufacturer manufactures and sells the packed product by performing the new packing and packaging as in the assortment set, the first information recording body is accommodated at the time of manufacture. Even if packing, packaging, etc. are possible in the form, it is a distribution according to the present invention. In this system, it may be simply referred to as a product. Such an example corresponds to a case where four or two tires or wheels or the like are set as one set, or a case where a plurality of kinds of daily necessities or favorite goods are packed.

  Further, the distribution product may be a product obtained by processing such as attachment of the information recording body 7.

  As an example of the distribution, if the module manufacturer is the contractor 1, in addition to the product to be purchased by the so-called end user, it may include parts constituting the product. For example, in a computer device equipped with a liquid crystal display device, a liquid crystal display device, a liquid crystal module, a liquid crystal driver, and the like correspond to the distribution items.

  Other examples include the following. In other words, daily products such as shampoos and detergents, cosmetics, care products for infants and the elderly, automobile parts such as tires and modularized components, office supplies, information recording media such as books, CDs, video tapes, DVDs, Food parts, clothing, medical products, electronic parts such as ICs, toys, electrical / mechanical products, electrical / mechanical parts, chemicals, propane gas cylinders, residential building materials, metal / plastic materials, etc. There is.

  In addition, as can be seen from the above examples, a certain amount is accommodated even when the actual use or consumption is in powder or liquid, gas, or liquid counts. Of course, this is within the scope of the present invention.

(Network system)
First, as shown in FIG. 15, the service provider 10 provides the contractor 1 with the second terminal 40, paper as a printer supply product, or image / movie / music, application software, game Products 65 such as CDs, DVDs and other optical discs and video tapes recorded with software (distributed product 6 from the unified notation with the first to fourth embodiments. However, the operation of equipment such as the toner cartridge 60 etc. In order to distinguish it from the necessary distribution item, it may be referred to as a product 65). At this time, there are no particular restrictions on the type of product and the number of deliveries, but there may be two or more in order to effectively execute the gist of the present invention except for packed products.

  The service provider 10 provides the contractor 1 with a pamphlet or the like on which a list of products to be delivered from the next time is described as necessary. As a result, it becomes possible for the contractor 1 to determine and instruct the product list to be delivered from the next time onward, and only the products that match the user needs can be provided. Can be increased. Instead of the pamphlet, the contractor 1 requests a desired product from the products 6 listed in advance by the service provider 10 and determines the product 6 to be delivered in advance by reflecting the request result. May be. Details will be described later.

  Referring to the block diagram of FIG. 15, the second terminal 2 installed on the contractor 1 side is connected to the terminal 12 on the service provider 10 side via the transmission / reception unit 41 by the telephone line 20A or the like. Has been. The transmission / reception unit 41 is, for example, a modem. The connection form is not limited to a telephone line, and may be CATV or the like. Alternatively, it may be a dedicated network system.

  More specifically, the basic configuration of the second terminal 40 includes a reading unit 42 that reads information of an information recording body 161 (a first information recording body replacing the IC chip 61) attached to the product 65; It has a controller unit 43 that performs control and a transmission / reception unit 41 that outputs the read information to the outside.

  In terms of appearance, for example, as shown in FIG. 21, the second terminal 40 includes a power switch 23 of the device, a reading port 212 in which the reading unit 42 is accommodated and an information recording body 161 is installed, and a connector 22 of the transmission / reception unit 41. Has been. Note that cables and connectors for supplying power to the second terminal 40 are omitted.

  The second terminal 40 is connected to a network connector 210 installed in a house or the like via a communication cable 200.

  As shown in FIG. 4B, the controller 43 automatically converts the electronic information when an information recording body 161 such as an IC card is artificially inserted or connected to the reading port 212 of the second terminal 40. Then, when the transmission button 243 is pressed thereafter, control is performed to transmit the information from the transmission / reception unit 41 to the outside.

  Note that the transmission button 243 can be omitted by automating the transmission operation.

  The terminal 12 on the service provider 10 side registers, updates, and corrects information on the contractor 1 side via the network 20 (telephone line 20A) or / and by the input unit 123.

(Request for distribution)
With reference to FIG. 16, a description will be given of a determination method that takes into account the desire of the contractor 1 as the distribution 6 delivered in advance to the contractor 1.

  FIGS. 5A and 5B show examples of screens (hereinafter referred to as advance request screens) on which the contractor 1 makes a request for the distribution item 6 delivered in advance on the Internet.

  Both include an input field for inputting a contractor ID as information for certifying that the service is provided by the present invention.

  The figure (a) is a case where a general product category is requested, such as office supplies, amusement goods, daily necessities, etc., and the figure (b) is a further subdivision of the categories. Shows the case. These may be used alternatively, or in the same figure (a), for example, when “entertainment goods” is selected, the prior request screen in FIG. It may be newly displayed and a further input request may be made. In this case, it is not necessary to display an input field for entering the contractor ID on the prior request screen of FIG. Further, as shown in FIG. 27 described later, a specific distribution name may be displayed on the advance request screen as in the “ΔΔΔ” information search / utilization software.

  The contractor 1 selects a desired product category, product name, specific distribution name, etc. on the above-mentioned prior request screen, and clicks a send button, so that the questionnaire result is transmitted to the terminal of the service provider 10. . The terminal is generally prepared as a WEB server, but the terminal 12 described above may be substituted.

  FIG. 7C shows a part of the HTML (Hyper Text Markup Language) source of the prior request screen shown in FIG. In this way, a questionnaire can be easily performed by using the <FORM> tag. Further, “checkbox” is used as the TYPE attribute of the <INPUT> tag in order to enable selection of a plurality of items. The file is placed on the WEB server.

  In the embodiment in which the WEB server is replaced by the terminal 12, the list of the distribution items 6 that can be delivered to the contractor 1 is stored in the storage unit 124 (third storage unit) of the terminal 12 as the HTML source. In response to a request from the second terminal 40 having a browser function, the list of the distribution items 6 is transmitted from the terminal 12 to the terminal 40 in the form of an HTML document. As a result, the contractor 1 can access the list of the distribution items 6 held in the terminal 12.

  Next, the service provider 10 totals the request results from the contractor 1.

  Specifically, as shown in FIG. 8B, when the contractor 1 selects the item “PC software”, “0210” set in the NAME attribute is set according to FIG. Is transmitted to the terminal 12 through the transmission / reception unit 41. Similarly, code data “0220” corresponding to the “foreign film (DVD)” selected by the contractor 1 is also transmitted at the same time.

Therefore, for each contractor 1, for example, the terminal 12
(Contractor ID) + (Code data selected by the contractor)
The prior request information is captured in the form.

  Next, the terminal 12 totals the prior request information from all the contractors 1 received. An example of the aggregation table is shown in FIG. The code data entered in the data column has a one-to-one correspondence with the selection items shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B, and the correspondence is determined by the file shown in FIG. Is. The correspondence is shown in FIG. Further, the number of responses column of the aggregation table is the number of responses (requests) aggregated for each code data.

  Next, the code data is rearranged in descending order of the number of responses in the number of responses column of FIG.

  Next, for example, the top 10 items are pre-delivered, that is, determined as the distribution object 6 to be serviced by the service management method of the present invention. It should be noted that how many distribution items 6 are determined as service targets is within the selection range of the service provider 10.

  Next, referring to FIG. 5E, the code data of the distribution item 6 determined by the above processing is translated into a product name or the like, which becomes information that can be understood by humans.

  If the number of contractors 1 is not large, the distribution items 6 to be delivered in advance may be determined as desired for each contractor 1.

  The above processing is performed by the arithmetic processing unit 122, and the request program and the aggregation program indicating the processing procedure are stored in the storage unit 124.

  As described above, the distribution item 6 to be delivered to the contractor 1 is requested in advance by the contractor 1 and the distribution item 6 desired to be purchased is selected. Therefore, the optimum distribution item 6 is delivered to the contractor 1. The purchase probability by the contractor 1 can be improved. Moreover, since the prior requests are totaled, the service provider 10 can prepare the distribution item 6 based on the prior request results. Therefore, ordering / inventory management of the service provider 10 itself becomes easy.

  Further, by presenting the list of the distribution items 6 reflecting the result of the prior request to the contractor 1, it is possible to inform the contractor 1 of the popular distribution items 6, so that the purchase probability can be further improved. In addition, it is possible to obtain an effect of reducing defective inventory that does not result in purchase.

  In addition, since the service provider 10 can know the popular distribution 6 based on the prior request result of the contractor 1 and the unpopular distribution 6 on the contrary, such a prior request result can be used as a service target. By providing quick feedback when selecting the distribution item 6 as an item, it is possible to provide an efficient service such as further improving the purchase probability.

(Distribution form)
The distribution item 6 will be described with reference to FIGS.

  FIG. 17A shows a product 65 and an information recording body using a transparent resin bag-like packaging material 66 having an opening 660 for accommodating the product 65 and the information recording body 161 (information holding section). The example which forms the distribution article 6 by packaging 161 is shown. After accommodating the product 65 and the information recording body 161, the opening 660 is thermally bonded and sealed (sealed portion 661).

  For the purpose of avoiding damage to the information recording body 161 due to collision and friction between the product 65 and the information recording body 161 in the packaging material 66, the information recording body 161 is attached to the product 65 with a tape or the like as necessary. Glue and fix.

  Further, when the accommodation volume of the packaging material 66 is larger than the volume of the product 65, the volume of the circulation 6 may be increased compared with the volume of the product 65. Sometimes, the air in the packaging material 66 may be evacuated.

  Next, FIG. 17B shows an example in which the product 65 and the information recording body 161 are packaged by a packaging material 66 that can take a form such as laminate packaging. Compared with the method of FIG. 17A, since the product 65 and the information recording body 161 can be tightly packed, the damage of the information recording body 161 due to the collision of the product 65 and the information recording body 161 can be avoided. . Moreover, the product 65 or more is not bulky.

  In any of the above, a transparent resin member is used as the packaging material 66, but the contents can be easily confirmed without opening.

  Next, FIG. 17C shows an example in which the product 65 and the information recording body 161 are accommodated in a cardboard case-shaped packaging material 66. In both the above examples, since a transparent member was used as the packaging material 66, the contents of the product 65 could be confirmed from the outside even after the packaging process. In order to meet such a demand, an opening 662 is provided in a cardboard case-shaped packaging material 66, and the opening 662 is covered with a transparent resin film. Thereby, the product 65 can be visually discriminated. Note that the information recording body 161 may be arranged so that at least a part of the information recording body 161 can be seen from the opening 662 if the purpose is to confirm the attached state.

  In the above example, a card-like medium such as a magnetic card or an IC card can be suitably used as the information recording body 161. Details of the information recording body 161 will be described later.

  Next, FIGS. 18A and 18B are examples in which a disk-type medium is used as the information recording body 161. FIG. 18A shows a case where the size of the information recording body 161 is smaller than the size of the product 65. As the product 65, for example, a recording sheet containing 100 sheets of A4 size can be cited. FIG. 18B shows a case where the size of the information recording body 161 is equal to or larger than the size of the product 65. Examples of the product 65 include a cartridge for an ink jet printer. In either case, the transparent resin film 67 is closely packed.

  FIG. 18C shows an example of a medium on which a barcode is formed as the information recording body 161. In the case of such information formation, in order to prevent the information content from being recognized and imitated visually and easily, and to prevent the information surface from being damaged, It arrange | positions to the goods 65 and closely_wraps with the transparent resin film 67. The information recording body 161 can be bonded to the product 65 with a cellophane tape or the like instead of the close-packing.

  Further, one product may be formed by packing and packing several products 65 together. For example, plain paper (100 sheets), photo paper (20 sheets), and sticker paper for an inkjet printer may be set. In this case, these aggregates become new products in the service management method of the present invention. These examples are shown in FIG.

  The cases corresponding to FIGS. 17A to 17C are shown in FIGS. 19A to 19C, respectively.

  In the above, since the entire product 65 is further packed and packaged, from the viewpoint of easy confirmation of the product 65, at least a part of the packaging material 66 as a packaging and packaging member is formed of a transparent member. However, in the form in which a part of the product 65 is packaged, since the exposed portion of the product 65 is present, the packaging material 66 is not necessarily a transparent member.

(Example 1 of first information recording body)
Next, as the information recording body 161, it is preferable that unique information of a product is recorded on the surface or inside thereof. For example, in the example of FIG. 21B, the information recording body 161 is an IC chip, and unique information is stored in the form of electronic data.

  The product type number and the ID number are stored in advance in a nonvolatile ROM such as an EEPROM or a mask ROM in the IC chip. Alternatively, a simple method such as a barcode may be used. For the purpose of eliminating pirated editions, the former, which is difficult to produce copies and similar products, is preferred.

  In the present invention, the information stored in the IC chip is basically only the product type number and the ID number of the specific product.

  In addition, it is not necessary to prepare special IC cards and IC chips. Various memory cards that have been put into practical use, that is, compact flash (registered trademark) (CF), smart media (SM), memory stick (MS) ) Etc. can be used.

  In the case of the IC card and IC chip required in the present invention, the information to be stored is basically only the product type number and the ID number of the specific product, and normally there is no need to rewrite the information. The capacity and function can be reduced, and the software scale and hardware scale of the memory controller can be greatly reduced.

(Example 2 of first information recording body)
A case where another information forming method is used will be described.

  As the information recording body 161, a reversible recording material can be used. For example, there are methods for writing and erasing records by heat, light, magnetism, electricity, such as thermochromism, photochromism, electrochromism, and the like.

  Among them, the heat-sensitive recording medium using thermal energy is easy to handle, and has already been put to practical use in supermarkets, car supply stores, etc., and has a feature that the recording medium can be recycled and reused. . The reversible thermosensitive recording medium uses the color development and decoloring characteristics of the leuco dye, which is an electron donating dye precursor, and the light scattering or refraction due to phase separation and phase transition using a polymer compound. There is a type that uses the optical change of transparency and opaqueness (white turbidity) caused by the change of rate.

  Basically, a reader of a reversible thermosensitive recording medium may be used as the reading means.

(Example 3 of first information recording body)
Further, a case where another information forming method is used will be described.

  FIG. 22B shows an example in which a magneto-optical recording medium is used as the information recording body 161. As a system using the medium, practical use is possible in MD, MD2, MO, etc. for recording music and data. In addition, since the information can be repeatedly recorded, the recording medium can be reused. As the reading means, basically a drive device for a magneto-optical recording medium or a pickup device can be used as it is, so that the transition to this sales system is relatively easy without any new capital investment. It can be carried out.

  Furthermore, since the amount of recording information required in the present invention is extremely small compared to the practical use level of the disc capacity, a disc with a smaller diameter can be used. In this case, it is possible to cope with the current pickup device only by making a simple design change. In order to attach to a product, since the information recording body 161 is required to be small in size, it is necessary to use a disk having a small diameter of 5 cm rather than 12 cm. On the other hand, in the optical disc field, research and development related to disc diameter reduction is constantly progressing. Therefore, if these standards and commercial phases are met, there is no special capital investment, and there is no special equipment for this sales system. It can be installed and used without ending the device.

  Note that additional information such as product list information to be delivered next time, new arrival information, and advertisements may be stored in the information recording body 161 in advance for the purpose of utilizing the storage capacity inherent to the disc.

(Example 4 of first information recording body)
In the above, the unique information of the product is stored in the form of magnetic data or electronic data in the magnetic card, the IC chip, or the IC card. A simpler method will be described below.

Details of the information recording body 161 will be described. As shown in FIG. 18 (c), the information recording body 161 is, for example, information for specifying the distribution item 6 that is a consumable article on a medium of 15 mm × 50 mm,
A00000001
...
A9999999999
Nine-digit alphanumeric characters that are 10-developed are printed. The decimal number and the number of digits are not limited to this, and may be binary or 14 digits. Moreover, you may be comprised only with a number. In addition, the size of the recording medium is not limited to this, and when there are a wide variety of target products, it is desirable to match the size of the smallest product, so that recording media of the same size can be used regardless of the product. It can be used by being enclosed in a product, and thus a single reading means can be used.

  Next, the meaning of the alphanumeric characters will be described.

  The uppermost alphabet is information for specifying a plurality of types of products. In this case, up to 26 types can be distinguished corresponding to 26 alphabetic characters.

  The number part is an individual number in a product of the type A, for example, and a single and unique number is assigned to one product.

  Further, the information forming method is not limited to printing, but may be punching, forming irregularities, or barcode.

  Further, as the material of the medium, any of paper, plastic, metal, and a composite thereof may be used. In the case of paper, it can be disposable, can be easily discarded, and the cost can be reduced. In the case of plastic, since it is more durable, it can be recycled and reused. Furthermore, if metal is used, it is further excellent in recyclability and reusability, and has an environmental advantage.

  The thickness of the medium depends on the material and size, but if it is too thin, there is a problem of curling in the case of paper and plastic sheets. Refer to the sizes of various information cards in practical use. That's fine.

  In addition, the smaller the size, the more it can be accommodated inside a small conventional consumer product. However, if it is too small, it will cause problems in handling and is likely to be lost. It is reasonable as a lower limit.

(Example 1 of product specific information)
Next, as the information recording body 161, it is preferable that the unique information of the product is formed on the surface or inside thereof. For example, the information recording body 161 is a magnetic card as shown in FIG. 20B, and unique information is recorded as magnetic information.

  In the present invention, the information stored in the information recording body 161 is basically only the product type number and the ID number of the specific product.

Next, information recording contents will be described. The magnetic card contains information for identifying the product 65,
0011 0001 0010 1101 1010
The binarized 20-digit numbers such as are stored in advance. The number of digits is not limited to this. From the viewpoint of memory storage, such binary display is used, but from the viewpoint of a man-machine interface, decimal display may be used. As a result, even a general person other than an expert who does not have knowledge about binary numbers can handle the information based on the decimal display normally used without performing binary-decimal conversion. It becomes.

  Next, the meaning of the numbers will be described.

  The most significant four-digit number is information for specifying a plurality of types of products 65. In this case, 16 types from 0000 to 1111 can be distinguished. For example, the assignment shown in Table 4 below can be considered, with the most significant two digits being the major product category and the next two digits being the minor product category.

  More specifically, the large classification identification bit defines the paper size, and the small classification defines the paper type.

  For example, the major classification identification bit “00” indicates that the product 65 is A6 size inkjet paper, and the minor classification identification bits are “00”, “01”, “ Four types “10” and “11” are prepared, and plain paper, dedicated paper, glossy paper, and photo paper are assigned to each.

  Similarly, the major classification identification bit “01” indicates that the product 65 is an A4 size inkjet paper, and the minor classification identification bits are “00”, “01”, Four types “10” and “11” are prepared, and plain paper, dedicated paper, glossy paper, and photo paper are assigned to each.

  Further, the identification bit for large classification 11 ″ indicates that the product 65 is a postcard-sized inkjet paper in which a postal code entry field or the like is printed in advance on the back side. Four types of bits “00”, “01”, “10”, and “11” are prepared, and plain paper, dedicated paper, glossy paper, and photo paper are assigned to each.

Next, the remaining 16-digit number part is an individual number of a product having a type number of 0011 (that is, A6 size, photo paper inkjet paper) in the previous example,
0000 0000 0000 0000
To 1111 1111 1111 1111
Up to 65536 numbers are assigned as a single and unique number for one commodity.

  As a result, when the contractor 1 purchases two items 65 of A6 size, photo paper inkjet paper, different individual numbers are assigned to the respective products 65, so that the service provider 10 stores the individual number information. The purchase information can be obtained accurately based on this.

  In addition, when adding an ink-jet printer sticker paper, copy paper, OHP paper, or the like as the product 65, the large classification bit may be increased.

  In addition, in order to distinguish the number of sheets, for example, a set of 20 sheets of photo paper, a set of 50 sheets of photo paper, etc., an identification bit for that purpose may be further provided.

(Example 2 of product specific information)
The above is inkjet printer paper from the same manufacturer. However, even if the product is from the same manufacturer, the optimal paper characteristics may differ depending on the model, and it can be used in image forming methods like special paper for video printers. There is a special paper that matches. It is easy to apply to these.

  Furthermore, as shown below, it is possible to include inkjet printer papers from multiple manufacturers.

In the information recording body 161, as information for specifying the product 65,
000011 000101 011010 101101
The binarized 24-digit number is stored in advance. The number of digits is not limited to this. Next, the meaning of the numbers will be described.

  The most significant 6-digit number is information for specifying a plurality of types of products 65. In this case, 64 types from 000000 to 111111 can be distinguished. For example, the assignment shown in Table 5 below can be considered, with the most significant two digits being the major product category, the next two digits being the middle product category, and the lowest two digits being the minor product category.

  More specifically, the large classification identification bit defines manufacturer information, the middle classification defines a paper size, and the small classification specifies a paper type.

  For example, the identification bit for major classification “00” indicates that the product 65 is inkjet paper of company A, and “00”, “01”, “10”, “11” for the identification bit for middle classification. "4", A6, A4, B5, and postcard size, respectively, and four types of identification bits for small classification, "00", "01", "10", and "11" Are prepared, and plain paper, photo paper, special paper, and glossy paper are allotted.

  Similarly, the identification bit for large classification “01” indicates that the product 65 is an inkjet paper of Company B, and “00”, “01”, “10”, “ Four types of 11 ”are prepared, which respectively represent A6, A4, A3, and postcard size. Further, regarding the identification bits for small classification, 4 of“ 00 ”,“ 01 ”,“ 10 ”, and“ 11 ”are provided. Types are prepared and assigned to plain paper, photo paper, special paper, and glossy paper.

  Further, the major classification identification bits “10” and “11” indicate that the product 65 is a C company and a D company ink jet paper, respectively.

  Next, the remaining number part is the individual number assigned to the product 65 having the type number 000011 in the previous example, that is, the ink jet paper of company A and having the size A6 and the paper type of glossy paper. It is.

(Example 3 of product specific information)
Next, other information recording contents will be described. In the information recording body 161, as information for specifying the product 65,
0011 0001 0010 1101 1010
The binarized 20-digit numbers such as are stored in advance. The number of digits is not limited to this.

  Next, the meaning of the numbers will be described.

  The most significant four-digit number is information for specifying a plurality of types of products 65. In this case, 16 types from 0000 to 1111 can be distinguished. For example, the allocation shown in Table 6 below can be considered, with the most significant two digits being the major product category and the next two digits being the minor product category.

  More specifically, the product 65 is an ink cartridge in an ink jet printer, the large classification identification bit represents manufacturer information, and the small classification is defined to represent model information.

  For example, the major classification identification bit “00” indicates that the product is an ink cartridge for an inkjet printer of company A, and further, “00”, “01” as the minor classification identification bits depending on the content of the product. Four types of “10” and “11” are prepared, and a model a1, a model a2, a model a3, and a model a4 are respectively assigned.

  Similarly, the identification bit for large classification “01” indicates that the product is an ink cartridge for an inkjet printer of company B, and further, the identification bit for minor classification is “00”, “ Four types “01”, “10”, and “11” are prepared, and a model a1, a model a2, a model a3, and a model a4 are assigned to them.

  Furthermore, the major classification identification bits “10” and “11” indicate that the product is an ink cartridge for an inkjet printer of company C and company D, respectively.

  In addition, as the cartridge form, there are all color integrated type, black, color separation type, all color separation type, etc. In the case of separation type, in order to specify the color, the identification bit for small classification Just increase the number of digits.

  Next, the remaining 16-digit number is an individual number of a product having a type number of 0011 in the previous example.

(Example 4 of product specific information)
Next, still another information recording content will be described. In the information recording body 161, information for specifying the product 65,
0011 0001 0010 1101 1010
The binarized 20-digit numbers such as are stored in advance. The number of digits is not limited to this.

  Next, the meaning of the numbers will be described.

  The most significant four-digit number is information for specifying a plurality of types of products 65. In this case, 16 types from 0000 to 1111 can be distinguished. For example, the allocation shown in Table 7 below can be considered, with the most significant two digits being the major product category and the next two digits being the minor product category.

  More specifically, the identification bit for large classification “00” indicates that the product is a CD-ROM, and further, “00”, “01”, “ Four types “10” and “11” are prepared, and music, game software, application software, and business support software are assigned to each.

  Similarly, the identification bit for large classification “01” indicates that the product is a DVD-ROM, and further, “00”, “01”, “10” for the identification bit for small classification depending on the content thereof. , “11” are prepared, and movie, navigation software, database software such as encyclopedias,.

Furthermore, when the major classification identification bits are “10” and “11”, respectively, VHS
It shows that it is a standard video tape and an unrecorded raw tape, respectively.

  The major categories are not limited to the above, but magneto-optical disks such as MD, removable HDD, floppy (registered trademark) disks, magnetic disks such as super disks, DVD-RW, CD-RW, and PD (Phase Change Optical). Disk). Further, a minor classification may be provided below the middle classification.

Next, the remaining 16-digit number part is an individual number of a product having a type number of 0011 in the previous example,
0000 0000 0000 0000
To 1111 1111 1111 1111
Up to 65536 numbers are assigned as a single and unique number for one commodity.

(Example 1 of the second terminal 40)
20A to 20C are examples of the second terminal 40 provided to the contractor 1 when a magnetic card is used as the information recording body 161. The magnetic card is inserted into the second terminal 40. As shown in FIG. 20 (b), the magnetic card is artificially moved along the slit portion 42a, thereby fixing the slit portion 42a of the reading device. Information is read by a mold head (not shown).

  The read information is transmitted to the outside by communication means including the transmission / reception unit 41, the communication connector 22, the communication cable 200, the network connector 210, and the like, and is received by the communication unit 121 of the terminal 12 through the network 20.

  In addition, the information recording body 161 may be fixedly arranged with respect to the reading apparatus, and the reading may be performed by moving the movable head unit.

(Example 2 of the second terminal 40)
Another embodiment of the second terminal 40 will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIGS. 21A and 21B are examples in the case where a memory card is used as the information recording body 161. A connector portion 212 for connecting the memory card to the second terminal 40 is provided, and the connector portion By connecting a memory card to 212, information is read electrically.

  The read information is transmitted to the outside by communication means including the transmission / reception unit 41, the communication connector 22, the communication cable 200, the network connector 210, and the like.

  A transmission button 243 for performing an outgoing operation and an eject button for ejecting the memory card are provided.

  In addition, a display unit 242 for warning an error message may be provided.

  By providing such a display unit 242, it is possible to notify the user whether the reading has been performed reliably or the transmission of information has been performed reliably. Process can be done.

(Example 3 of the second terminal 40)
Still another example of the second terminal 40 will be described with reference to FIG.

  22 (a) to 22 (c) are examples in the case where the information recording body 161 is an optical disk, in which the optical disk is rotated and read by a head provided in the reading device. An optical disk drive device. Depending on the method of inserting the optical disk, the structures shown in FIGS.

  FIGS. 9A and 9B show a form in which an optical disc as an information recording body 161 is inserted into the disc insertion slot 211. Since there is no loading tray 213 as compared with the method of FIG. There are advantages in shortening the time required to complete the insertion, improving the reliability of the device, and reducing the cost by reducing the number of parts.

  On the other hand, the method shown in FIG. 6C is a type having a tray 213 for accommodating an optical disk, which is superior in dustproof performance to the disk having a plurality of diameters compared with the method of FIG. There is a merit that it is available

  In the present invention, the information recording body 161 is preferably a medium that can be repeatedly recorded because of its recyclability, but the function of the second terminal 40 is only to read the information recorded on the information recording body 161. In order to avoid inadvertent writing and erasing of information, the pickup configuration of the second terminal 40 may be configured to have only a reproduction-only function.

  For example, in the case of a magneto-optical disk in which information is recorded by magnetic modulation, a magnetic circuit is unnecessary. In the case of optical disks of the phase change type and the like, since laser power for writing and erasing is not necessary, the laser to be used may be a laser that outputs lower output power required for reproduction, and has a low output. Can improve reliability and reduce costs. Also, the control circuit can be simplified for reproduction only.

  The disk-type information recording body 161 is not limited to a magneto-optical disk, and a magnetic disk, a phase change optical disk, and the like can be applied. Further, if recyclability is not desired, a medium such as a CD-ROM or CD-R may be used.

(Example 4 of the second terminal 40)
As shown in FIGS. 20 (c), 22 (c) and 23, the second terminal 40 installed on the consumer side is arranged with the information recording body 161 and recorded on the information recording body 161. Further, a reading unit that reads out the information, an interface unit for performing communication with the service provider 10, and display units 24 and 241 such as a liquid crystal display may be provided.

  Thus, by configuring the display units 24 and 241 with a liquid crystal display or the like, more information can be displayed instantaneously. In addition to the same effects as in the previous embodiment, external information can be transmitted through the Internet. Capture and display can be performed.

  For example, by adding a browser function to the second terminal 40, an HTML (Hyper Text Markup Language) document used in WWW (World-Wide Web) can be displayed. The document contents may be a list of the distribution items 6 that can be delivered to the contractor 1. The format of the list can be diverted from that used in normal online shopping. For example, the distribution can be requested as a delivery desired product by checking or clicking on the desired delivery product.

  As a result, the service provider 10 can provide the contractor 1 with an HTML document created for a user who accesses using a normal PC (personal computer). There is no need to create a separate file. If the browser function is an original specification that is used in a personal computer (PC) with restrictions on the function, addition of an original function, etc., the software burden due to omission of unnecessary functions, the hardware scale Can be improved and convenience can be improved by adding unique functions.

  In addition, for the user, the second terminal 40 is positioned as a simple information terminal that is not conscious of the OS, and does not require instant activation or special knowledge / learning compared to a normal PC. There are many advantages such as downsizing and low power consumption.

  Note that a push button 251 as shown in FIG. 23A and FIG. 23B are shown as selection units for performing screen scrolling, page switching (returning, moving forward), and action determination (clicking) operations during browsing. A dial-type button 252 may be provided. Alternatively, a capacitive type pointing device may be provided in advance, or a connector for connecting an input device 254 such as a mouse may be provided as shown in FIG.

  Further, for inputting URL (Uniform Resource Locator) or the like for Internet connection, a keyboard may be provided in advance, or a connector for connecting an external keyboard may be provided.

  These input means serve as a selection unit when selecting a desired distribution from the list of deliverable distributions.

  It is also possible to display management information of the contractor 1. That is, on the second terminal 40 side, information on each contractor 1, for example, monthly usage details is stored in a database, and by accessing the file, the contractor 1 obtains the usage details for the month and It can be displayed. As a result, confirmation in real time can be performed, issuance of usage statements, bills, and the like can be omitted, and paperlessness can be promoted.

  It is also possible to provide a next delivery list via the network. Compared with catalog distribution, the service provider 10 has advantages such as a reduction in production cost and time associated with paperless, rapid provision of the latest information, and a contractor 1 that requires quick request and no storage.

(Example 5 of the second terminal 40)
The difference from the previous embodiment is that the second terminal 40 has an electronic mail function instead of or in addition to the browser function. Further, the information recording body 161 is in the form shown in Example 2 or 4 of the information recording body 161, and has the following effects when the information formed on the information recording body 161 is directly recognizable by humans. .

  That is, if only the reading unit 42 of the second terminal 40 fails, the ID number of the contractor 1, purchased product information, and the like can be transmitted to the service provider 10 by manual operation.

(Example 6 of the second terminal 40)
The second terminal 40 of this embodiment is obtained by adding a large capacity hard disk and a TV tuner function to the previous embodiment. The large-capacity hard disk may be a built-in type or an external connection type. Thereby, reception and recording of TV broadcasts are possible, and it can function as a set-top box or a home server.

  For audio, a method of incorporating an audio board or / and a speaker may be used, or a method of using an external amplifier or speaker by disposing an audio terminal or / and a speaker terminal. good.

  In the case of a cable TV or the like, broadcast reception and Internet use can be completed with the same cable.

(Example 7 of the second terminal 40)
The second terminal 40 shown in FIG. 24 is obtained by adding a telephone function to the basic configuration shown in FIG. In addition to the communication functions necessary for the telephone, a keyboard 26 for inputting a number is prepared.

  As a result, as in Example 5, if the information formed on the information recording body 161 is directly recognizable by humans and only the reading unit of the second terminal 40 fails, manual operation is performed. Thus, the ID number of the contractor 1, purchased product information, etc. can be transmitted to the service provider 1.

  Similar to a normal stationary telephone, it is possible to perform the same operation from a plurality of slave units.

(Example 8 of the second terminal 40)
The second terminal 40 shown in FIGS. 25A and 25B is obtained by adding an interface unit 28 to the basic configuration shown in FIG. 15 so that the mobile phone (or PHS) 29 can be connected. Since the function required for the telephone is provided in the mobile phone 29, it can be omitted from the second terminal 40. That is, as a basic function of the second terminal 40, it is sufficient to read information from the information recording body 161, and the display units 241 and 242 are not necessarily required.

In more detail,
(Step 1) When the information recording body 161 is set in the terminal 40, the controller unit 43 (see FIG. 15) reads the information stored in the information recording body 161 to the head unit, the driving unit, etc. The reading unit enters a standby state.

  (Step 2) When the mobile phone 29 is connected to the second terminal 40 and a request signal for reading information is transmitted from the mobile phone 29 to the second terminal 40, the controller unit 43 In addition, the information is read from the information recording body 161, and the information specific to the terminal 40 is added to the information, and an instruction is sent to the mobile phone 29. An error display such as the presence / absence of connection of the mobile phone 29 and the state of connection (in the case of incomplete electrical connection or the like) can also be performed by the display unit 242.

  (Step 3) The mobile phone 29 stores the information transmitted from the second terminal 40 in the internal memory.

  (Step 4) The mobile phone 29 makes a network connection to the terminal 12.

  (Step 5) The information stored in the internal memory is transmitted to the terminal 12.

  In the above (Step 1), the read information can also be stored in the memory by incorporating the memory means in the second terminal 40 separately. In this case, when the mobile phone 29 is connected to the second terminal 40, the stored information is instructed to be transmitted to the mobile phone 29 again. Further, the display unit 242 can display whether or not information is stored in the memory means.

  Further, (Step 3) and (Step 4) may be reversed.

  Furthermore, the information to be transmitted in addition to the information from the information recording body 161 is not limited to the unique information of the second terminal 40, and user information (contractor ID) allocated to the contractor 1 by the service provider 10 It may be. In this case, the second terminal 40 requires a non-volatile memory for storing the user information as compared with the basic function.

  As an effect described above, even if only the telephone function becomes obsolete due to technological progress, it is only necessary to replace the mobile phone, and the second terminal 40 can be used as it is. On the contrary, when the second terminal 40 becomes obsolete earlier, it is only necessary to replace the second terminal 40, and the mobile phone 29 can be used as it is.

  Furthermore, if the telephone functions are separated, the portability of the mobile phone 29 can be utilized to the maximum extent.

(Sales system-registration-)
Next, the operation of the system will be described.

  First, when the second terminal 40 installed on the contractor 1 side is connected and set to be communicable with the outside and becomes communicable, the model number of the second terminal 40 and the individual product Information such as an ID number is sent to the terminal 12 on the service provider 10 side. The terminal 12 can automatically detect the model of the second terminal 40 of the contractor 1 by this step, and separately uses a plurality of contracts based on the associated model information table and contractor information table. The corresponding contractor 1 can be identified from the subscribers 1.

  Alternatively, the contractor 1 may be separately specified by providing the contractor ID to the contractor 1 and transmitting the contractor ID when communicating with the terminal 12. FIG. 30 shows an example of a terminal table and a customer table managed on the terminal 12 side.

  The terminal table is a table in which terminal IDs (device specific information) and contractor IDs (contractor specific information) are linked in a one-to-one or one-to-many relationship, as shown on the left side of FIG. On the other hand, the customer table is a table in which contractor IDs and general contractor information such as names and names are linked in a one-to-one relationship as shown on the right side of the figure. These two tables can be combined by a common key called the contractor ID. For example, the name of the contractor 1 whose terminal ID is “000001” is searched for the customer table based on the contractor ID. By doing so, it is understood that it is “ΔΔ ΔΔ”.

  In the terminal 12 on the service provider 10 side, a management table is prepared for each contractor 1 as shown in FIG. At this stage, as shown in FIG. 26, no information is contained in the terminal 12 on the service provider 10 side.

  Next, the service provider 10 collects information on all the products to be paid in advance on the contractor 1 side, and stores the information in the terminal 12 of the service provider 10 immediately or later.

  Since the information collection method is as described above, detailed description thereof is omitted.

  The terminal 12 on the service provider 10 side receives the above information, and based on the received information, as shown in FIG. 27, the corresponding information is stored in the management table for the product 65 delivered to the contractor 1 side. Entered. In the description of the figure, from the viewpoint of the user interface, the display relating to the information on the type of product etc. uses not only the code information but also the actual product name or the like. At this point, the purchase status column is all displayed as “not yet”.

  This completes the initial setting / registration.

(Sales system-purchase-)
Next, the operation at the time of product purchase will be described.

  The contractor 1 opens the product 65 determined to be purchased, and sets the information recording body 161 obtained only by opening the product 65 to the second terminal 40. The present embodiment is characterized in that an information recording body 161 in which unique information for specifying the product 65 is recorded is enclosed in the packaging material or the packaging material separately from the product 65. That is, in addition to specifying the product 65, the product 65 is enclosed in the packaging material or packaging material in order to determine the operation of opening.

  In addition, since these packaging materials or packaging materials are different from the packaging materials or packaging materials of the product 65 itself, the merchandise 65 does not lose its merchantability by opening the packaging material or packaging material.

  Since the second terminal 40 is already connected and set to be communicable with the outside and is in a communicable state, the second terminal 40 is set with respect to the terminal 12 on the service provider 10 side. The product information formed in the information recording body 161 is transmitted.

  In the terminal 12 on the service provider 10 side, the arithmetic processing unit 122 receives the above information, identifies the contractor 1 and the product 65 based on the transmitted information, and the contractor 1 opens the package as shown in FIG. That is, the purchased product 65 is detected, and the information in the corresponding purchase status column of the management table is updated from “not yet (reserved)” to “purchased”.

  The contractor 1 who has contracted with the service provider 10 purchases necessary items from the delivered products 65. The purchase is performed by opening the product 65 that has been decided to be purchased, causing the second terminal 40 to read the information of the information recording body 161 obtained only by opening the product 65, and the information on the terminal 12 on the service provider 10 side through the network. Registered, that is, recorded in the management table.

(Sales system-billing-)
Next, a charging processing method will be described. FIG. 31 shows a list of consumable goods to be charged. The billing target period is, for example, in units of one month. The consumable goods list is, for example, the product information used one month before from the closing date of billing calculation (15th day of every month in this embodiment) based on the management table. The extraction method at this time is to extract the item whose purchase date is recorded as “Purchase” in the purchase status column of the management table and whose use date falls within one month before the closing date of the billing calculation. Done in

  In FIG. 31, a list for the past three months is displayed.

  As described above, the present invention is characterized in that only the products 65 actually purchased for use by the contractor 1 are charged, and the unused products 65 are not charged. As a result, the contractor 1 can immediately use the necessary products 65, and does not have any upfront expenses, useless inventory, lack of consumables, and is complicated. The product 65 can be used on demand without management.

(Sales system-collection of unused products and delivery of new products-)
Next, a collection system for unused products and a delivery system for new products will be described.

  According to the billing period, for example, once a month, the service provider 10 collects the products 65 that have not been purchased among the products 65 delivered in the previous month and delivers new delivered products for the current month. Do.

  FIG. 29 shows a case where the first day of every month is set as the collection date and the delivery date. Of the products 65 delivered on the previous month, that is, March 1, the product 65 that the contractor 1 did not purchase is specified. 29 is specified in the management table shown in FIG. 29 by the condition 1 in which the record data in the purchase status column is “not yet (preliminary)” and the delivery date among the products 65. The search is performed under the condition 2 corresponding to the above, and the product 65 satisfying both the conditions 1 and 2 is selected.

  However, if the first day of each month is determined as the collection date, the search for condition 2 is not necessary. 29 may be displayed on the display screen of the output unit 125, and the service provider 10 may use a pointing device or the like to specify on the display screen.

  As a result of the specific processing of the product 65 to be collected, for example, No. 2, 3, and 4 are specified. The calculation processing unit 122 or the service provider 10 issues a collection instruction to the shipping department of the product 65 for the products 3, 2, and 4. Thereby, the product 65 is collected on April 1st. When the collection information is input to the terminal 12 of the service provider 10, the information is displayed in the collection date column as shown in FIG.

  In addition to the collection of unpurchased products, new delivered products for April, Deliver 6, 7, and 8 to Contractor 1. Since the setting / registration at the time of delivery is as described above, the description is omitted. When new delivery information is input to the terminal 12 of the service provider 10, the information is displayed in the delivery date column as shown in FIG.

  In addition, about the selection method of a new product, based on the content of the product which the contractor 1 purchased so far, and also adding additional information, such as a family structure, in the form which the service provider 10 estimates and proposes Or, as already explained, the contractor 1 selects a product 65 that suits his / her preference from the list of all deliverable products distributed to the contractor 1 in advance and provides the service. The method of notifying the person 10 may be used. The merchandise list may be recorded on the magneto-optical disk shown as an example of the information recording body 161, or distributed in a catalog or provided in a form that can be browsed through the Internet. By adopting these methods, the product 65 that meets the needs of the contractor 1 can be provided.

  Further, if the collection date of unpurchased products in the previous month and the delivery date of new products in the current month are the same, it can be said that collection and delivery operations can be unified, which is preferable.

(Example 1 of collecting unused products)
The sales system according to the present invention requires two services: delivery of a new product 65 and collection of the product 65 that has not been purchased.

  Considering the current distribution system, it is conceivable to use a delivery vehicle as the service means. Furthermore, it is efficient to visit a plurality of contractors 1 and simultaneously deliver and collect the products 65 to one contractor 1.

  In that case, the collected products from a certain contractor 1, the newly delivered products to the contractor 1, the collected products from other contractors 1, and the newly delivered products to the contractor 1 are mixed without any rules. In the state, it takes a lot of time for delivery and collection. Furthermore, if the product 65 is different for each contractor 1, the number of products handled is enormous, and it becomes impossible to entrust accurate management of the product 65 to a service person who performs delivery and collection.

  In addition, when a single container is used for the same contractor 1, when the delivered product and the collected product are mixed, it is not possible to quickly distinguish them, It may take. For example, when both the delivered product and the collected product are optical discs, a method of checking the content registered in the service provider's terminal 12 based on information such as the title name is reliable. There are many problems such as being required and time required for collation. On the other hand, before the registration operation is performed, it is possible to determine whether the product is a collected product or a newly delivered product depending on the presence or absence of the second information recording body 7. It cannot be accurately distinguished.

  In order to solve the above problems, the present invention is characterized in that a dedicated container is prepared for each contractor 1 and a delivery container and a collection container are further prepared. This avoids inadvertent mixing of the collected product and the newly delivered product.

  The service provider 10 side collects the corresponding products 65 in a new delivery container for each contractor 1 at a product distribution center or the like in response to a prior request from the contractor 1. At one contractor's house, the service person delivers the new delivery container to the contractor 1.

  On the other hand, the contractor 1 stores the non-purchased product 65 in the container delivered last time (the previous month when the collection cycle is January). On the new delivery and collection date, a new delivery container is received from the serviceman, and a container containing the non-purchased product 65 is delivered to the serviceman.

  In order to increase the certainty, it is preferable to form at least information indicating the delivery date and the scheduled collection date in each container. Based on this information, it is possible to determine whether the container is a delivery container or a collection container at the time of the new delivery and collection date.

  Alternatively, the color of the container is associated with the delivery month. For example, if the collection cycle is January, the container color when the delivery month is an even month is blue, and the container color when the delivery month is an odd month is gray. As a result, it is possible to make a judgment instantly.

(Example 2 of collecting unused products)
In relation to the above-described embodiment, this embodiment provides a structure of a delivery vehicle that accommodates a container and a container accommodation method for the delivery vehicle.

  The cargo compartment of the parcel delivery vehicle has a structure that is separated or divided into a cargo compartment that accommodates a new delivery container and a cargo compartment that accommodates a collection container.

  As a result, new delivery and collection operations can be performed more quickly and accurately.

  Finally, the above-described embodiments do not limit the scope of the present invention, and various modifications can be made within the scope of the present invention. For example, the following embodiments can be configured.

  The service management method of the present invention is a service management method by a service management device having a first storage unit, a communication unit, and an arithmetic processing unit, and the service management device is distributed to the first storage unit. Management information corresponding to each service recipient is included, including the unique information of each distribution delivered to the service recipient and the usage status information of each distribution among the unique information that can individually identify the items. A step of creating and storing; a step of receiving the service receiver ID of the service receiver and unique information of the distribution product currently used by the service receiver via the network; and the arithmetic processing unit Identifies the service recipient ID included in the information received by the communication unit, identifies the service recipient, and reads the management table corresponding to the identified service recipient From the received information, the unique information of the currently used distribution is extracted, and based on the extracted unique information of the currently used distribution, the usage status information of each distribution in the management table is “ A step of updating according to one of “used” and “currently in use”, and a step in which the arithmetic processing unit calculates a charge amount based on usage information of each distribution stored in the management table. It may be a method.

  The service management method of the present invention is a service management method by a service management device having a first storage unit, a communication unit, and an arithmetic processing unit, wherein the service management device is stored in the first storage unit. Management that corresponds to each service recipient, including the unique information of each distribution delivered to the service recipient and the usage status information of each distribution among the unique information that can individually identify the distribution A step of creating and storing a table; a step of receiving the service receiver ID of the service receiver and unique information of the distribution product currently used by the service receiver via the network; The processing unit identifies the service recipient ID included in the information received by the communication unit, identifies the service recipient, and reads the management table corresponding to the identified service recipient. And extracting the unique information of the currently used product from the received information, and based on the extracted unique information of the currently used product, information on the usage status of each product in the management table And the operation processing unit updates “used” based on the information on the usage status of each distribution stored in the management table. And a step of calculating a billing amount according to the number of distribution items “currently in use” or “used” and “currently in use”.

  Furthermore, the service management method of the present invention includes a step of specifying, in the arithmetic processing unit, an unused product to be collected from the service recipient after a certain period, among the products delivered to the service recipient. It may be a method.

  In addition, the service management apparatus of the present invention includes unique information of each distribution delivered to the service recipient and unique usage information of each distribution among specific information that can individually identify the distribution. The first storage unit that stores a management table corresponding to each service recipient, the service recipient ID of the service recipient, and the unique information of the product currently used by the service recipient are received via the network. And a service receiver ID included in the information received by the communication unit is identified to identify the service recipient, and a management table corresponding to the identified service recipient is read, and the received information The unique information of the currently used product is extracted from the list, and the usage status information of each product in the management table is used based on the extracted unique information of the currently used product. And an arithmetic processing unit that calculates a charge amount based on information on the usage status of each distribution item stored in the management table. Good.

  In addition, the service management apparatus of the present invention includes unique information of each distribution delivered to the service recipient and unique usage information of each distribution among specific information that can individually identify the distribution. The first storage unit that stores a management table corresponding to each service recipient, the service recipient ID of the service recipient, and the unique information of the product currently used by the service recipient are received via the network. And a service receiver ID included in the information received by the communication unit is identified to identify the service recipient, and a management table corresponding to the identified service recipient is read, and the received information The unique information of the currently used product is extracted from the list, and the usage status information of each product in the management table is used based on the extracted unique information of the currently used product. “Used”, “Currently used”, and “Used”, “Currently used”, or “Used” based on the usage status information of each distribution stored in the management table. And an arithmetic processing unit that calculates a charge amount according to the number of distribution items currently in use.

  Further, in the service management apparatus of the present invention, the arithmetic processing unit calculates the number of unused circulations held by the service receiver based on information on exchanged circulations, and uses the calculation result as a specified value. In comparison, when the number of distribution items reaches a specified value, the service recipient may be instructed to ship a new distribution item.

  Furthermore, the service management device of the present invention is configured such that the arithmetic processing unit calculates the charge of the distribution used by the service recipient within the corresponding period based on the date and time information exchanged with the use information of the distribution. May be.

  Furthermore, the service management apparatus of the present invention has a second storage unit that stores information transmitted from the service recipient, and the arithmetic processing unit compares the stored information with the latest information transmitted. However, the stored information may be updated if they are different.

  Furthermore, the service management apparatus of the present invention has a third storage unit for registering a list of distribution items that can be delivered to the service recipient, and the list registered in the third storage unit is via a network. It may be configured to be accessible from the outside.

  Further, the service management network system of the present invention is a device in which the above-mentioned service management apparatus and a distribution product that has unique information that can be individually specified and are consumed or consumed are detachably arranged, A reading unit for reading the unique information of the distribution item from the distribution item, and the unique information of the distribution item read by the reading unit as the unique information of the distribution item currently being used by the service receiver, From a first group composed of devices having a transmission unit that transmits to a communication unit of the service management apparatus together with a service receiver ID, and a controller unit that controls the reading unit and the transmission unit It may be configured.

  Further, the service management network system of the present invention may be configured such that the reading unit of the device detects the unique information of the distribution item from the distribution item with a timing when the distribution item is attached to the device as a trigger.

  Furthermore, in the service management network system of the present invention, the device compares the storage unit that stores information input from the reading unit with the latest information input from the reading unit and the information that is already stored. And the controller unit, when the latest information input from the reading unit is different from the information already stored, the storage content stored in the storage unit The structure which performs control to update may be sufficient.

  Furthermore, in the service management network system according to the present invention, the arithmetic processing unit calculates the number of unused distribution items held by the first group based on information on replacement of distribution items of the devices of the first group. Then, the calculation result may be compared with a prescribed value, and when the number of articles reaches the prescribed value, an instruction to send a new article to the first group may be issued.

  Furthermore, in the service management network system of the present invention, the arithmetic processing unit calculates the charge of the distribution item used by the first group within the corresponding period based on the date / time information exchanged with the distribution item usage information of the device. The structure to calculate may be sufficient.

  Furthermore, in the service management network system of the present invention, the service management device includes a second storage unit that stores information transmitted from the first group, and the arithmetic processing unit includes the stored information and the stored information. The latest information transmitted may be compared, and the stored information may be updated if they are different.

  Furthermore, in the service management network system of the present invention, the service management apparatus has a list storage unit for registering a list of distribution items that can be delivered to the first group, and the first group of devices stores the list. A configuration having a display unit for display and a selection unit for selecting a specific distribution item from the displayed list may be used.

  Furthermore, in the service management network system of the present invention, the device may be an image forming apparatus.

  Further, the service management network system of the present invention includes the service management apparatus, a reading unit for reading unique information of the distribution item from the distribution item having unique information that can be individually specified, and the reading unit reads A transmission unit that transmits the unique information of the distribution as unique information of the distribution currently being used by the service receiver to the communication unit of the service management device via the network together with the service receiver ID of the service receiver; And a controller unit that controls the reading unit and the transmission unit, and a first group including devices.

  The present invention can be applied to the use of a service management network system related to a service for delivering consumable parts / consumable parts, particularly consumable parts / consumable parts of an image forming apparatus such as a copying machine or a printer.

1 is a schematic diagram of a service management network system according to the present invention. FIG. It is a schematic perspective view for demonstrating the form of the distribution article by this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the connection image of the service management network system by this invention. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of another service management network system according to the present invention. (A)-(c) is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the distribution | circulation form of the distribution article by this invention. It is a figure for demonstrating the packing state of the circulation according to this invention. (A)-(f) is the figure which showed the timing chart for demonstrating operation | movement of an apparatus. (A) and (b) are the figures which showed an example of the contractor table displayed on the information management screen. (A) and (b) are the figures which showed an example of the management table (initial state) displayed on the information management screen. (A) and (b) are the figures which showed an example of the management table (pre-registration time) displayed on the information management screen. (A) and (b) are the figures which showed an example of the management table (distributed material use time) displayed on the information management screen. (A) and (b) are the figures which showed an example of the management table (circulation supply time point) displayed on the information management screen. It is a figure for demonstrating the accounting method. FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of still another service management network system according to the present invention. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of another service management network system according to the present invention. (A)-(e) is a figure for demonstrating the prior request method with respect to a distribution thing. It is the figure which showed an example which integrally forms the specific information of normal goods. It is the figure which showed the other example which integrally forms the specific information of normal goods. It is the figure which showed the further another example which integrally forms the specific information of normal goods. It is a schematic perspective view which shows an example of the 2nd terminal used in the service management network system shown in FIG. FIG. 16 is another example of a device used in the service management network system shown in FIG. 15. FIG. FIG. 20 is still another example of a device used in the service management network system shown in FIG. 15. FIG. 20 is still another example of a device used in the service management network system shown in FIG. 15. FIG. 20 is still another example of a device used in the service management network system shown in FIG. 15. FIG. 20 is still another example of a device used in the service management network system shown in FIG. 15. In the service management network system shown in FIG. 15, it is the figure which showed an example of the management table (initial state) displayed on the information management screen. In the service management network system shown in FIG. 15, it is the figure which showed an example of the management table (pre-registration time) displayed on the information management screen. In the service management network system shown in FIG. 15, it is the figure which showed an example of the management table (distribution use time) displayed on the information management screen. In the service management network system shown in FIG. 15, it is the figure which showed an example of the management table (distribution supplement time) displayed on the information management screen. In the service management network system shown in FIG. 15, it is the figure showing a mode that the terminal management table and the customer table were couple | bonded using contractor ID as a key. FIG. 16 is a diagram for explaining a charging method in the service management network system shown in FIG. 15. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the distribution information table which links | relates the specific information of distribution and contractor ID. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of control operation | movement of the arithmetic processing part regarding the new registration process of a reserve cartridge table. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of control operation | movement of the arithmetic processing part regarding the automatic update process of a reserve cartridge table.

Explanation of symbols

1 Contractor (service recipient, consumer)
2 Image forming equipment (equipment)
3 Controller part 4 Reading part 5 Transmission / reception part 6 Distribution thing 7 Information recording body (2nd information recording body)
8 arithmetic unit 9 sensor circuit 10 service provider 12 terminal (service management device)
20 network 24 display unit 40 second terminal 41 transmission / reception unit 42 reading unit 43 controller unit 60 toner cartridge (distributed product)
61 Unique information holding unit (first information recording body)
63 Packaging material (protective material)
65 products (distributed)
66 Packaging materials (packaging materials)
67 Transparent resin film (packaging material)
81 storage unit 82 comparison unit 121 communication unit 122 arithmetic processing unit 123 input unit 124 storage unit (first, second, third storage unit, list storage unit, recording medium)
125 output unit 161 information recording body (first information recording body)
241 Display unit 251 Push button (selection unit)
252 button (selection part)

Claims (3)

A service management method by a service management apparatus having a storage unit , a communication unit, and an arithmetic processing unit,
The service management device stores in the storage unit the unique information of each distribution delivered to the service recipient and the usage status of each distribution among the unique information that can individually identify the distribution. Creating and storing a management table corresponding to each service recipient, including information on the status of use of the distribution that indicates whether the status is “currently used” or “used” ;
The communication unit receiving the service recipient ID of the service recipient and the unique information of the distribution item currently being used by the service recipient via the network;
The arithmetic processing unit identifies the service recipient ID included in the information received by the communication unit, identifies the service recipient, reads the management table corresponding to the identified service recipient, and “currently in use” The usage status information of the distribution is recorded as “used” and the unique information of the distribution currently in use is extracted from the received information, and the distribution corresponding to the extracted unique information A step of rewriting the information on the usage status of the object to “currently in use” ;
The arithmetic processing unit calculates a charge amount based on information on the usage status of each circulation stored in the management table;
The service management device indicates to the storage unit whether the unique information of each distribution item delivered to the service recipient and whether the purchase status of each distribution item is “not purchased” or “purchased” Storing a management table for managing the purchase status information of the distribution items in association with each service recipient;
The arithmetic processing unit identifies the service recipient ID included in the information received by the communication unit, identifies the service recipient, reads the management table corresponding to the identified service recipient, and “unpurchased” And rewriting the purchase status information of the distribution recorded as “purchased”,
Among the distribution items delivered to the service recipient by the arithmetic processing unit, the unused state items collected from the service recipient after a certain period of time are indicated as “unused” in the management table. A service management method comprising: a step of specifying the purchase status "by extracting unique information of the recorded distribution item .   The computer-readable recording medium which recorded the program which performs the service management method of Claim 1.   A service management program for causing a computer to execute each step of the service management method according to claim 1.

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