JP6764971B2 - Printing equipment and consumables - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a printing device and a consumable item that notify the user that the expiration date of the consumable item is approaching at a timing that does not cause trouble to the user.

The inkjet printing device is provided with removable ink cartridges in which ink is stored for each color. Ink is supplied from the ink cartridge to the inkjet head, and the ink is ejected from the nozzle of the inkjet head toward the printing paper to produce an image. And print characters.

Consumables such as ink cartridges often have a usage period set as a time limit for guaranteeing quality. Therefore, in a general inkjet printing device, the expiration date is calculated based on the manufacturing date and the usage period stored in the ink cartridge, and when the ink cartridge currently in use has passed the expiration date. , A warning is displayed to that effect.

In Patent Document 1, after it is detected that the consumable has reached the end of its life (near life), the power of the device is turned on before the consumable has reached the end of its life (life). An image forming device has been proposed that displays a warning on the display unit provided in the device to prompt the replacement of consumables when the power saving mode release is detected.

Japanese Patent No. 3951996

However, in the above-mentioned inkjet recording apparatus described in Patent Document 1, after it is detected that the life of the consumable is before a predetermined life (near life), until the life of the consumable is detected. In the meantime, if it is detected that the power of the device is turned on or the power saving mode is released, a warning message is displayed on the display unit provided in the device to prompt the replacement of consumables. Every time the release is detected, a warning message will be displayed to prompt the replacement of consumables.

After it is detected that the consumable has reached the end of its life (near life), it is not necessary to replace this consumable immediately until it is detected that the consumable has reached the end of its life (life). Since printing can be continued, it can be said that the urgency of the warning display is lower than that of the warning display after the end of the service life.

During such a period, if a warning message is repeatedly displayed to prompt the user to replace the consumables each time the power-up of the device or the power saving mode release is detected, the user feels that this warning display is annoying. It ends up.

The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a printing device and consumables for notifying that the expiration date of consumables is approaching at a timing that does not make the user feel annoyed.

In order to achieve the above object, the first feature of the printing apparatus according to the present invention is that the main unit for printing and the consumables used for printing that are detachably attached to the main unit. A printing device provided with a detection means for detecting the power-on of the printing device, the return from the power saving mode, or the new attachment of the consumable to the main device, and the date of manufacture or use of the consumable. It is determined whether or not the consumable has passed the recommended deadline based on the start date, the recommended deadline before the expiration date of the consumable, and the date of manufacture of the consumable or the elapsed period from the start date of use. When it is determined by the determination means that the recommended deadline has passed, the notification means for notifying the warning content indicating that the expiration date of the consumable is approaching under predetermined conditions, and the notification means. The notification cycle is stored as a notification cycle, and the notification means includes a storage means for storing the latest notification time after the recommended deadline has elapsed, and the determination means has passed the recommended deadline. When the detection means detects that the printing device is turned on or returned from the power saving mode, or that the consumables are newly attached to the main body device, the notification means notifies the storage means. When the time point is not stored, the warning content is notified, and when the notification time point is stored in the storage means and only the notification cycle has elapsed from the notification time point, the warning content is notified. To do.

A second feature of the printing apparatus according to the present invention is that the storage means has the notification cycle indicating an interval of one or more times the first predetermined period, and the second predetermined period included in the first predetermined period. The period and the period are memorized, the recommended deadline has passed by the determination means, and the power-on of the printing device, the return from the power saving mode, or the new attachment of the consumable to the main body device is detected by the detection means. When the notification means does not store the notification time in the storage means, the notification means notifies the warning content, the notification time is stored in the storage means, and only the notification cycle elapses from the notification time. In addition, when the current timing is within the first predetermined period and after the second predetermined period, the warning content is notified.

The first feature of the consumable according to the present invention is the date of manufacture or start of use of the consumable used for printing, the recommended deadline before the expiration date of the consumable, and the date of manufacture of the consumable. A determination means for determining whether or not the consumable has passed the recommended deadline based on the date or the elapsed period from the start date of use, and turning on the power of the main body or returning from the power saving mode or the consumable. The detection means for detecting the new attachment of the printing device to the main body device and the determination means determine that the recommended deadline has passed, and the detection means turns on the power of the printing device or returns from the power saving mode or the above. Consumables that can be attached to and detached from the main unit equipped with a notification means that notifies the warning content indicating that the expiration date of the consumable is approaching under predetermined conditions when a new attachment of the consumable to the main unit is detected. The product is provided with a notification time point storage means that stores the notification time point that has been notified most recently after the recommended deadline has passed by the notification means as notification time point information, and the predetermined condition is the notification time point in the notification time point storage means. Is not stored, or the notification time is stored in the notification time storage means, and only the notification cycle indicating the interval of notification by the notification means has elapsed from the notification time.

The second feature of the consumable according to the present invention is that the notification cycle indicates an interval of one or more times the first predetermined period, and the predetermined condition is that the notification time is stored in the notification time storage means. If not, or the notification time is stored in the notification time storage means, and only the notification cycle indicating the interval of notification by the notification means has elapsed from the notification time, the current timing is within the first predetermined period. This is the case after the second predetermined period.

A third feature of the printing apparatus according to the present invention is that the notification cycle is set according to the period during which the recommended period has passed with respect to the period between the recommended period and the expiration date, and is a consumable item. It is to be set to become shorter as the expiration date approaches.

The fourth feature of the printing apparatus according to the present invention is that the notification cycle is set according to the period during which the recommended period has passed with respect to the period between the recommended period and the expiration date, and is a consumable item. It is set to be shorter as the available remaining amount of is.

The fifth feature of the printing apparatus according to the present invention is that the storage means is associated with a region code indicating an region and a normal consumption period from the date of manufacture or the start of use of the consumable to the recommended expiration date. The region table is stored, and the determination means refers to the region table to extract the normal consumption period corresponding to the region code, and the extracted normal consumption period, the date of manufacture of the consumable, or the start of use. It is to determine whether or not the consumable has passed the recommended deadline based on the date.

According to the first feature of the printing apparatus according to the present invention, it is determined by the determining means that the recommended deadline has passed, and the printing apparatus is turned on or returned from the power saving mode by the detecting means, or the consumables are used. When a new attachment to the main unit is detected, the notification means notifies the warning content when the notification time is not stored in the storage means, the notification time is stored in the storage means, and the notification time is started. If only the notification cycle has passed, the warning content is notified. Therefore, after the recommended deadline has passed, a warning is not issued every time the power of the printing device is turned on, so that the user can be notified at an appropriate timing that the expiration date of the consumable is approaching. .. As a result, it is possible to reduce the user from feeling annoyed by issuing a warning.

According to the second feature of the printing apparatus according to the present invention, the storage means has a notification cycle indicating an interval of one or more times the first predetermined period, and a second predetermined period included in the first predetermined period. Is stored, and when the recommended deadline has passed by the determination means and the detection means detects that the printing device is turned on or returned from the power saving mode, or that the consumable is newly attached to the main device, it is notified. When the notification time is not stored in the storage means, the means notifies the warning content, the notification time is stored in the storage means, only the notification cycle has elapsed from the notification time, and the current timing is the first. Since the warning content is notified in the case of the second predetermined period or later within the predetermined period of, the consumables are managed by using the purchase management system that replenishes the consumables once a month. It is possible to reduce the annoyance to the user more than when the user is in trouble.

When a purchasing management system is introduced, users often order consumables on a fixed day (ordering date) every month. In addition, the above notification notifies that the expiration date is approaching. Here, the warning content is notified and the expiration date is approaching, which means that there is a possibility of ordering consumables in the purchasing management system. Therefore, it is convenient for the user if the notification timing of the warning content is linked to the ordering of consumables by the purchase management system.

For example, in the notification of the second and subsequent warning outputs whose expiration date is approaching, the above-mentioned second predetermined period (for example, week, day) is set to, for example, the consumable order date or a day slightly before (for example, for example). Set it to 3 days ago, 1 week ago, etc.). As a result, when the warning content is output, the user can prevent forgetting the ordering work and can promptly order the consumables, which is convenient for the ordering work.

For example, if the purchase management system is used to place an order for ink cartridges for replenishment on the 25th of every month according to the inventory status of the ink cartridges, it is assumed that the first day or 2 of the beginning of the month If the first warning is displayed on the day and then the warning is displayed many times each time the power is turned on, the consumables will not be ordered until the 25th (ordering date) in any case. Therefore, it leads to forgetting the ordering work, and this warning display is only annoying to the user.

Therefore, for example, if "20" (day) is set as the second predetermined period, a warning will be issued when the power is turned on for the first time after the 20th, so that the 25th (ordering date) ), The warning will be issued for the first time, so the user will not feel this warning display annoying.

According to the first feature of the consumable according to the present invention, it is determined by the determination means that the recommended deadline has passed, and the printing device is turned on or returned from the power saving mode by the detection means, or the consumable It is a consumable item that can be attached to and detached from the main unit and is equipped with a notification means that notifies the warning content indicating that the expiration date of the consumable is approaching under predetermined conditions when a new attachment to the main unit is detected. Therefore, the notification time storage means for storing the latest notification time notified by the notification means as the notification time information is provided, and the predetermined condition is that the notification time is not stored in the notification time storage means. Alternatively, the notification time is stored in the notification time storage means, and only the notification cycle indicating the interval of notification by the notification means has elapsed from the notification time. Therefore, after the recommended deadline has passed, a warning is not issued every time the power of the printing device is turned on, so that the user can be notified at an appropriate timing that the expiration date of the consumable is approaching. .. As a result, it is possible to reduce the user from feeling annoyed by issuing a warning.

According to the second feature of the consumable according to the present invention, the notification cycle indicates an interval of one or more times the first predetermined period, and the predetermined condition is that the notification time is not stored in the notification time storage means. In the case, or the notification time is stored in the notification time storage means, and only the notification cycle indicating the interval of notification by the notification means has elapsed from the notification time, and the current timing is the second predetermined period within the first predetermined period. Since this is the case after that, it makes the user feel more annoyed, especially when consumables are managed using a purchasing management system that replenishes consumables once a month. Can be reduced.

According to the third feature of the printing apparatus according to the present invention, the notification cycle is set according to the period after the recommended period has passed with respect to the period between the recommended period and the expiration date, and the use of consumables. Since it is set to become shorter as the expiration date approaches, the user is encouraged to use the consumables when the expiration date approaches, so that the consumables can be consumed efficiently and without waste during the usage period. ..

According to the fourth feature of the printing apparatus according to the present invention, the notification cycle is set according to the period after the recommended period has passed with respect to the period between the recommended period and the expiration date, and the use of consumables. The more possible remaining amount is set, the shorter it is set, so when the expiration date is approaching, the user is encouraged to use consumables according to the remaining amount, so the user consumes consumables systematically. Can be made to.

According to the fifth feature of the printing apparatus according to the present invention, the determination means extracts the normal consumption period corresponding to the area code by referring to the area table, and the extracted normal consumption period and the year of manufacture of the consumables. Since it is determined whether or not the consumable has passed the recommended deadline based on the date or the start date of use, for example, it can be estimated that the consumable deteriorates quickly in a hot area, so that the consumable can be replaced as soon as possible. As you can see, the recommended outage period is set long, and conversely, it can be inferred that consumables are unlikely to deteriorate in cold regions, so the recommended outage period can be set short, and an appropriate recommended outage period suitable for the region is set. can do.

It is a figure explaining the structure of the inkjet printing apparatus which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing explaining the function of the inkjet printing apparatus which concerns on embodiment of this invention. An example of the usage period and the recommended suspension period stored in the memory of the inkjet printing apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention is shown. It is a figure explaining the use period and recommended stop period in the inkjet printing apparatus which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a figure explaining in detail the operation of the determination means and the notification means provided in the inkjet printing apparatus which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a figure explaining in detail the operation of the notification means provided in the inkjet printing apparatus which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which showed the processing procedure in the inkjet printing apparatus which concerns on Example of this invention. It is a figure explaining the operation of the notifying means in detail in the modification 1 of this invention.

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

In the embodiment of the present invention, the main body device and the ink cartridges for each color detachably attached to the main body device are provided, and ink is supplied from the ink cartridge to the inkjet head provided in the main body device and discharged. The inkjet printing apparatus that prints in the above will be described as an example.

<Configuration of inkjet printing device>
FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an inkjet printing apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

The inkjet printing device 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention includes an ink cartridge and a main body device having a configuration other than the ink cartridge. In FIG. 1, an inkjet printing device in a state where an ink cartridge is attached to the main body device. 1 will be described as an example.

As shown in FIG. 1, the inkjet printing apparatus 1 includes inkjet heads 110C, 110M, 110Y, 110K corresponding to C (cyan), M (magenta), Y (yellow), and K (black) inks. , The printing paper is conveyed at a speed determined by the printing conditions by an annular transfer belt (not shown) provided on the facing surfaces of the inkjet heads 110C, 110M, 110Y, 110K, while the printing paper is conveyed at a speed determined by the printing conditions, while the inkjet heads 110C, 110M, 110Y, 110K. It is printed line by line with the ink ejected from.

The ink cartridge is configured to be removable from the main body device, and includes an ink bottle in which ink is stored and a non-contact IC that stores various information related to ink.

Each ink is supplied from an ink bottle, and the ink bottles 151C and M (magenta) that supply C (cyan) ink and the ink bottles 151M and Y (yellow) that supply M (magenta) ink are supplied. An ink bottle 151Y and an ink bottle 151K for supplying K (black) ink are provided. In the following, when the ink color is not particular, the ink bottle 151 will be described as a representative. The same applies to other functional parts.

The ink supplied from the ink bottle 151 passes through an ink circulation path formed by a pipe made of resin, metal, or the like, and is temporarily stored in a downstream tank provided on the downstream side of the inkjet head 110. Therefore, the inkjet printing apparatus 1 includes a downstream tank 120C for storing C (cyan) ink, a downstream tank 120M for storing M (magenta) ink, and a downstream tank 120Y, K (black) for storing Y (yellow) ink. A downstream tank 120K for storing the ink of the above is provided.

The inkjet printing apparatus 1 includes a pump 170C, a pump 170M, a pump 170Y, a pump 170K and an upstream tank 130C, an upstream tank 130M, an upstream tank 130Y, and an upstream tank 130K. The ink stored in the downstream tank 120 is sent by a pump to the upstream tank provided on the upstream side of the inkjet head 110. The ink sent to the upstream tank 130 is sent to the inkjet head 110 provided with a large number of nozzles for ejecting ink.

The upstream tank 130 is connected to the common air chamber 172. The common air chamber 172 is provided with a pump 173 and an atmospheric release valve (not shown). The atmospheric release valve is fully closed to send air to the upstream tank 130 by the pump 173, or the atmospheric release valve is fully opened to provide atmospheric pressure. The pressure of the air in the upstream tank 130 is adjusted by adjusting the pressure.

The ink not ejected by the inkjet head 110 is returned to the downstream tank 120. The ink return from the upstream tank 130 to the downstream tank 120 via the inkjet head 110 utilizes the head difference between the upstream tank 130 and the downstream tank 120.

The temperature range for guaranteeing print quality is defined for the ink, and it is necessary to heat the ink when the environmental temperature is low and the ink temperature is below the lower limit temperature at which printing is possible. On the other hand, the driver and the piezo element provided in the inkjet head 110 generate heat when they operate, and it is necessary to suppress the influence of the rise in ink temperature at high temperature due to the heat generated by these and the Joule heat of ink vibration. Therefore, a temperature controller 161 is provided on the ink circulation path, and the ink is heated or cooled by the temperature controller 161.

Further, the inkjet printing device 1 includes a control unit 10 that controls the main body device, and the control unit 10 detects that the ink cartridge is attached to or detached from the main body device, and a new ink cartridge is attached to the main body device. Is detected. Specifically, in the control unit 10, the ink cartridge can be attached / detached, the ink cartridge can be kept attached, or a new ink cartridge can be attached due to a change in the detection state of the ink cartridge being attached to the main body device by the cartridge sensor (not shown). Detects that it has been attached.
Further, the control unit 10 has a function of transferring data by wireless communication with the ink cartridge mounted on the main body device. Further, the control unit 10 detects the power-on of the inkjet printing device 1 or the return from the power saving mode. Here, the power saving mode is a mode in which the warning screen display described later cannot be performed by suppressing the power consumption, and is, for example, a sleep mode in which the power consumption is suppressed. To return from the power saving mode is to shift from the sleep mode to the printable normal mode.

FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the function of the inkjet printing apparatus 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 2, the inkjet printing apparatus 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention includes ink cartridges 150K, 150C, 150M, 150Y, a control unit 10, an inkjet head 110K, 110C, 110M, 110Y, and a memory 11. , The operation panel 12 and the timer 13 are provided. Since the inkjet heads 110K, 110C, 110M, and 110Y have been described above, the description thereof will be omitted here. Here, the ink cartridge 150K corresponding to the K (black) ink will be described as an example, but the same applies to inks of other ink colors. As shown in FIG. 2, the control unit 10, the inkjet heads 110K, 110C, 110M, 110Y, the memory 11, the operation panel 12, and the timer 13 are provided in the main body device 2 shown by the broken line. There is.

The ink cartridge 150K corresponding to the K (black) ink includes an ink bottle 151K and a non-contact IC (reference numeral 152K), respectively.

The non-contact IC (reference numeral 152K) has a memory of 153K and wirelessly performs data communication with the control unit 10 of the main unit 2.

The memory 153K stores the manufacturing date when the ink cartridge 150K was manufactured, the remaining amount of ink stored in the ink bottle 151K, and the warning information indicating the date and time when the warning was issued. The remaining amount of ink can be calculated, for example, by subtracting the amount of ink ejected from the inkjet head 110 from the initial amount. Further, the warning information has a "null" value (blank) as an initial value, and when the warning is issued, the date and time when the warning is issued for the first time is written. After that, every time a warning is issued, it is overwritten and updated with the date and time when a new warning is issued. In addition, the ink cartridges 150C, 150M, and 150Y corresponding to C (cyan), M (magenta), and Y (yellow) inks also store the date of manufacture, ink remaining amount, and warning information, and the main body. Wireless data communication is performed with the control unit 10 of the device 2.

The memory 11 stores, for each ink cartridge 150K, 150C, 150M, 150Y, a normal consumption period indicating the normally usable period of the ink cartridge and a recommended stop period which is a period in which the ink cartridge can be used but replacement is recommended. are doing.

FIG. 3 shows an example of a normal consumption period and a recommended suspension period stored in the memory 11 of the inkjet printing apparatus 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 3, the normal consumption period 111 is a range in which the normal consumption period 111 can be set for each of the ink color names 11a of C (cyan), M (magenta), Y (yellow), and K (black). The setting range (month) 11b indicating the above, the setting unit (month) 11c which is a settable unit, and the default (month) 11d when not set are associated and stored.

Similarly, the recommended stop period 112 is a setting range indicating a range in which the recommended stop period 112 can be set for each ink color name 11a of C (cyan), M (magenta), Y (yellow), and K (black). (Month) 11b, a setting unit (month) 11c which is a settable unit, and a default (month) 11d when not set are associated and stored.

Further, although not shown, the memory 11 stores a warning cycle indicating an interval for issuing a warning. If this warning cycle is set to a value that is one or more times the month, for example, "2" (month), the warning will be issued every February. This February issue will be explained in detail later.

FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a normal consumption period and a recommended suspension period.

As shown in FIG. 4, the manufacturing date is stored in the memory of the non-contact IC for each ink cartridge 150K, 150C, 150M, 150Y, and the ink cartridge can be used without any problem from this manufacturing date. The recommended deadline is the time when the normal consumption period, which is the possible period, has passed. Then, as will be described later, when the recommended deadline has passed, the expiration date is near, and a warning is issued every warning cycle (here, February) during the recommended suspension period in which ink cartridge replacement is recommended. To do. Then, the expiration date is the time when only the recommended suspension period has passed from the recommended expiration date, and the ink cartridge whose expiration date has passed cannot be used, so an error is issued. The period of use is from the date of manufacture to the expiration date.

Returning to FIG. 2, an operation panel 12 composed of an operation screen and a touch panel is connected to the control unit 10. The operation panel 12 is arranged on the upper part of the inkjet printing device 1. The operation panel 12 is an input operation in which the user inputs setting conditions such as processing contents such as the number of prints when copying and printing a print image set in a scanner unit (not shown) or when printing a print job received from the outside. It can be used as a department.

Further, the operation panel 12 accepts setting operations such as a recommended deadline and a warning cycle based on the user operation, and the control unit 10 reflects the setting operation in the memory 11.

The timer 13 is connected to the control unit 10 and acquires the manufacturing date stored in the non-contact IC via the control unit 10. For each ink cartridge 150K, 150C, 150M, 150Y, from the manufacturing date. The elapsed date and time are clocked.

The control unit 10 that causes the inkjet heads 110C, 110M, 110Y, and 110K to perform printing operations includes processors such as a CPU and DSP, memory, and other hardware such as electronic circuits, or software such as programs having such functions. Alternatively, it is an arithmetic processing unit composed of a combination of these. The control unit 10 virtually constructs various functional modules by appropriately reading and executing a program, and performs various processes related to image data, operation control of each unit, and user operations.

Specifically, the control unit 10 constructs a functional module for both the determination means 101 and the notification means 102. The "module" used in the present embodiment is a functional unit for achieving a predetermined operation, which is composed of hardware such as a device or device, software having the function thereof, or a combination thereof. Is shown.

The determination means 101 has passed the recommended deadline for the ink cartridge 150 based on the date of manufacture of the ink cartridge 150, the recommended deadline before the expiration date of the ink cartridge 150, and the elapsed date and time from the date of manufacture of the ink cartridge 150. Determine if it has been done.

When the determination means 101 determines that the recommended deadline has passed, the notification means 102 notifies that the expiration date of the ink cartridge 150 is near under predetermined conditions.

FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining in detail the operation of the determination means 101 and the notification means 102. Here, K (black) ink will be described as an example, but the same applies to other ink colors.

As shown in FIG. 5, here, the manufacturing date stored in the memory 153K of the ink cartridge 150K is set as the starting point of the deadline calculation.

The recommended expiration date is when the normal consumption period has elapsed from the date of manufacture. In addition, the recommended suspension period is from the recommended deadline to the expiration date.

The determination means 101 was timed by a manufacturing date stored in the memory 153K of the ink cartridge 150K, a recommended deadline calculated based on a recommended stop period of the ink cartridge 150K stored in the memory 11, and a timer 13. It is determined whether or not the ink cartridge 150K has passed the recommended deadline based on the elapsed date and time from the date of manufacture of the ink cartridge 150K.

Then, the notification means 102 is predetermined when it is determined by the determination means 101 that the recommended deadline has passed, and when the power of the inkjet printing apparatus 1 is turned on or the power saving mode is restored. When the conditions are met, a message indicating that the ink cartridge is about to expire is displayed on the operation panel 12 as a warning. Specifically, when the warning information is not stored in the memory 153K of the ink cartridge 150K, the notification means 102 displays a message indicating that the expiration date of the ink cartridge is near on the operation panel 12 as a warning, and the ink cartridge. When the warning information is stored in the 150K memory 153K and only the warning cycle has elapsed from the warning time when the warning was issued, a message indicating that the ink cartridge expiration date is approaching is displayed on the operation panel 12 as a warning. ..

For example, since the time when the power-on 301 is operated is within the normal consumption period and the recommended deadline has not passed, the notification means 102 does not display a warning on the operation panel 12.

On the other hand, the time when the power-on 302 is operated is within the recommended stop period, and the recommended deadline has passed. Further, when the power-on 302 is operated, if the warning is not issued before that, the warning information is not stored in the memory 153K, so that the notification means 102 is near the expiration date of the ink cartridge 150K. A message indicating that is displayed on the operation panel 12 as a warning. For example, as shown in the warning screen example 204, a message such as "The old ink cartridge is in use. Please use it up as soon as possible." Is displayed on the operation panel 12.

After that, the time when the power-on 303 that has passed is operated is within the recommended stop period, and the recommended deadline has passed. Further, since the warning is issued at the time when the power-on 303 is operated and at the time when the power-on 302 is operated before that, the warning information is stored in the memory 153K. At this time, assuming that the warning cycle is set to "2" (month), the time when the power-on 302 is operated is the month of 210a, and the time when the power-on 303 is operated is 210a of the month. Since it will be the month after "2" (month) of the month (the month when the warning cycle has elapsed), a warning is issued even when the power-on 303 is operated.

Further, since the ink cartridge 150 whose expiration date has passed from the recommended deadline by the recommended stop period cannot be used, the notification means 102 issues an error. Since the expiration date of the power-on time 305 has passed, the notification means 102 causes the operation panel 12 to display a message indicating that the expiration date of the ink cartridge 150K has passed as an error. The error message is, for example, "The expiration date has expired. Please replace the ink cartridge." As shown in the error screen example 205.

FIG. 6 is a diagram further explaining the operation of the notification means 102 in detail.

In FIG. 6, for the sake of explanation, the month 210a is defined as the “3” month, the month 210b is defined as the “4” month, and the month 210c is defined as the “5” month. When the power-on 302 is operated in March, the notification means 102 causes the operation panel 12 to display a message indicating that the expiration date of the ink cartridge 150K is approaching.

After that, even if the power is turned on, the warning will continue until two months have passed since the power on 302 that issued the warning last time was operated (until the "month" changes by "2"). Do not report. That is, no warning is issued at the time when the power is turned on in March after the power on 302 is operated or when the power is turned on in April.

Then, from March, which is the month when the power-on 302 that issued the warning last time was operated, it is May when only February has passed, so the time when the power is turned on for the first time in May, that is, , When the power-on 303 is operated, a second warning is issued.

<Operation of inkjet printing device>
Next, the operation of the inkjet printing apparatus 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure in the inkjet printing apparatus 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention. Here, K (black) ink will be described as an example, but the same applies to other ink colors.

As shown in FIG. 7, in the inkjet printing device 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention, first, when the power-on switch of the main body device 2 is pressed by the user or a return from the power saving mode is detected ( Step S110; YES), wireless communication with the non-contact IC (reference numeral 152K) of the ink cartridge 150K is started, and the manufacturing date stored in the memory 153K of the ink cartridge 150K is acquired.

Then, the determination means 101 calculates the recommended deadline for the ink cartridge 150K based on the manufacturing date acquired by wireless communication and the recommended stop period for the ink cartridge 150K stored in the memory 11 (step S120).

Next, the determination means 101 sets the manufacturing date stored in the memory 153K of the ink cartridge 150K, the recommended deadline of the ink cartridge 150K, and the elapsed date and time from the manufacturing date of the ink cartridge 150K measured by the timer 13. Based on this, it is determined whether or not the current date and time has passed the recommended deadline for the ink cartridge 150K (step S130).

If it is determined in step S130 that the current date and time has not passed the recommended deadline (NO), the normal consumption period is still in effect, and the process ends without issuing a warning.

On the other hand, when it is determined in step S130 that the current date and time has passed the recommended deadline (YES), the determination means 101 determines whether or not the current date and time has passed the expiration date (step S135).

In step S135, when it is determined that the expiration date has not passed (NO), the current date and time is determined by accessing the memories 153K to 153Y by wireless communication and determining whether or not there is a warning history (step S140). As described above, the warning information has a "null" value (blank) as an initial value, and when a warning is issued, the date and time when the warning was first issued is written as warning information, so that there is a warning history. For example, if a warning has been issued before and there is no warning history, it means that the warning has never been issued.

If it is determined in step S140 that there is a warning history (YES), it means that the warning has been issued before, so the notification means 102 is based on the warning history (warning information) of the previous time. It is determined whether the warning cycle or more has passed since the warning was issued (step S150). For example, when the warning cycle is set to "2" (month), it is determined whether or not the month of the current date and time has passed two months from the month when the previous warning was issued.

In step S150, when it is determined that the warning cycle or more has not elapsed since the previous warning was issued (NO), the process is terminated without issuing a warning in order to reduce the annoyance of the warning display for the user. To do.

On the other hand, in step S150, when it is determined that the warning cycle or more has elapsed from the time when the previous warning was issued (YES), it is said that the time has passed from the time when the previous warning was issued to the extent that it does not bother the user. Since it can be guessed, for example, the notification means 102 causes the operation panel 12 to display a message indicating that the ink cartridge expiration date is approaching as shown in the warning screen example 204 of FIG. 5 as a warning (step S160).

Next, the notification means 102 stores the warning information in the memory 153K of the ink cartridge 150K (step S170). Specifically, when the warning information is not stored in the memory 153K, that is, when the warning information is a “null” value (blank), the notification means 102 uses the date and time when the warning is first issued as the warning information. Write. On the other hand, when the warning information is stored in the memory 153K, the notification means 102 overwrites and updates the stored warning information with the latest date and time (most recent date and time) when the warning was issued as the warning information.

Then, when the user presses the OK button on the operation panel 12 from the warning screen example 204 (step S180; YES), the notification means 102 erases the warning displayed on the operation panel 12 (step S180; YES). Step S190).

On the other hand, in step S135, when it is determined that the current date and time has passed the expiration date (YES), the notification means 102 has passed the expiration date of the ink cartridge as shown in the error screen example 205 of FIG. A message indicating that is displayed as an error on the operation panel 12 (step S210).

Then, when it is detected that the ink cartridge 150 has been replaced (step S220; YES), the notification means 102 erases the error displayed on the operation panel 12 (step S230). That is, the inkjet printing apparatus 1 cannot be used until the ink cartridge is replaced in the process of step S220.

As described above, according to the inkjet printing apparatus 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention, the determination means 101 has the manufacturing date stored in the memory 153K of the ink cartridge 150K and the ink cartridge 150K stored in the memory 11. It is determined whether or not the ink cartridge 150K has passed the recommended deadline based on the recommended deadline calculated based on the recommended suspension period and the elapsed date and time from the manufacturing date of the ink cartridge 150K timed by the timer 13. Then, when the notification means 102 is determined by the determination means 101 that the recommended deadline has passed and the power-on of the inkjet printing device 1 or the return from the power saving mode is detected, a warning is given to the memory 153K of the ink cartridge 150K. If the information is not stored, a warning is notified, and if the warning information is stored in the memory 153K of the ink cartridge 150K and only the warning cycle has elapsed from the time of notification, the warning is notified. Therefore, after the recommended deadline has passed, a warning is not issued every time the power of the inkjet printing apparatus 1 is turned on, so that the user is notified at an appropriate timing that the expiration date of the ink cartridge is approaching. At the same time, it is possible to reduce the annoyance of issuing a warning to the user.

The inkjet printing apparatus 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention includes a memory 153 for each of the ink cartridges 150K, 150C, 150M, and 150Y, and the memory 153 includes the date of manufacture of the ink cartridge 150. , The remaining amount of ink stored in the ink bottle 151 and the warning information indicating the date and time when the warning was issued are stored, and the warning cycle and the ink cartridge 150K, 150C, 150M, 150Y are stored in the memory 11 on the main body side. , The normal consumption period indicating the period during which the ink cartridge 150 can be normally used, and the recommended suspension period, which is the period for recommending replacement of the ink cartridge 150, are stored, but the present invention is not limited to this.

The date of manufacture, the remaining amount of ink, the warning information, the normal consumption period, the recommended stop period, and the warning cycle may all be stored in the memory 11 or may be stored in the memory 153. Each of the above-mentioned various data may be stored in the memory 11 or may be stored in the memory 153. In addition, which one to store can be arbitrarily selected by the time of shipment.

Further, when the notification means 102 is determined by the determination means 101 that the recommended deadline has passed, it is based on the warning information stored in the memory 153K of the ink cartridge 150K and the warning cycle stored in the memory 11. Then, when only the warning cycle has elapsed from the warning time when the warning was issued last time and the power of the inkjet printing device 1 is turned on, a message indicating that the ink cartridge is about to expire is used as a warning on the operation panel 12 However, the warning is not limited to the display on the operation panel 12, and for example, a voice speaker may be provided and the content of the warning may be output by voice from the voice speaker.

Further, in the inkjet printing apparatus 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention, the recommended expiration date is when the normal consumption period has elapsed from the date of manufacture. In addition, the expiration date is calculated when only the recommended suspension period has passed from the recommended expiration date, but the expiration date is not limited to this, and the period obtained by multiplying the warning cycle by a predetermined number of times (for example, 5 times) is defined as the recommended suspension period. The expiration date may be calculated when only the recommended suspension period has passed. In addition, the expiration date may be set by the user according to the usage environment.

Further, the expiration date may be calculated by adding the quality assurance period, which is the period during which the quality can be guaranteed on the date of manufacture, or the expiration date may be calculated from the date of manufacture and stored in the ink cartridge. The expiration date may be set as the expiration date for guaranteeing the quality of the ink, and the expiration date retroactive from the expiration date by the recommended suspension period may be set as the recommended expiration date.

The ink cartridge 150 mounted on the inkjet printing device 1 can exhibit the effect of the present invention even if it is newly mounted on another inkjet printing device 1.

Specifically, when the cartridge is newly mounted on another inkjet printing device 1, the manufacturing date and warning information stored in the memory 153 are used. Therefore, it is possible to determine whether or not the recommended deadline has passed, and of course, it is also possible to determine whether or not only the notification cycle has passed from the time of notification.

At this time, if the warning cycle of the memory 11 of the main body device 2 changes, the above-mentioned notification process is performed using the warning cycle.

[Modification 1]
Next, a modification 1 of the present invention will be described. In the above-described embodiment, the warning is issued when the power is turned on for the first time after the alarm cycle (predetermined month) has elapsed, but in this modified example, the day when the warning is further issued is stored as the notification date. However, the gist is to issue a warning when the notification date has passed. In addition, this modification is applied when the current date and time enters the recommended suspension period and the warning is the second or later. The reason is that in the case of the first time, the period until the expiration date is often long, and it is considered that there is little need to place an order.

That is, although not shown, the memory 11 has an alarm cycle (January to a plurality of months) indicating an interval of one or a plurality of times a month as a first predetermined period unit, and a second included in the first predetermined period. I remember the predetermined period of.

Then, when the recommended deadline has passed by the determination means 101 and the control unit 10 detects that the power of the inkjet printing device 1 is turned on or the device returns from the power saving mode, the notification means 102 stores the warning information in the memory 153. If not, a warning is issued, the warning information is stored in the memory 153, only the alarm cycle has elapsed from the time of notification, and in the month within the first predetermined period corresponding to the current timing. A warning is issued after the second predetermined period (the above-mentioned notification date). The second predetermined period indicates a period from a certain point in time to a certain point in time, but since the time point is indicated by making the period from a certain point in time to a certain point infinitely small, the second predetermined period is only a period. It shall also include a certain point in time (timing).

FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating in detail the operation of the notification means 102 in the first modification of the present invention.

In FIG. 8, for the sake of explanation, the month 210a is defined as the “3” month, the month 210b is defined as the “4” month, and the month 210c is defined as the “5” month.

In the memory 11, "2" (month) is stored in advance as a warning cycle, and "20" (day) is stored as a notification date for issuing a warning, which is a second predetermined period (day). ing.

For example, it is assumed that the notification means 102 displays a message on the operation panel 12 indicating that the expiration date of the ink cartridge 150K is approaching when the power-on 302 is operated in March.

After that, even if the power is turned on, the warning is not issued until two months have passed since the power on 302 that issued the warning last time was operated. That is, no warning is issued at the time when the power is turned on in March after the power on 302 is operated or when the power is turned on in April.

Then, from March, which is the month when the power-on 302 that issued the warning last time was operated, only February has passed, and "20" (day), which is the notification date, has passed in May. Then (after May 20th), the second warning is issued when the power is turned on for the first time, that is, when the power on 307 is operated.

Here, when the power-on 303 is operated, the warning date has not passed, so no warning has been issued.

In this way, the memory 11 further stores the interval of one or more times the value of the month warned by the notification means 102 as a warning cycle, and a second predetermined period (timing) (day) for warning by the notification means 102. ) Is stored as the notification date, and the notification means 102 has passed the notification date of the month in which the number of months indicated by the warning cycle has passed from the month at the time of notification, and the power of the inkjet printing device 1 is turned on. Since it warns that the ink cartridge is about to expire, the user is more likely to manage consumables using a purchasing management system that replenishes the ink cartridge once a month. It is possible to reduce the feeling of annoyance.

For example, if the ink cartridges are ordered for replenishment on the 25th of every month according to the stock status of the ink cartridges, the first warning is displayed on the 1st or 2nd of the beginning of the month. After that, if the warning display is displayed many times each time the power is turned on, the user will not place an order for consumables until the 25th (ordering date) anyway. It's just annoying.

On the other hand, in the first modification of the present invention, even if the power is turned on on the 1st or 2nd of the beginning of the month, the warning is not issued because the notification date has not passed.

Then, when the power is turned on for the first time after "20" (day), which is the notification date (after May 20), a warning is issued, so the 25th (order date) Since the warning will be issued for the first time immediately before, the user does not feel this warning display annoying.

The notification date, which is the second predetermined period, may be, for example, the order date of the ink cartridge 150, which is a consumable item, or may be after the predetermined date of the order date of the ink cartridge 150. Further, the above-mentioned second predetermined period may be, for example, a predetermined number of days before and after the ordering date of the ink cartridge 150 or one week before and after the ordering date.

As for the issue date, which is the second predetermined period, the warning is issued at a timing within the predetermined number of days before and after the order date based on the history of the warning being actually issued to the user with respect to the order date. You may want to reset the alert date so that you will be notified. For example, the past warning history is acquired, and the date when the warning is issued from the warning history is often 13 to 15 days, and the order date is 18 days. If it is more convenient for the user to set the notification date a few days before, the notification date may be set between 15th and 18th (at this time, the notification date is automatic). It may be set as a target, or it may be notified to the user and set based on the user's operation).

Here, the display content of the warning may indicate the necessity of ordering the ink cartridge 150.

Further, in the first modification of the present invention, the first predetermined period is one or more times the value of the month, and the second predetermined period (timing) is described as a day, but the present invention is not limited to the first. The predetermined period of 1 may be one or more times the value of the month, and the second predetermined period may be a week. For example, when the second predetermined period is set as the second week, a warning is issued after the second week in the month after the lapse of the first predetermined period.

Further, although the ordering date has been described as an example here, a date related to management of other consumables may be set as the second predetermined period.

[Modification 2]
Next, a modification 2 of the present invention will be described. In the above-described embodiment, a warning is issued when the power is turned on for the first time after the alarm cycle has elapsed, but in this modified example, the alarm cycle is set to the period between the recommended period and the expiration date ( With respect to the recommended suspension period), the ink cartridge is set to become shorter as the expiration date approaches, based on the period after the recommended expiration date.

As described above, the ink cartridge 150 has a usage period set as a period for guaranteeing quality, and after the expiration date, which is the final point of the usage period, the ink cartridge 150 is used even if ink remains. become unable. Therefore, when the remaining amount of ink is large even though the expiration date is approaching, the frequency of warnings to notify that the expiration date of the ink cartridge 150 is approaching should be increased, and the ink of the ink cartridge 150 should be used up quickly. It is preferable to display a message prompting.

Therefore, in the second modification of the present invention, the warning cycle stored in the memory 11 is set so as to become shorter as the expiration date of the ink cartridge 150 approaches. For example, when the period until the expiration date of the ink cartridge 150 is 4 months or more, the warning cycle is set to "2" (month), and the period until the expiration date of the ink cartridge 150 is 2 months or more and less than April. In this case, the warning cycle is set to "1" (month), and if the period until the expiration date of the ink cartridge 150 is from 0 month to less than 2 months, the warning cycle is set to "0.5" (month). To do so.

Further, in the second modification of the present invention, the display contents according to the expiration date of the ink cartridge 150 are stored in the memory 11. For example, if the period until the expiration date of the ink cartridge 150 is 4 months or more, the displayed content should be "Please use up as soon as possible." And the period until the expiration date of the ink cartridge 150 is 2 months or more and less than April. If, the displayed content is "The expiration date is approaching. Please use up as soon as possible." If the period until the expiration date of the ink cartridge 150 is from 0 to less than February, the displayed content is ". It is about to expire. Please use it up as soon as possible. "

As a result, the user is encouraged to use the ink when the expiration date is approaching, so that the ink can be consumed efficiently without waste during the usage period.

[Modification 3]
Next, a modification 3 of the present invention will be described. In the second modification, the alarm cycle is shortened as the expiration date of the ink cartridge approaches, based on the period after the recommended expiration date, with respect to the period until the expiration date (recommended suspension period). It was set to be.

In this modification, the alarm cycle is set according to the period after the recommended period, with respect to the period between the recommended period and the expiration date, and becomes shorter as the remaining amount of ink available increases. To set. For example, when the ink remaining amount of the ink cartridge 150 is 30 (%) or more, the warning cycle is set to "0.5" (month), and the ink remaining amount of the ink cartridge 150 is 20 (%) or more and 30 (%). ), The warning cycle is set to "1" (month), and when the ink remaining amount of the ink cartridge 150 is 10 (%) or more and less than 20 (%), the warning cycle is set to "2" (month). To be set.

Further, it can be combined with the modification 2. Specifically, when the period until the expiration date of the ink cartridge 150 is 4 months or more and the ink remaining amount of the ink cartridge 150 is 10 (%) or more and less than 20 (%), the warning cycle is set to “2”. (Month) is set, and if the period until the expiration date of the ink cartridge 150 is from February to less than April and the remaining amount of ink in the ink cartridge 150 is 20 (%) or more and less than 30 (%), a warning is given. If the cycle is set to "1" (month), the period until the expiration date of the ink cartridge 150 is from 0 month to less than 2 months, and the ink remaining amount of the ink cartridge 150 is 30 (%) or more, a warning is given. The cycle may be set to "0.5" (month).
If the period until the expiration date of the ink cartridge 150 and the remaining amount of ink in the ink cartridge 150 are in other ranges, the warning cycle is set to "2" (month) as a general rule.

Not limited to this, the warning cycle may be determined by appropriately combining the remaining amount and the period until the expiration date. That is, the warning cycle may be shortened as the remaining amount is large and the expiration date is near, and the warning cycle may be lengthened as the remaining amount is small and the expiration date is far. Specifically, for various combinations of long to short expiration dates when the remaining amount is high to low, the remaining amount and the period until the expiration date are prioritized until the remaining amount and the expiration date. Weights may be set for each of the periods to determine the warning cycle. For example, when prioritizing the period until the expiration date, the warning cycle when the period until the expiration date is short and the remaining amount is low is shorter than the warning cycle when the period until the expiration date is long and the remaining amount is large. You may do so.

Further, in the third modification of the present invention, the memory 11 stores the display contents according to the expiration date of the ink cartridge 150 and the remaining amount of ink. For example, when the ink remaining amount of the ink cartridge 150 is 30 (%) or more, the displayed content is "There is a lot of ink remaining. Please use up as soon as possible." And the ink remaining amount of the ink cartridge 150 is 10. If it is (%) or more and less than 20 (%), the displayed content is "Ink remains. Please use up as soon as possible." And the ink remaining amount of the ink cartridge 150 is 10 (%) or more and 20 (%). ), The displayed content is "There is still a little ink left. Please use up."

As a result, when the remaining amount of ink is large at the timing when the expiration date is approaching, the user is encouraged to use the ink, so that the ink can be efficiently consumed without waste during the usage period.

[Modification example 4]
Next, a modification 4 of the present invention will be described. In the above-described embodiment, whether or not the ink cartridge has passed the recommended expiration date based on the date of manufacture of the ink cartridge, the recommended expiration date before the expiration date of the ink cartridge, and the date and time elapsed from the date of manufacture of the ink cartridge. When it is determined that the recommended deadline has passed, a warning is displayed that the ink cartridge is about to expire. However, in this modified example, the recommended deadline is set for each area where the inkjet printing device 1 is installed. Set.

The memory 11 further stores the region code indicating the region and the normal consumption period, which is the period from the manufacturing date to the recommended deadline, as a region table. For example, the region code "JP" indicating Japan is associated with the normal consumption period "24" (month), and the region code "AF" indicating Africa is associated with the normal consumption period "18". ”(Month) is associated and stored as a regional table.

Then, the determination means 101 extracts, for example, the normal consumption period of the ink cartridge 150 corresponding to the area code input from the operation panel 12 from the area table stored in the memory 11, and the extracted normal consumption period and the normal consumption period The recommended expiration date of the ink cartridge 150 is calculated based on the manufacturing date acquired by wireless communication.

As a result, for example, it can be estimated that the ink deteriorates quickly in a hot area, so a long recommended stop period is set so that the ink cartridge 150 can be replaced earlier, and conversely, it is estimated that the ink does not deteriorate easily in a cold area. Therefore, the recommended suspension period can be set short, and an appropriate recommended suspension period suitable for the region can be set.

[Modification 5]
Next, a modification 5 of the present invention will be described. In the above-described embodiment, when the notification means 102 has passed the warning cycle set at one or a plurality of times a month from the warning time when the warning was issued last time, and the power of the inkjet printing apparatus 1 is turned on. A message indicating that the expiration date of the ink cartridge 150 is approaching is displayed on the operation panel 12 as a warning, but the warning cycle is not limited to one or more times a month, and can be set on a daily basis. Good.

For example, assuming that the warning cycle is set to "40", when the notification means 102 has passed only 40 days from the warning date when the warning was issued last time and the power of the inkjet printing apparatus 1 is turned on. , A message indicating that the expiration date of the ink cartridge 150 is approaching is displayed on the operation panel 12 as a warning.

Thereby, it is possible to determine whether or not the ink cartridge 150 has passed the recommended deadline by a simple calculation of the number of days.

[Modification 6]
Next, a modification 6 of the present invention will be described. In the above-described embodiment, for each of the ink cartridges 150K, 150C, 150M, and 150Y, the determination means 101 sets the recommended deadline for the ink cartridge 150 based on the manufacturing date, the recommended deadline, and the elapsed date and time from the manufacturing date. When the recommended deadline has passed, the warning cycle has passed since the warning time when the warning was issued last time, and the power of the inkjet printing apparatus 1 is turned on. , A message indicating that the expiration date of the ink cartridge 150 is approaching is displayed on the operation panel 12 as a warning.

At this time, if the recommended deadline has passed for a plurality of ink cartridges among the ink cartridges 150K, 150C, 150M, and 150Y, and only the warning cycle has passed since the warning time when the warning was issued last time, the plurality of ink cartridges. Warnings about the ink cartridges may be displayed at the same time on the same display screen of the operation panel 12, or the ink cartridges with the closest expiration date may be displayed in order.

Further, at the same time, the user may set whether to display a warning on the same display screen of the operation panel 12 or to display the ink cartridges having the closest expiration date in order.

[Modification 7]
Next, a modification 7 of the present invention will be described. In the above-described embodiment, the recommended stop period and the normal consumption period indicating the usable period of the ink cartridge are stored in the memory 11 for each ink cartridge 150K, 150C, 150M, 150Y, but the recommended stop period and the normal consumption period are stored. Either or both of the periods may be set according to a preset quality rank.

For example, in the sixth modification of the present invention, the recommended suspension period and the normal consumption period may be set differently depending on the ink color, and even if the ink colors are the same, the recommended suspension period may be set depending on the manufacturing method. The normal consumption period may be set differently.

Further, the display content of the warning may be changed depending on the color of the ink and the manufacturing method.

[Modification 8]
Next, a modification 8 of the present invention will be described. In the above-described embodiment, for each of the ink cartridges 150K, 150C, 150M, and 150Y, the determination means 101 sets the recommended deadline for the ink cartridge 150 based on the manufacturing date, the recommended deadline, and the elapsed date and time from the manufacturing date. It was determined whether or not the above was passed, but the present invention is not limited to this.

In the modification 8 of the present invention, in addition to the manufacturing date when the ink cartridge 150 was manufactured, the remaining amount of ink stored in the ink bottle 151, and the warning information indicating the date and time when the warning was issued, the ink cartridge is added to the memory 153. Memorize the use start date of 150. Here, the use start date of the ink cartridge 150 is the date and time when the ink cartridge 150 is mounted on the main body device 2.

Then, for each of the ink cartridges 150K, 150C, 150M, and 150Y, whether or not the ink cartridge 150 has passed the recommended deadline based on the use start date, the recommended deadline, and the elapsed date and time from the use start date. To judge. Specifically, the recommended expiration date is the time when the normal consumption period has passed from the start date of use, and the expiration date is the time when only the recommended suspension period has passed from the recommended deadline.

As a result, it is determined whether or not the recommended deadline has passed based on the elapsed time from the time when the ink cartridge 150 is actually opened and mounted on the main body device 2 and used. It is possible to manage according to the situation.

[Modification 9]
In the above-described embodiment, the case of the inkjet printing apparatus 1 and the ink cartridge 150 has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the present invention may be applied using a stencil printing device instead of the inkjet printing device 1, an ink container mounted on a drum instead of the ink cartridge 150, and tag information (memory) attached to a stencil base paper roll. It is possible. Further, it can be applied to any printing device that uses consumables, such as an electrophotographic printing device other than the stencil printing device.

[Modification 10]
In the fourth modification, the recommended deadline is set for each area where the inkjet printing device 1 is installed, but the limitation is not limited to this. In this modification, a temperature sensor that measures the ambient temperature (the temperature around the device) and a temperature condition storage means that stores the temperature range and the normal expiration date as a corresponding table are provided and are based on the corresponding table. Then, the normal expiration date according to the ambient temperature measured by the temperature sensor is extracted, the recommended expiration date is calculated based on the normal expiration date, and the determination means 101 determines whether the extracted ink cartridge 150 has passed the recommended expiration date. It may be determined whether or not.

As a result, the recommended deadline can be set appropriately according to the ambient temperature.

[Modification 11]
In this modification, the gist is that the warning display method can be freely set by the user.

Specifically, when the determination means 101 determines that the recommended deadline has passed, and when the power of the inkjet printing apparatus 1 is turned on or the device returns from the power saving mode, the notification means 102 is used. When the warning information is stored in the memory 153K of the ink cartridge 150K, only the warning cycle has elapsed from the warning time when the warning was issued, and the setting conditions set by the user are satisfied, the expiration date of the ink cartridge is near. A message indicating that may be displayed on the operation panel 12 as a warning.

Here, the condition set by the user can be set so that the warning is issued every other time with respect to the alarm timing by, for example, a user operation.

As a result, a warning can be issued in consideration of the user's settings, so that control that reflects the user's characteristics can be performed more finely.

Regarding the warning within the recommended suspension period, the warning may be stopped by the user operating using the operation panel so that the warning is not given after several warnings are given. ..
[Modification 12]
In the above-described embodiment and modification, the notification means 102 performs a warning display process when the power of the inkjet printing device 1 is turned on or when the device returns from the power saving mode (step S110). Not limited to. For example, the notification means 102 may perform a warning display process even when the ink cartridge is replaced while the power of the main body device 2 is turned on and a new ink cartridge is attached to the main body device 2. Good.

1 ... Ink printing device 2 ... Main unit device 10 ... Control unit 11 ... Memory 12 ... Operation panel 13 ... Timer 101 ... Judgment means 102 ... Notification means 110K, 110C, 110M, 110Y ... Ink head 150K, 150C, 150M, 150Y ... Ink Cartridges 151C, 151K, 151M, 151Y ... Ink bottles 153 ... Memory (memory at the time of notification)

Claims (7)

A printing device including a main body device for printing and consumables used for the printing, which are detachably attached to the main body device.
A detection means for detecting power-on of the printing device, return from the power saving mode, or new attachment of the consumable to the main device,
The above-mentioned under predetermined conditions based on the date of manufacture or start of use of the consumable, the recommended deadline before the expiration date of the consumable, and the elapsed period from the date of manufacture or start of use of the consumable. It is equipped with a notification means for notifying the content of a warning indicating that the expiration date of consumables is approaching.
When the recommended deadline has passed and the detection means detects the power-on of the printing device, the return from the power saving mode, or the new attachment of the consumable to the main body device, the notification means
It is characterized in that the warning content is notified when only the notification cycle indicating a fixed interval of notification by the preset notification means has elapsed from the notification time of the latest notification after the recommended deadline has passed. Printing equipment. A printing device including a main body device for printing and consumables used for the printing, which are detachably attached to the main body device.
A detection means for detecting power-on of the printing device, return from the power saving mode, or new attachment of the consumable to the main device,
The above-mentioned under predetermined conditions based on the date of manufacture or start of use of the consumable, the recommended deadline before the expiration date of the consumable, and the elapsed period from the date of manufacture or start of use of the consumable. A notification means for notifying the warning content indicating that the consumables are about to expire, and
It is provided with a storage means for storing the interval of notification by the notification means as a notification cycle and for storing the notification time point notified most recently after the recommended deadline has passed.
When the recommended deadline has passed and the detection means detects the power-on of the printing device, the return from the power saving mode, or the new attachment of the consumable to the main body device, the notification means
If the notification time is not stored in the storage means, the warning content is notified and the notification content is notified.
A printing apparatus characterized in that when a notification time point is stored in the storage means and only the notification cycle has elapsed from the notification time point, the warning content is notified. A method of notifying a warning about the consumables by a printing device including a main body device for printing and a consumable item used for the printing which is detachably attached to the main body device.
A detection step for detecting power-on of the printing device, return from the power saving mode, or new attachment of the consumable to the main device,
The above-mentioned under predetermined conditions based on the date of manufacture or start of use of the consumable, the recommended deadline before the expiration date of the consumable, and the elapsed period from the date of manufacture or start of use of the consumable. It has a notification step that notifies the warning content indicating that the expiration date of the consumable is approaching.
When the recommended deadline has passed and the detection step detects power-on of the printing apparatus in the previous period, return from the power saving mode, or new attachment of the consumable to the main unit, the notification step is performed.
When the notification cycle indicating a fixed interval of notification by the preset notification step has elapsed from the notification time of the latest notification after the recommended deadline has elapsed, the warning content is notified. How to notify the warning about consumables. A method of notifying a warning about the consumables by a printing device including a main body device for printing and a consumable item used for the printing which is detachably attached to the main body device.
A detection step for detecting power-on of the printing device, return from the power saving mode, or new attachment of the consumable to the main device,
The above-mentioned under predetermined conditions based on the date of manufacture or start of use of the consumable, the recommended deadline before the expiration date of the consumable, and the elapsed period from the date of manufacture or start of use of the consumable. A notification step that notifies the warning content indicating that the consumables are about to expire, and
A storage control step is provided in which the interval of notification by the notification step is stored in the storage means as a notification cycle, and the notification time of the latest notification after the recommended deadline has elapsed is stored in the storage means by the notification step. And
When the recommended deadline has passed and the detection step detects power-on of the printing device, return from the power saving mode, or new attachment of the consumable to the main body device, the notification step is performed.
If the notification time is not stored in the storage means, the warning content is notified and the notification content is notified.
A method for notifying a warning regarding a consumable item, characterized in that the warning content is notified when the notification time is stored in the storage means and only the notification cycle has elapsed from the notification time. It is a consumable item used for printing that is detachably attached to the main unit for printing.
The main body device
A detection means for detecting power-on of the main unit, return from the power saving mode, or new attachment of the consumable to the main unit,
Predetermined when the recommended expiration date before the expiration date of the consumable has passed and the detection means detects that the main unit is turned on or returned from the power saving mode, or that the consumable is newly attached to the main unit. It is equipped with a notification means for notifying the content of a warning indicating that the expiration date of the consumable item is approaching under the conditions.
The consumables
The notification time storage means is provided, in which the notification time point notified most recently after the recommended deadline has passed by the notification means is stored as notification time point information.
The predetermined condition is
When the notification time is not stored in the notification time storage means, or the notification cycle is stored in the notification time storage means and indicates a fixed interval for notification by the notification means preset from the notification time. Consumables characterized by being in the case. It is a consumable item used for printing that is detachably attached to the main unit for printing.
The main body device
A detection means for detecting power-on of the main unit, return from the power saving mode, or new attachment of the consumable to the main unit,
Predetermined when the recommended expiration date before the expiration date of the consumable has passed and the detection means detects that the main unit is turned on or returned from the power saving mode, or that the consumable is newly attached to the main unit. It is equipped with a notification means for notifying the content of a warning indicating that the expiration date of the consumable item is approaching under the conditions.
The consumables
The notification time storage means is provided, in which the notification time point notified most recently after the recommended deadline has passed by the notification means is stored as notification time point information.
The predetermined condition is
A consumable item, wherein only a notification cycle indicating a fixed interval of notification by the preset notification means has elapsed from the notification time. It is a consumable item used for printing that is detachably attached to the main unit for printing.
The main body device
A detection means for detecting power-on of the main unit, return from the power saving mode, or new attachment of the consumable to the main unit,
The above-mentioned under predetermined conditions based on the date of manufacture or start of use of the consumable, the recommended deadline before the expiration date of the consumable, and the elapsed period from the date of manufacture or start of use of the consumable. It is equipped with a notification means for notifying the content of a warning indicating that the expiration date of consumables is approaching.
The consumables
The interval for informing the notifying means is stored as broadcast cycle, and, by the notification means includes a storage means for notifying time is stored which is notified to the nearest after the elapse of the recommended limit,
When the recommended deadline has passed and the detection means detects the power-on of the printing device, the return from the power saving mode, or the new attachment of the consumable to the main body device, the notification means
If the notification time is not stored in the storage means, the warning content is notified and the notification content is notified.
A consumable item characterized in that when the notification time is stored in the storage means and only the notification cycle has elapsed from the notification time, the warning content is notified.

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