JP4031802B2 - Charge calculation method and charge calculation program for toner or ink in image formation - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a charge calculation method and charge calculation program for toner or ink in image formation.

  Conventionally, there are various types of print services such as a convenience store, a print shop, or a service for printing an image on the Internet, and printing is charged there. There are various methods for charging at the time of printing by such a printer or copier. The most common method is to count the number of copies or prints with a counter and calculate the amount by multiplying the cost per sheet.

  However, when printing, there are various types of original images, and the amount of toner and ink consumed during printing varies accordingly. For example, when printing a black and white character document, the total area of the character portion is usually only about 3% to 5% of the entire paper. In the case of a photographic manuscript, there is an image on almost the entire surface, but in the case of a black and white image, since it is composed of a monochrome dot image, it does not reach 100%. On the other hand, in the case of a color image, if the entire surface is color, a substantially 100% dot image is formed so that toner and ink adhere to the entire surface. Thus, the area of the dot image varies depending on the image to be formed. That is, the amount of toner and ink consumed varies depending on the type of image to be formed and the amount of information.

  Focusing on this point, for example, according to Patent Document 1, when an edited electronic document is printed by a remote printer via a network, the size of the paper in which the actual number of pixels of the image data fits or the printer to be used. There is known a method of charging by a combination of types and papers to be used.

  Also, in Patent Document 2, when a print request is made from a client via a communication network, a preview image showing an expected print result is created, sent to the client side, and the amount of consumables used when printing is calculated. A method for estimating the charge is disclosed.

Further, Patent Document 3 discloses a method of distributing electronic paper of newspapers and magazines to a vending machine via a satellite line or a terrestrial line, and charging the paper information by calculating the print amount with the actual number of dots. ing.
JP 2000-148435 A JP 2000-307783 A Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 9-23243

  However, the cost required for printing varies depending not only on the amount of toner and ink consumed, but also on the type of toner and ink consumed. However, in any of the above-described known methods, no accounting method based on the cost according to the type of toner or ink consumed is considered. For this reason, the conventional charging method cannot provide the customer with an appropriate price suitable for the printing results.

  SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a toner or ink charge calculation method, program, and apparatus thereof in image formation that can provide a customer with an appropriate price suitable for printing results. It is to provide.

In order to solve the above-described problems, the invention according to claim 1 is directed to a computer provided in an image forming apparatus, in which toner or ink used in the image forming apparatus is stored and attached to the image forming apparatus. A price information reading stage for executing processing for reading the price information of the contained toner or ink from the recording medium attached to the cartridge, and the type depending on the shape or size of the dot for each color of the image created by the image forming apparatus Toner or ink per unit area of the color of the reproduced image and the dot area obtained by counting the number of dots for each type and summing the product of the number of dots for each type and the area of one dot for each type And a cost calculation stage for calculating a charge amount for toner or ink consumption based on the consumption amount of the toner and the price information.

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the toner or ink charge calculation method according to the first aspect, in the cost calculation step, the computer reproduces the dot area of an image created by the image forming apparatus. Multiplying the total consumption calculation step for obtaining the total consumption amount of toner or ink for the entire color from the consumption amount of toner or ink per unit area of the image color, and the total consumption amount of toner or ink and the price information And a total cost calculation stage for calculating a cost for consumption of toner or ink.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the toner or ink charge calculation method according to the first aspect, the cost calculation step includes: a dot area for each color of an image created by the image forming apparatus; A consumption calculation step for obtaining toner or ink consumption for each color from the toner or ink consumption per unit area of the color of the reproduced image, and the toner or ink consumption for each color and the price information And a total cost calculating step of calculating a cost for consumption of toner or ink for each color by calculating the total cost and calculating a cost for consumption of toner or ink. To do.

  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the toner or ink charge calculation method according to any one of the first to third aspects, the image forming device may be a toner of four colors of yellow, magenta, cyan, and black, The gist is that the image forming apparatus includes an ink cartridge.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the toner or ink charge calculation method according to any one of the first to fourth aspects, a recording medium is attached to the cartridge, and the recording medium is accommodated in the cartridge. It is summarized that the price information of the toner or ink that has been stored is stored.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, in the toner or ink charge calculation method according to any one of the first to fourth aspects, the toner or ink contained in a part of the outer peripheral surface of the cartridge is stored. The gist is that the price information is displayed in barcode.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, in the toner or ink billing calculation method according to any one of the first to sixth aspects, the computer runs out of a remaining amount of toner or ink in the image forming device, and The gist of the invention is that the image forming apparatus further includes a price information deleting step for deleting the price information of the toner or ink of the already set cartridge from the RAM before the image forming apparatus restarts after the warning is displayed.

According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a recording system in which a computer provided in an image forming apparatus is attached to a cartridge that accommodates toner or ink used in the image forming apparatus and can be attached to the image forming apparatus. Price information reading means for executing processing for reading the price information of the contained toner or ink from the medium , and counting the number of dots for each type of dot shape or size for each color of the image created by the image forming device, The dot area obtained by summing the product of the number of dots for each type and the area of one dot for each type, the consumption amount of toner or ink per unit area of the color of the reproduced image, and the price information Based on the above, the gist is to function as a cost calculating means for calculating the charge amount for the consumption of toner or ink.

According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, in the billing calculation program according to the eighth aspect , the cost calculating unit is configured to generate the dot area of the image created by the image forming device and the unit area of the color of the reproduced image. Total consumption calculation means for obtaining the total consumption of toner or ink for the entire color from the consumption of toner or ink, and the consumption of toner or ink by multiplying the total consumption of toner or ink and the price information The gist is to function as a total cost calculation means for calculating the cost.

According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, in the billing calculation program according to the eighth aspect , the cost calculation means includes a dot area for each color of an image created by the image forming device and a color unit of the reproduced image. Consumption calculation means for obtaining toner or ink consumption for each color from toner or ink consumption per area; and for each color by multiplying the toner or ink consumption for each color by the price information The gist is to calculate a cost for consumption of toner or ink, and to function as a total cost calculation means for calculating the total cost and calculating the cost for consumption of toner or ink.

According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, in the charge calculation program according to any one of the eighth to tenth aspects, the image forming device includes toners or ink cartridges of four colors of yellow, magenta, cyan, and black. The gist of the present invention is that it is an image forming apparatus.

According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, in the charge calculation program according to any one of the eighth to eleventh aspects, the price of the toner or the ink stored in the cartridge stored in the recording medium attached to the cartridge. The gist is to read information.

According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, in the toner or ink charge calculation program according to any one of the eighth to eleventh aspects, a bar code is displayed on a part of the outer peripheral surface of the cartridge. The gist is to read the price information of the stored toner or ink.

According to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, in the charge calculation program according to any one of the eighth to thirteenth aspects, the computer and the image forming apparatus further run out of toner or ink, and the image forming The gist of the present invention is to function as a price information deleting unit that deletes price information of toner or ink of an already set cartridge from the RAM before the device is restarted after displaying a warning.

(Function)
According to the invention described in claim 1 or 8 , the computer counts the number of dots for each type according to the shape or size of the dot for each color of the image created by the image forming device, and the number of dots for each type Based on the dot area obtained by summing the product of the area of 1 dot for each type, the toner or ink consumption per unit area of the color of the reproduced image, and the price information, Calculate the amount of billing for consumption. Therefore, based on the price of the toner or ink and the consumption amount of the toner or ink, it is possible to calculate the charge amount for the toner consumption that is suitable for the printing performance. In this case, in the present invention, the computer reads the price information of the stored toner or ink from the recording medium in which the toner or ink is stored and attached to the cartridge that can be mounted on the image forming apparatus. For this reason, the cost for toner consumption can be calculated based on the price information of the toner or ink contained in the cartridge.

According to the second or ninth aspect of the present invention, the computer determines whether the toner of the entire color from the dot area of the image created by the image forming apparatus, the toner per unit area of the color of the reproduced image, or the ink consumption amount. Alternatively, the total consumption amount of ink is obtained, and the cost for consumption of toner or ink is calculated by multiplying the total consumption amount and the price information. For this reason, according to the total consumption of toner or ink, it is possible to calculate the cost for toner consumption that is suitable for the printing results.

According to the third or tenth aspect of the present invention, the computer determines whether the toner or ink for each color obtained from the dot area for each color of the image and the toner or ink consumption per unit area of the reproduced image color. The cost for consumption of toner or ink for each color is calculated by multiplying the consumption amount and the price information for each color, and the total cost is calculated. For this reason, when the price of toner or ink differs for each color, it is possible to calculate the cost for toner consumption that is suitable for the printing performance, according to the consumption amount of toner or ink for each color.

According to the invention described in claim 4 or 11 , the image forming apparatus is an image forming apparatus provided with toner or ink cartridges of four colors of yellow, magenta, cyan, and black. For this reason, the cost for toner consumption can be calculated based on the price and consumption for each color of the four color toners or ink cartridges of yellow, magenta, cyan, and black.

According to the fifth or twelfth aspect of the invention, the price information of the toner or ink stored in the cartridge is stored in the recording medium attached to the cartridge. Therefore, the computer can read the price information and calculate the cost for toner consumption based on the price information.

According to the invention described in claim 6 or 13 , the price information of the toner or ink accommodated in a part of the outer peripheral surface of the cartridge is displayed as a barcode. Therefore, the computer can read the price information and calculate the cost for toner consumption based on the price information.

According to the invention described in claim 7 or 14 , a cartridge that has already been set before the image forming apparatus is restarted after the remaining amount of toner or ink in the image forming apparatus runs out and a warning is displayed. The price information of the toner or ink is cleared from the RAM . For this reason, it is possible to prevent the cost from being calculated based on the previous price information when the warning is displayed after the remaining amount of toner or ink is exhausted and restarted.

  ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, the suitable price suitable for a printing performance can be provided to a customer.

(First embodiment)
A first embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to FIGS. In this embodiment, a recording medium is provided in a toner cartridge used in a digital copying machine to store information on the price of toner. In the present embodiment, there are both color and monochrome original images, but a case where a monochrome image is finally formed will be described.

  FIG. 1 shows a toner cartridge 20 used in a digital copying machine. The toner cartridge 20 has a cylindrical toner container 21, and the toner is contained in the toner container 21. The toner container 21 has a discharge port 22 at one end. In addition, the toner accommodating portion 21 has a rotation gear 23 fixed to the outer peripheral portion on the discharge port 22 side. When the toner cartridge 20 is mounted on a digital copying machine (not shown), the driving gear in the digital copying machine and the rotation gear 23 are engaged with each other, and the toner cartridge 20 is rotated by being driven in the toner replenishment mode. By this rotation, the toner stored in the toner storage unit 21 is discharged from the discharge port 22.

A ROM chip 24 as a recording medium is attached between the discharge port 22 and the rotation gear 23. The ROM chip 24 stores a price (price information Ip) per unit amount of toner stored in the toner cartridge 20. In this embodiment, the price information Ip is written in the ROM chip 24 when the toner is filled in the factory and shipped as a product.

Next, the electrical configuration of the digital copying machine will be described according to the electrical block circuit shown in FIG.
In FIG. 2, the digital copying machine 30 includes a CPU 31, a ROM 32, a RAM 33, a display unit 34, an operation unit 35, a scanner 36, and a printing mechanism unit 37, which are connected via a bus 38. The CPU 31 executes arithmetic processing according to various programs stored in the ROM 32. The RAM 33 temporarily stores the calculation result calculated by the CPU 31. In the present embodiment, the display unit 34 includes a liquid crystal display provided on the operation panel of the digital copying machine 30, and displays various messages based on control signals from the CPU 31. The operation unit 35 includes various input keys provided on the operation panel of the digital copying machine 30, and is operated when setting various commands and various modes. The scanner 36 operates based on a control signal from the CPU 31 to read an original image, and the read data is stored in the RAM 33 as image data. The printing mechanism unit 37 operates based on a control signal from the CPU 31 and prints an image on a recording sheet based on image data stored in the RAM 33.

  The CPU 31 is connected to the ROM chip 24 attached to the toner cartridge 20 via the bus 38 and inputs the price information Ip stored in the ROM chip 24, that is, the price per unit amount of toner. The price information Ip is used when the CPU 31 prints an image on a recording sheet based on the image data and executes an image formation / billing calculation process for charging based on the printing.

  The CPU 31 is connected to the toner shortage detection sensor 39 via the bus 38. The toner shortage detection sensor 39 detects the amount of toner contained in the toner cartridge 20, and outputs a toner shortage signal to the CPU 31 when the amount of toner contained in the toner cartridge becomes an amount that hinders printing. ing.

  Further, the CPU 31 is connected to the cartridge set detection sensor 40 via the bus 38. The cartridge set detection sensor 40 detects whether or not the toner cartridge 20 is set in the digital copying machine 30, and outputs a signal indicating that it is not set to the CPU 31 when it is not set.

Next, the operation of the digital copying machine 30 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.
As shown in FIG. 3, in step S <b> 1-1, the CPU 31 determines whether the toner cartridge 20 is set in the digital copying machine 30 based on a detection signal from the cartridge set detection sensor 40. If it is not set (NO in S1-1), the CPU 31 displays a message instructing to set the toner cartridge 20 on the display unit 34 (S1-2), and then returns to step S1-1. . That is, the CPU 31 stands by without performing a printing operation until the toner cartridge 20 is set in the digital copying machine 30.

When the toner cartridge 20 is set in the digital copying machine 30 (YES in S1-1), the CPU 31 determines whether or not the amount of toner contained in the set toner cartridge 20 is insufficient. It judges based on the detection signal from (S1-3). If the toner is insufficient (YES in S1-3), the CPU 31 displays a message indicating that the toner is insufficient and an instruction to replace a new toner cartridge 20 on the display unit 34 (S1-4). Return to step S1-1.

  On the other hand, if the toner is not insufficient (NO in S1-3), the CPU 31 reads the price information Ip stored in the ROM chip 24 attached to the toner cartridge 20 (S1-5). The CPU 31 determines whether or not the price information Ip has been read from the ROM chip 24 (S1-6). For example, when the ROM chip 24 is not attached to the toner cartridge 20 or the price information Ip is not recorded on the ROM chip 24 and the price information Ip is not read (NO in S1-6). ) The CPU 31 proceeds to step S1-7. In step S1-7, the CPU 31 causes the display unit 34 to display a message instructing replacement of the toner cartridge 20 to which the ROM chip 24 having the price information Ip recorded is attached. Then, the CPU 31 returns to step S1-1.

  When the price information Ip is read from the ROM chip 24 (YES in S1-6), the CPU 31 enters the print mode (S1-8) and waits for the operation of the start key of the operation unit 35. When the start key is operated (YES in S1-9), the CPU 31 executes image formation / billing calculation processing (S1-10).

  FIG. 4 is a flowchart for explaining details of the image formation / billing calculation processing. In FIG. 4, when the start key is operated, the CPU 31 reads the original image by the scanner 36, stores the data in the RAM 33, controls the printing mechanism unit 37, and records using the image data stored in the RAM 33. An image is printed on paper (S2-1). At this time, the CPU 31 counts the number of dots based on the image data (S2-2). Note that image formation is performed by printing dots. In order to reproduce an image with higher accuracy, dot control such as combining a dot shape circle and an ellipse (FIG. 5A) or combining large and small circle dots (FIG. 5B) is performed. Done. For this reason, when counting the number of dots, the CPU 31 counts the number for each type depending on the shape or size of the dots. On the other hand, the area of one dot for each dot type is obtained in advance and recorded in the ROM 32. Then, the CPU 31 calculates the dot area by calculating the product of the number of dots and the area of one dot of each dot for each counted type and summing them (S2-3). Next, the CPU 31 calculates the toner consumption by calculating the product of this dot area and the toner consumption per dot unit area recorded in the ROM 32 (S2-4). The CPU 31 calculates the charge by calculating the product of the toner consumption and the price information Ip recorded in the RAM 33 as described above (S2-5), and ends the image formation / charge calculation process. Then, the process proceeds to step S1-11.

  In step S1-11, the CPU 31 performs the processing in the print mode until the CPU 31 determines that the toner shortage signal from the toner shortage detection sensor 39 is input to the CPU 31. That is, the CPU 31 repeats the above-described processes of steps S1-9 and S1-10, that is, the process of executing the image formation / billing calculation process according to the input of the start key until the toner runs out.

  Then, when the image formation / charge calculation process is executed, toner is consumed, and when the toner shortage detection sensor 39 detects toner shortage, the toner shortage detection sensor 39 outputs a toner shortage signal to the CPU 31. When the toner shortage signal is input (YES in S1-11), the CPU 31 displays a toner end warning indicating that the toner is short on the display unit 34 (S1-12). Then, the CPU 31 shifts to the non-printable mode, deletes the price information Ip of the ROM chip 24 (S1-13), and then displays a message for instructing the replacement of the toner cartridge 20 on the display unit 34. (S1-14). The purpose of deleting this price information Ip is to prevent in advance from erroneously refilling toner of a different price and calculating an incorrect charge.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, the following effects can be obtained.
(1) In the above embodiment, the ROM chip 24 in which the price information Ip related to the toner price is recorded is mounted on the outer surface of the toner cartridge 20, and this price information is captured and recorded in the RAM 33. For this reason, the price information Ip recorded in the RAM 33 in this way can be used for calculating the charge.

  (2) In the above embodiment, when the toner cartridge 20 is set, the price information Ip recorded in the ROM chip 24 is captured and recorded in the RAM 33. Therefore, the price information Ip can be taken in when the toner cartridge 20 is set, and there is no need to input the toner price information.

  (3) In the above embodiment, when dot control is performed by a combination of a circular and elliptical dot shape or a combination of large and small circular dots, the number of dots is obtained for each type of dot, and the dot is based on this. The area was determined. For this reason, even when an image is formed using a combination of dots having different shapes and sizes, the dot area can be obtained accurately and an accurate charge can be calculated.

(Second Embodiment)
A second embodiment embodying the present invention will be described below with reference to FIGS. In the present embodiment, a case where a black and white image is formed as in the first embodiment will be described. Unlike the toner cartridge of the first embodiment, the toner container is basically fixed to the main body, and is a consumable item, unlike the toner cartridge of the first embodiment. The present invention relates to a copying machine in which toner is replenished from outside the apparatus. Accordingly, since the toner container is basically fixed to the main body, the price information is stored in the ROM chip attached to the toner cartridge as in the first embodiment, and after the toner cartridge is attached to the main body, It cannot be read. Therefore, in this embodiment, new toner is replenished to the toner container fixed to the main body. At this time, the price information of the toner is taken into the storage unit of the copier main body as follows. become.

  FIG. 6 shows the process cartridge 50 of this embodiment. The process cartridge 50 is basically fixed to the copying machine main body, and toner is supplied to the process cartridge 50. The process cartridge 50 includes a recording medium insertion portion 51 on the side surface. The price information Ip is read by inserting a portable recording medium 52 in which the price information Ip is recorded into the recording medium insertion unit 51. The portable recording medium 52 is detachably attached to or packaged in a corresponding toner container for replenishment. Although the description has been given of the case where the image forming unit is a process cartridge, the present invention is not limited to this, and the portable recording medium 52 may be configured to be set in the copying machine main body.

Next, the electrical configuration of the digital copying machine of this embodiment will be described according to the electrical block circuit shown in FIG.
As shown in FIG. 7, the electrical configuration of the copying machine of the present embodiment is not provided with the cartridge set detection sensor 40 and the ROM chip 24 of the first embodiment, and the portable recording medium 52. Except for the point that is provided, it is the same as the first embodiment. When the recording medium 52 is inserted into the recording medium insertion portion 51, the CPU 31 is connected to the recording medium 52 via the bus 38, and stores the price information Ip stored in the recording medium 52, that is, a unit of toner. The price per unit is read and stored in the RAM 33. The price information Ip is used when the CPU 31 prints an image on a recording sheet based on the image data and executes image formation / billing calculation processing for charging based on the printing.

Next, the operation of the digital copying machine 30 of the present embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.
As shown in FIG. 8, in step S3-1, the CPU 31 determines whether the print mode is set. Whether or not the printing mode is selected is determined by the value of a flag stored in the CPU 31, and this flag is saved even when the power is turned off. If it is not the print mode (the print disabled mode) (NO in S3-1), the CPU 31 determines whether the toner is sufficient or insufficient based on the toner replenishment signal from the toner shortage detection sensor 39. (S3-2). If the toner is not replenished (NO in S3-2), the CPU 31 displays a message to instruct the replenishment of toner on the display unit 34 (S3-3), and then returns to step S3-2.

  If it is determined that the toner is replenished based on the toner replenishment signal (YES in S3-2), the CPU 31 reads the price information Ip recorded on the recording medium 52. When the CPU 31 cannot read the price information Ip from the recording medium 52 (NO in S3-4), the CPU 31 displays a message instructing the display unit 34 to insert the recording medium 52 into the recording medium insertion unit 51. After the display (S3-5), the process returns to step S3-4. That is, the CPU 31 stands by without performing a printing operation until the recording medium 52 is inserted into the recording medium insertion unit 51. On the other hand, when the CPU 31 reads the price information Ip from the recording medium 52 (YES in S3-4), the CPU 31 records the price information Ip in the RAM 33 (S3-6). Next, after deleting the price information Ip stored in the recording medium 52 (S3-7), the CPU 31 shifts to the print mode (S3-8) and waits for the operation of the start key of the operation unit 35. In this way, the digital copying machine 30 enters the print mode, and when the start key is operated in this state, the image is printed as follows.

  When the start key is operated (YES in S3-9), the CPU 31 executes image formation / billing calculation processing (S3-10). This image formation / billing calculation process is performed in the same manner as in the first embodiment. In step S3-11, the CPU 31 performs the processing in the print mode until the CPU 31 determines that the toner shortage signal from the toner shortage detection sensor 39 is input to the CPU 31. That is, the CPU 31 repeats the processes of steps S3-9 and S3-10 described above, that is, the process of executing the image formation / billing calculation process according to the input of the start key.

  Then, when the image formation / charge calculation process is executed, toner is consumed, and when the toner shortage detection sensor 39 detects toner shortage, the toner shortage detection sensor 39 outputs a toner shortage signal to the CPU 31. When the toner shortage signal is input (YES in S3-11), the CPU 31 displays a message indicating that the toner is insufficient and instructing replacement of a new toner cartridge 20 (S3-12). Then, the CPU 31 shifts to the non-printable mode (S3-13) and deletes the price information Ip in the RAM 33 (S3-14). The reason for deleting the price information Ip is the same as in the case of the first embodiment. When replenishing new toner, the portable recording medium 52 from which the price information Ip has been deleted must be replaced with a new portable recording medium 52. The old portable recording medium 52 is returned or sent back to the manufacturer together with the empty toner container. Manufacturers reuse these.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, the following effects can be obtained in addition to the above-described effect (3).
(4) In the embodiment described above, the portable recording medium 52 is inserted into the recording medium insertion portion 51 of the process cartridge 50, thereby capturing the price information Ip recorded on the portable recording medium 52. For this reason, the photoconductor, the toner container, and the like are basically fixed to the digital copying machine 30, and the price information Ip can be taken in when the consumable toner is supplied from outside the machine.

  (5) In the above embodiment, the CPU 31 is set to the print disabled mode until the price information Ip is taken from the portable recording medium 52 and recorded in the RAM 33. For this reason, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of charging at an earlier price when toner or ink of another price is inserted.

  (6) In the above embodiment, when the CPU 31 takes in the price information Ip from the portable recording medium 52, the CPU 31 deletes the price information Ip of the portable recording medium 52. For this reason, since the price information Ip is deleted from the used portable recording medium 52, it is possible to prevent the wrong price information Ip from being recorded in the RAM 33 by the used portable recording medium 52. .

(Third embodiment)
Hereinafter, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. In the present embodiment, a case where a color image is formed by a color laser printer will be described. In order to form a color image, at least three colors of toner (yellow, magenta, cyan) are required for each color-separated image. The most common are four colors including black. In the present embodiment, a case where the four color toners (yellow, magenta, cyan, and black) are used will be described.

  The color laser printer of this embodiment includes a toner cartridge for each color. Each toner cartridge contains yellow, magenta, cyan, and black toners. In addition, as in the first embodiment, ROM chips 24y, 24m, 24c, and 24b (see FIG. 9) as recording media are attached to the toner cartridges for each color. These ROM chips 24y, 24m, 24c, and 24b store prices per unit amount of toner (price information Ipy, Ipm, Ipc, and Ipb) stored in the corresponding toner cartridges. In this embodiment, the price information Ipy, Ipm, Ipc, Ipb is written in the ROM chips 24y, 24m, 24c, 24b when the toner is filled in the factory and shipped as a product.

Next, the electrical configuration of the color laser printer of this embodiment will be described according to the electrical block circuit shown in FIG.
In FIG. 9, the color laser printer 60 includes a CPU 61, a ROM 62, a RAM 63, a display unit 64, an operation unit 65, an I / O 66, and a printing mechanism unit 67, which are connected via a bus 68. The CPU 61 executes arithmetic processing according to various programs stored in the ROM 62. The RAM 63 temporarily stores the calculation result calculated by the CPU 61. In the present embodiment, the display unit 64 includes a liquid crystal display provided on the operation panel of the color laser printer 60, and displays various messages based on control signals from the CPU 61. The operation unit 65 includes various input keys provided on the operation panel of the color laser printer 60, and is operated when setting various commands and various modes. The I / O 66 controls communication with the external device 71, and the CPU 61 receives the image data transmitted from the external device 71 via the I / O 66 and records the image data in the RAM 63. The printing mechanism section 67 operates based on a control signal from the CPU 61 and prints an image on a recording sheet based on image data stored in the RAM 63.

The CPU 61 is connected to the ROM chips 24y, 24m, 24c, and 24b for yellow, magenta, cyan, and black, which are attached to the toner cartridge for each color, via the bus 68, and each ROM chip 24y. , 24m, 24c, 24b, the price information Ipy, Ipm, Ipc, Ipb, that is, the price per unit amount of toner is input. The price information Ipy, Ipm, Ipc, and Ipb for yellow, magenta, cyan, and black is an image for the CPU 61 to print an image on recording paper based on the image data and to charge based on the printing. It is used when executing the formation / billing calculation process.

  Also, the CPU 61 is connected to each toner shortage detection sensor 69 corresponding to the toner cartridge for each color via the bus 68. Each of the toner shortage detection sensors 69 detects the amount of toner stored in the corresponding toner cartridge, and outputs a toner shortage signal to the CPU 61 when the amount of toner stored in the toner cartridge interferes with printing. It is supposed to be.

  Further, the CPU 61 is connected to each cartridge set detection sensor 70 corresponding to each toner cartridge via a bus 68. Each cartridge set detection sensor 70 detects whether or not each of the toner cartridges is set in the color laser printer 60, and outputs a signal indicating that the toner cartridge is not set to the CPU 61 when it is not set. Yes.

  Next, the operation of the color laser printer 60 will be described. Note that the present embodiment is different from the first embodiment only in that there are four toner cartridges. For convenience of explanation, the arithmetic processing operation of the CPU 61 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 3, in step S <b> 1-1, the CPU 61 determines whether each toner cartridge is set in the color laser printer 60 based on a detection signal from each cartridge set detection sensor 70. If it is not set (NO in S1-1), the CPU 61 displays a message for instructing to set the toner cartridge on the display unit 64 (S1-2), and then returns to step S1-1. That is, the CPU 61 stands by without performing a printing operation until each toner cartridge is set in the color laser printer 60.

  When each toner cartridge is set in the color laser printer 60 (YES in S1-1), the CPU 61 detects whether or not the amount of toner contained in each set toner cartridge 20 is insufficient. A determination is made based on the detection signal from the sensor 69 (S1-3). If the toner is insufficient (YES in S1-3), the CPU 61 displays a message indicating that the toner is insufficient and an instruction to replace a new toner cartridge is displayed (S1-4). Return to step S1-1.

  On the other hand, if the toner is not insufficient (NO in S1-3), the CPU 61 stores the price information Ipy, Ipm, Ipc, Ipb stored in each ROM chip 24y, 24m, 24c, 24b attached to each toner cartridge. Read (S1-5). The CPU 61 determines whether each price information Ipy, Ipm, Ipc, Ipb has been read from each ROM chip 24y, 24m, 24c, 24b (S1-6). For example, ROM chips 24y, 24m, 24c, 24b are not attached to the toner cartridges, or price information Ipy, Ipm, Ipc, Ipb is not recorded on the ROM chips 24y, 24m, 24c, 24b. If the price information Ipy, Ipm, Ipc, Ipb is not read (NO in S1-6), the CPU 61 proceeds to step S1-7. In step S1-7, the CPU 61 instructs the replacement of the toner cartridge in which the ROM chips 24y, 24m, 24c, 24b having the price information Ipy, Ipm, Ipc, Ipb stored in the display unit 64 are attached. Is displayed. Then, the CPU 61 returns to step S1-1.

  When the price information Ipy, Ipm, Ipc, Ipb is read from all the ROM chips 24y, 24m, 24c, 24b (YES in S1-6), the CPU 61 enters the print mode (S1-8), and the operation unit 65 Wait for start key operation. When the start key is operated (YES in S1-9), the CPU 61 executes image formation / billing calculation processing (S1-10).

  FIG. 10 is a flowchart for explaining details of the image formation / billing calculation processing of the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 10, the CPU 61 separates the input image data into image data for every three colors (S4-1), and outputs the image data as dot image data to the laser writing optical system of the printing mechanism unit 67. Is written (S4-2). At this time, the CPU 61 counts the number of dots for each color and for each type of dot (S4-3). Then, the CPU 61 calculates the dot area for each color by summing up the areas of the dots for each color based on the number of dots for each color and for each type of dot (S4-4). Here, it is assumed that the area Ay of the yellow dot image, the area Am of the magenta dot image, the area Ac of the cyan dot image, and the black dot image area Ab are obtained as the dot area for each color. On the other hand, toner consumption amounts Uty, Utm, Utc, Utb per dot unit area for each color are stored in the ROM 62 in advance. The toner for each color is calculated by calculating the product of the toner consumption amount Uty, Utm, Utc, Utb per dot unit area for each color and the dot area Ay, Am, Ac, Ab for each color for each color. Consumption amounts Ty, Tm, Tc, and Tb are calculated (S4-5). Then, the CPU 61 calculates the product of the toner consumption amounts Ty, Tm, Tc, Tb for each color and the price information Ipy, Ipm, Ipc, Ipb for each color stored in the RAM 63 for each color. Charges (fluctuating parts) Vpy, Vpm, Vpc, Vpb based on toner consumption for each color are calculated (S4-5).

  That is, the CPU 61 determines (Vpy = toner consumption amount Ty of yellow dot image × yellow toner price information Ipy), (Vpm = toner consumption amount Tm of magenta dot image × magenta toner price information Ipm), and (Vpc = cyan dot). Image toner consumption Tc × cyan toner price information Ipc), (Vpb = black dot toner consumption Tb × black toner price information Ipb) charging for each toner color (variable parts) Vpy, Vpm, Vpc, Vpb is calculated. Then, the CPU 61 obtains the sum of these as the charge (fluctuation part) Vp of the toner part per sheet. That is, the CPU 61 obtains the charging (fluctuating part) Vp of the toner part by (charging of the toner part (fluctuating part) Vp = Vpy + Vpm + Vpc + Vpb). (S4-6). Then, the CPU 61 calculates the total Svp of billing (fluctuating part) Vp for the number of printed sheets (S4-7).

  By the way, although the description so far calculated the direct price of toner and ink, in actual printing, costs for using the device and maintenance costs are incurred for each print. For example, these costs and maintenance costs include maintenance such as wear and wear of the photoconductor, developing roller, and fixing roller, and cost per sheet of a service charge portion in the event of a failure such as a jam. The CPU 61 assigns them to each print and passes them on. That is, the CPU 61 obtains a predetermined charging (fixed portion) Cp per sheet related to the cost and the maintenance cost (S4-8). Then, the CPU 61 calculates a total Scp for the number of billing Cp for the fixed portion (S4-9). Then, the CPU 61 calculates the total billing Sp (Scp + Svp) of the billing Scp for the fixed portion for the number of sheets and the billing Svp for the variable portion for the number of sheets (S4-10). Then, the total billing Sp calculated after printing is displayed on the display unit 64 (S4-11), the image formation / billing calculation processing is terminated, and the process proceeds to step S1-11. In the case of so-called “repeat printing” in which a plurality of prints are made from the same original image, the total charge can be obtained by multiplying the first charge Sp by the number of repeats.

  In step S <b> 1-11, the CPU 61 determines whether a toner shortage signal is input to the CPU 61 from at least one of the toner shortage detection sensors 69. Then, the CPU 61 executes the image formation / billing calculation process according to the processes of the above-described steps S1-9 and S1-10, that is, the input of the start key, in the print mode until the toner shortage signal is input. Repeat the process.

  When the toner of each color is consumed as the image forming / billing calculation process is executed, and any one of the toner shortage detection sensors 69 detects the toner shortage, the toner shortage detection sensor 69 that detects the toner shortage A toner shortage signal is output to the CPU 61. When the toner shortage signal is input (YES in S1-11), the CPU 61 shifts to the print disable mode, and displays a toner end warning indicating that the toner is short for the color where the toner shortage is detected (see FIG. S1-12). Then, the CPU 61 deletes the price information of the ROM chip for the color lacking toner (S1-13). For example, when the yellow toner is insufficient, the price information Ipy of the yellow ROM chip 24y is deleted. Then, the CPU 61 causes the display unit 64 to display a message for instructing replacement of the toner cartridge for the color with insufficient toner. (S1-14).

  It should be noted that the user is, if you want to know what will on how much of the charge in advance, on the external device 71 such as a personal computer, to enter the "cost estimate" indication. The external device 71 outputs a “cost estimate” instruction to the connected color laser printer 60 and outputs image data. In response to the “cost estimate” instruction, the CPU 61 calculates the charge Sp before executing printing based on the price information Ipy, Ipm, Ipc, Ipb and the input image data, and displays it on the display unit 64. Display. That is, in this case, the CPU 61 performs processing except for image writing (S4-2) in the image formation / charge calculation processing, calculates charge, and displays the charge Sp on the display unit 64. In the case of cost estimation, “color printing”, “monochrome printing”, “reduced printing”, or the like can be selected so as to designate a printing mode.

As mentioned above, according to this embodiment, in addition to said effect (1)-(3), the effect shown below can be acquired.
(7) In the above embodiment, the CPU 61 calculates the dot area for each color, calculates the charge based on the toner consumption for each color based on this, and calculates the charge based on the toner consumption for all colors. . Therefore, accounting can be calculated according to the toner consumption for each color and the manufacturing cost of the toner for each color.

  (8) In the above embodiment, when a plurality of originals are color-printed, the CPU 61 calculates the total charge after calculating the charge for each sheet, and causes the display unit 64 to display the total charge after printing is completed. . For this reason, the user can easily check the total billing.

  (9) In the above embodiment, when the external device 71 outputs a “cost estimate” instruction and image data, the CPU 61 inputs price information Ipy, Ipm, Ipc, Ipb in response to the “cost estimate” instruction. Based on the obtained image data, the accounting for each sheet is calculated. For this reason, it is possible to make the user confirm the billing before actually printing. As a result, for example, since color images are expensive, it is possible to freely select a user's desired one such as switching to monochrome printing.

  (10) In the above-described embodiment, in addition to charging for the variable portion based on the consumption of toner, charging for the fixed portion based on the cost for using the device and the maintenance cost is obtained. For this reason, it is possible to charge for the use of the device.

(Fourth embodiment)
Hereinafter, a fourth embodiment embodying the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. In the present embodiment, price information is stored in price information storage means provided in a Web server that manages price information, and the price information is acquired by accessing the Web server from a printer.

  As shown in FIG. 11, in this embodiment, the color laser printer 60 is connected to a Web server (hereinafter referred to as a price information management server) 80 that manages price information via the Internet I. The price information management server 80 includes a price information storage unit 81. As shown in FIG. 12, the price information storage unit 81 stores toner-specific price information 810 for each toner identification information. In this embodiment, the toner-specific price information 810 includes toner identification information and price information. On the other hand, the CPU 61 of the color laser printer 60 is connected to the price information management server 80 via the Internet I by an I / O 72 that controls communication via the Internet I. Note that the electrical configuration of the color laser printer 60 in this embodiment is the same as that of the third embodiment except that the I / O 72 is provided, and a description thereof will be omitted.

  In the present embodiment, as in the third embodiment, ROM chips 24y, 24m, 24c, and 24b as recording media are attached to the toner cartridges for each color. The ROM chips 24y, 24m, 24c, and 24b store toner identification information Idy, Idm, Idc, and Idb of the toner stored in the toner cartridge, unlike the third embodiment. In this embodiment, the toner identification information Idy, Idm, Idc, and Idb is written in the ROM chips 24y, 24m, 24c, and 24b when the toner is filled in the factory and shipped as a product.

  In the present embodiment, similarly to the third embodiment, the arithmetic processing operation is performed according to the flowchart of FIG. In steps S1-5 and S1-6, instead of reading price information, toner identification information Idy, Idm, Idc, and Idb are read here. In the image formation / charge calculation process (S1-10), the CPU 61 obtains price information Ipy, Ipm, Ipc, Ipb according to the flowchart of FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 13, the CPU 61 of the color laser printer 60 reads the toner identification information from the RAM 63 and transmits it to the price information management server 80 via the I / O 72 (S5-1). Upon receiving this, the price information management server 80 extracts price information from the price information storage unit 81 based on the toner identification information (S5-2), and transmits the price information and toner identification information to the color laser printer 60. (S5-3). Upon receiving this, the CPU 61 records the received price information in the RAM 63 in association with the toner identification information (S5-4).

  Then, the image formation / billing calculation process is performed according to FIG. 10 as in the third embodiment, and the price information Ipy, Ipm, Ipc, Ipb acquired from the price information management server 80 is used for the billing calculation.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, the following effects can be obtained in addition to the effects (3) and (7) to (10).
(11) In the above embodiment, the ROM chips 24y, 24m, 24c, 24b on which the toner identification information Idy, Idm, Idc, Idb is recorded are mounted on the outer surface of each toner cartridge, and the toner identification information Idy, Idm, Idc , Idb are captured and recorded in the RAM 63. Then, the toner identification information Idy, Idm, Idc, Idb is transmitted to the price information management server 80, and the price information Ipy, Ipm, Ipc, Ipb is acquired and recorded in the RAM 63. For this reason, the price information Ipy recorded in the RAM 63 in this way is used for calculating the charge.
, Ipm, Ipc, Ipb can be used.

  (12) In the above embodiment, the color laser printer 60 transmits the toner identification information Idy, Idm, Idc, Idb to the price information management server 80 when performing image formation / billing calculation processing, and the price information Ipy, Ipm, Ipc and Ipb are acquired. Therefore, accounting can be calculated based on the latest price information Ipy, Ipm, Ipc, Ipb.

(Fifth embodiment)
Hereinafter, a fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. The present embodiment relates to toner refilling of a toner cartridge according to the present invention. The toner cartridge that has finished using the toner is collected by the manufacturer and is refilled with new toner for reuse. In this case, for example, the toner cartridge 20 having the ROM chip 24 as a recording medium storing the price information shown in the first embodiment is refilled with toner in the following process.

  In a factory where toner is refilled, first, the toner filling port (discharge port 22) of the collected cartridge is opened. Next, the inside of the toner container is washed and dried as necessary (drying is not necessary for air washing). Next, as shown in FIG. 14, the toner filling device 90 is inserted from the toner filling port with the toner filling port facing up, and the toner is filled through the toner filling nozzle 91. After the filling, the toner filling device 90 is taken out from the toner filling port, and the toner filling port is closed. Then, the price information Ip of the filled toner is recorded on the ROM chip 24 attached to the toner cartridge 20.

  In addition, when refilling the toner, the same toner as the toner that has been contained in the toner is not always filled. For example, even with black toner for a specific model, the toner production number may be changed due to a change in prescription, and the price information Ip may fluctuate accordingly.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, the following effects can be obtained.
(13) In the above embodiment, when the toner cartridge 20 is refilled with toner, the price information Ip of the filled toner is recorded in the ROM chip 24. For this reason, when refilling the toner, if the toner having a prescription different from that of the toner that has been used up to now is filled, the price information Ip of the newly filled toner can be recorded in the ROM chip 24.

In addition, you may change the said embodiment as follows.
In the first and third embodiments, the price information Ip, Ipy, Ipm, Ipc, Ipb is stored in the ROM chips 24, 24y, 24m, 24c, 24b. You may affix the paper in which the barcode which shows price information was printed on the part. Further, a rewritable member may be formed integrally with the toner cartridge, and price information Ip, Ipy, Ipm, Ipc, Ipb may be written in the barcode format. By doing in this way, a manufacturing process can be simplified. In addition, when empty cartridges are collected and refilled with new toner before shipping, it is possible to write different prices for different toners, simplifying the manufacturing process and reducing costs. Can contribute to down.

  In the first embodiment, the CPU 31 records the price information Ip recorded in the ROM chip 24 in the RAM 33 when the toner cartridge 20 is set in the digital copying machine 30. Alternatively, price information may be read from the ROM chip 24 when charging is performed.

In the first embodiment, the ROM chip 24 that stores the price information Ip is attached to the toner cartridge 20. Alternatively, a ROM chip that stores price information Ip may be attached to a process cartridge containing a photosensitive member or toner. In this way, the price information necessary for billing can be taken into the copying machine main body in the same manner also in the process cartridge.

  In the first and second embodiments, the present invention is embodied in a digital copying machine, but may be embodied in a laser printer or an ink jet printer. In this case, image data transmitted from a personal computer or server via a network (wired or wireless) is temporarily stored in the RAM 33, and then converted into dot data of an image necessary for printing and output. Calculate it.

In the first and second embodiments, the present invention is embodied in a digital copying machine, but may be embodied in a copying machine including an inkjet print head.
In the second embodiment, the price information Ip is stored in the portable recording medium 52. However, a barcode label indicating the price information Ip may be attached to a toner or ink container. Then, the price information Ip may be read into the CPU 31 by reading it with a barcode reader connected to the digital copying machine 30.

  In the second embodiment, the price information Ip is stored in the portable recording medium 52. However, the toner and ink information is encoded, and the code information attached to the container is read from the operation unit 35 of the digital copying machine 30. You may enter. In this case, the user may be allowed to input without knowing the price. By doing in this way, although a user's effort is required, the apparatus for price information input becomes unnecessary and it can suppress cost.

  In the third embodiment, the CPU 61 calculates the charge based on the price information Ipy, Ipm, Ipc, Ipb and the input image data in response to the “cost estimate” instruction. Alternatively, the cost may be estimated using a server. That is, image data and a “cost estimate” instruction may be transmitted from the external device 71 to a server having storage means for storing price information Ipy, Ipm, Ipc, Ipb, and the server may calculate the charge. .

  In the third embodiment, a toner cartridge is provided for each color, and ROM chips 24y, 24m, 24c, and 24b that record price information Ipy, Ipm, Ipc, and Ipb are mounted. Instead of this, when all the colors are contained in one cassette without having a cartridge for each ink color as in a color ink jet printer, the ink price information for each color is stored in the cassette containing all the colors. One ROM chip may be mounted. Then, when the cartridge is replaced, all the information may be taken into the RAM 63. By doing so, for example, even when three color ink containers are sold as a set, charging corresponding to the amount of ink material for each color can be realized.

  In the third embodiment, a toner cartridge is provided for each color, and ROM chips 24y, 24m, 24c, and 24b that record price information Ipy, Ipm, Ipc, and Ipb are mounted. Instead of this, as in a color ink jet printer, if all colors are contained in one cassette without having a cartridge for each ink color, a ROM chip storing one price information in the cassette containing all colors is installed. One may be attached. In this way, it is possible to easily calculate the charge when all the colors have the same amount.

In the third and fourth embodiments, the laser printer is used. However, the laser printer may be applied to an ink jet printer or a copying machine.
When applying to a copier, press the "Cost Estimate" button provided on the copier before printing the original on the plan (in the case of a color copier).
Charges may be calculated based on the read image data.

  In the third embodiment, charging is calculated for each sheet, and when printing a plurality of sheets in one transaction, the charging is charged for each transaction and settled. Instead of this, the sum of charges for a plurality of transactions may be calculated and billed and settled together (for example, monthly). For example, the variable portion may be calculated and stored as described above, and the charge for the fixed portion may be calculated collectively based on the total number of prints monthly. Then, the charge may be calculated by summing the variable part and the fixed part monthly. In addition, billing and settlement may be performed for only the fixed portion billing. Furthermore, if the customer wants to know the total amount of billing at the present time, the current total billing is displayed on the display panel from the storage means of the color laser printer body by operating the operation buttons (not disclosed). The information may be displayed or the information may be printed.

  In the fourth embodiment, the toner identification information is stored in the ROM chips 24y, 24m, 24c, and 24b. However, the barcode indicating the toner identification information Idy, Idm, Idc, and Idb on a predetermined portion of the outer wall of the toner cartridge. You may paste the paper which printed. Further, a rewritable member may be formed integrally with the toner cartridge, and the toner identification information Idy, Idm, Idc, Idb may be written therein in a barcode format. By doing in this way, a manufacturing process can be simplified. In addition, when empty cartridges are collected and refilled with new toner before shipping, it is possible to write different prices for different toners, simplifying the manufacturing process and reducing costs. Can contribute to down.

  In the fourth embodiment, when the toner cartridge for each color is set in the color laser printer 60, the CPU 61 records the toner identification information recorded in the ROM chips 24y, 24m, 24c, and 24b in the RAM 63. Alternatively, the toner identification information Idy, Idm, Idc, Idb may be read from the ROM chips 24y, 24m, 24c, 24b when charging is performed.

  In the fourth embodiment, the ROM chips 24y, 24m, 24c, and 24b in which the toner identification information Idy, Idm, Idc, and Idb are recorded are attached to the toner cartridges for the respective colors. Instead of this, a ROM chip storing identification information may be attached to a process cartridge containing a photosensitive member or toner. By doing so, the identification information can be taken into the copying machine main body in the same manner also in the process cartridge.

  In the fourth embodiment, the CPU 61 reads the toner identification information Idy, Idm, Idc, Idb from the RAM 63 and transmits it to the price information management server 80 when the color laser printer 60 is operated, and the price information Ipy. , Ipm, Ipc, Ipb were obtained. Instead, when the toner identification information Idy, Idm, Idc, Idb is downloaded from the ROM chips 24y, 24m, 24c, 24b to the RAM 63, the toner identification information Idy, Idm, Idc, Idb is converted into the price information management server 80. The price information Ipy, Ipm, Ipc, Ipb may be acquired and stored in the RAM 63. By doing in this way, the frequency | count of access to the price information management server 80 can be reduced and communication cost can be reduced. In addition, the charge can be calculated with the price at the time of purchasing the toner.

  In the fourth embodiment, the color laser printer 60 and the price information management server 80 are connected via the Internet I. However, a dedicated line, a public line, an intranet, or an extranet (wide area network) may be used.

In the fifth embodiment, the price information Ip is stored in the ROM chip 24. However, a paper on which a barcode indicating the price information Ip is printed may be attached to a predetermined portion of the outer wall of the toner cartridge 20. Alternatively, a rewritable member may be formed integrally with the toner cartridge, and the price information Ip may be written therein in a barcode format.

  In the fifth embodiment, the price information Ip is recorded on the ROM chip 24. However, toner identification information (for example, toner production number, date of manufacture, production location, etc.) is recorded on the ROM chip 24. May be. Then, as in the fourth embodiment, the price information Ip may be acquired from the price information management server 80 via the Internet I based on the toner identification information.

  In the fifth embodiment, the price information Ip is recorded on the ROM chip 24 attached to the toner cartridge 20 having one color toner. However, the price information Ip is recorded on the cartridge having ink or the toner having multiple colors or ink. Such information may be recorded on the mounted ROM chip.

  In the fifth embodiment, the ROM chip 24 that stores the price information Ip is attached to the toner cartridge 20. Alternatively, a ROM chip that stores price information Ip may be mounted on the process cartridge. By doing in this way, the price information Ip necessary for billing can be taken in the process cartridge in the same way.

  In the fifth embodiment, the CPU 31 deletes the price information Ip of the ROM chip 24 mounted on the toner cartridge 20 after the toner end warning, but further stores information such as the toner end occurrence date and the device number on the ROM chip. 24 may be recorded. In this way, in collecting the toner cartridge, it is possible to calculate and manage the lead time from the occurrence of the toner end to the return to the factory.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a toner cartridge with a ROM chip attached. 1 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of a copying machine according to a first embodiment. Explanatory drawing of the process sequence of 1st Embodiment. Explanatory drawing of the process sequence of 1st Embodiment. Explanatory drawing of the shape and magnitude | size of a dot. Explanatory drawing of a portable recording medium and a process cartridge. FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of a copying machine according to a second embodiment. Explanatory drawing of the process sequence of 2nd Embodiment. The block diagram which shows the electric constitution of the color laser printer of 3rd Embodiment. Explanatory drawing of the process sequence of 3rd Embodiment. The block diagram which shows the electrical constitution of the color laser printer and price information management server of 4th Embodiment. Explanatory drawing of the data memorize | stored in the price information storage part. Explanatory drawing of the process sequence of 4th Embodiment. FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram of refilling toner into a toner cartridge.

Explanation of symbols

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS I ... Internet, 20 ... Toner cartridge, 21 ... Toner accommodating part, 24, 24y, 24m, 24c, 24b ... ROM chip as recording medium attached to cartridge, 30 ... Digital copying machine as image forming apparatus, 52 ... Portable recording medium, 60... Color laser printer as image forming device, 80... Price information management server as server.

Claims (14)

A computer provided in the image forming apparatus
A price information reading step for executing processing for reading the price information of the stored toner or ink from a recording medium in which the toner or ink used in the image forming apparatus is stored and mounted on a cartridge that can be mounted on the image forming apparatus. When,
Counting the number of dots for each type depending on the shape or size of the dots for each color of the image created by the image forming device, and summing the product of the number of dots for each type and the area of one dot for each type And a cost calculating step for calculating a charge amount for toner or ink consumption based on the dot area obtained in step 1 and the consumption amount of toner or ink per unit area of the color of the reproduced image and the price information. A charge calculation method for toner or ink. The toner or ink charge calculation method according to claim 1, wherein the cost calculation step includes:
Total consumption in which the computer calculates the total consumption amount of toner or ink for the entire color from the dot area of the image created by the image forming device and the consumption amount of toner or ink per unit area of the color of the reproduced image A quantity calculation stage;
A charge calculation method for toner or ink, comprising: a total cost calculation step of calculating a cost for consumption of toner or ink by multiplying the total consumption amount of toner or ink and the price information. The toner or ink charge calculation method according to claim 1, wherein the cost calculation step includes:
The computer obtains the toner or ink consumption for each color from the dot area for each color of the image created by the image forming device and the toner or ink consumption per unit area of the reproduced image color. Consumption calculation stage,
The cost for consumption of toner or ink for each color is calculated by multiplying the consumption amount of toner or ink for each color by the price information, and the total cost is calculated by calculating the total of the costs. A charge calculation method for toner or ink, comprising: a total cost calculation step for calculating. 4. The toner or ink charge calculation method according to claim 1, wherein the image forming device is an image forming device provided with toner or ink cartridges of four colors of yellow, magenta, cyan, and black. A charge calculation method for toner or ink, characterized in that there is. 5. The toner or ink charge calculation method according to claim 1, wherein a recording medium is attached to the cartridge, and price information of the toner or ink contained in the cartridge is stored in the recording medium. A charge calculation method for toner or ink, which is stored . 5. The toner or ink charge calculation method according to claim 1 , wherein the price information of the toner or ink contained therein is displayed in a bar code on a part of the outer peripheral surface of the cartridge. charging calculation method of toner or ink, characterized in that there. In the toner or ink charge calculation method according to any one of claims 1 to 6 ,
The computer is
The price at which the toner or ink price information of the cartridge that has already been set is deleted from the RAM before the image forming apparatus runs out after the remaining amount of toner or ink in the image forming apparatus runs out and displays a warning. Information deletion stage
Further charging calculation method of the toner or ink characterized by comprising a. A computer equipped with an image forming device
  Price information reading means for executing a process of reading the price information of the toner or ink contained in the recording medium attached to the cartridge that can be attached to the image forming apparatus in which the toner or ink used in the image forming apparatus is stored. ,as well as,
  Counting the number of dots for each type depending on the shape or size of the dots for each color of the image created by the image forming device, and summing the product of the number of dots for each type and the area of one dot for each type Functioning as a cost calculating means for calculating the amount of charge for toner or ink consumption based on the dot area obtained in step 1, the toner or ink consumption per unit area of the reproduced image color, and the price information. Billing calculation program for. In the charge calculation program according to claim 8,
  The cost calculation means is
  A total consumption calculating means for determining the total consumption of toner or ink for the entire color from the dot area of the image created by the image forming apparatus and the consumption of toner or ink per unit area of the color of the reproduced image; as well as,
  Total cost calculation means for calculating the cost for consumption of toner or ink by multiplying the total consumption amount of toner or ink by the price information
Billing calculation program to function as In the charge calculation program according to claim 8,
  The cost calculation means is
  Consumption amount calculating means for obtaining the consumption amount of toner or ink for each color from the dot area for each color of the image created by the image forming apparatus and the consumption amount of toner or ink per unit area of the color of the reproduced image ,as well as,
  The cost for consumption of toner or ink for each color is calculated by multiplying the consumption amount of toner or ink for each color by the price information, and the total cost is calculated by calculating the total of the costs. Total cost calculation means to calculate
Billing calculation program to function as In the billing calculation program according to any one of claims 8 to 10,
The charge calculation program , wherein the image forming device is an image forming device including toner or ink cartridges of four colors of yellow, magenta, cyan, and black . 12. The charging calculation program according to claim 8, wherein price information of toner or ink stored in the cartridge stored in a recording medium attached to the cartridge is read. Calculation program. 12. The toner or ink charge calculation program according to claim 8, wherein the price information of the toner or ink contained in the cartridge is displayed as a barcode on a part of the outer peripheral surface of the cartridge. A billing calculation program characterized by reading . In the billing calculation program according to any one of claims 8 to 13,
Said computer further
The price at which the toner or ink price information of the cartridge that has already been set is deleted from the RAM before the image forming apparatus runs out after the remaining amount of toner or ink in the image forming apparatus runs out and displays a warning. Information deletion means
Billing calculation program to function as

Images