JP5935735B2 - Image forming apparatus and program - Google Patents

Description

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

  Patent Document 1 discloses a vending machine that sells at a discount price when buying N or more discounted sales pieces at a time, and if the input amount before product selection satisfies the total price of the discounted sales quantity, There has been proposed a vending machine capable of selling the (N-1) th item even if the remaining amount of the input amount is less than the regular price of one item.

Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 9-062908 Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 9-102064

  The present invention is a service in which provision of a billing scheduled amount is input in advance and provision is started, and a billing schedule is provided when providing a service that discounts the billing amount according to the output quantity of the medium output by the service provision The purpose is to charge a billing amount suitable for the actual output quantity without exceeding the amount.

  An image forming apparatus according to the present invention includes a receiving unit that receives an instruction of an output planned quantity, a service processing unit that outputs a medium by executing a service process in response to a service execution request in which the output planned quantity is specified, A storage unit that stores a normal unit price that is used when a discount is not applied and a discount unit price that is used when a discount is applied when a billing amount associated with service provision is calculated, and a billing schedule corresponding to the planned output quantity When the start of the service is instructed after the amount is input to the billing device, the service processing means is controlled to execute the service processing, and the scheduled output quantity is a discount application that starts applying the discount unit price. A processing control means for discounting and calculating a billing amount associated with the provision of a service when the amount is greater than the start quantity, If the scheduled output quantity is greater than or equal to the discount application start quantity and the output quantity of the medium output during the execution of service processing by the service processing means has not reached the discount application start quantity, the normal unit price is output. It is prohibited to stop the execution of the service process in a state where the amount multiplied by the completed quantity exceeds the amount obtained by multiplying the discount unit price by the discount application start quantity.

  An image forming apparatus according to the present invention includes a receiving unit that receives an instruction of an output planned quantity, a service processing unit that outputs a medium by executing a service process in response to a service execution request in which the output planned quantity is specified, The normal unit price that is used when discounts are not applied when the amount charged for service provision is calculated, the discount unit price that is used when discounts are applied when the amount charged for service provision is calculated, and normal Storage means for storing the output quantity of the medium when the price when multiplying the unit price exceeds the price obtained by multiplying the discount unit price by the discount application start quantity as the price reversal start quantity, and the scheduled charge amount according to the planned output quantity However, when the service processing unit is instructed to start the service after being charged into the charging device, the service processing unit performs control to execute the service processing, If the scheduled output quantity is equal to or greater than the discount application start quantity at which application of the discount unit price starts, processing control means for discounting and calculating the billing amount associated with service provision, and the process control means, If the planned output quantity is equal to or greater than the discount application start quantity, the output quantity of the medium output during the execution of the service process by the service processing means has reached the price reversal start quantity and has not reached the discount application start quantity Sometimes it is prohibited to stop execution of service processing.

  An image forming apparatus according to the present invention includes a receiving unit that receives an instruction of an output planned quantity, a service processing unit that outputs a medium by executing a service process in response to a service execution request in which the output planned quantity is specified, A storage unit that stores a normal unit price that is used when a discount is not applied and a discount unit price that is used when a discount is applied when a billing amount associated with service provision is calculated, and a billing schedule corresponding to the planned output quantity When the start of the service is instructed after the amount is input to the billing device, the service processing means is controlled to execute the service processing, and the scheduled output quantity is a discount application that starts applying the discount unit price. A processing control means for discounting and calculating a billing amount associated with the provision of a service when the amount is greater than the start quantity, If the scheduled output quantity is greater than or equal to the discount application start quantity and the output quantity of the medium output during the execution of service processing by the service processing means has not reached the discount application start quantity, the normal unit price is output. It is prohibited to stop the execution of the service processing in a state where the amount multiplied by the completed quantity exceeds the scheduled charge amount charged to the billing apparatus.

  In addition, a display unit that displays a cancel operation component to be operated by a user when canceling a service process that is being executed, and the processing control unit hides the cancel operation component so that the cancel operation component is displayed. It is prohibited to stop the execution of service processing accompanying a user operation on the operation component.

  A display unit configured to display a stop operation component to be operated by a user when canceling a service process being executed; and the process control unit includes: a medium output by executing the service process by the service process unit; If the output quantity reaches the price reversal start quantity and the discount operation start quantity is not reached, and the user operates the cancel operation part, until the output quantity of the medium reaches the discount application start quantity The service processing means outputs a medium.

  The processing control means calculates the quantity of the medium being transported on the path through which the medium is taken out from the accommodating means and output by the service processing means in accordance with the execution of the service process, and the price reversal start quantity If the output quantity of the medium reaches the price reversal start quantity after subtraction, and the discount application start quantity after subtraction has not been reached, the execution of service processing is prohibited. Features.

Program according to the present invention, when a charge amount due to the provision of the service is calculated, which can access the storage means for storing discount unit price to be used when applying the normal unit price and the discount used when no discount is applied A computer installed in the image forming apparatus; a receiving unit that receives an instruction of a scheduled output quantity; a service processing unit that outputs a medium by executing a service process in response to a service execution request in which the scheduled output quantity is specified; The service processing means is controlled to execute service processing when a service start instruction is given after the billing scheduled amount corresponding to the scheduled output amount is input to the accounting device, and the scheduled output amount is the discount unit price. If it is equal to or greater than the discount application starting quantity, the amount charged for service provision is discounted. The process control means functions as a process control means, and the process control means determines that the output quantity of the medium output during execution of service processing by the service processing means when the planned output quantity is equal to or greater than the discount application start quantity. When the discount application start quantity has not been reached, it is prohibited to stop the execution of service processing when the amount obtained by multiplying the output quantity by the normal unit price exceeds the value obtained by multiplying the discount application start quantity by the discount application quantity. And

The program according to the present invention uses a normal unit price that is used when a discount is not applied when a charge amount associated with the provision of a service is calculated, and when a discount is applied when a charge amount associated with the provision of a service is calculated. discount unit prices used, and the amount of time obtained by multiplying the normal unit price, discount unit price discounts applied starting quantity accessible storage means for storing the output quantity of the medium when in excess of the amounts obtained by multiplying the price reversed starting quantities images A receiving unit that receives an instruction of a scheduled output quantity, a service processing unit that outputs a medium by executing a service process in response to a service execution request in which the scheduled output quantity is specified, and the output When the service start instruction is given after the scheduled billing amount corresponding to the planned quantity is input to the accounting device, the service processing procedure is performed. A process control means for performing a control to execute a service process, and when the output planned quantity is equal to or greater than a discount application start quantity at which application of a discount unit price is started, discounting and calculating a charge amount associated with service provision; When the planned output quantity is greater than or equal to the discount application start quantity, the process control means multiplies the output quantity of the medium output during execution of service processing by the service processing means by the normal unit price. The amount of output at the time when the amount exceeds the amount obtained by multiplying the discount unit price by the discount application start quantity reaches the output quantity of the medium. To do.

Program according to the present invention, when a charge amount due to the provision of the service is calculated, which can access the storage means for storing discount unit price to be used when applying the normal unit price and the discount used when no discount is applied A computer installed in the image forming apparatus; a receiving unit that receives an instruction of a scheduled output quantity; a service processing unit that outputs a medium by executing a service process in response to a service execution request in which the scheduled output quantity is specified; performs control to execute a service process on the service processor when the billing plan amount of money corresponding to the expected output quantity initiation of services from being put into billing system is instructed, the output will quantity discounts bids If it is equal to or greater than the discount application starting quantity, the amount charged for the provision of the service is discounted. The process control means is configured such that the output quantity of the medium output during execution of service processing by the service processing means when the planned output quantity is greater than or equal to the discount application start quantity. When the discount application start quantity has not been reached, it is prohibited to stop the execution of service processing in a state where the amount obtained by multiplying the output quantity by the normal unit price exceeds the scheduled charge amount input to the billing device To do.

  According to the first aspect of the present invention, when providing a service for discounting the billing amount according to the output amount of the medium output by providing the service, the actual output amount has been met without exceeding the scheduled charge amount. Billing amount can be charged.

  According to the second aspect of the present invention, when providing a service for discounting the billing amount according to the output quantity of the medium output by providing the service, the output quantity of the medium is converted into the price reversal start quantity and the discount application start quantity. By comparing with, it is possible to charge a billing amount that matches the actual output quantity without exceeding the billing scheduled amount.

  According to the invention described in claim 3, when providing a service for discounting the billing amount according to the output amount of the medium output by the provision of the service, the actual output amount is met without exceeding the scheduled charge amount. Billing amount can be charged.

  According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, when providing a service for discounting the billing amount according to the output quantity of the medium output by the provision of the service, the amount obtained by multiplying the output unit quantity by the normal unit price is the estimated billing amount. If it exceeds the value, the canceling operation part is hidden, so that the billing amount suitable for the actual output quantity can be charged without exceeding the scheduled billing amount.

  According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, when providing a service for discounting the billing amount according to the output amount of the medium output by the provision of the service, the amount obtained by multiplying the output unit quantity by the normal unit price is the billing scheduled amount. If it exceeds, the output of the medium is continuously performed up to the discount application start quantity, so that the charge amount suitable for the actual output quantity can be charged without exceeding the scheduled charge amount.

  According to the sixth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to consider the number of media being conveyed.

  According to the seventh aspect of the present invention, when providing a service for discounting the billing amount according to the output amount of the medium output by the provision of the service, the actual output amount is met without exceeding the scheduled charge amount. Billing amount can be charged.

  According to the eighth aspect of the present invention, when providing a service for discounting the billing amount according to the output quantity of the medium output by providing the service, the output quantity of the medium is used as the price reversal start quantity and the discount application start quantity. By comparing with, it is possible to charge a billing amount that matches the actual output quantity without exceeding the billing scheduled amount.

  According to the ninth aspect of the present invention, when providing a service for discounting the billing amount according to the output amount of the medium output by providing the service, it is adapted to the actual output amount without exceeding the scheduled charge amount. Billing amount can be charged.

1 is a functional block configuration diagram showing a first embodiment of an image forming apparatus with a charging device according to the present invention. FIG. 2 is a hardware configuration diagram of an image forming apparatus with a charging device according to Embodiment 1. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a data configuration of price information registered in a price information storage unit according to Embodiment 1. FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing a copy service process in the first embodiment. 10 is a flowchart showing a copy service process in the second embodiment. 10 is a flowchart showing a copy service process in the third embodiment. 10 is a flowchart showing a copy service process in the fourth embodiment.

  Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

Embodiment 1 FIG.
FIG. 1 is a functional block configuration diagram showing an embodiment of an image forming apparatus with a charging apparatus according to the present invention, and FIG. 2 is a hardware configuration diagram of the image forming apparatus with a charging apparatus according to the present embodiment. is there. In the present embodiment, it is assumed that the image forming apparatus with a billing device is a self-service multifunction peripheral that is installed in a convenience store or the like and provides a service that includes output of paper as a medium such as a copy or print. In the present embodiment, a copy service provided by a multifunction peripheral will be described as an example.

  In FIG. 2, a multifunction machine 10 is a multifunction machine having various functions such as a copying function and a scanner function, and is a device incorporating a computer. In FIG. 2, the CPU 31 controls the operation of various mechanisms such as the scanner 33 and the printer engine 35 mounted on the apparatus according to a program stored in the ROM 38. The address data bus 40 is connected to various mechanisms to be controlled by the CPU 31 to perform data communication. The operation panel 32 accepts a copy instruction from the user, setting contents of attributes, and displays information. The scanner 33 reads a document set by a user and accumulates it in an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) 34 or the like as electronic data. The HDD 34 stores an electronic document read using the scanner 33. The printer engine 35 prints an image on output paper in accordance with an instruction from a control program executed by the CPU 31. A network interface (I / F) 36 connects to a network and is used for transmission / reception of electronic data, transmission / reception of facsimile data, and the like. The RAM 37 is used as a work memory during program execution and a communication buffer during electronic data transmission / reception. The ROM 38 stores various programs including control of the apparatus and copy service processing described later. An external media interface (I / F) 39 is an interface with an external memory device such as a USB memory or a flash memory. The billing device 41 is a device that collects an amount necessary for using the service provided by the multifunction machine 10. The billing apparatus 41 is generally formed in a separate housing from the main body of the multifunction device 10 and operates in cooperation by being connected to the multifunction device 10.

  Returning to FIG. 1, the multifunction machine 10 according to the present embodiment includes a charging device control unit 11, an operation panel control unit 12, a copy processing unit 13, a processing control unit 14, and a price information storage unit 15. It should be noted that, even if the components are necessary for operating as the multifunction machine 10, only the components necessary for the description of the present embodiment are shown in FIG. 1, and the components not used for the description are omitted. doing.

  The billing device control unit 11 is means for controlling the billing device 41 and performs billing in cooperation with the billing device 41. The charging device control unit 11 includes an input amount acquisition unit 111 that acquires the amount inserted into the charging device 41, a display control unit 112 that performs display control on the display unit of the charging device 41, such as displaying the balance of the input amount, Have Note that the unit price per sheet is determined according to the planned output quantity of the medium, but the “scheduled charge amount” is a charge amount determined according to the planned output quantity of the medium. The “input amount” is an amount inserted into the billing apparatus 41. The service provided by the multifunction device 10 can be used only after the amount of money is charged more than the scheduled charge amount. If the deposit is made so that there is no change for the scheduled billing amount, the scheduled billing amount and the inserted amount will be the same.

  The operation panel control unit 12 is a means for controlling the operation panel 32 and includes an operation reception unit 121 and a display control unit 122. The operation reception unit 121 is provided as a reception unit, and when the copy service is used, the output number of sheets (that is, the number of sheets to be copied) specified by the user from the setting screen displayed on the operation panel 32, and the like. It accepts print attribute setting data such as black-and-white printing or color printing, and operation instructions such as a copy start instruction and stop instruction. The display control unit 122 is provided as a display unit in cooperation with the operation panel 32, and displays a screen for setting attributes and the like at the time of copying, and the output quantity of output sheets (that is, the number of sheets for which copying has been completed). , Hereinafter, “output number of sheets”) and the like, a screen for displaying the copy status being executed, a message, and the like are displayed on the operation panel 32. During the copying process, a cancel button is displayed on the operation panel 32 as a GUI (Graphical User Interface) part for the cancel operation. When the user wants to cancel the copying process being executed, the user operates a cancel button displayed on the operation panel 32.

  The copy processing unit 13 is provided as a service processing unit, and executes a copy process in order to provide a copy service in response to a copy request which is one of service execution requests among the services provided by the multifunction machine 10. Note that when the copy processing unit 13 executes the copy process, the multifunction peripheral 10 executes the copy service process and provides the user with the copy service. Therefore, the copy process and the copy service process are synonymous. When the copy processing unit 13 executes the copy process, a sheet on which the document is copied is output. The processing control unit 14 is provided as processing control means, and is copied after an amount more than the scheduled billing amount corresponding to the scheduled output amount (hereinafter “scheduled output number”) of the paper designated by the user is input to the charging apparatus 41. Control is performed to cause the copy processing unit 13 to execute the copy service process when the start of the service is instructed.

  FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a data configuration of price information registered in the price information storage unit 15 according to the present embodiment. The price information storage unit 15 is provided as a storage unit. Before the multifunction machine 10 provides a copy service, price information needs to be registered in the price information storage unit 15 in advance. The price information is generated for each type by associating a normal unit price, a discount unit price, a discount start number, and a price reverse start number. As the type, an attribute of copying type such as black and white and color is set. The normal unit price is a unit price per sheet used when no discount is applied in the type. The discount unit price is a unit price per sheet used when applying a discount in the type. The discount start number indicates the discount application start quantity, and is the number of sheets output when application of the discount unit price starts. According to the black-and-white copy setting example in FIG. 3, the normal unit price is 10 yen for copying from 1 to 99 sheets, and the discounted unit price is 9 yen from the first sheet for copying 100 sheets or more. Is done. The price reversal start number indicates the price reversal start quantity, and is the number of sheets output when the scheduled charge amount when multiplied by the normal unit price exceeds the amount obtained by multiplying the discount unit price by the discount start number. In the case of copying 100 sheets, the discount unit price is applied, so the scheduled billing amount is 100 sheets × 9 yen = 900 yen. In addition, since the normal unit price is applied in the case of 90 copies, the scheduled charge amount is 90 sheets × 10 yen = 900 yen, which does not exceed the case of 100 copies. On the other hand, since the normal unit price is applied in the case of 91 copies, the scheduled charge amount is 910 sheets × 10 yen = 910 yen, which exceeds the case of 100 copies. In this way, the billing amount may be reversed before the discount start number. The number at which the price is reversed is referred to as the price reversal start number. In the present embodiment, the number is 91 as specifically calculated. Since the number of sheets whose price is reversed is known in advance by calculation, in the present embodiment, the price reversal start number is added to price information and registered in advance.

  The constituent elements 11 to 14 in the multifunction machine 10 are realized by a cooperative operation of a computer installed in the multifunction machine 10 and a program operating on the CPU 31 installed in the computer. Further, the price information storage unit 15 is realized by the HDD 34 mounted on the multifunction machine 10. Alternatively, the RAM 37 or an external storage means may be used via a network.

  Further, the program used in this embodiment can be provided not only by communication means but also by storing it in a computer-readable recording medium such as a CD-ROM or DVD-ROM. The program provided from the communication means or the recording medium is installed in the computer, and various processes are realized by the CPU of the computer sequentially executing the program.

  Next, the copying service process in this embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.

  First, a user who intends to use the multifunction device 10 inputs the number of copies to be copied as the scheduled output number from the setting screen displayed on the operation panel 32. Furthermore, necessary items such as a copy type and a paper type are set. Here, it is assumed that 105 sheets are selected as the scheduled output number and black and white is selected as the type of copying. Since the user knows that the normal unit price or the discount unit price is applied according to the scheduled number of output sheets, after inserting the amount of cash necessary for the number of copies to be copied from the input port of the charging device 41, the operation panel 32 is used. Press the copy start button displayed in.

  In the case of this example, the discount unit price of 9 yen is applied because the planned output number (105) is equal to or greater than the discount start number (100). Therefore, the user only has to throw in money of 105 sheets × 9 yen = 945 yen or more. Here, for the sake of convenience, the description will be made on the assumption that a billing scheduled amount of 945 yen corresponding to 105 sheets that is the output planned quantity without excess or deficiency is inserted in cash.

  When copying is instructed by the user by operating a predetermined copy start button displayed on the operation panel 32, the operation receiving unit 121 confirms that the input amount is equal to or more than the scheduled charge amount, and then the operation receiving unit 121 copies the copy. Accept instructions. When the processing control unit 14 acquires the planned output number (105) and type (black and white) included in the copy instruction (step 101), the processing control unit 14 searches the price information storage unit 15 to correspond to the type black and white. Price information is acquired (step 102). As described above, the price information includes the normal unit price, the discount unit price, the discount start number, and the price reversal start number.

  Here, if the planned output number has not reached the discount start number (N in Step 103), copying is performed at the normal unit price (Step 112), and after completion of the copying, payment is made (Step 113).

  When the scheduled output number (105) is equal to or greater than the discount start number (100) as in this example (Y in step 103), the process control unit 14 causes the copy processing unit 13 to start executing the copy process. In response to the start instruction from the process control unit 14, the copy processing unit 13 starts copying for the scheduled output quantity according to the set attribute such as black and white copy specified in the start instruction. When the copy processing unit 13 executes copying for one sheet (step 104), the processing control unit 14 acquires the output number of sheets output after the copy processing unit 13 starts copying (in each case) (step 104). Step 105).

  Here, if the number of output sheets has reached the planned number of output sheets (Y in step 106), the copying has been completed, and a settlement process is performed (step 113). When the output number has not reached the planned output number (N in Step 106), if the cancel button is pressed (Y in Step 107), the processing control unit 14 assumes that the user has instructed to cancel. The copy processing unit 13 is instructed to stop copying. In response to the cancel instruction, the copy processing unit 13 terminates the copy process being executed halfway. In this case, in the settlement process, a charge is made for the number of sheets copied (step 113). Specifically, the difference between the charged amount and the input amount obtained by multiplying the number of sheets obtained by subtracting the output number from the planned output number by the normal unit price is refunded.

  When there is no cancel instruction (N in Step 107), the processing control unit 14 starts discounting the discount unit price by calculating the amount of the output number multiplied by the normal unit price that is a unit price to be applied to the output number. It is determined whether the price (billed amount) is reversed by exceeding the amount calculated by multiplying the number of sheets. In the case of the present embodiment, when the number of output sheets is one, it is calculated as 10 yen by multiplying the normal unit price of 10 yen to be applied to one output sheet. This calculated value increases with the number of printed sheets. On the other hand, when the discount unit price of 9 yen is multiplied by 100 discount start sheets, it is calculated as 900 yen. This amount is fixed. Here, since the amount of 10 yen calculated by multiplying the normal unit price by the output number has not exceeded 900 yen, that is, the price has not reversed yet (Y in step 108), the process is the next copy. The process proceeds to (Step 104), and the second copy is executed by the copy processing unit 13 (Step 104).

  Note that the amount used for the price reversal determination is the amount used in this determination process, and is different from the amount displayed on the charging device 41. That is, when the first copy is completed, the processing control unit 14 notifies the charging device control unit 11 to that effect, and the display control unit 112 in the charging device control unit 11 increases the input amount from 945 yen to 9 yen. The subtracted 936 yen is displayed in the remaining amount display display window of the charging device 41.

  When the processing from step 104 to step 107 is repeated and the number of output sheets is 90 sheets, the amount calculated by multiplying the output unit number by the normal unit price is 900 yen, but the price is the same value and reversed. Since there is not, it returns to step 104. Subsequently, when the number of output sheets is 91, the amount calculated by multiplying the number of output sheets by the normal unit price is 910 yen, which exceeds 900 yen, so the price is reversed. Since price reversal has occurred, in the subsequent processing, step 108 always proceeds to N.

  When the price is reversed (N in Step 108), the processing control unit 14 determines whether or not the price is currently reversed. Here, since 91 sheets × 10 yen = 910 yen and 900 yen are exceeded and the price is reversed (Y in Step 109), the processing control unit 14 displays the non-display of the cancel button on the operation panel control unit 12. Instruct. In response to this instruction, the display control unit 122 in the operation panel control unit 12 hides the display by deleting the cancel button from the operation panel 32 (step 110).

  Thereafter, the processing from step 104 to step 110 is repeated, and the cancel button is not displayed until the number of output sheets is 99. When the number of output sheets reaches the discount start number of 100 sheets, the amount calculated by multiplying the output number of sheets by a discount unit price that is a unit price applied to the output number of sheets is 900 yen, and does not exceed 900 yen. There has been no price reversal. Therefore, in this case (N in Step 109), the process control unit 14 instructs the operation panel control unit 12 to display a stop button. In response to this instruction, the display control unit 122 in the operation panel control unit 12 redisplays the stop button on the operation panel 32 (step 111). After this, since the price is not reversed, the cancel button remains displayed on the operation panel 32.

  Then, the cancel button redisplayed before the output number reaches the planned output number is selected (Y in step 107) or the output number reaches the planned output number (Y in step 106). Is completed, and a settlement process is performed (step 113).

  If the cancel button is pressed, the balance is calculated and refunded in the same manner as described above. In addition, when the amount of money to be inserted is larger than the amount billed, the change is refunded. In this embodiment, the case where cash is inserted is taken as an example. However, in other payment methods such as an IC card, the amount corresponding to the number of output sheets is collected as described above.

  As described above, the charged amount between 91 and 99 output sheets is 910 to 990 yen, and the charged amount 900 yen when 100 copies are applied with the discount unit price applied. Payment amount will be high. For example, if the user presses the cancel button with 91 sheets to stop copying, the billing apparatus 41 will receive 126 yen (= 945-819) due to consumption of 819 yen (= 91 sheets × 9 yen). Although displayed, the discount unit price is not applied, so in reality, 910 yen (= 91 sheets × 10 yen) is charged. From the user's point of view, there is only a return of 35 yen (= 945-910) despite the fact that the balance is displayed as 126 yen, so it may be mistaken for a malfunction. Therefore, in the present embodiment, from the viewpoint of suppressing the loss of the user, the execution of copying cannot be canceled by hiding the cancel button while the number of output sheets is 91 to 99.

Embodiment 2. FIG.
In the first embodiment, a billing amount corresponding to the number of output sheets is calculated, and it is determined whether or not to cancel the cancel button based on the billing amount. This embodiment is characterized in that it is determined whether or not to cancel the cancel button based on the number of sheets.

  By the way, due to the structure of the multifunction machine 10, the paper is taken out from a paper feed tray which is a paper storage means, conveyed along a predetermined path, and sent to a copying mechanism constituting the copy processing unit 13 to form an image. After that, it is discharged from the outlet. When copying is performed continuously, one or a plurality of sheets being conveyed exist on the path between the paper feed tray and the copying mechanism. In other words, even if the cancel button is pressed during the copying process, the sheet taken out from the paper feed tray and being conveyed is copied, so the number of sheets counted when the cancel button is pressed (charging device) In some cases, a difference may occur between the number of sheets displayed on the screen 41 and the number of sheets actually copied. This embodiment is characterized in that charging is performed in consideration of this difference.

  The apparatus configuration and hardware configuration in the present embodiment may be the same as those in the first embodiment shown in FIGS.

  Hereinafter, the copy service process according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. Note that the same steps as those in the first embodiment are given the same step numbers, and description thereof will be omitted as appropriate. Further, in the present embodiment, as in the first embodiment, it is assumed that the user selects 105 sheets as the planned output number and black and white as the type of copying, and the planned charge amount of 945 yen is input without excess or deficiency. To do.

  When the operation reception unit 121 receives a copy instruction by a user operation, the processing control unit 14 acquires price information corresponding to the type included in the copy instruction (steps 101 and 102). As described above, in the present embodiment, the number of sheets (hereinafter referred to as “the number of sheets being conveyed”) I that is simultaneously conveyed on the path (sheet path) between the sheet feeding tray and the image forming mechanism is the multifunction machine 10. Therefore, the processing control unit 14 acquires the number of sheets I being conveyed from a predetermined storage area (step 201). Here, I = 5. Subsequently, the process control unit 14 calculates the stop suppression start sheet number K by subtracting the in-conveyance sheet number I from the price reversal start sheet number (step 202). In the case of the present embodiment, the stop suppression start number K is 86 (= 91-5). Further, the processing control unit 14 calculates the stop suppression end sheet number L by subtracting the in-conveyance sheet number I from the discount start sheet number (step 203). In the case of the present embodiment, the stop suppression end number L is 95 (= 100−5). Note that the stop suppression end number L may be calculated before the stop suppression start number K.

  When the copy processing unit 13 performs copying in response to a start instruction from the processing control unit 14 (step 104), the processing control unit 14 acquires the number of output sheets from the copy processing unit 13 each time (step 105). .

  When the output number has not reached the planned output number and the cancel button is not pressed (N in both steps 106 and 107), the processing control unit 14 determines the acquired output number as the stop suppression start number K and the stop suppression. Compare with the end number L. By the way, if the number of output sheets is equal to or greater than the stop suppression start sheet number K and less than the stop suppression end sheet number L, in the numerical example of this embodiment, the stop button is pressed while the output sheet number is between 86 and 94 sheets. Then, the paper on the paper path is also copied, and the number of output sheets is between 91 and 99. As described in the first embodiment, the discounted unit price is applied to the billed amount in this case. The fee will be higher than 900 yen charged when 100 copies are made.

  Therefore, in the present embodiment, when the output number is equal to or greater than the stop suppression start number K and less than the stop suppression end number L (Y in step 204), the process control unit 14 operates the non-display of the stop button. Instructs the panel control unit 12. In response to this instruction, the display control unit 122 in the operation panel control unit 12 deletes the stop button from the operation panel 32 to hide the display (step 110).

  On the other hand, when the output number is less than the stop suppression start number K, the charge amount does not exceed the charge amount of 900 yen when copying to 100 sheets, and the output number is the stop suppression end number L Since the discount unit price will be applied and the scheduled charge amount will not be exceeded (N in step 204), the processing control unit 14 instructs the operation panel control unit 12 to display a stop button. In response to this instruction, the display control unit 122 in the operation panel control unit 12 displays a stop button on the operation panel 32 (step 111).

  In the present embodiment, as described above, the display / non-display of the stop button is controlled in consideration of the number of sheets and the number of sheets simultaneously conveyed on the sheet path.

Embodiment 3 FIG.
In the first and second embodiments, the stop button display control is performed in consideration of the user's loss. The present embodiment is characterized in that a stop instruction is accepted within a range not exceeding the scheduled charge amount.

  The apparatus configuration and hardware configuration in the present embodiment may be the same as those in the first embodiment shown in FIGS.

  Hereinafter, the copy service process according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. Note that the same steps as those in the first embodiment are given the same step numbers, and description thereof will be omitted as appropriate. Further, in the present embodiment, as in the first embodiment, it is assumed that the user selects 105 sheets as the planned output number and black and white as the type of copying, and the planned charge amount of 945 yen is input without excess or deficiency. To do.

  When the operation reception unit 121 receives a copy instruction by a user operation, the processing control unit 14 acquires price information corresponding to the type included in the copy instruction (steps 101 and 102). Subsequently, when the planned output number is equal to or greater than the discount start number (Y in Step 103), the process control unit 14 acquires the input amount acquired by the input amount acquisition unit 111 of the charging device control unit 11 (Step 301). .

  When the copy processing unit 13 performs copying in response to a start instruction from the processing control unit 14 (step 104), the processing control unit 14 acquires the number of output sheets from the copy processing unit 13 each time (step 105). . When the output number has not reached the planned output number and the cancel button is not pressed (N in both steps 106 and 107), the process control unit 14 adds one to the acquired output number, and the addition The amount charged for the number of sheets is calculated (step 302). For example, when the number of output sheets is 89, the calculated charge amount is 900 yen (= (89 + 1) × 10 yen), which is less than the collectable amount of 945 yen. That is, since collection is possible (Y in step 303), the processing control unit 14 instructs the operation panel control unit 12 to display a stop button. In response to this instruction, the display control unit 122 in the operation panel control unit 12 displays a stop button on the operation panel 32 (step 111). For example, when the number of output sheets is 93, the calculated charge amount is 940 yen (= (93 + 1) × 10 yen), and can be collected less than the collectable amount of 945 yen (Y in step 303). Is displayed on the operation panel 32 (step 110).

  Here, when the number of output sheets is 94, the calculated charge amount is 950 yen (= (94 + 1) × 10 yen), which exceeds the collectable amount of 945 yen. That is, since collection is impossible (N in step 303), the processing control unit 14 instructs the operation panel control unit 12 to hide the cancel button. In response to this instruction, the display control unit 122 in the operation panel control unit 12 hides the display by deleting the cancel button from the operation panel 32 (step 110).

  Thereafter, copying is continued and the number of output sheets reaches 99. Here, when one sheet is added to the number of output sheets, it becomes 100 sheets, and a discount unit price is applied. In this case, the calculated charge amount is 900 yen (= (99 + 1) × 9 yen), which can be collected less than the collectable amount of 945 yen (Y in step 303), so that the processing control unit 14 displays a stop button. To the operation panel control unit 12. In response to this instruction, the display control unit 122 in the operation panel control unit 12 displays a stop button on the operation panel 32 (step 111).

  According to the present embodiment, when the number of output sheets is such that an amount exceeding the scheduled charge amount is collected, the stop button is not displayed so that the amount exceeding the scheduled charge amount is not charged.

  In the present embodiment, the cancel button is hidden because the collection is impossible when the billing amount corresponding to the number of output sheets exceeds the scheduled billing amount. However, it is assumed that 950 yen has been inserted where the scheduled charge amount is 945 yen. This is a case where the input amount does not match the scheduled charge amount and exceeds it. In this case, the stop button may be hidden when the input amount exceeds the scheduled charge amount. That is, in the above description, the scheduled charge amount is the upper limit of the amount that can be collected, and up to 94 copies that can be copied at 945 yen are performed, and the stop button is not displayed when outputting 95 to 99 copies. The input amount may be set as the upper limit of the amount that can be collected, and up to 95 copies that can be copied at 950 yen may be output, and the stop button may be hidden when outputting 96 to 99 copies.

Embodiment 4 FIG.
In the first to third embodiments, when the billing amount corresponding to the output number exceeds the scheduled billing amount, the cancel button display control is performed so that the cancel button is not displayed, so that the billing planned amount is calculated. Don't charge more than you. The present embodiment is characterized in that a charge exceeding the scheduled charge amount is not made without performing display control of the stop button.

  The apparatus configuration and hardware configuration in the present embodiment may be the same as those in the first embodiment shown in FIGS.

  Hereinafter, the copy service process according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. Note that the same steps as those in the first embodiment are given the same step numbers, and description thereof will be omitted as appropriate. Further, in the present embodiment, as in the first embodiment, it is assumed that the user selects 105 sheets as the planned output number and black and white as the type of copying, and the planned charge amount of 945 yen is input without excess or deficiency. To do.

  When the operation reception unit 121 receives a copy instruction by a user operation, the processing control unit 14 acquires price information corresponding to the type included in the copy instruction (steps 101 and 102). Subsequently, when the planned output number is equal to or greater than the discount start number (Y in Step 103), the process control unit 14 instructs the copy processing unit 13 to start the copy process and causes the copy to be executed (Step 104). The processing control unit 14 acquires the number of output sheets each time copying is executed (step 105). If the cancel button is not pressed, the processing from step 104 to step 107 is repeated until the output number reaches the planned output number.

  Here, if the cancel button is not pressed before the output number reaches the scheduled output number (N in step 106, Y in 107), the processing control unit 14 calculates the amount calculated by multiplying the output number by the normal unit price. And the amount of money (900 yen) calculated by multiplying the discount unit price by the discount start number. If the amount calculated by multiplying the normal unit price by the output number does not exceed 900 yen (N in step 109), the price is not reversed, so the copying is stopped and the settlement process is performed (step 113). On the other hand, if the amount calculated by multiplying the normal unit price by the output number exceeds 900 yen (Y in step 109), that is, the price (billed amount) is reversed, the processing control unit 14 cancels the cancel button. The copy is continuously executed up to the discount start number (100 sheets) without immediately responding to the stop instruction when the button is pressed (step 401).

  As described above, in the present embodiment, when the user has operated the cancel button when the output number has reached the price reversal start number (91 sheets) and has not reached the discount start number (100 sheets), The copy processing unit 13 is caused to continue copying until the output number reaches the discount start number.

  As a result, by copying up to the discount start number (100 sheets), the billing amount is 900 yen (= 100 sheets × 9 yen), so the processing control unit 14 instructs the copy processing unit 13 at this time. Thus, the copying process is stopped and the settlement process is executed (step 113).

  If the cancel button is pressed while copying from 91 sheets to 99 sheets is performed, if the copy is immediately stopped in response to the cancel instruction, the user will be charged 910 yen to 990 yen. Will be charged. However, in this embodiment, 900 yen is charged for copying up to the discount start number (100 sheets), so that the user is not damaged compared to when copying is stopped immediately. That's okay.

  In each of the first to third embodiments, the copy service process that is being executed is stopped by causing the user to stop the copy service process being executed by operating the cancel button displayed on the operation panel 32. While the calculated amount of charges exceeds the scheduled amount of charge, the cancellation of the copy service process is prohibited by hiding the cancel button. In the present embodiment, the copy service execution control is performed instead of the display control of the cancel button, so that the provision of the copy service in the state where the charge amount exceeds the scheduled charge amount is not canceled. .

  In each of the above embodiments, the image forming apparatus with a billing apparatus according to the present invention is applied to a self-service multifunction peripheral installed in a convenience store or the like, and a copying service has been described as an example of a service provided to a user. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and it may be installed in another place or used for providing other services involving image forming processing.

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 MFP, 11 Accounting apparatus control part, 12 Operation panel control part, 13 Copy processing part, 14 Processing control part, 15 Price information storage part, 31 CPU, 32 Operation panel, 33 Scanner, 34 Hard disk drive (HDD), 35 Printer engine, 36 Network interface (I / F), 37 RAM, 38 ROM, 39 External media interface (I / F), 40 Address data bus, 41 Billing device, 111 Input amount acquisition unit, 112, 122 Display control unit, 121 Operation reception part.

Claims (9)

A receiving means for receiving an instruction of the planned output quantity;
Service processing means for outputting a medium by executing service processing in response to a service execution request in which the planned output quantity is specified;
Storage means for storing a normal unit price used when a discount is not applied and a discount unit price used when a discount is applied when a billing amount associated with service provision is calculated;
When the start of service is instructed after the scheduled billing amount corresponding to the planned output quantity is input to the accounting device, the service processing means is controlled to execute service processing, and the planned output quantity is discounted. A processing control means for discounting and calculating a billing amount associated with the provision of a service when the unit price is equal to or greater than a discount application starting quantity,
Have
The processing control means is a case where the output planned quantity is equal to or greater than the discount application start quantity, and the output quantity of the medium output during execution of the service process by the service processing means does not reach the discount application start quantity. In this case, the image forming apparatus prohibits the stop of the execution of the service processing in a state where the amount obtained by multiplying the output quantity by the normal unit price exceeds the amount obtained by multiplying the discount application start quantity by the discount unit price. When a service with media output is provided in response to a service execution request for which the media output planned quantity has been specified by the user, the output planned quantity that is greater than the discount application start quantity at which the discount unit price starts to be applied is specified In the case of an image forming apparatus with a charging device that discounts the amount charged for providing a service,
A receiving means for receiving an instruction of the planned output quantity;
Service processing means for outputting a medium by executing service processing in response to a service execution request in which the planned output quantity is specified;
The normal unit price that is used when discounts are not applied when the amount charged for service provision is calculated, the discount unit price that is used when discounts are applied when the amount charged for service provision is calculated, and normal Storage means for storing, as a price reversal start quantity, the output quantity of the medium when the price when multiplying the unit price exceeds the price obtained by multiplying the discount unit price by the discount application start quantity;
When the start of service is instructed after the scheduled billing amount according to the planned output quantity is input to the billing device, the service processing means is controlled to execute service processing, and the planned output quantity is A process control means for discounting and calculating a billing amount associated with the provision of a service when the discounted unit price starts at or above the discount application start quantity;
Have
If the scheduled output quantity is equal to or greater than the discount application start quantity, the process control means, the output quantity of the medium output during the execution of the service process by the service process means reaches the price reversal start quantity, and the discount application An image forming apparatus characterized in that execution of service processing is prohibited when the start quantity has not been reached. A receiving means for receiving an instruction of the planned output quantity;
Service processing means for outputting a medium by executing service processing in response to a service execution request in which the planned output quantity is specified;
Storage means for storing a normal unit price used when a discount is not applied and a discount unit price used when a discount is applied when a billing amount associated with service provision is calculated;
When the start of service is instructed after the scheduled billing amount corresponding to the planned output quantity is input to the accounting device, the service processing means is controlled to execute service processing, and the planned output quantity is discounted. A processing control means for discounting and calculating a billing amount associated with the provision of a service when the unit price is equal to or greater than a discount application starting quantity,
Have
The processing control means is a case where the output planned quantity is equal to or greater than the discount application start quantity, and the output quantity of the medium output during execution of the service process by the service processing means does not reach the discount application start quantity. In this case, the image forming apparatus prohibits the stop of the execution of the service process in a state in which the amount obtained by multiplying the output unit quantity by the normal unit price exceeds the scheduled charge amount input to the billing apparatus. Having a display means for displaying a stop operation component to be operated by a user when canceling a service process being executed;
4. The process control unit according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the process control unit prohibits the stop of the execution of the service process accompanying the user operation on the stop operation part by hiding the stop operation part. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1. Having a display means for displaying a stop operation component to be operated by a user when canceling a service process being executed;
The processing control unit is configured to perform the cancel operation by a user when the output quantity of the medium output by execution of the service process by the service processing unit reaches the price reversal start quantity and does not reach the discount application start quantity. 3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2 , wherein when the service component is operated, the service processing unit outputs the medium until the output amount of the medium reaches a discount application start quantity. The processing control means includes
According to the execution of the service processing, the quantity of the medium being transported on the path through which the medium is taken out from the storage means and output by the service processing means is calculated from the price reversal start quantity and the discount application start quantity. Subtract each,
3. The image according to claim 2, wherein when the output quantity of the medium reaches the price reversal start quantity after subtraction and does not reach the discount application start quantity after subtraction, the execution of service processing is prohibited. Forming equipment. When charge amount due to the provision of service is calculated, mounted in an accessible image forming apparatus in a storage means for storing discount unit price used when normally applying the unit price and the discount used when no discount is applied Computer
Accepting means for receiving instructions on the planned output quantity,
Service processing means for outputting a medium by executing service processing in response to a service execution request in which the planned output quantity is specified;
When the start of service is instructed after the scheduled billing amount corresponding to the planned output quantity is input to the accounting device, the service processing means is controlled to execute service processing, and the planned output quantity is discounted. A process control means for discounting and calculating a billing amount associated with the provision of a service when the application of the unit price is equal to or greater than a discount application starting quantity;
Function as
The processing control means is a case where the output planned quantity is equal to or greater than the discount application start quantity, and the output quantity of the medium output during execution of the service process by the service processing means does not reach the discount application start quantity. In this case, the program prohibits the stop of the execution of the service process in a state where the amount obtained by multiplying the output quantity by the normal unit price exceeds the amount obtained by multiplying the discount application start quantity by the discount unit price. The normal unit price that is used when discounts are not applied when the amount charged for service provision is calculated, the discount unit price that is used when discounts are applied when the amount charged for service provision is calculated, and normal computer amount of time obtained by multiplying the unit price, are mounted in the storage means for storing the output quantity of the medium when in excess of the amounts obtained by multiplying the discount bid discounts starting quantity as price reversed starting quantities accessible image forming apparatus The
Accepting means for receiving instructions on the planned output quantity,
Service processing means for outputting a medium by executing service processing in response to a service execution request in which the planned output quantity is specified;
When the start of service is instructed after the scheduled billing amount corresponding to the planned output quantity is input to the accounting device, the service processing means is controlled to execute service processing, and the planned output quantity is discounted. A process control means for discounting and calculating a billing amount associated with the provision of a service when the application of the unit price is equal to or greater than a discount application starting quantity;
Function as
The processing control means, when the output planned quantity is equal to or greater than the discount application start quantity, the amount of money when the output quantity of the medium output during the execution of the service processing by the service processing means is multiplied by the normal unit price A program characterized by prohibiting the stop of execution of service processing when the output amount of the medium when the discount unit price exceeds the amount obtained by multiplying the discount application start quantity by the discount unit price and when the discount application start quantity is not reached. When charge amount due to the provision of service is calculated, mounted in an accessible image forming apparatus in a storage means for storing discount unit price used when normally applying the unit price and the discount used when no discount is applied Computer
Accepting means for receiving instructions on the planned output quantity,
Service processing means for outputting a medium by executing service processing in response to a service execution request in which the planned output quantity is specified;
Billing plan amount corresponding to the expected output quantity, performs control to execute a service process on the service processor when the starting of the service is indicated since thrown into billing system, the expected output quantity, A process control means for discounting and calculating a charge amount associated with the provision of a service when the discounted unit price starts at or above the discount application start quantity;
Function as
The processing control means is a case where the output planned quantity is equal to or greater than the discount application start quantity, and the output quantity of the medium output during execution of the service process by the service processing means does not reach the discount application start quantity. In this case, the program prohibits the stop of the execution of the service processing in a state where the amount obtained by multiplying the output quantity by the normal unit price exceeds the scheduled charge amount input to the charging device.

Images