JP5717528B2 - Offset business progress confirmation system, image forming apparatus used therefor, and offset business progress confirmation method - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an offset project progress confirmation system and an image forming apparatus and an offset project progress check how to use the same, purchase or greenhouse gas emission allowance used in the image forming apparatus has been leased (Greenhouse image forming apparatus and an offset used to offset operations progress check system for checking whether the purchase cost of greenhouse gas emission allowances consumable gas emission) is assigned is used in any offset business about the business progress confirm how.

In recent years, in consideration of the global environment, copiers, facsimiles, printers, and other image forming apparatuses use consumables and replacement parts used in the image forming apparatus that have reduced the burden on the global environment. Has been promoted.
In addition, in order to reduce the CO ₂ emission amount, an improvement is recommended to the user.

  As a conventional technique, for example, a printing apparatus in which a consumable item or a replacement part is detachable, and the consumable part or the replacement part to be attached to the printing apparatus is provided with a greenhouse gas emission frame (with carbon offset) or Identification means for identifying whether or not it is a replacement part, and print data generation for generating print data of a certificate of participation in carbon offset activity when the consumable part or replacement part is the consumable part or replacement part with carbon offset There has been proposed one having a means and a print processing means for printing a participation certificate based on the print data (see Patent Document 1).

  As a result, by using consumables and replacement parts with a greenhouse gas emission allowance, the proof of use is automatically printed out, or the user himself / herself prints out, to the user's carbon offset activities. Can be provided with a printing device that can increase the participation awareness.

JP 2010-186247 A

  However, although the above-mentioned conventional technology can raise the user's awareness of participation in carbon offset activities, the purchase cost of the greenhouse gas emission allowance used for carbon offsets can be used for any offset business and can contribute. There is a problem that the user cannot know whether or not there is. In addition, there is a problem that consumables with greenhouse gas emission allowances cannot be purchased with peace of mind because the progress of the offset business that may have contributed is not understood.

The present invention has been made in view of the above-described conventional problems, and can confirm the progress of the offset business in which the purchase cost of the greenhouse gas emission allowance is used, and the consumption given the greenhouse gas emission allowance. and to provide an image forming apparatus and an offset project progress check how used in this and the offset project progress confirmation system that can be purchased with confidence goods.

Aforementioned problems image forming apparatus and an offset project progress check how to use and to offset project progress confirmation system according to the present invention for solving the is as follows.

The present invention is an offset business progress confirmation system for confirming the progress of an offset business that has provided the cost of purchasing a greenhouse gas emission allowance for consumables with a greenhouse gas emission allowance used in a purchased or leased image forming apparatus. A plurality of consumables manufacturers or consumables sales company data management servers connected via a communication means, and a plurality of consumables greenhouse gas emission frames. An offset provider is connected via a communication means, and the data management server is configured to be able to monitor the usage status of consumables of the image forming apparatus, and is mounted on the image forming apparatus as the configuration of the image forming apparatus. Consumables information detecting means for detecting information stored in storage means or recording means provided in the consumables, and the image Consumable information storage means for storing consumable information including greenhouse gas emission allowance identification information (credit identification information) for identifying a greenhouse gas emission allowance of a consumable with a greenhouse gas emission allowance used in the forming apparatus; Consumption that determines whether the consumable is a consumable with a greenhouse gas emission frame by collating the detection result by the consumable information detecting means with the consumable information stored in the consumable information storage means Product determining means, and when it is determined that a consumable item with a greenhouse gas emission frame is attached to the image forming apparatus, a consumable item with a greenhouse gas emission frame is attached to the image forming apparatus. desired information, and consumables information notification means for notifying the consumable information including greenhouse gas emission allowance identification information of the consumable to the data management server, the information of the progress of the offset business The case, and a offset project progress information desired notifying means for notifying the information to the effect that the desired information progress of the offset business to the data management server, a configuration of the data management server, to the image forming apparatus Inquiry information notifying means for notifying the image forming apparatus of information for inquiring whether or not to request information on the progress status of the offset business when it is determined that a consumable with a greenhouse gas emission frame is attached; , if desired the inquiry information display means causes the display to query information notified on the display unit of the image forming apparatus by the inquiry information notifying means, the information of the progress of the offset projects, the progress of the offset business Offset business progress information request notification means for notifying the data management server of information indicating that information is desired; , An offset provider specifying means for specifying an offset provider corresponding to the consumable greenhouse gas emission allowance identification information from among the plurality of offset providers, and information on the progress of the offset business to the specified offset provider. Offset business progress information request notification means for notifying information requesting notification to the image forming apparatus, the offset business progress information includes an offset business description and a credit number list, The description of the offset business includes a schematic explanatory diagram of the offset business and an explanatory diagram of the construction period of the offset business, and the credit number list includes the construction period necessary for the business construction and the credit number allocated to each construction period. And is further specified as a configuration of the data management server. The message information received from the offset provider that is notified of the progress of the offset business and the URL information of the Web where the progress of the offset business can be viewed are received from the specified offset provider. The image forming apparatus is notified of the received message information and the URL information of the Web, and further, as the configuration of the image forming apparatus, the received message information from the specified offset provider, and the Web The offset information is displayed on the display unit, and based on the Web URL information, the offset business progress information is displayed on the display unit, and the offset business progress status is confirmed. It is characterized by this.

  In the present invention, an offset provider (or carbon offset provider) refers to an organization that conducts a business that provides a carbon offset mechanism.

  In the present invention, it is preferable that the information notified by the inquiry information notification unit is displayed on the display unit of the image forming apparatus when the image forming apparatus is ready.

  In the present invention, when the image forming apparatus is ready, when warming up, between print jobs, or when there is no input signal from the input unit (when the user is not operating the image forming apparatus), the scanner When there is no signal for placing a document in the unit.

  Further, the present invention provides a two-dimensional code such as an IC chip (for example, a non-volatile memory such as a wireless IC tag or a contact type CRUM), a barcode, or a QR code (registered trademark) as the storage means or recording means for the consumables. Either of these is preferably used.

  In addition, the present invention includes a touch panel or operation keys that are substantially integrated as a configuration of the display unit, and operates the touch panel or the operation keys on the display unit, thereby reducing the purchase cost of the greenhouse gas emission frame. It is preferable to perform a procedure for requesting information on the progress status of the provided offset business.

  Note that the touch panel and the operation keys may be provided separately, or a display unit using the touch panel and a display unit that performs only display, that is, a plurality of display units may be provided.

  In the present invention, it is preferable that the consumable item includes a carbon footprint mark.

  In the present invention, the consumable item may display at least one of the types of greenhouse gas in the life cycle of the consumable item, the value of the emission amount of the greenhouse gas, and an explanatory text explaining the value. preferable.

In addition, the present invention is an image forming apparatus that is purchased or leased, and the image forming the offset business progress confirmation system according to any one of claims 1 to 6 as the image forming apparatus. It has the structure of a formation apparatus.

In addition, the present invention also confirms the progress status of the offset business for confirming the progress status of the offset business that provided the cost of purchasing the greenhouse gas emission allowance of the consumables with the greenhouse gas emission allowance used in the purchased or leased image forming apparatus. The image forming apparatus is connected to a data management server of a consumables manufacturer or a consumables sales company via a communication unit, and a greenhouse gas emission frame for the data management server and the consumables is provided. In the image forming apparatus, the image forming apparatus is connected to the plurality of offset providers via a communication unit, and the data management server is configured to be able to monitor the usage status of the consumables of the image forming apparatus. Detecting the information stored in the storage means or the recording means provided in the consumables attached to the camera, and the image shape A step of storing consumables information including greenhouse gas emission allowance identification information for identifying a greenhouse gas emission allowance of consumables with a greenhouse gas emission allowance used in the apparatus, and a detection result by detecting the consumable information And the stored consumable information to determine whether the consumable is a consumable with a greenhouse gas emission frame, and a consumable with a greenhouse gas discharge frame is included in the image forming apparatus. Consumables information including information indicating that a consumable with a greenhouse gas emission frame is attached to the image forming apparatus when it is determined that the image forming apparatus is attached, and greenhouse gas emission frame identification information of the consumable To the data management server, and when the information on the progress status of the offset business is desired, information indicating that the information on the progress status of the offset business is desired to the data management server. Whether or not the data management server desires information on the progress status of the offset business when it is determined that the image forming apparatus is equipped with a consumable with a greenhouse gas emission frame. A step of notifying the image forming apparatus of information for inquiring about the information, a step of displaying the inquiry information notified by the step of notifying the inquiry information on a display unit of the image forming apparatus, and the plurality of offset providers A step of identifying an offset provider corresponding to the greenhouse gas emission allowance identification information of the consumables, and information for requesting the identified offset provider to notify the image forming apparatus of information on the progress status of the offset business A process of notifying the offset business, The offset business description includes a schematic explanatory diagram of the offset business and an explanatory diagram of the construction period of the offset business, and the credit number list includes construction necessary for the business construction. And a credit number allocated to each construction period, and further, in the data management server, message information received to notify the progress of the offset business notified from the specified offset provider, Receiving the URL information of the Web where the progress status of the offset business can be browsed, the step of notifying the image forming apparatus of the received message information from the specified offset provider and the URL information of the Web And in the image forming apparatus, the data management server Comprising the step of displayed information progress of the offset projects notified from the offset provider on a display unit of the image forming apparatus, and is characterized in that to check the progress information of said offset business .

According to the offset business progress confirmation system of the present invention, the progress of the offset business that provided the greenhouse gas emission allowance purchase cost of the consumables with the greenhouse gas emission allowance used for the image forming apparatus purchased or leased is displayed. An offset business progress confirmation system for confirming, wherein the image forming apparatus and a consumables manufacturer or consumables sales company data management server are connected via a communication means, and the data management server and consumables greenhouse A plurality of offset providers that provide an effect gas discharge frame are connected via communication means, and the data management server is configured to be able to monitor the usage status of consumables of the image forming apparatus, and the configuration of the image forming apparatus as it has been stored in the storage means or recording means provided in the consumable mounted on the image forming apparatus Consumables including consumable information detecting means for detecting information and greenhouse gas emission frame identification information (credit identification information) for identifying a greenhouse gas emission frame of a consumable with a greenhouse gas emission frame used in the image forming apparatus Consumables information storage means storing consumables information, a result of detection by the consumables information detection means and consumables information stored in the consumables information storage means are collated, and the consumables emit greenhouse gases. Consumables determination means for determining whether or not a consumable with a frame; and when it is determined that a consumable with a greenhouse gas discharge frame is attached to the image forming apparatus, the image forming apparatus has a greenhouse effect. and information indicating that the gas discharge framed consumable is mounted, and consumables information notification means for notifying the consumable information including greenhouse gas emission allowance identification information of the consumable to the data management server, before An offset business progress information request notification means for notifying the data management server of information indicating that the offset business progress status information is desired when the offset business progress status information is desired. When it is determined that a consumable item with a greenhouse gas emission frame is attached to the image forming apparatus as the server configuration, information for inquiring whether to request information on the progress status of the offset business is displayed. Willing and inquiry information notifying means for notifying the forming apparatus, the inquiry information display means causes the display to query information notified on the display unit of the image forming apparatus by the inquiry information notifying means, the information of the progress of the offset business In this case, information indicating that the offset business progress status information is desired is passed to the data management server. An offset business progress information request notification means to know, an offset provider specifying means for specifying an offset provider corresponding to the greenhouse gas emission allowance identification information of the consumables among the plurality of offset providers, and the specified offset provider Offset business progress information request notifying means for notifying the image forming apparatus of information on the progress status of the offset business, and the information on the progress status of the offset business is The offset business description includes a schematic explanatory diagram of the offset business and an explanatory diagram of the construction period of the offset business, and the credit number list includes a construction period necessary for the business construction, and a credit number list. Credit numbers distributed during each construction period, and Data management server configuration, message information accepted to notify the progress status of the offset business notified from the specified offset provider, Web URL information that can browse the progress status of the offset business, And receiving the message information received from the specified offset provider and the URL information of the Web to the image forming apparatus, and the configuration of the image forming apparatus is further specified. The received message information from the offset provider and the URL information of the Web are displayed on the display unit, and the progress status information of the offset business is displayed on the display unit based on the URL information of the Web. in to Rukoto, the user is properly purchase cost of greenhouse gas emission allowances offsets It is possible to confirm that it is provided operated in preparative operations, pairs can get satisfaction of being able to contribute to the environment, it can contribute to the persistence of the offset project (greenhouse gas reduction project).

  In addition, according to the present invention, since the progress of the offset business in which the purchase cost of the greenhouse gas emission allowance is used can be confirmed, transparency of the activities of the offset provider can be ensured, and the purchase cost of the greenhouse gas emission allowance can be reduced. Unauthorized use can be prevented. Furthermore, global warming due to greenhouse gases can be suppressed.

  Further, according to the present invention, the information notified by the inquiry information notification unit is displayed on the display unit of the image forming apparatus when the image forming apparatus is ready, so that a plurality of users can use the image forming apparatus. The information notified from the data management server or the offset provider can be displayed without interfering with the copy operation, mail operation, and FAX operation of other users.

  Further, according to the present invention, as the storage means or recording means for the consumables, there are 2 such as an IC chip (for example, a non-volatile memory such as a wireless IC tag or a contact type CRUM), a bar code, a QR code (registered trademark), or the like. By using any one of the dimension codes, the storage information can be easily read by the detection unit of the image forming apparatus, and the read storage information can be easily acquired by the data management server.

  Further, according to the present invention, as the configuration of the display unit, a touch panel or operation keys are substantially integrated, and each information is directly received from the image forming apparatus by operating the touch panel or the operation keys on the display unit. It is possible to easily perform a procedure for requesting information on the progress of the offset business that provides information and provides the purchase cost of the greenhouse gas emission allowance by simply displaying the information.

  In addition, according to the present invention, by providing a carbon footprint mark on the consumables, the user can easily check the amount of greenhouse gas generated in the lifecycle of the consumables, and further promote environmental activities. Can contribute.

  According to the present invention, the consumable item displays at least one of the types of greenhouse gases in the life cycle of the consumable item, the value of the greenhouse gas emission amount, and an explanatory text explaining the value. Thus, the user can grasp the environmental resistance performance of the consumables, and can purchase and use the consumables with peace of mind.

According to the image forming apparatus of the present invention, there is provided an image forming apparatus that is purchased or leased, as the image forming apparatus, offset project progress according to any one of claims 1 6 By providing the configuration of the image forming device that constitutes the confirmation system, the user can easily confirm that the purchase cost of the greenhouse gas emission allowance is properly provided to the offset business and contribute to the environment. Can contribute to the persistence of the offset business (greenhouse gas reduction business).

Further, according to the offset business progress confirmation method of the present invention, the progress of the offset business that provided the greenhouse gas emission allowance purchase cost of the consumables with the greenhouse gas emission allowance used in the purchased or leased image forming apparatus. An offset business progress confirmation method for confirming a situation, wherein the image forming apparatus and a data management server of a consumables manufacturer or a consumables sales company are connected via a communication means, and the data management server and the consumables A plurality of offset providers providing a greenhouse gas emission allowance of the product, connected via a communication means, and configured so that the use status of the consumables of the image forming apparatus can be monitored by the data management server, In the image forming apparatus, the image data is stored in a storage unit or a recording unit provided in the consumables attached to the image forming apparatus. Detecting conceivable information; storing consumable information including greenhouse gas emission allowance identification information for identifying a greenhouse gas emission allowance of a consumable with a greenhouse gas emission allowance used in the image forming apparatus; Collating a detection result obtained by detecting the consumable information with stored consumable information to determine whether the consumable is a consumable with a greenhouse gas emission frame, and the image formation When it is determined that a consumable item with a greenhouse gas emission frame is attached to the apparatus, information indicating that the consumable item with a greenhouse gas emission frame is attached to the image forming apparatus, and the greenhouse of the consumable item The process of notifying the data management server of consumables information including the effective gas emission allowance identification information and the information on the progress status of the offset business are rarely obtained when the information on the progress status of the offset business is desired. A step of notifying the data management server of information indicating that the offset business is performed, and when the data management server determines that a consumable with a greenhouse gas emission frame is attached to the image forming apparatus, the offset business A step of notifying the image forming apparatus of information for inquiring whether or not progress status information is desired, and a step of displaying the inquiry information notified by the step of notifying the inquiry information on a display unit of the image forming apparatus And specifying the offset provider corresponding to the consumable greenhouse gas emission allowance identification information from among the plurality of offset providers, and information on the progress status of the offset business to the specified offset provider And a step of notifying information requesting to be notified to the forming apparatus. The information about the progress status of the project includes an explanation of the offset business and a list of credit numbers, and the explanation of the offset business includes a schematic explanatory diagram of the offset business and an explanatory diagram of the construction period of the offset business, and the credit number The list includes the construction period required for the project construction and the credit number assigned to each construction period, and further, the data management server shows the progress status of the offset project notified from the specified offset provider. Receiving the message information accepted to be notified, the Web URL information allowing the progress of the offset business to be browsed, the received message information from the specified offset provider, the Web URL information, And notifying the image forming apparatus, and further, the image forming apparatus Fraud and mitigating risk progress information of said offset projects notified from the identified offset providers by the data management server comprises a step of displaying on the display unit of the image forming apparatus, check the information of the progress of the offset business By doing so, the user can easily confirm that the purchase cost of the greenhouse gas emission allowance is properly provided and operated for the offset business, and can get the satisfaction that it can contribute to the environment, Contribute to the perpetuity of offset business (greenhouse gas reduction business).

1 is an explanatory diagram showing an overall configuration of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of the image forming apparatus. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the communication network which comprises the offset business progress status confirmation system used for the said image forming apparatus. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structure of the operation panel which comprises the offset business progress status confirmation system used for the said image forming apparatus. It is explanatory drawing which shows the initial screen of DOCUMENT FILING mode displayed on the display part which comprises the said operation panel. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the notification screen containing the information notified from the data management server displayed on the said display part to the image forming apparatus, and inquiring whether the information service regarding offset business is desired. It is explanatory drawing which shows the initial screen of the IMAGE SEND mode displayed on the said display part. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the notification screen containing the information of the relief support service input form which inputs whether it desires the relief support service displayed on the display part of the operation panel of the said image forming apparatus. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the notification screen containing the information of the relief support service application which applies for requesting the relief support service displayed on the said display part. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the information of the progress status of the offset business notified as a relief support service displayed on the display part of the operation panel of the said image forming apparatus. The offset business progress confirmation system of the image forming apparatus confirms in what offset business the purchase cost of the consumable greenhouse gas emission frame attached to the image forming apparatus is used by the user's image forming apparatus. It is a part of flowchart which shows the procedure which notifies information. The offset business progress confirmation system of the image forming apparatus confirms in what offset business the purchase cost of the consumable greenhouse gas emission frame attached to the image forming apparatus is used by the user's image forming apparatus. 12 is a part of a flowchart following the flowchart of FIG. 11 showing a procedure for notifying information.

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

  The present embodiment is an image forming apparatus that is purchased or leased as shown in FIG. 1, and is used in an image forming apparatus 1 that is connected to a data management server and forms an image using toner by an electrophotographic method. Configuration of a characteristic offset business progress confirmation system according to the present invention as an offset business progress confirmation system for confirming the progress of the offset business that provided the purchase cost of consumables with a greenhouse gas emission allowance Is adopted.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  In this embodiment, the consumables used in the image forming apparatus 1 include an IC chip (non-volatile memory such as a wireless IC tag or a contact type CRUM), a barcode, a QR code (registered) as a storage unit or a recording unit. Trademark) and the like.

The image forming apparatus 1 includes a detecting unit (consumable information detecting unit) 509a that detects information stored in the storage unit or the recording unit of the consumable item.
The detection unit 509 a detects information on consumables used by the user in the image forming apparatus 1.

  The storage unit 502 stores consumable information with a greenhouse gas emission frame used in the image forming apparatus 1 as consumable information storage means.

  The control unit 501 collates the detection result (consumable information) detected by the detecting unit 509a with the consumable information stored in the storage unit 502, and the consumable is a consumable with a greenhouse gas emission frame. Is provided with a function (consumables determination means) for determining whether or not.

  In the present embodiment, the control unit 501 starts the image forming apparatus 1 to the Ready state when it is determined that the consumable part mounted on the image forming apparatus 1 is a consumable part with a greenhouse gas discharge frame. Has been.

Next, a characteristic offset business progress confirmation system used in the image forming apparatus 1 of the present embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a communication network constituting an offset business progress confirmation system used in the image forming apparatus of the present embodiment, and FIG. 4 is an offset business progress confirmation used in the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment. FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing the initial screen of the DOCUMENT FILE mode displayed on the display unit constituting the operation panel, and FIG. 6 is the data displayed on the display unit. FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a notification screen including information for inquiring whether or not to request an information service regarding an offset business notified from the management server to the image forming apparatus. FIG. 7 is an initial view of the IMAGE SEND mode displayed on the display unit. It is explanatory drawing which shows a screen.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the offset business progress confirmation system used in the image forming apparatus 1 according to this embodiment is a consumable greenhouse gas with a greenhouse gas discharge frame used in the image forming apparatus 1 that is purchased or leased. An offset business progress confirmation system that confirms the progress of an offset business that has provided emission allowance purchase costs. The communication unit 506 allows the image forming apparatus 1 to be manufactured, sold, or leased via a LAN (local area network) 700. In addition to being connected to the data management server 701 and the like, the data management server 701 and a plurality of offset providers 702 (displaying one of the plurality of providers) are connected via communication means, Progress of the offset business from an offset provider providing greenhouse gas emission allowances Information situation so as to notify the image forming apparatus 1, the user is characterized in that to be able to easily check the progress of the offset businesses that provide greenhouse gas emission allowance purchase costs.

  In this offset business progress confirmation system, the image forming apparatus 1 and the data management server 701 of the sales destination of the image forming apparatus 1 are connected via a LAN (local area network (communication means)) 700 as a communication connection. The usage status of the consumables of the image forming apparatus 1 can be monitored in advance.

  In addition, the offset business progress confirmation system has a detection unit (consumables) that detects information stored in storage means or recording means provided in the consumables attached to the image forming apparatus 1 on the image forming apparatus 1 side. Information detection means) 509a, a storage unit (consumables information storage unit) 502 storing information on consumables with greenhouse gas emission frames used in the image forming apparatus 1, a detection result by the detection unit 509a, and a storage unit 502 And a function (consumables determination means) for determining whether or not the consumables are consumables with a greenhouse gas emission frame by comparing with the information on the consumables stored in the When it is determined that a consumable item with a greenhouse gas emission frame is attached to the apparatus 1, information indicating that the consumable item with a greenhouse gas emission frame is attached to the image forming apparatus 1, and the consumable item A function (consumable information notifying means) for notifying the data management server 701 of consumable information including greenhouse gas emission allowance identification information is provided, and the image forming apparatus 1 is provided with a greenhouse gas emission allowance on the data management server 701 side. A function (inquiry information notification means) for notifying the image forming apparatus of information for inquiring whether or not to request information on the progress status of the offset business when it is determined that a consumable item is mounted; The inquiry information is displayed on the display unit 101 of the image forming apparatus 1 (inquiry information display means).

  Further, when the information on the progress status of the offset business is desired, the image forming apparatus 1 side notifies the data management server 701 of information indicating that the information on the progress status of the offset business is desired (offset business). Progress information request notification means).

  Further, on the data management server 701 side, a function (offset provider specifying means) for specifying an offset provider corresponding to the greenhouse gas emission allowance identification information (credit identification information) of the consumables among a plurality of offset providers, A function (offset business progress information request notifying unit) for notifying the specified offset provider of information requesting the image forming apparatus 1 to notify the image forming apparatus 1 of information on the progress status of the offset business.

  In the present embodiment, in the image forming apparatus 1, the control unit 501 detects information stored in the storage unit 502, that is, consumables for detecting information on consumables with greenhouse gas emission frames used in the image forming apparatus 1. In addition to functioning as an information detection unit, the result of detection by the detection unit 509a and the information on the consumables stored in the storage unit 502 are collated to determine whether the consumable is a consumable with a greenhouse gas emission frame. It is configured to function as a consumable item determination means for determining. Further, when it is determined that the consumable with the greenhouse gas discharge frame is attached to the image forming apparatus 1, the control unit 501 has the consumable with the greenhouse gas discharge frame attached to the image forming apparatus 1. It is configured to function as a consumable information notifying means for notifying the data management server 701 of information to that effect and consumable information including the greenhouse gas emission allowance identification information of the consumable.

  Further, in the present embodiment, information for inquiring of the user whether or not the information management service (including notifying the information on the progress status of the offset business) is desired to the storage means (not shown) on the data management server 701 side. And consumable information of consumables used in the image forming apparatus 1 and information of a plurality of offset providers 702 that provide a greenhouse gas emission frame of consumables are stored.

  In the information for inquiring the user whether or not the information service related to the offset business is desired, the information of the message for inquiring the user whether or not the information service related to the offset business is desired and whether or not the information service is desired are input. Information on an information service input form including consumables information of consumables and information on an information service application for applying for an information service are included.

  When a control unit (not shown) on the data management server 701 side determines that the consumable with the greenhouse gas emission frame is attached to the image forming apparatus 1 by the control unit 501, an information service regarding the offset business is desired. It is configured to function as inquiry information notifying means for notifying the image forming apparatus 1 of information for inquiring the user about whether or not to do so.

  In the present embodiment, information notified from the data management server 701 is displayed on the display unit 101 of the image forming apparatus 1 when the image forming apparatus 1 is ready.

  In addition, the control unit 501 on the image forming apparatus 1 side makes an inquiry to display on the display unit 101 of the image forming apparatus 1 information for inquiring the user whether or not the information service regarding the offset business notified by the data management server 701 is desired. It is configured to function as information display means.

  Further, the control unit 501 on the image forming apparatus 1 side notifies the specified offset provider of information desired to notify the image forming apparatus 1 of information on the progress status of the offset business as an information service related to the offset business. It is configured to function as an offset business progress information request notification means.

  In addition, a control unit (not shown) on the data management server 701 side serves as an offset provider specifying unit that specifies an offset provider corresponding to the greenhouse gas emission allowance identification information (credit identification information) of the consumable product from a plurality of offset providers. In addition to functioning, it is configured to function as an offset business progress information request notifying means for notifying the specified offset provider of information requesting to notify the image forming apparatus 1 of information on the progress status of the offset business. .

  In the present embodiment, the display unit 101 of the operation panel 100 is configured to function as a display unit of the offset business progress confirmation system.

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

  The display unit 101 includes a touch panel or operation keys substantially integrally. The display unit 101 is configured to display information transmitted from the data management server 701 by operating the touch panel or operation keys on the display unit 101.

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

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

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

  In the present embodiment, when a new mail is received by the image forming apparatus 1, the icon 111 a for DOCUMENT FILING mode blinks. When the preview confirmation icon 120a is selected, as shown in FIG. 6, for example, an information service regarding an offset business in which a consumable greenhouse gas emission frame mounted on the image forming apparatus 1 is used is desired. A notification screen 101a of a message (notification mail) inquiring whether or not is displayed on the display unit 101.

  Specifically, the control unit 501 of the image forming apparatus 1 collates the detection result of the consumables by the detection unit 509a with the information on the consumables stored in the storage unit 502, and as a result, the image forming apparatus 1 has the greenhouse gas. When it is determined that a consumable with a discharge frame is attached, the title (notification) 101a1 is sent from the data management server 701 of the store to the image forming apparatus 1 (user side) as shown in FIG. The information on the notification screen 101a including the message 101a2 for inquiring whether or not to request the information service regarding the greenhouse gas emission allowance of the consumables attached to the image forming apparatus 1 is notified.

  In the present embodiment, as an information service, providing information on the progress status of an offset business in which the consumable greenhouse gas emission frame used in the image forming apparatus 1 is used (hereinafter referred to as “reliable support service”). )including.

  Further, the notification screen 101a includes a selection icon 131 for selecting that the safety support service is desired as the information service, a selection icon 132 for selecting that the safety support service is not desired, and the selection icons 131 and 132 as thumbnails of the selection switch. A confirmation icon 133 for confirming the selection according to, a confirmation cancellation icon 134 for canceling the selection by the selection icons 131 and 132, and a transmission icon 135 for transmitting the confirmed selection result to the data management server 701 are displayed.

  When the IMAGE SEND mode icon 111b of the operation keys 110 is selected on the display unit 101, an initial screen 110b in the DOCUMENT SEND mode is displayed as shown in FIG.

  An application icon 120b as an operation key is displayed at the lower left of the initial screen 110b in the IMAGE SEND mode. When the application icon 120b is touched, information for inquiring to the user as to whether or not to request the safe support service notified from the data management server 701 to the image forming apparatus 1 is displayed.

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

  In this embodiment, the selection screen displayed on the display unit 101 is, for example, information on each list display or thumbnail display by touching a list display or thumbnail display displayed on the screen using a touch panel. It is comprised so that it may function as a selection means which performs operation based on.

Next, information notified from the data management server 701 to the image forming apparatus 1 in the offset business progress confirmation system of this embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a notification screen including information on a secure support service input form for inputting whether or not the secure support service is displayed displayed on the display unit of the operation panel of the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment; FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a notification screen including information on a safe support service application form for applying for a safe support service displayed on the display unit.

  According to the offset business progress confirmation system of the present embodiment, the data management server 701 requests the image forming apparatus 1 for a safe support service related to the offset business in which the above-mentioned consumable greenhouse gas emission allowance is used. In addition to the information (notification screen 101a) of the message (notification mail) inquiring whether or not, the information on the safe support service input form including the consumables information of the consumables for inputting whether or not the secure support service is desired, You will be notified of the information on the Safe Support Service Application Form for applying for a safe support service.

  In the present embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 7, when the application icon 120 b is touched on the initial screen 110 b in the IMAGE SEND mode displayed on the display unit 101 of the operation panel 100 of the image forming apparatus 1, First, as shown in FIG. 8, a notification screen 101b including information on a secure support service input form for inputting whether or not a secure support service is desired is displayed. The information on the secure support service input form includes consumable information on consumables.

  Specifically, as shown in FIG. 8, the notification screen 101 b includes a title (safe support service input form) 101 b 1 and consumption information including information on the greenhouse gas emission frame of consumables used in the image forming apparatus 1. Product information 101b2 and a selection item 101b3 of a safe support service are included.

  Consumables information 101b2 includes, for example, product information 101b21 that guarantees printing of 50,000 sheets using a black toner cartridge as a consumable, and greenhouse gas emission allowance information 101b22 that a credit cost is 2,000 yen, A consumable credit number 101b23 is included.

  The safe support service selection item 101b3 includes items such as 1: periodically request, 2: irregularly request, 3: not desired.

  Further, on the notification screen 101b, a next screen switching icon 136 for switching the display screen and an initial screen switching icon 137 for canceling input and switching to the initial screen are displayed as thumbnails of the selection switch.

  When the next screen switching icon 136 is touched on the notification screen 101b, as shown in FIG. 9, a safe support service application including information on a safe support service application for applying for a safe support service is displayed on the display unit 101. A screen 101c is displayed. Based on the relief support service application screen 101c, the data management server 701 is notified of information that the user desires for the relief support service.

  Specifically, as shown in FIG. 9, the secure support service application screen 101c displays a secure support service application preview screen 101c1 for requesting a secure support service from the specified offset provider, and a selection switch. As the thumbnails, a transmission icon 141 for transmitting (notifying) the secure support service application, a return icon 142 for returning to the previous screen, and a return icon 143 for returning to the initial screen are displayed.

  The safe support service application form preview screen 101c1 displays the content of the safe support service selected by the user (for example, “request irregularly”) and the number of the selected item (for example, “2”).

Here, in the present embodiment, information on the progress status of the offset business notified from the specific provider to the image forming apparatus 1 as a secure support service will be described.
FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the information on the progress status of the offset business notified as the secure support service displayed on the display unit of the operation panel of the image forming apparatus of the present embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 10, information on the progress status of the offset business notified from the specific offset provider to the image forming apparatus 1 includes a title (provided customer's credit purchase cost) 101d1 and an explanation of the offset business 101d2. And information on the notification screen 101d including the credit number list 101d3 provided to the offset business.

  In the offset business description 101d2, a schematic explanatory diagram 101d21 of the offset business and an explanatory diagram 101d22 showing the budget allocation allocated to the construction period of the total project cost are displayed.

  In the credit number list 101d3, a construction period necessary for business construction and a credit number distributed to each construction period are displayed.

As shown in FIG. 10, the purchase cost of the greenhouse gas emission allowance of consumables used in the image forming apparatus 1, that is, the credit purchase cost is the title (providing the customer's credit purchase cost) 101d1, offset business From the description 101d2, it can be seen that it is provided to the CO ₂ underground (aquifer) storage business, and is allocated to the first phase construction from the credit number list 101d3.

  In FIG. 10, the consumable credit number 101d31 (1234567890) in the credit number list 101d3 according to this embodiment is displayed in yellow, so that the user can perform the first phase construction (for example, topographic surveying or geological survey). , Boring, etc.) can be seen at a glance. Note that the credit number 101d31 may be displayed brightly or differently so as to make it easier for the user to confirm.

In the present embodiment, the offset business that provides the purchase cost of the greenhouse gas emission allowance has been described in the CO ₂ underground (aquifer) storage business, but the present invention is not limited to this. Renewable energy business (solar power generation, solar thermal power generation, geothermal power generation, hydroelectric power generation (including agricultural water power generation and sabo dam power generation), nuclear power generation, vibration power generation, biomass power generation, wind power generation, tidal power generation, ocean current power generation, etc.) Alternatively, it may be a greenhouse gas reduction business or an absorption business such as an ocean storage business or a tree planting business.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, the data management server 701 inquires the image forming apparatus 1 whether or not to request a safe support service regarding the offset business in which the consumable greenhouse gas emission allowance is used. , And the user who has received the request applies to the data management server 701 for the safety support service, so that the user can receive the safety support service from the offset provider specified by the data management server 701. You can request to provide.
Thereby, since the user can receive a safe support service from a specific offset provider, it can be confirmed that the purchase cost of the greenhouse gas emission allowance is appropriately provided to the offset business.

  The application for receiving the security support service is preferably performed when the consumable is first set in the image forming apparatus 1, but when the image forming apparatus 1 is not warming up or not in a print job, the operation panel is used. When there is no input signal at 100 or when there is no document placement signal from the scanner unit, it is determined that the user is not operating the operation panel 100 of the image forming apparatus 1 and the display unit 101 of the operation panel 100 is initialized. A screen may be displayed so that it can be operated on the display screen.

In addition, on consumables or consumable packing materials not shown, a value obtained by converting greenhouse gas emissions in the life cycle of the consumables into CO ₂ emissions and an explanatory text explaining the value are displayed. Yes.

The value of greenhouse gas emissions converted to CO ₂ emissions in the life cycle of consumables starts from the raw material procurement stage of consumables, during the production stage, distribution stage, use / maintenance management stage, and disposal / recycling stage. This is the value of greenhouse gas emissions and emissions.

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

CO ₂ emissions = Σ (activity i x CO ₂ emissions intensity) (I)
i is an activity amount (process) from the above-mentioned raw material procurement to disposal / recycling.
Each stage of the life cycle and an example of the amount of activity (process) are shown in (1) to (5).
(1) The amount of activity at the raw material procurement stage is the amount of material used.
(2) The amount of activity at the production stage is the assembly weight and the power consumption during production.
(3) The amount of activity in the distribution stage is the transport amount (the product of the transport distance, the loading rate, and the truck load).
(4) The amount of activity at the usage / maintenance stage is the amount of power consumed during use.
(5) The amount of activity at the disposal / recycling stage is landfill weight and recycled weight.
In addition, the unit of CO ₂ discharge | emission amount is represented by the unit showing the weight of (kg), (g), (t). In the present embodiment, the total CO ₂ emission amount in the life cycle of consumables from (1) to (5) is 5 ton (t).

  Next, connection between the image forming apparatus 1 constituting the offset business progress confirmation system used in the image forming apparatus 1 of the present embodiment, the data management server 701, a plurality of offset providers 702, and the like will be described.

  In the present embodiment, overall control of the image forming apparatus 1 is performed by a control unit 501 as shown in FIG. Further, product information of consumables used in the image forming apparatus 1 and ecolabel information which is environment-acquisition acquisition information of consumables are stored in a storage unit (not shown) of the data management server 701.

In the present embodiment, the image forming apparatus 1 and the data management server 701, and the data management server 701 and a plurality of offset providers 702 are connected via communication means.
For example, as shown in FIG. 3, a plurality of users A, B, and C are connected to an image forming apparatus or consumables via a LAN (local area network) 700 by the communication unit 506 of the image forming apparatus 1 that is each terminal. It is possible to connect to a data management server 701 such as a store or a leasing company, or to connect via a satellite communication infrastructure 710 using a communication satellite 711.

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

  The image forming apparatus 1 is connected to a server owned by a government agency (for example, the Ministry of the Environment or the like) or a server of a partner project partner, and the information on the relief support service application entered by the user is stored in the public organization or You may make it transmit to a partner project partner.

The communication connection method between the image forming apparatus 1 and the data management server 701 is not particularly limited. For example, the Internet, an intranet, an extranet, an ISDN, a VAN, a CATV communication network, a virtual private network, A telephone line network, a mobile communication network, etc. can be used.
Also, the transmission medium constituting the communication network is not particularly limited. For example, even in the case of wired such as IEEE 1394, USB, power line carrier, cable TV line, telephone line, ADSL line, etc., infrared rays such as IrDA and remote control, Bluetooth, etc. (Registered trademark), 802.11 radio, and radio such as HDR, mobile phone network, satellite line, terrestrial digital network, etc.

Next, the offset management progress confirmation system of the image forming apparatus 1 notifies the user's image forming apparatus 1 of the information service related to the offset business from the data management server 701, and the user desires the information service related to the offset business. The procedure to perform is demonstrated along a flowchart.
FIG. 11 and FIG. 12 show how the purchase cost of the consumable greenhouse gas emission frame attached to the image forming apparatus is offset to the image forming apparatus of the user by the offset business progress confirmation system of the image forming apparatus of this embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure which notifies the information which confirms whether it is used for the business.

  As shown in FIG. 11, when the power of the image forming apparatus 1 is turned on and control for providing information service related to the offset business is started by the offset business progress confirmation system (step S1), first, the image forming apparatus 1 is started. The sales destination data management server 701 and the image forming apparatus 1 are connected and it is confirmed whether or not communication is possible (step S2). If the data management server 701 and the image forming apparatus 1 can communicate, the establishment of communication is recognized (step S3).

  Next, the data management server 701 determines whether or not a consumable item is attached to the image forming apparatus 1 (step S4).

  Whether or not a consumable item is attached to the image forming apparatus 1 can be determined by detecting the consumable item by the detection unit 509a. Further, the information on the consumables stored in the storage contents of the storage means provided in the consumables can be detected by the detecting unit 509a.

  The detection unit 509a detects from the data management server 701 to the image forming apparatus 1 that the consumables have been attached to the image forming apparatus 1 or the storage contents of the storage means provided in the consumables of the image forming apparatus 1. Is instructed via the LAN 700. As a result, the instructed control unit 501 transmits the result detected by the detection unit 509a to the data management server 701 via the LAN 700.

  The consumable information includes, for example, a unique model number of consumables attached to the image forming apparatus 1, information assigned with a greenhouse gas emission frame, a unique credit number, and the like.

  If it is determined in step S4 that no consumable item is attached to the image forming apparatus 1, the processing by the offset business progress confirmation system ends.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S4 that a consumable item is attached to the image forming apparatus 1, does the consumable item attached to the image forming apparatus 1 have credit information (greenhouse gas emission frame information)? It is determined whether or not (step S5).

  If it is determined in step S5 that the consumables attached to the image forming apparatus 1 do not have credit information (for example, a unique credit number), the processing by the offset business progress confirmation system ends.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S5 that the consumables attached to the image forming apparatus 1 have credit information, the control means (not shown) of the data management server 701 has received in the past stored in the storage means. The credit information is read out, and it is determined whether or not the same credit information is present in the received information (step S6).

  If it is determined in step S6 that the same credit information has been acquired in the past, the processing by the offset business progress confirmation system ends.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S6 that the same credit information has not been acquired in the past, information for inquiring whether or not to request information on the progress status of the offset business is read out from the storage unit and sent to the image forming apparatus 1. Notification is made (step S7).

  The user operates the operation panel 100 of the image forming apparatus 1 to display the notification screen 101b on the display unit 101 as shown in FIG. 6 to determine whether or not the information on the progress status of the offset business is desired. Check the information to be queried.

  Then, it is determined whether or not the user desires information on the progress status of the offset business (step S8). Specifically, when the user desires information on the progress status of the offset business, after selecting the selection icon 131 for which the secure support service is desired, the confirmation icon 133 is selected, and the transmission icon 135 is selected. On the other hand, when the user does not desire information on the progress status of the offset business, the user selects the selection icon 132 that does not desire the safe support service, then selects the confirmation icon 133, and selects the transmission icon 135.

  If it is determined in step S8 that the user does not desire information on the progress status of the offset business, the processing by the offset business progress status confirmation system ends.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S8 that the user desires information on the progress status of the offset business, the data management server 701 displays the safety support service input form notification screen shown in FIG. 8 from the storage unit of the data management server 701. Information 101b (creation program) and information (creation program) on the secure support service application screen 101c shown in FIG. 9 are read and transmitted to the image forming apparatus 1 (step S9).

  Then, the display screen 101 of the operation panel 100 of the image forming apparatus 1 can display the secure support service input form notification screen 101b shown in FIG. 8 and the secure support service application screen 101c shown in FIG.

The user confirms that the number of prints of the consumable product black toner cartridge from the consumable product information 101b2 is 50,000 sheets guaranteed by the notification screen 101b of the secure support service input form displayed on the display unit 101 of the operation panel 100. The greenhouse gas generation amount (CO ₂ emission conversion value) of the product is 5 tons, the credit purchase amount of 5 tons is 2,000 yen, and the credit number can be known.
Then, in the safe support service selection item 101b3, whether or not the secure support service is desired is selected from one of: 1: periodically requested, 2: irregularly desired, 3: undesired To do.

  When the user selects one of “Reliable support service selection item 101b3” which is 1: periodically desired or 2: irregularly desired, the application for the safe support service shown in FIG. 9 is automatically made. A screen 101c is generated.

  Here, a display state in the case where the user selects 2: wishing irregularly is shown. If the user confirms the content displayed on the safe support service application preview screen 101c1 and determines that there is no problem, the user selects the transmission icon 141 for transmitting (notifying) the safe support service application. Thereby, the information on the relief support service application form is transmitted to the data management server 701.

  In the present embodiment, the communication from the detection of the wearing of the consumables to the transmission of the relief support service application has been described by the communication between the data management server 701 and the image forming apparatus 1, but the present invention is not limited to this. In the image forming apparatus 1 itself, the operation unit 503 performs collation of consumable information from the detection of the consumable supply, and the information (creation program) of the notification screen shown in FIGS. 6, 8, and 9 is stored in the storage unit 502. You may comprise so that it may memorize | store and may be controlled by the control part 501. FIG.

  Further, the communication of the relief support service application form may be directly transmitted to the consumable goods sales company by FAX, for example, without transmitting the information of the relief support service application form to the data management server 701.

  Further, when information is notified from the data management server 701 to the image forming apparatus 1, the image forming apparatus 1 blinks the DOCUMENT FIRING mode icon 111 a on the initial screen 110 a of the DOCUMENT FIRING mode displayed on the display unit 101. You may make it alert | report to a user.

  Then, at a time convenient for the user (for example, when the image forming apparatus is warmed up, between print jobs, or when there is no input signal from the input unit 505 of the display means), the IMAGE SEND mode of the operation keys 110 is used. By touching the icon 111b, an initial screen 110b in the IMAGE SEND mode is displayed as shown in FIG. Then, by touching the application icon 120b on the display screen, the notification screen shown in FIGS. 6, 8, and 9 may be displayed on the display unit 101 to perform the above-described operation.

  Thereby, for example, in an environment where the image forming apparatus 1 is used by a plurality of users, it is possible to perform operations related to the application form for the safe support service without disturbing other users.

  Returning to the description of the flowchart, next, the data management server 701 receives the information of the relief support service application form transmitted from the user (step S10), from the credit number of the consumables used in the image forming apparatus 1. An offset provider is specified (step S11).

  The data management server 701 provides the specified offset provider with information on the progress of the offset business in which the credit number of the consumables and the purchase cost of the consumables greenhouse gas emission allowance are provided. Requesting the user to be informed, and notifying the user of the URL information of the offset provider's Web or the offset provider's Web where the progress of the offset business can be viewed (step S12).

  The offset provider that has received the notification from the data management server 701 receives message information indicating that the offset business progress has been notified irregularly, and the offset business progress can be viewed, for example, the offset provider's Web or offset provider. The URL information of the Web is notified to the data management server 701.

  The data management server 701 then (1) accepts message information from the offset provider, (2) URL information of the offset provider's web and the offset provider's web, and (3) the progress status of the offset business to the user. Then, the user (image forming apparatus 1) is notified of the information indicating that the notice is given irregularly (step S13).

  As a result, the user notifies the offset business progress status irregularly notified from the data management server 701, and notifies the offset provider's Web and offset provider's Web URL information for viewing the progress status of the offset business. Can be confirmed on the display unit 101 of the operation panel 100 of the image forming apparatus 1.

  The term “irregular” in the present embodiment refers to a period during which a consumable item will be replaced after a new consumable item is mounted on the image forming apparatus 1 (estimated from the number of prints guaranteed by the consumable item manufacturer). For example, if the print guarantee estimation period is 10 months, the progress of the offset business and the progress of the offset business can be viewed every month. The Web URL information may be notified to the display unit 101 of the image forming apparatus 1.

  As described above, the offset business progress confirmation system of the image forming apparatus 1 allows the user to confirm the progress of the offset business provided with the credit purchase cost of consumables, and the transparency of the activities of the offset provider and the offset business. Therefore, the user can pay the credit purchase cost with peace of mind.

  If the consumable item attached to the image forming apparatus 1 is not a genuine consumable item, it may be displayed on the display unit 101 as a non-genuine consumable item. In addition, the content displayed for non-genuine consumables is, for example, a warning or warning to the user such as "This image forming device may not operate normally because non-genuine consumables are used." It can be a message.

  Further, as a message display method, the notification screen 101a shown in FIG. 6 may be displayed on the display unit 101 for a specific time, or may be displayed a plurality of times for a predetermined time.

  The message can be deleted by the data management server 701 after displaying a specific time or number of times, or when the user operates any operation key (input unit 505). Also good.

  In addition, for example, when a predetermined password is input by an operation of the administrator of the image forming apparatus 1, it may be deleted.

  With the configuration as described above, according to the present embodiment, the configuration of the offset business progress confirmation system of the image forming apparatus 1 includes the image forming apparatus 1 and the consumable sales destination data management server 701 via the LAN 700. The data management server 701 and a plurality of offset providers 702 and the like are connected via a communication means so that the usage status of consumables of the image forming apparatus 1 can be monitored by the sales destination. On one side, a detection unit 509a for detecting information stored in storage means or recording means provided in a consumable mounted on the image forming apparatus 1 and a greenhouse gas discharge frame used in the image forming apparatus 1 are provided. The storage unit 502 storing the consumable information, the detection result by the detection unit 509a, and the consumable information stored in the storage unit 502 are collated before And a function for determining whether or not the consumable is a consumable with a greenhouse gas emission frame, and when it is determined that the consumable with a greenhouse gas emission frame is attached to the image forming apparatus 1 In addition, the data management server 701 is notified of information indicating that a consumable with a greenhouse gas emission frame is attached to the image forming apparatus 1 and consumable information including the greenhouse gas emission frame identification information of the consumable. Whether or not the data management server 701 side wants information on the progress status of the offset business when it is determined that the image forming apparatus 1 is equipped with a consumable with a greenhouse gas emission frame. And a function for displaying the notified inquiry information on the display unit 101 of the image forming apparatus 1, and further, on the image forming apparatus 1 side, When the information on the progress status of the offset business is desired, the data management server 701 is provided with a function of notifying the data management server 701 of information indicating that the information on the progress status of the offset business is desired. A function for specifying an offset provider corresponding to the credit identification information of the consumable item from the offset providers, and information for requesting the specified offset provider to notify the image forming apparatus 1 of information on the progress status of the offset business With the function to notify the user, the user can confirm that the purchase cost (credit purchase cost) of the greenhouse gas emission allowance is properly provided to the offset business and contribute to the environment The perpetuity of offset business (greenhouse gas reduction business) Can contribute.

  In addition, according to this embodiment, since the progress of the offset business in which the purchase cost of the greenhouse gas emission allowance is used can be confirmed, the transparency of the activities of the offset provider can be secured, and the purchase cost of the greenhouse gas emission allowance can be ensured. Can be illegally used. Furthermore, global warming due to greenhouse gases can be suppressed.

  In this embodiment, the data management server 701 is managed by a business unit such as a manufacturer, a sales destination or a lease destination. For example, an image forming apparatus manufacturer, a consumables manufacturer, and a cloud computing service are provided. It may be managed by a cloud provider.

  In addition, the data management server 701 is connected to a plurality of offset provider-owned servers, and applies for requesting a secure support service for providing information on the progress status of the offset business notified from the user (reliable Information on support service application) is sent to a specific offset provider, but the user is connected to a server owned by a government agency (for example, the Ministry of the Environment) or a partner project partner. You may make it transmit the information regarding the input relief support service application to a public organization or a partner project partner.

  In addition, the data management server 701 is connected to a server owned by the carbon offset inspection / certification / registration organization, and transmits information related to the application for reliable support service notified from the user to the server owned by the carbon offset inspection / registration / registration organization. You may make it do.

  Furthermore, the data management server 701 may be connected to a backup server that backs up the functions of the data management server 701. Thereby, even if the data management server 701 is down, the system of the present invention is smoothly operated.

Further, the user may be an administrator who performs general device management of the image forming apparatus, or more preferably a professional qualification “carbon manager” for reducing CO ₂ emissions. The professional qualification “Carbon Manager” enables objective evaluation of expertise and know-how regarding global warming countermeasures, so that the system of the present invention can be understood and used more effectively, and the optimum offset provider can be selected. You can request to provide information on the progress of the offset business.

  The storage unit 502 of the image forming apparatus 1 and the storage unit of the data management server 701 (not shown) include, for example, a tape system such as a magnetic tape and a cassette tape, a magnetic disk such as a floppy (registered trademark) disk / hard disk, and a CD-ROM. / MO / MD / DVD / CD-R / Blu-ray and other optical discs, IC cards (including memory cards) / optical cards, etc., mask ROM / EPROM / EEPROM / flash ROM, etc. A semiconductor memory system or the like can be used.

  Further, the configuration of the display unit 101 of the image forming apparatus 1 includes a liquid crystal display, an organic EL display (Organic Electro-Luminescence Display), a plasma display (Plasma Display Panel), a plasma tube array display (Plasma Tubes Array Display). ), An electronic paper display using electrophoresis, and a display device including a display unit such as a display using an electron-emitting device (Field Emission Display, Surface-conduction Electron-emitter Display) can be used.

  In the above-described embodiment, the example in which the configuration of the offset business progress confirmation system according to the present invention is applied to the image forming apparatus 1 having the operation panel 100 as illustrated in FIG. 1 has been described, but a message or the like can be displayed. The image forming apparatus and the copying machine having the above-described configuration are not limited to an apparatus having a simple display unit, but may be an inkjet recording apparatus or other apparatuses such as home appliances and consumer devices (video / video Refers to products / standards developed or designed based on the assumption that electronic devices, devices, or terminals related to sound / communication etc. are intended for use by general consumers or for general household use. ), And business equipment (products developed on the premise of applications other than general households such as corporations (businesses, schools, government offices)).

  In addition, although a touch panel is used as the input unit 505, a gesture input device using a Ubi-Finger device or the like may be used.

  In this embodiment, the preview confirmation icon 120a and the application icon 120b are displayed on the display unit 101 to provide a display changeover switch. However, the screen size is small, and the operation unit (menu key, numeric keypad, print key, etc.) is provided. When the small preview confirmation icon 120a or the application icon 120b is not provided, a preview confirmation operation key or an application operation key can be provided in a place other than the display unit 101.

  In this embodiment, the preview confirmation icon 120a and the application icon 120b are provided in the lower right part of the display unit 101. However, the present invention is not particularly limited, and any part of the upper, lower, left, or right side of the display unit 101 can be used. May be provided.

  The product information and ecolabel information of consumables stored in the storage unit 502 are, for example, manufacturers, dealers, and leasing companies that have environmental ecolabel information of consumables via a network through a LAN connection in the communication unit 506 as a communication connection. Or you can get it by accessing a website such as a cloud provider.

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

1 Image forming apparatus 100 Operation panel (display device)
101 Display unit 101a, 101b, 101d Notification screen 101a1 Title (Notification)
101a2 Message 101b1 Title (Reliable Support Service Input Form)
101b2 Consumables information 101b3 selection item (reliable support service selection item)
101b21 Product information 101b22 Greenhouse gas emission allowance information 101b23 Credit number 101c Reliable support service application screen 101c1 Preview screen (reliable support service application)
101d1 Title (Destination of customer's credit purchase cost)
101d2 Explanation of offset business 101d21 Outline explanation diagram of offset business 101d22 Explanation diagram (budget allocation of total project cost)
101d3 credit number list 101d31 credit number 110 operation key 110a initial screen in DOCUMENT FILING mode 110b initial screen in IMAGE SEND mode 120a preview confirmation icon 120b application icon 131, 132 selection icon 133 confirmation icon 134 confirmation cancellation icon 135 transmission icon 136 next screen Switch icon 137 Initial screen switch icon 141 Send icon 142 Return icon (previous screen)
143 Return icon (initial screen)
501 Control unit (consumables determining means, consumable information detecting means, consumable information notifying means,
Inquiry information display means, offset business progress information request notification means)
502 storage unit (consumables information storage means)
506 Communication unit 509a Detection unit (consumables information detection means)
700 LAN (communication means)
701 Data management server (inquiry information notification means, inquiry information display means,
Offset provider identification means, offset business progress information request notification means)
702 Offset provider 710 Satellite communication infrastructure

Claims (8)

An offset business progress confirmation system for confirming the progress of an offset business that provided the cost of purchasing a greenhouse gas emission allowance for consumables with a greenhouse gas emission allowance used for purchased or leased image forming devices,
Together with the image forming apparatus and the data management server consumables manufacturers or consumables sales company are connected via a communication means, a plurality of offset provider of greenhouse gas allowances in the data management server and Supplies Are connected via communication means,
The data management server is configured to be able to monitor the usage status of consumables of the image forming apparatus,
The image forming apparatus includes:
Consumables information detecting means for detecting information stored in storage means or recording means provided in the consumables attached to the image forming apparatus, and consumables with a greenhouse gas discharge frame used in the image forming apparatus Consumables information storage means for storing consumables information including greenhouse gas emission allowance identification information for identifying a greenhouse gas emission allowance, and a detection result by the consumables information detection means and the consumables information storage means Consumables determination means for checking whether or not the consumables are consumables with a greenhouse gas emission frame by collating with consumables information that has been provided, and consumables with a greenhouse gas emission frame in the image forming apparatus If it is determined that a consumable item with a greenhouse gas emission frame is attached to the image forming apparatus, and a consumable item including greenhouse gas emission frame identification information of the consumable item And consumable information notification means for notifying the broadcast to the data management server, if you want information on the progress of the offset business, the data management server the information to the effect that you want the information of the progress of the offset business An offset business progress information request notification means to notify
The data management server
When it is determined that a consumable with a greenhouse gas emission frame is attached to the image forming apparatus, the image forming apparatus is notified of information asking whether or not the information on the progress status of the offset business is desired. an inquiry information notifying unit, the query information and inquiry information display means causes display the inquiry information notified on the display unit of the image forming apparatus by the notification unit, the consumable greenhouse gas emissions from the plurality of offset providers Offset provider specifying means for specifying an offset provider corresponding to the frame identification information, and an offset business for notifying the specified offset provider of information for requesting the image forming apparatus to notify the progress information of the offset business. A progress information request notification means ,
The offset business progress information includes an offset business description and a list of credit numbers, and the offset business description includes a schematic explanatory diagram of the offset business and an explanatory diagram of a construction period of the offset business, and credits. The number list includes the construction period required for business construction and the credit number allocated to each construction period.
Furthermore, the data management server includes:
The message information received from the specified offset provider to be notified of the progress status of the offset business and the URL information of the Web where the progress status of the offset business can be browsed are received and specified. Receiving the message information received from the offset provider and the URL information of the Web to the image forming apparatus,
Furthermore, the image forming apparatus includes:
The received message information from the specified offset provider and the Web URL information are displayed on the display unit, and the information on the progress of the offset business is displayed on the display unit based on the Web URL information. An offset business progress confirmation system characterized by   2. The offset business progress confirmation system according to claim 1, wherein the information notified by the inquiry information notification unit is displayed on a display unit of the image forming apparatus when the image forming apparatus is ready.   The offset business progress confirmation system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the consumable storage means or recording means uses any one of an IC chip, a barcode, and a QR code. The display unit includes a touch panel or operation keys substantially integrally,
The procedure for requesting information on the progress status of the offset business that provided the purchase cost of the greenhouse gas emission allowance by operating the touch panel or the operation key on the display unit is performed. The offset business progress confirmation system according to any one of the above.   The offset business progress confirmation system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the consumable is provided with a carbon footprint mark.   The consumable item includes at least one of a type of greenhouse gas in the life cycle of the consumable item, a value of the emission amount of the greenhouse gas, and an explanatory text explaining the value. Item 6. The offset business progress confirmation system according to any one of Items 1 to 5. An image forming apparatus purchased or leased,
Wherein an image forming apparatus, an image forming apparatus, characterized in that it comprises a configuration of an image forming apparatus constituting an offset project progress confirmation system according to any one of claims 1 6. An offset business progress confirmation method for confirming the progress of an offset business that provided the purchase cost of a greenhouse gas emission allowance for consumables with a greenhouse gas emission allowance used for a purchased or leased image forming apparatus,
A plurality of offset providers that connect the image forming apparatus and a data management server of a consumables manufacturer or a consumables sales company via communication means, and provide a greenhouse gas emission allowance for the data management server and consumables Are connected via a communication means, and the data management server is configured to be able to monitor the use status of consumables of the image forming apparatus,
In the image forming apparatus,
Detecting information stored in storage means or recording means provided in the consumables attached to the image forming apparatus;
Storing consumables information including greenhouse gas emission frame identification information for identifying a greenhouse gas emission frame of a consumable with a greenhouse gas emission frame used in the image forming apparatus;
Collating a detection result obtained by detecting the consumable information with stored consumable information to determine whether the consumable is a consumable with a greenhouse gas emission frame;
When it is determined that a consumable item with a greenhouse gas emission frame is attached to the image forming apparatus, information indicating that a consumable item with a greenhouse gas emission frame is attached to the image forming apparatus; Notifying the data management server of consumables information including greenhouse gas emission allowance identification information of goods,
A step of notifying the data management server of information indicating that the information on the progress of the offset business is desired when the information on the progress of the offset business is desired,
In the data management server,
When it is determined that a consumable with a greenhouse gas emission frame is attached to the image forming apparatus, the image forming apparatus is notified of information asking whether or not the information on the progress status of the offset business is desired. Process,
Displaying the inquiry information notified by the step of notifying the inquiry information on a display unit of the image forming apparatus;
Identifying an offset provider corresponding to the consumable greenhouse gas emission allowance identification information from among the plurality of offset providers;
Notifying the specified offset provider of information requesting to notify the image forming apparatus of information on the progress status of the offset business, and
The offset business progress information includes an offset business description and a list of credit numbers, and the offset business description includes a schematic explanatory diagram of the offset business and an explanatory diagram of a construction period of the offset business, and credits. The number list includes the construction period required for business construction and the credit number allocated to each construction period.
Furthermore, in the data management server,
Receiving the message information accepted to notify the progress status of the offset business notified from the specified offset provider, and the URL information of the Web where the progress status of the offset business can be viewed;
A step of notifying the image forming apparatus of acceptance message information from the specified offset provider and the URL information of the Web,
Furthermore, in the image forming apparatus,
A step of displaying on the display unit of the image forming apparatus information on the progress status of the offset business notified from the offset provider specified by the data management server,
The offset business progress confirmation method characterized by confirming information on the progress of the offset business.