JP6819044B2 - Image recorders, server devices, and communication systems - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a communication system including an image recording device that executes a recording process for recording an image on a recording paper, a server device capable of communicating with the image recording device, and an image recording device and the server device.

In the image recording device, an image is recorded by adhering a recording material to the recording paper. For this reason, in the image recording device, it is necessary to purchase and manage consumables such as cartridges filled with recording materials, but the purchase and management of these are complicated tasks for the user. For this reason, in recent years, a flat-rate consumables delivery service has been provided. The following Patent Document 1 describes a technique for providing a server device connected to an image recording device via a network and managing consumables, recording information, and the like by the server device.

JP-A-2002-99994 JP-A-2007-11813

In the technique described in Patent Document 1, it is a precondition that the image recording device and the server device are always connected via a network. However, it is desired to provide an appropriate service even when the connection between the image recording device and the server device is interrupted, and to appropriately manage the consumables and the recording information related to the recording process in the image recording device. The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances.

In order to solve the above problems, in the image recording apparatus described in the present specification, a recording unit that records an image by adhering a recording material to a recording paper and a cartridge filled with the recording material are detachably connected to each other. Connection unit, a reading unit that reads the first identification information for identifying the cartridge stored in the storage medium provided in the cartridge connected to the connection unit, and the first communication that communicates with an external device. The first control unit includes a unit, a storage unit, and a first control unit, and the first control unit uses a recording material filled in a cartridge connected to the connection unit to record paper by the recording unit. A recording processing execution means for recording an image, a determination means for determining whether or not a specific type of cartridge is connected to the connection portion based on the first identification information read by the reading unit, and a determination means. It has an operating means that can be operated according to each of a first mode and a second mode different from the first mode, and the operating means is specified in the connection portion by the determination means in the first mode. When it is determined that the cartridge of the type of is not connected, the recording process is executed by the recording processing executing means, and it is determined by the determining means that the cartridge of the specific type is connected to the connection portion. In this case, the recording process is not executed by the recording processing executing means, and in the second mode, the specific type of cartridge is connected to the connecting portion by the determining means, and the specific type of cartridge is connected. Even if it is determined that the cartridge is not connected, the recording process is executed by the recording processing executing means, and the first control unit further connects to the connecting unit by the determining means. A state in which the operating means having the storage control means for storing the recording information regarding the recording process executed when it is determined that a specific type of cartridge is connected is operated according to the second mode. It is characterized by having a first transmission means for transmitting the recorded information stored in the storage unit to the external device via the first communication unit.

Further, in order to solve the above problems, the server device described in the present specification uses an information processing device and a recording material filled in a cartridge connected to a connection portion to record an image on a recording sheet. The second control unit includes a second communication unit and a second control unit capable of communicating with the image recording device, and the second control unit identifies a user from the information processing device via the second communication unit. A first receiving means for receiving user information for the purpose, and a second receiving means for receiving the second identification information for identifying the image recording device from the image recording device via the second communication unit. When the user information is received by the first receiving means and the second identification information is received by the second receiving means, the operation mode of the image recording device identified by the second identification information is set to the image recording device. If a specific type of cartridge is not connected to the connection part of the image recording device, the recording process is executed, and if the specific type of cartridge is connected to the connection part of the image recording device, the recording process is not executed. From the first mode, regardless of whether or not the specific type of cartridge is connected to the connection part of the image recording device, the recording process is executed and the specific type of cartridge is connected to the connection part of the image recording device. Sends a command to the image recording device via the second communication unit to switch to a second mode in which the recording information related to the recording process executed when the is connected is stored in the storage unit of the image recording device. When the response of the third transmitting means and the command transmitted by the third transmitting means is received from the image recording device via the second communication unit, the user information received by the first receiving means is used. It is characterized by having an output means for outputting a command to deliver the specific type of cartridge to a specified user.

Further, in order to solve the above problems, the server device described in the present specification uses an information processing device and a recording material filled in a cartridge connected to a connection portion to record an image on a recording sheet. A second communication unit and a second control unit capable of communicating with the image recording device that performs the information processing are provided, and the second control unit identifies a user from the information processing device via the second communication unit. A first receiving means for receiving user information for the purpose, and a second receiving means for receiving the second identification information for identifying the image recording device from the image recording device via the second communication unit. When the user information is received by the first receiving means and the second identification information is received by the second receiving means, the image recording device identified by the second identification information is connected to the connection unit of the image recording device. The recording process is executed regardless of whether or not a specific type of cartridge is connected to the image recording device, and the recording process is executed when the specific type of cartridge is connected to the connection portion of the image recording device. A fourth transmission means for transmitting the recorded information to the image recording device via the second communication unit and a fourth transmission means for executing the program according to the second mode for storing the recorded information in the storage unit of the image recording device. When the response of the command transmitted by is received from the image recording device via the second communication unit, the cartridge of the specific type is provided to the user specified by the user information received by the first receiving means. It is characterized by having an output means for outputting a command to deliver.

In order to solve the above problems, the communication system described in the specification is a connection in which a recording unit that records an image by attaching a recording material to a recording paper and a cartridge filled with the recording material are detachably connected to each other. An image recording device including a unit, a first communication unit that communicates with a server device, a storage unit, and a first control unit, an information processing device, and a second communication unit that can communicate with the image recording device. The server device including the second control unit, and the first control unit provides second identification information for identifying a source image recording device via the first communication unit. A first reception unit having a second transmission means for transmitting to the server device, and the second control unit receives user information for identifying a user from the information processing device via the second communication unit. The second receiving means that receives the means and the second identification information transmitted by the second transmitting means via the second communication unit, and the second receiving means that receives the user information by the first receiving means and the second. When the second identification information is received by the receiving means, the operation mode of the image recording device identified by the second identification information is set when a specific type of cartridge is not connected to the connection part of the image recording device. , The image recording is performed from the first mode in which the recording unit executes the recording process and the recording unit does not execute the recording process when the specific type of cartridge is connected to the connection unit of the image recording device. Regardless of whether or not the specific type of cartridge is connected to the connection part of the device, the recording process is executed by the recording unit, and the specific type of cartridge is connected to the connection part of the image recording device. A third transmission command for switching to the second mode for storing the recording information related to the recording process executed in the case of the image recording device in the storage unit of the image recording device is transmitted to the image recording device via the second communication unit. When the transmission means and the response of the command transmitted by the third transmission means are received from the image recording device via the second communication unit, the response is specified by the user information received by the first reception means. The first control unit has an output means for outputting a command to deliver the specific type of cartridge to the user, and the first control unit has not received the switching command from the server device. It is characterized by having an operating means that operates according to the mode and operates according to the second mode on condition that the switching command is received from the server device.

In order to solve the above problems, the communication system described in the specification is a connection in which a recording unit that records an image by attaching a recording material to a recording paper and a cartridge filled with the recording material are detachably connected to each other. An image recording device including a unit, a first communication unit that communicates with a server device, a storage unit, and a first control unit, an information processing device, and a second communication unit that can communicate with the image recording device. The server device including the second control unit, and the first control unit provides second identification information for identifying a source image recording device via the first communication unit. When it has a second transmission means for transmitting to the server device, a recording process is executed when a specific type of cartridge is not connected to the connection portion, and the specific type of cartridge is connected. According to the first mode in which the recording process is not executed, the second control unit is a first receiving means for receiving user information for identifying a user from the information processing device via the second communication unit. The second receiving means that receives the second identification information transmitted by the second transmitting means via the second communication unit, the first receiving means receives the user information, and the second receiving means. When the second identification information is received, the image recording device identified by the second identification information is connected to the connection portion of the image recording device regardless of whether or not the specific type of cartridge is connected. A second mode in which the recording process is executed and the recording information related to the recording process executed when the specific type of cartridge is connected to the connection portion of the image recording device is stored in the storage unit of the image recording device. A fourth transmission means for transmitting a program for executing according to the above to the image recording device via the second communication unit, and a response of a command transmitted by the fourth transmission means from the image recording device. (2) It has an output means for outputting a command to deliver the specific type of cartridge to a user specified by the user information received by the first receiving means when receiving via the communication unit. The first control unit includes a third receiving means for receiving the program transmitted by the fourth transmitting means via the first communication unit, and an installation means for installing the program received by the third receiving means. It is characterized by having.

The image recording device or the like of the present invention operates according to each of the first mode and the second mode. Then, for example, the recording information regarding the recording process when the flat-rate consumables delivery service is executed is stored in the storage unit. As a result, even if the connection between the image recording device and the external device that provides the service is interrupted, the service is appropriately provided to the user of the image recording device, and the consumables and the recording process in the image recording device. It is possible to properly manage the recorded information about.

It is a block diagram of communication system 1. It is a sequence diagram which shows the operating state of the communication system 1 of 1st Embodiment. It is a sequence diagram which shows the operating state of the communication system 1 of 1st Embodiment. It is a sequence diagram which shows the operating state of the communication system 1 of 1st Embodiment. It is a sequence diagram which shows the operating state of the communication system 1 of 1st Embodiment. It is a sequence diagram which shows the operating state of the communication system 1 of 1st Embodiment. It is a figure which shows the top screen 100. It is a figure which shows the registration screen 110. It is a figure which shows the account data conceptually. It is a figure which shows the registration information screen 130. It is a figure which shows the user information screen 140. It is a figure which shows the user information change screen 150. It is a figure which shows the code display screen 170. It is a figure which shows the connection screen 180. It is a figure which shows the code registration screen 190. It is a figure which shows the login screen 200. It is a figure which shows the registration information screen 130. It is a figure which shows the standby screen 220. It is a figure which shows the screen 230 during the fixed amount printing process. It is a figure which shows the usage information display screen 240. It is a sequence diagram which shows the operating state of the communication system 1 of 2nd Embodiment. It is a sequence diagram which shows the operating state of the communication system 1 of 3rd Embodiment. It is a sequence diagram which shows the operating state of the communication system 1 of 3rd Embodiment.

<Communication system configuration>
FIG. 1 shows a block diagram of a communication system (an example of a communication system unit of the present invention) 1 exemplified as an embodiment according to the present application. The communication system 1 includes a printer (an example of an image recording device of the present invention) 10, an information management server (an example of a server device of the present invention) 50, and a PC (abbreviation of Personal Computer) (an example of an information processing device of the present invention) 70. , A delivery management server 90 is provided.

The printer 10 includes a CPU (abbreviation of Central Processing Unit) (an example of a first control unit of the present invention) 12, a storage unit 14, a display (an example of a display unit of the present invention) 16, an input I / F18, and a network I / F. (Example of the first communication unit of the present invention) 20, Recording unit (Example of the recording unit of the present invention) 22, Connection unit (Example of the connection unit of the present invention) 24, Reading unit (Example of the reading unit of the present invention) 26, the detection sensor 27 is mainly provided. These components are made communicable with each other via the bus 28.

The CPU 12 executes the process according to the control program 30 in the storage unit 14. The control program 30 is a program for executing a printing process using the printer 10. The storage unit 14 is configured by combining a RAM (abbreviation of Random Access Memory), a ROM (abbreviation of Read Only Memory), a flash memory, an HDD (abbreviation of Hard Disk), a buffer included in the CPU 12, and the like. Further, the storage unit 14 includes a data storage area (an example of the storage unit of the present invention) 32. The data storage area 32 is an area for storing data and the like necessary for executing the control program 30.

The display 16 displays various screens according to the input image data, and examples thereof include an LCD (abbreviation of Liquid Crystal Display) and an organic EL (abbreviation of Electro / Luminescence) display, but the display 16 is particularly limited to these. Not done. The input I / F 18 is a key for executing each function of the printer 10, for example, a touch panel integrally configured with the display 16, and a user operation on an icon displayed on the display 16. Accept. In addition to the touch panel, hard keys or the like may be used.

The network I / F 20 communicates with an external device and is connected to the PC 70 via a hub 34 having a function as a router. Further, the network I / F 20 is connected to the information management server 50 and the delivery management server 90 via the hub 34 and the Internet 36. As a result, the printer 10 can perform data communication with the information management server 50 and the like via the network I / F20.

The recording unit 22 is a printing mechanism, and examples thereof include an inkjet head. The CPU 12 inputs a drive signal to the recording unit 22, and when the recording unit 22 is an inkjet head, ejects ink from the nozzle according to the input drive signal. The connection unit 24 is formed in the housing of the printer 10 so that a cartridge (an example of the cartridge of the present invention) 38 filled with ink used in the recording unit can be connected. It is possible to connect a plurality of cartridges 38 having different ink colors to the connecting portion 24. In the present embodiment, cartridges of four ink colors of cyan, magenta, yellow, and black can be connected to each other. Further, an IC chip (an example of a storage medium of the present invention) 40 in which identification information (an example of the first identification information of the present invention) for identifying the cartridge 38 is stored is attached to the cartridge 38. In the present embodiment, the identification information is a concept including the product name, model number, and model name of the cartridge. The identification information differs depending on the type of cartridge. Further, the identification information is different for each ink color. The types of cartridges include a dedicated cartridge used in a flat-rate printing process described later and a cartridge used in a normal printing process. The reading unit 26 is provided in the connecting unit 24, and reads the identification information from the IC chip 40 of the cartridge 38 connected to the connecting unit 24. The detection sensor 27 detects the remaining amount of ink in the cartridge 38 connected to the connection unit 24.

Further, the information management server 50 mainly includes a CPU (an example of a second control unit of the present invention) 52, a storage unit 54, and a network I / F (an example of a second communication unit of the present invention) 56. These components are made communicable with each other via the bus 58.

The CPU 52 executes the process according to the control program 60 in the storage unit 54. The control program 60 is a program for managing information related to the printing process of the printer 10. The storage unit 54 is configured by combining a RAM, a ROM, a flash memory, an HDD, a buffer included in the CPU 52, and the like. In addition, the storage unit 54 includes a data storage area 62. The data storage area 62 is an area for storing information related to the printing process on the printer 10, data necessary for executing the control program 60, and the like.

The network I / F 56 communicates with an external device and is connected to the delivery management server 90 via the Internet 36. Further, the network I / F 56 is connected to the printer 10 and the PC 70 via the hub 34 and the Internet 36. As a result, the information management server 50 can perform data communication with the printer 10, the PC 70, and the delivery management server 90 via the network I / F56.

Further, the PC 70 mainly includes a CPU 72, a storage unit 74, a display 76, an input I / F78, and a network I / F80. These components are made communicable with each other via the bus 82.

The CPU 72 executes the process according to the control program 86 in the storage unit 74. The control program 86 is a program for executing a contract for flat-rate printing processing, which will be described later. The storage unit 74 is configured by combining a RAM, a ROM, a flash memory, an HDD, a buffer included in the CPU 72, and the like. Further, the storage unit 74 is a data storage area 8
8 is provided. The data storage area 88 is an area for storing data and the like necessary for executing the control program 86.

The display 76 displays various screens according to the input image data, and examples thereof include an LCD and an organic EL display, but the display 76 is not particularly limited thereto. The input I / F 78 is a key for executing each function of the PC 70, and may be, for example, a hard key such as a keyboard or a mouse. Further, the touch panel may be a touch panel integrally configured with the display 76, and accepts a user operation on the icon displayed on the display 76.

The network I / F80 communicates with an external device and is connected to the printer 10 via a hub 34. Further, the network I / F 80 is connected to the information management server 50 and the delivery management server 90 via the hub 34 and the Internet 36. As a result, the PC 70 can perform data communication with the information management server 50 and the like via the network I / F80.

<Fixed-rate printing processing using communication system>
The printer 10 can execute a flat-rate printing process. The flat-rate printing process is a process capable of executing a preset number of printing processes for a fixed amount of money at predetermined intervals during a contract period. Specifically, for example, by concluding a flat-rate printing processing contract with a manufacturer that provides a flat-rate printing processing service for a predetermined amount of money, a dedicated cartridge is delivered from that manufacturer. Note that the printer 10 has acquired information on the remaining amount of ink in the cartridge, and the information on the remaining amount of ink is transmitted from the printer 10 to the information management server 50. Then, the information management server 50 manages the cartridge used in the printer 10 based on the received information, and when the ink of the cartridge used in the printer 10 falls below the threshold value, a new dedicated cartridge is used. Is output to the user of the printer 10. This command is output indefinitely, that is, every time the ink falls below the threshold. Then, using the dedicated cartridge, for example, printing processing of up to 200 sheets can be executed for one month. If the number exceeds 200, the user pays an additional fee in addition to the above amount.

However, the manufacturer delivers a cartridge dedicated to the flat-rate printing process (an example of a cartridge of a specific type of the present invention) after the contract for the flat-rate printing process is concluded. Therefore, it takes a certain period of time from the conclusion of the flat-rate printing processing contract until the dedicated cartridge arrives at the user, and the user cannot execute the flat-rate printing processing during that period. That is, the flat-rate printing processing service is on standby during the period from the conclusion of the flat-rate printing processing contract until the dedicated cartridge arrives at the user and the dedicated cartridge is connected to the connection unit 24. It becomes a state (hereinafter, may be described as a "standby state"). Then, when the dedicated cartridge is connected to the connection unit 24, the service of the flat-rate printing process can be executed (hereinafter, may be referred to as "implementable state"), and the flat-rate printing process is executed. .. The above-mentioned "predetermined period" starts when the dedicated cartridge is connected to the connection unit 24 for the first time.

Further, the printer 10 can execute a normal printing process instead of the flat-rate printing process. Here, the normal printing process is not a dedicated cartridge delivered under a flat-rate printing processing contract, but a normal cartridge attached to the printer 10 or commercially available at a retail store or the like is connected to the connection unit 24. It is a printing process that is performed by connecting to and using its normal cartridge.

In addition, in the printer 10, the operation mode when the normal printing process is executed (hereinafter, ""
It may be described as "first mode") and the operation mode when the flat-rate printing process is executed (hereinafter, may be described as "second mode"). Specifically, in the first mode, when a dedicated cartridge is connected to the connection unit 24, execution of the printing process is prohibited, and when a normal commercially available cartridge is connected to the connection unit 24. The print process is executed only for. This is to prevent the execution of an illegal printing process. That is, for example, a user who does not have a contract for flat-rate printing processing can illegally obtain a dedicated cartridge and execute printing processing using the dedicated cartridge. Therefore, the operation of the printer 10 is controlled according to the first mode during normal printing processing.

For the purpose of preventing the execution of an illegal printing process, the execution of the printing process is prohibited when even one dedicated cartridge is connected to the connection unit 24. That is, in the first mode, the printing process is executed only when all the cartridges connected to the connection unit 24 are normal cartridges. Further, it is determined which of the dedicated cartridge and the normal cartridge is connected to the connection unit 24 based on the identification information read by the reading unit 26.

On the other hand, in the second mode when the flat-rate printing process is executed, since the payment of the fee required to execute the flat-rate printing process is contracted, a dedicated cartridge is naturally connected to the connection unit 24. The printing process in the case is acceptable. However, since the flat-rate printing process is a process in which printing processing up to a preset number of sheets is performed at a fixed amount, the number of printed sheets during the printing process when a dedicated cartridge is connected to the connection unit 24 is counted. There is. The counted number of prints may be reset in the printer 10 every time the predetermined period is extended, and the printer 10 continues to count cumulatively without resetting even if the predetermined period is extended, and the information management server. At 50, even if the number of prints in the latest predetermined period is calculated by subtracting the cumulative number of prints in the predetermined period immediately before the latest predetermined period from the latest cumulative number of prints. Good.

Further, in the second mode, the printing process is permitted even when all the cartridges connected to the connecting portion 24 are ordinary commercially available cartridges. This is to reduce the financial burden on the user. More specifically, in the flat-rate printing process, even within the contract period, if the printing process exceeding the preset number of sheets is executed, the charge is charged for each printing process exceeding the preset number of sheets. Therefore, in the second mode, all the dedicated cartridges are removed from the 24, and even when only the normal cartridge is connected to the connection portion 24, the printing process can be executed. Then, the number of prints in the print process when only the normal cartridge is connected to the connection unit 24 is not counted as the number of prints in the flat-rate print process. As a result, it is possible to avoid charging for the printing process executed after the number of sheets exceeds a preset number in the flat-rate printing process, and it is possible to reduce the financial burden on the user. That is, in the second mode, the print process is executed regardless of the type of the cartridge connected to the connection unit 24, but the number of prints during the print process when the dedicated cartridge is connected to the connection unit 24. Only are counted as the number of prints in the flat-rate printing process. Hereinafter, the contract method for the flat-rate printing process, the flat-rate printing process, and the normal printing process will be described in detail with reference to the sequence diagrams shown in FIGS. 2 to 6.

First, a user who desires a contract for flat-rate printing processing accesses a web server of a manufacturer that provides a flat-rate printing processing service by means of a PC 70. In the communication system 1, the information management server 50 is a web server of a manufacturer that provides a flat-rate printing processing service. When the information management server 50 is accessed by the PC 70, the PC 70 requests the information management server 50 for top screen information (see FIG. 2: M100). Then, the information management server 50 transmits the top screen information to the PC 70 as a response to the request (M102). When the PC 70 receives the top screen information, the PC 70 displays the top screen 100 shown in FIG. 7 on the display 76 based on the information (M104).

The login button 102 and the create button 104 are displayed on the top screen 100. The login button 102 is a button that is operated when the user operating the PC 70 has an account for making a contract for flat-rate printing processing. On the other hand, the create button 104 is a button operated for a user who does not have an account for making a contract for flat-rate printing processing to create an account. Therefore, when a user who does not have an account operates the create button 104 on the top screen 100 (see FIG. 2: M106 (create button operation)), the PC 70 requests the information management server 50 for registration screen information. (M108). Then, the information management server 50 transmits the registration screen information to the PC 70 as a response to the request (M110). When the PC 70 receives the registration screen information, the PC 70 displays the registration screen 110 shown in FIG. 8 on the display 76 based on the information (M112).

On the registration screen 110, five input fields 112 to 120 and a registration button 122 are displayed. The five input fields 112 to 120 are fields for inputting an account name, a password, an address, a name, and payment information. The payment information is information related to a credit card or the like. Then, the user inputs the account name and the like in the five input fields 112 to 120 and operates the registration button 122 (M114), so that the PC 70 has the information input in the five input fields 112 to 120 (hereinafter). , May be described as "user information") is transmitted to the information management server 50 (M116). Then, when the information management server 50 receives the user information, the information management server 50 stores the user information in the data storage area 62 (M117). As a result, the user information is registered in the information management server 50 as account data.

As shown in FIG. 9, the account data relates to user information (account name, password, address, name, payment information), information related to PIN code (hereinafter, may be referred to as "code information"), and printer. It is composed of information (hereinafter, may be referred to as "printer information"), but when user information is registered as account data by operating the create button 104 on the top screen 100, the data storage area 62 Only user information is stored as account data, and code information and printer information are not stored in.

In this way, when only user information is stored as account data in the data storage area 62 (M117), a screen corresponding to the information registered as the account data (hereinafter referred to as "registration information screen" is described. Information for displaying (may be) on the display 76 is created in the information management server 50 (see FIG. 3: M129). Then, the information management server 50 transmits the created registration information screen information to the PC 70 (M130). When the PC 70 receives the registration information screen information, the PC 70 displays the registration information screen 130 shown in FIG. 10 on the display 76 based on the information (M132).

The user information button 132 and the code display button 134 are displayed on the registration information screen 130. The user information button 132 is a button for confirming the user information registered in the information management server 50, and when the user information button 132 is operated, the user information screen 140 shown in FIG. 11 is displayed on the display 76. Will be done. On the user information screen 140, the user information 142 registered in the information management server 50, the change button 144, and the OK button 146 are displayed. The change button 144 is a button for changing the user information, and when the change button 144 is operated, the user information change screen 150 shown in FIG. 12 is displayed on the display 76.

On the user information change screen 150, five input fields 152-160, a change button 162, and a cancel 164 are displayed. The five input fields 152 to 160 are fields for inputting an account name, password, address, name, and payment information. Then, the user inputs the user information to be changed in the five input fields 152 to 160 and operates the change button 162, so that the PC 70 inputs the user information input to the five input fields 152 to 160. It is transmitted to the information management server 50. Then, when the information management server 50 receives the user information, the information management server 50 changes the user information stored in the data storage area 62 to the received user information. Further, in the PC 70, when the change button 162 of the user information change screen 150 is operated, the user information screen 140 is displayed on the display 76. Then, by operating the OK button 146 of the user information screen 140, the registration information screen 130 is displayed on the display 76. If the user only wants to confirm the user information without changing the user information on the registration information screen 130, the registration information screen 130 is displayed on the display 76 by operating the OK button 146. To.

When the code display button 134 on the registration information screen 130 is operated (see FIG. 3: M134), the PC 70 requests the information management server 50 to issue a PIN code (M136). When the information management server 50 receives the PIN code issuance request, it issues the PIN code and registers the information about the issued PIN code, that is, the code information in the data storage area 62 as account data (M137). As a result, as shown in FIG. 9, the user information (account name, password, address, name, payment information) is associated with the code information and stored as account data. At this stage, the printer information is not yet stored as account data.

When the information management server 50 issues a PIN code (M137), the information management server 50 creates screen information for displaying the PIN code on the display 76 (hereinafter, may be referred to as a "code display screen"), and the created code. The display screen information is transmitted to the PC 70 (M138). When the PC 70 receives the code display screen information, the PC 70 displays the code display screen 170 shown in FIG. 13 on the display 76 based on the information (M140). The code information 172 is displayed on the code display screen 170. Then, the user registers the printer information from the printer 10 in the information management server 50 by using the PIN code corresponding to the code information 172.

Specifically, the connection screen 180 shown in FIG. 14 is displayed on the display 16 of the printer 10. A connection button 182 is displayed on the connection screen 180, and when the connection button 182 is operated (see FIG. 3: M142 (YES)), the printer 10 transmits the code registration screen information to the information management server 50. (M144). When the information management server 50 receives the request, the information management server 50 transmits the code registration screen information to the printer 10 (M146). Then, when the printer 10 receives the code registration screen information, the printer 10 displays the code registration screen 190 shown in FIG. 15 on the display 16 based on the information (M148).

An input field 192 and a registration button 194 are displayed on the code registration screen 190. The input field 192 is a field for inputting a PIN code. Then, a PIN code corresponding to the code information 172 of the code display screen 170 displayed on the M140 is input to the input field 192, and the registration button 194 is operated to input the printer 10 into the input field 192. Information about the PIN code, that is, the code information is transmitted to the information management server 50. At this time, the printer 10 transmits its own serial number (an example of the second identification information of the present invention) and its own product name to the information management server 50 together with the code information (M150).

When the information management server 50 receives the code information, the serial number, and the product name, the information management server 50 extracts the account data including the PIN code corresponding to the code information from the data storage area 62, associates it with the account data, and associates the serial number with the serial number. The product name and the product name are stored in the data storage area 62 as printer information (M152). As a result, as shown in FIG. 9, the user information (account name, password, address, name, payment information), the code information, and the printer information are associated with each other and stored as account data.

Further, in the account data shown in FIG. 9, three printer informations are registered. Of the three printer information, the printer information "DEV22222222" is the printer 10.
Information about. That is, the printer information "DEV2222222" is the printer information registered by the serial number and the product name transmitted by the M150. Further, the printer information "DEV22222223" and the printer information "DEV222222232" are printer information that has already been registered. That is, the user who has registered the printer 10 has already made a contract for the flat-rate printing process with two printers different from the printer 10.

Further, in each printer information, the service information and the print information are associated with the product name and the serial number. The service information is information indicating the service status of the flat-rate printing process, and is set to any of "standby", "implemented", and "not implemented". "Standby" indicates that the flat-rate printing processing service is in the standby state. "Implementation" indicates that the flat-rate printing processing service is ready for implementation. And, "not implemented" indicates that the contract for flat-rate printing processing has not been made. Therefore, it can be seen that the printer 10 according to the printer information "DEV2222222" does not have a contract for flat-rate printing processing. Further, it can be seen that the printer corresponding to the printer information "DEV22222223" has a contract for the flat-rate printing process, and the flat-rate printing process can already be executed. Further, in the printer corresponding to the printer information "DEV22222232", a contract for flat-rate printing processing is made, but a dedicated cartridge is not delivered, or a dedicated cartridge is delivered, but the connection portion is connected to 24. Since it is not connected, it can be seen that the flat-rate printing process is not executed. The print information is information related to the print process executed in the flat-rate print process, which will be described in detail later.

In this way, after registering the printer information in the information management server 50, the PC 70 is used again to log in to the information management server 50. That is, when the user accesses the information management server 50 by the PC 70, the PC 70 displays the top screen 100 on the display 76 (see FIG. 2: M104). Then, since the user has already registered an account on the information management server 50, the user operates the login button 102 on the top screen 100 (M106 (login button operation)). By this operation, the PC 70 requests the login screen information from the information management server 50 (M118). Then, the information management server 50 transmits the login screen information to the PC 70 as a response to the request (M120). When the PC 70 receives the login screen information, the PC 70 displays the login screen 200 shown in FIG. 16 on the display 76 based on the information (M122).

On the login screen 200, two input fields 202 and 204 and a login button 206 are displayed. The two input fields 202 and 204 are fields for inputting the registered account name and password. Then, the user inputs the account name and password registered in those two input fields 202 and 204, and operates the login button 206 (M124), so that the PC 70 inputs them in the two input fields 202 and 204. The information (hereinafter, may be referred to as "login information") is transmitted to the information management server 50 (M126). Then, when the information management server 50 receives the login information, the information management server 50 extracts the account data including the login information (M128).

Then, when the information management server 50 extracts the account data, it creates the registration information screen information corresponding to the account data (see FIG. 3: M129). Then, the information management server 50 transmits the created registration information screen information to the PC 70 (M130), and the PC 70 displays the registration information screen 130 on the display 76 based on the information (M132). However, when the registration information screen 130 shown in FIG. 10 is displayed on the display 76, only the user information is registered as the account data in the information management server 50, and the code information and the printer information are not registered. Therefore, on the registration information screen 130 shown in FIG. 10, only the information corresponding to the user information is displayed.

On the other hand, when the registration information screen 130 is displayed on the display 76 this time, as shown in FIG. 9, the user information (account name, password, address, name, payment information) is associated with the code information and the printer information. It is stored as account data. Therefore, on the registration information screen 130, information corresponding to the user information and the printer information of the account data is displayed. Specifically, the registration information screen 130 shown in FIG. 17 is displayed on the display 76. On the registration information screen 130, the user information button 132 and the code display button 134 are displayed as in the registration information screen 130 shown in FIG. 10, but further, the printer information 210 and the selection according to the printer information 210 are displayed. The button 212 and the usage information display button 214 are displayed.

In the account data shown in FIG. 9, information about the three printers is registered, so that the printer information 210 on the registration information screen 130 displays the information about the three printers. Further, as the selection button 212, a button corresponding to the service information of each printer information 210 is displayed. Specifically, the start selection button 212a is displayed as the selection button 212 on the printer information 210 whose service information is "not implemented". The start selection button 212a is a button for executing a contract for flat-rate printing processing. That is, since the printer 10 corresponding to the printer information 210 whose service information is "not implemented" does not have a contract for flat-rate printing processing, the start selection button 212a is operated (see FIG. 4: M160). ), The PC 70 transmits a request for a contract for flat-rate printing processing to the information management server 50 (M162). Along with the contract request for the flat-rate printing process, the printer information corresponding to the start selection button 212a is also transmitted to the information management server 50.

When the information management server 50 receives the contract request for the flat-rate printing process, the information management server 50 transmits the contract start information for the flat-rate printing process to the printer 10 specified by the printer information received together with the contract request (M164). The contract start information includes an instruction to change the operation mode of the printer 10, an instruction to display a screen indicating that the printer is in the standby state, and a contract period in the flat-rate printing process. When the PC 70 receives the contract start information, the PC 70 transmits a response to the information management server 50 in response to the reception of the information (M166). When the information management server 50 receives the response from the PC 70, the information management server 50 transmits the delivery information and the cartridge identification information to the delivery management server 90 (M168). The delivery information is information regarding the name and address of the user information included in the account data. Further, the cartridge identification information to be transmitted is a dedicated cartridge connected to the printer subject to the contract request received by M162, and four cartridges corresponding to each ink color of cyan, magenta, yellow, and black. It specifies each of. That is, the information management server 70 stores the identification information of the dedicated cartridge to be connected for each of the cyan, magenta, yellow, and black ink colors in association with each of the product names of one or more printers. As a result, the dedicated cartridge is shipped to the user specified by the delivery information based on the delivery information and the identification information of the cartridge transmitted to the delivery management server 90. Further, the information management server 50 changes the service information of the account data corresponding to the printer information received together with the contract request for the flat-rate printing process from "not implemented" to "standby" (M169).

Further, when the printer 10 receives the contract start information from the information management server 50, the printer 10 switches the operation mode of the printer 10 from the first mode to the second mode (M170). That is, in the printer 10, before the start selection button 212a of the registration information screen 130 is operated on the PC 70, the flat-rate printing processing contract has not been made, so that the normal printing processing is executed. , The operation of the printer 10 was controlled according to the first mode. Then, the operation mode of the printer 10 is switched to the second mode because the contract for the flat-rate printing process is made by operating the start selection button 212a on the registration information screen 130 on the PC 70. Then, the printer 10 displays the standby screen 220 shown in FIG. 18 on the display 16 (M172). On the standby screen 220, a display column 222 is displayed to indicate that the standby state is in effect and to prompt the connection of the dedicated cartridge to the connection portion 24 when the dedicated cartridge is delivered.

When the standby screen 220 is displayed on the display 16, the printer 10 determines whether or not a dedicated cartridge is connected to the connection unit 24 (M174). Then, when the dedicated cartridge is connected to the connection portion 24, as described above, the "predetermined period" starts from the first time when the dedicated cartridge is recorded in the connection portion 24, so that the printer 10 is dedicated. The date and time when the cartridge was connected to the connection unit 24 is stored in the data storage area 32 (M175). Further, the printer 10 displays the flat-rate printing process in progress screen 230 shown in FIG. 19 on the display 16 (M176). On the screen 230 during the flat-rate printing process, a display field 232 indicating the number of printing papers printed by the flat-rate printing process is displayed while indicating that the flat-rate printing process can be executed. As a result, the user can recognize that the flat-rate printing process can be performed.

Then, the printer 10 determines whether or not it can communicate with the information management server 50 (M178). At this time, if communication with the information management server 50 is not possible, the system waits until communication with the information management server 50 becomes possible. On the other hand, when it is possible to communicate with the information management server 50, the printer 10 transmits the start information to the information management server 50 (M180). The printer 10 transmits its own serial number as well as the start information to the information management server 50. When the information management server 50 receives the start information, the information management server 50 changes the service information of the account data corresponding to the received serial number together with the start information from "standby" to "execution" (M182).

The above description is a description when the start selection button 212a is operated on the registration information screen 130 shown in FIG. 17, that is, a description when a contract for flat-rate printing processing is concluded. Further, on the registration information screen 130, the end selection button 212b is displayed as the selection button 212 on the printer information 210 whose service information is "implemented". The end selection button 212b is a button for canceling the contract for the flat-rate printing process. That is, in the printer corresponding to the printer information 210 whose service information is "implemented", a contract for flat-rate printing processing is concluded, and the flat-rate printing processing can be executed. Therefore, when the end selection button 212b is operated, the PC 70 transmits a request for canceling the contract for the flat-rate printing process to the information management server 50. Along with the contract cancellation request for the flat-rate printing process, the printer information corresponding to the end selection button 212b is also transmitted to the information management server 50. When the information management server 50 receives the contract cancellation request, the information management server 50 changes the service information of the account data corresponding to the printer information received together with the request from "implemented" to "not implemented".

Further, on the registration information screen 130 shown in FIG. 17, the cancel selection button 212c is displayed as the selection button 212 on the printer information 210 whose service information is “standby”. The cancel selection button 212c is a button for canceling the contract for the flat-rate printing process. That is, in the printer corresponding to the printer information 210 whose service information is "standby", a flat-rate printing processing contract has been concluded, but the dedicated cartridge has not been delivered, or the dedicated cartridge has been delivered. , It is in a standby state because it is not connected to the connection unit 24. Therefore, when the cancel selection button 212c is operated, the PC 70 transmits a request for canceling the contract for the flat-rate printing process to the information management server 50. Along with the contract cancellation request for the flat-rate printing process, the printer information corresponding to the cancel selection button 212c is also transmitted to the information management server 50. When the information management server 50 receives the contract cancellation request, the information management server 50 changes the service information of the account data corresponding to the printer information received together with the request from "standby" to "not executed".

Further, the usage information display button 214 of the registration information screen 130 shown in FIG. 17 is a button for displaying information about the printer under the contract for the flat-rate printing process. Therefore, when the usage information display button 214 is operated, the usage information display screen 240 shown in FIG. 20 is displayed on the display 76. On the usage information display screen 240, information about the printer under contract for the flat-rate printing process and the billing amount for the flat-rate printing process are displayed. As a result, the user can recognize the contract status of the flat-rate printing process.

The above description is a description regarding contracts, cancellations, etc. of flat-rate printing processing. Next, the flat-rate printing process and the normal printing process will be described. In the printer 10, the identification information of the cartridge 38 connected to the connection unit 24 is read by the reading unit 26 (see FIG. 5: M200). The identification information of the cartridge 38 is read for each of the plurality of cartridges 38 connected to the connection unit 24. Further, the remaining amount of ink filled in the cartridge 38 connected to the connection portion 24 is detected by the detection sensor 27 (M202). The remaining amount of ink is also detected for each of the plurality of cartridges 38 connected to the connection unit 24.

Next, it is determined whether the operation mode of the printer 10 is the first mode or the second mode (M204). When the operation mode of the printer 10 is the first mode (M204: first mode), the CPU 12 of the printer 10 determines whether or not even one dedicated cartridge 38 is connected to the connection unit 24. Judged (M206). Whether or not even one dedicated cartridge 38 is connected to the connection unit 24 is determined based on the identification information of the cartridge 38 read by the M200.

When even one dedicated cartridge 38 is connected to the connection unit 24 (M206: YES), a rejection screen (not shown) is displayed on the display 16 (M208). On the refusal screen, a comment is displayed to the effect that the execution of the printing process using the dedicated cartridge is refused because the contract for the flat-rate printing process is not made. Then, proceed to M210. On the other hand, when no dedicated cartridge 38 is connected to the connection portion 24 (M206: NO), the process of M208 is skipped and the process proceeds to M210. That is, if no dedicated cartridge 38 is connected to the connection unit 24, the rejection screen is not displayed on the display 16.

In M210, the CPU 12 determines whether or not a print instruction has been input (M210). Then, when there is no input of the print instruction (M210: NO), the process returns to M200. On the other hand, when there is an input of a print instruction (M210: YES), the CPU 12 determines whether or not even one dedicated cartridge 38 is connected to the connection unit 24 (M212). When no dedicated cartridge 38 is connected to the connection unit 24 (M212: NO), the printing process is executed (M214). Then, after executing the printing process, the process returns to M200. On the other hand, when even one dedicated cartridge 38 is connected to the connection unit 24 (M212: YES), the printing process is rejected (M216). That is, the printing process is not executed. Then, it returns to M200.

Further, when the operation mode of the printer 10 in M204 is the second mode (M204: second mode), the CPU 12 determines whether or not even one dedicated cartridge 38 is connected to the connection unit 24. (See FIG. 6: M220). When even one dedicated cartridge 38 is connected to the connection unit 24 (M220: YES), the flat-rate printing process in progress screen 230 shown in FIG. 19 is displayed on the display 16 (M222).

Next, it is determined by the CPU 12 whether or not the print instruction is input (M224). Then, when there is an input of a print instruction (M224: YES), the print process is executed (M226). Further, the number of printed sheets is stored in the data storage area 32 (M228). Then, the printer 10 determines whether or not it can communicate with the information management server 50 (M230). At this time, if communication with the information management server 50 is not possible (M230: NO), the process of M230 is repeated until communication with the information management server 50 becomes possible.

On the other hand, when communication with the information management server 50 is possible (M230: YES), the printer 10 uses the identification information of the cartridge 38 read by the M200 and the information regarding the remaining amount of ink detected by the M202 as cartridge information. , Send to information management server 50 (M
232). The cartridge information is transmitted separately for each of the plurality of cartridges 38 connected to the connection unit 24. Further, the printer 10 transmits the print information regarding the number of prints stored in the data storage area 32 to the information management server 50 together with the cartridge information (M232). The printer 10 transmits its own serial number to the information management server 50 together with the cartridge information and the print information.

When the information management server 50 receives the print information, the information management server 50 updates the print information of the account data corresponding to the received serial number together with the print information with the received print information (M234). Specifically, as shown in FIG. 9, the print information of the account data is composed of the number of prints printed by the flat-rate printing process and the date and time when the print information is received from the printer 10. Therefore, the printer 10 specifies the number of prints from the received print information, and stores the specified number of prints and the date and time when the print information is received as print information of the account data. Further, when the information management server 50 receives the cartridge information, the information management server 50 analyzes the cartridge information (M236). Specifically, it is determined whether or not the ink remaining amount is equal to or less than the threshold value based on the ink remaining amount information included in the cartridge information. Then, when the remaining amount of ink is equal to or less than the threshold value, the cartridge whose remaining amount of ink is equal to or less than the threshold value is ordered by designating the identification information of the cartridge. As a result, a new dedicated cartridge is delivered to the user of the printer 10 before the ink runs out.

Further, in the M220, when no dedicated cartridge 38 is connected to the connection portion 24 (M220: NO), the standby screen 220 shown in FIG. 18 is displayed on the display 16 (M238). Next, it is determined by the CPU 12 whether or not the print instruction is input (M240). Then, when there is an input of a print instruction (M240: YES), the print process is executed (M242). Then, the processing after M230 is executed. On the other hand, when there is no input of the print instruction (M240: NO), the processing of M242 is skipped and the processing after M230 is executed.

As described above, the printer 10 stores the number of prints in the data storage area 32 each time the flat-rate printing process is executed. Then, the printer 10 transmits information regarding the number of prints stored in the data storage area 32 to the information management server 50 at a timing when communication with the information management server 50 is possible. Therefore, the information management server 50 can appropriately acquire the number of prints when the flat-rate printing process is executed even when the printer 10 cannot always communicate with the printer 10. As a result, the information management server 50 can appropriately manage the number of prints in the flat-rate printing process.

The CPU 12 of the printer 10 that executes M176 is an example of display control means. The CPU 12 of the printer 10 that executes M206, M212, and M220 is an example of the determination means. The CPU 12 of the printer 10 that executes M214, M226, and M242 is an example of a recording processing executing means and an operating means. The CPU 12 of the printer 10 that executes M228 is an example of the storage control means. The CPU 12 of the printer 10 that executes M232 is an example of the first transmission means and the second transmission means.

Further, the CPU 52 of the information management server 50 that executes M117 is an example of the first receiving means. The CPU 52 of the information management server 50 that executes M152 is an example of the second receiving means. The CPU 52 of the information management server 50 that executes M164 is an example of the third transmission means. The CPU 52 of the information management server 50 that executes M168 is an example of output means.

<Second Embodiment>
The control program 30 stored in the storage unit 14 of the printer 10 of the communication system 1 of the first embodiment can control the operation of the printer 10 in any of the operation modes of the first mode and the second mode. Program. That is, in the printer 10 of the first embodiment, the first
A programmed control program 30 is adopted so that both the printing process according to the mode and the printing process according to the second mode can be executed. On the other hand, in the printer 10 of the second embodiment, the print process according to the first mode can be executed, but the control program 30 is programmed so that the print process according to the second mode cannot be executed. Has been adopted. Therefore, in the communication system 1 of the second embodiment, a control program programmed so that the printing process according to the second mode can be executed when the contract for the flat-rate printing process is concluded (hereinafter, A "second mode execution program") is transmitted from the information management server 50 to the printer 10.

Specifically, in the communication system 1 of the second embodiment, as in the communication system 1 of the first embodiment, account data composed of user information and printer information according to the sequence diagrams shown in FIGS. 2 and 3. Is registered in the information management server 50. Then, by operating the start selection button 212a on the registration information screen 130 shown in FIG. 17 (see FIG. 21: M160), the PC 70 transmits a request for a contract for flat-rate printing processing to the information management server 50 (M162). ). At this time, along with the contract request for the flat-rate printing process, the printer information corresponding to the start selection button 212a is also transmitted to the information management server 50. Since the sequence diagram of FIG. 21 is almost the same as the sequence diagram of FIG. 4, the same number is assigned to the common process in the sequence diagram of FIG. 21 and the sequence diagram of FIG. ..

When the information management server 50 receives the contract request for the flat-rate printing process, the information management server 50 transmits the second mode execution program to the printer 10 specified by the printer information received together with the contract request (M300). When the PC 70 receives the second mode execution program, it transmits a response to the information management server 50 in response to the reception of the program (M166). Then, the processes of M168 and M169 are executed, but since this process is the same as the processes of M168 and M169 in FIG. 4, the description thereof will be omitted.

When the printer 10 receives the second mode execution program, the printer 10 installs the program (M302). As a result, the printer 10 can execute the printing process according to the second mode. That is, it is possible to execute the printing process in the second mode described with reference to FIG. Since the processing after M170 in FIG. 21 is the same as the processing after M170 in FIG. 4, the description thereof will be omitted.

As described above, in the communication system 1 of the second embodiment, the flat-rate printing process can be executed by transmitting the second mode execution program from the information management server 50 to the printer 10 under the contract for the flat-rate printing process. It will be possible. As a result, the same effect as that of the communication system 1 of the first embodiment can be obtained in the communication system 1 of the second embodiment.

The CPU 52 of the information management server 50 that executes the M300 is an example of the fourth transmission means. Further, the CPU 12 of the printer 10 that executes the M300 is an example of the third transmission means. The CPU 12 of the printer 10 that executes M302 is an example of installation means.

<Third Embodiment>
In the first and second embodiments, the number of prints is counted only when the flat-rate printing process is executed, that is, when the printing process is executed with one or more dedicated cartridges connected in the second mode. It had been. On the other hand, in the third embodiment, the number of prints when the print process is executed in the state where one or more dedicated cartridges are connected in the second mode is counted, and the operation mode and the connection are made. Count the number of prints regardless of the cartridge. In the third embodiment, the cumulative number of printed sheets regardless of the operation mode or the connected cartridge is set as the first printed number, and in the second mode, the printing process in a state where one or more dedicated cartridges are connected is performed. The cumulative number of printed sheets when executed is defined as the second printed number. The number of first prints and the number of second prints may be reset by the printer 10 every time the predetermined period is extended, or may be counted up without being reset. The flat-rate printing process and the normal printing process in the third embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 22 and 23. Since FIGS. 22 and 23 are similar to those of FIGS. 5 and 6 described in the first embodiment, the same numbers are assigned to the common processes, and the description thereof will be omitted. In the M400, the CPU 12 counts up the number of first prints stored in the data storage area 34 by the number of sheets of paper printed by the M214. Then, it returns to M200. Further, in the M402, the CPU 12 counts up the number of first prints by the number of sheets printed by M226 (M402), and further counts up the number of second prints by the number of sheets printed by M226 (M402). M404). Then proceed to M230. Further, in the M406, the CPU 12 counts up the first print number by the number of sheets printed by the M242. As described above, in the third embodiment, the number of prints when the print process is executed in the state where one or more dedicated cartridges are connected in the second mode is counted, and the operation mode and the connection are performed. Since the number of prints is counted regardless of the cartridge, the number of prints can be managed in detail. Further, as the first number of prints, the number of prints in the print process executed when all the cartridges connected to the printer are normal cartridges may be counted. In that case, M402 in FIG. 23 becomes unnecessary.

The CPU 12 of the printer 10 that executes M400, M402, M404, and M406 is an example of storage control means.

The present invention is not limited to the above embodiment, and can be implemented in various embodiments with various modifications and improvements based on the knowledge of those skilled in the art. Specifically, the flat-rate printing process may be a process in which a value weighted by the number of sheets is calculated according to the amount of ink used in the printing process, and the calculated value is used. For example, even when printing is performed on one sheet of printing paper, if the amount of ink used is equal to or greater than the threshold value, it is counted as one sheet, but if it is less than the threshold value, it is counted as 0.5 sheet. Can be configured to.

In the above embodiment, the information management server 50 is composed of one web server, but may be composed of a plurality of web servers.

Further, in the above embodiment, the information management server 50 and the printer 10 directly send and receive data such as mode switching instructions and cartridge information, but indirectly send and receive data via the PC 70 and the like. May be done. That is, the printer 10 has a USB cable or LA.
It is connected to the PC 70 by N, a wireless LAN, or the like, and data can be transmitted and received between the printer 10 and the information management server 50 via the PC.

Further, the contract procedure for the flat-rate printing process is not limited to what is described in the present embodiment. For example, even if the printer 10 does not directly communicate with the information management server 50, the PC connected to the printer 10 sucks up information such as a serial number and a product name from the printer 10 and sends the information to the information management server 50. It is possible to register the printer 10 in the information management server 50.

Different flat-rate printing processes may be provided by each of the plurality of manufacturers. In that case, the printer 10 equipped with the control program 30 capable of executing the flat-rate printing process by a certain manufacturer performs printing using a dedicated cartridge for the flat-rate printing process by another manufacturer in the first mode and the second mode. In either case, it is preferable that the control program 30 controls the operation so that the operation cannot be performed. That is, the dedicated cartridge for the flat-rate printing process by another manufacturer is an illegal cartridge. Since the technique of refusing the use of an illegal cartridge is well known, the details will be omitted.

Further, in the above embodiment, the information management server 50 and the delivery management server 90 transmit and receive data via a network such as a network I / F56, but transmit and receive data by a USB cable or the like. It is possible.

Further, in the above embodiment, the printer 10 transmits information on the remaining amount of ink to the information management server 50, and the information management server 50 determines whether or not to order a cartridge based on the information on the remaining amount of ink. However, the printer 10 can send an ink order request to an external device when the remaining amount of ink is low.

Further, in the above embodiment, the inkjet type recording unit 22 is adopted, but the electrophotographic type recording unit may be adopted. In that case, the cartridge is filled with toner instead of ink.

Further, in the above embodiment, an example in which the processes shown in FIGS. 2 to 6 are executed by the CPU 12, CPU 52, CPU 72, etc. has been described, but these processes are not limited to the CPU 12, CPU 52, CPU 72, etc. It may be executed by a logical integrated circuit, or these processes may be executed by the cooperation of a CPU or the like, an ASIC, or another logical integrated circuit.

1: Communication system, 10: Printer, 12: CPU, 16: Display, 20: Network I / F, 22: Recording unit, 24: Connection unit, 26: Reading unit, 32: Data storage area, 40: IC chip, 50: Information management server, 52: CPU, 56: Network I / F, 70: PC

Claims (13)

A recording unit that records images by attaching recording material to recording paper,
A connection part where a cartridge filled with recording material is detachably connected,
A reading unit that reads the first identification information for identifying the cartridge stored in the storage medium provided in the cartridge connected to the connection unit.
Memory and
1st control unit and
At least in an image recording device that can communicate with the server device
The server device is
A first receiving means for receiving user information for identifying a user from an information processing device ,
A second receiving means for receiving the second identification information for identifying the image recording device from the image recording device, and
A transmission means for receiving user information by the first receiving means and transmitting a start request for starting a predetermined service to the image recording device when the second identification information is received by the second receiving means. ,
When the user information is received by the first receiving means and the second identification information is received by the second receiving means, a cartridge of a type specific to the user specified by the user information received by the first receiving means. An output means that outputs a command to deliver
Have,
The first control unit
A recording processing executing means for recording an image on recording paper by the recording unit using a recording material filled in a cartridge connected to the connection unit.
A determination means for determining whether or not the specific type of cartridge is connected to the connection unit based on the first identification information read by the reading unit.
An unimplemented state indicating that the predetermined service has not been executed, a standby state indicating that the predetermined service is in the standby state, and an implemented state indicating that the predetermined service is in the implemented state, respectively. When the operation means that can be operated according to the above is received and the start request of the predetermined service is received from the transmission means of the server device, the image recording device is shifted from the unexecuted state to the standby state, and the above An operating means for shifting the image recording device from the standby state to the implementation state when the specific type of cartridge is connected to the connection portion, and
Have,
The operating means
In the unimplemented state, when the determination means determines that the specific type of cartridge is not connected to the connection portion, the recording process execution means records using a cartridge that is not the specific type of cartridge. When the process is executed and the determination means determines that the specific type of cartridge is connected to the connection portion, the recording process execution means does not execute the recording process.
In the standby state and the implementation state ,
The recording process is executed by the recording process executing means using the cartridge connected to the connecting portion, and the recording process is executed.
The first control unit further
Having a storage control means for storing the recording information regarding the recording process executed when the determination means determines that the specific type of cartridge is connected to the connection unit in the implementation state. An image recording device characterized by. It is equipped with a first communication unit that communicates with the server device.
The first control unit
The image recording device according to claim 1, further comprising a first transmission means for transmitting the recorded information stored in the storage unit to the server device via the first communication unit. The connection portion can connect a plurality of the cartridges.
The judgment means is
When at least one of the plurality of cartridges connected to the connection portion is the cartridge of the specific type, it is determined that the cartridge of the specific type is connected to the connection portion, and the said A claim, characterized in that, when all the cartridges of the plurality of cartridges connected to the connection portion are not the cartridge of the specific type, it is determined that the cartridge of the specific type is not connected to the connection portion. The image recording apparatus according to 1 or 2. The image recording device includes a display unit.
The first control unit
In a state in which said actuating means is actuated in accordance with the exemplary condition, the pre-type recording information, according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that a display control means for displaying on the display unit Image recording device. It is equipped with a first communication unit that communicates with the server device.
The first control unit
It is characterized by having a second transmission means for transmitting the remaining amount information regarding the remaining amount of the recording material filled in the specific type of cartridge connected to the connection unit to the server device via the first communication unit. The image recording device according to any one of claims 1 to 4. The particular type of cartridge
When the user of the image recording device concludes a contract, the predetermined number of images recorded by the image recording device by the recording process using the specific type of cartridge for a predetermined period is equal to or less than the predetermined number of sheets. The image recording device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, which is supplied indefinitely at a predetermined amount corresponding to the number of sheets. The operating means
In any of the unexecuted state, the standby state, and the implemented state, it was determined that all the cartridges connected to the connection portion by the determination means are cartridges that are not the specific type of cartridges. The image recording apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the recording process is executed by the recording processing executing means. The storage control means relates to a recording process executed when it is determined that the specific type of cartridge is connected to the connection portion among the recording information related to the recording process executed by the recording process executing means. The first recording information, which is the recording information, is distinguished from the second recording information including at least the recording information related to the recording process executed when it is determined that the specific type of cartridge is not connected to the connection portion. The image recording device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the image recording device is stored in a storage unit. The recording information includes at least the number of recording sheets on which an image is recorded in the recording process executed by the recording processing execution means, and the first recording information includes the cartridge of the specific type at the connection portion. The image recording apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the recording process executed when it is determined that the image is connected includes the number of recording sheets on which the image is recorded. An image recording device that records an image on recording paper using an information processing device and a recording material filled in a cartridge connected to a connection unit, and the predetermined service has not been performed yet. Can communicate with an image recording device capable of taking an unexecuted state indicating that the predetermined service is in the standby state, a standby state indicating that the predetermined service is in the standby state, and an implemented state indicating that the predetermined service is in the implemented state. With the second communication department
2nd control unit and
In the server device equipped with
The second control unit
A first receiving means for receiving user information for identifying a user from the information processing device via the second communication unit.
A second receiving means for receiving the second identification information for identifying the image recording device from the image recording device via the second communication unit.
It is a start request for starting the predetermined service when the user information is received by the first receiving means and the second identification information is received by the second receiving means, and the second identification information is used. A third transmission means for transmitting a command for shifting the identified image recording device from the unexecuted state to the standby state to the image recording device via the second communication unit.
When the response of the command transmitted by the third transmitting means is received from the image recording device via the second communication unit, the identification is made to the user specified by the user information received by the first receiving means. An output means that outputs a command to deliver a cartridge of the type
Have,
The image recording device is
When the command from the third transmission means of the server device is received, the state shifts from the unexecuted state to the standby state, and a specific type of cartridge is connected to the connection portion of the image recording device. , Transition from the standby state to the implementation state,
In the unimplemented state, when the specific type of cartridge is not connected to the connection portion, a recording process is executed using a cartridge that is not the specific type of cartridge, and the specific type of cartridge is connected to the connection portion. When the cartridge is connected, the recording process is not executed, and in the standby state and the execution state, the recording process is executed using the cartridge connected to the connection portion, and in the execution state, the said Stores recording information about a recording process performed when the particular type of cartridge is connected to the connection.
A server device characterized by that. An image recording device that records an image on recording paper using an information processing device and a recording material filled in a cartridge connected to a connection unit, and the predetermined service has not been performed yet. Can communicate with an image recording device capable of taking an unexecuted state indicating that the predetermined service is in the standby state, a standby state indicating that the predetermined service is in the standby state, and an implemented state indicating that the predetermined service is in the implemented state. With the second communication department
2nd control unit and
In the server device equipped with
The second control unit
A first receiving means for receiving user information for identifying a user from the information processing device via the second communication unit.
A second receiving means for receiving the second identification information for identifying the image recording device from the image recording device via the second communication unit.
It is a start request for starting the predetermined service when the user information is received by the first receiving means and the second identification information is received by the second receiving means, and the second identification information is used. A fourth transmission means for transmitting a program for executing the identified image recording device in the standby state to the image recording device via the second communication unit, and
When the response of the command transmitted by the fourth transmitting means is received from the image recording device via the second communication unit, the identification is made to the user specified by the user information received by the first receiving means. An output means that outputs a command to deliver a cartridge of the type
Have,
The image recording device is
When the program is received from the fourth transmission means of the server device, the state shifts from the unexecuted state to the standby state, and a specific type of cartridge is connected to the connection portion of the image recording device. , The transition from the standby state to the implementation state,
In the standby state and the implementation state, the recording process is executed using the cartridge connected to the connection portion, and in the implementation state, when the specific type of cartridge is connected to the connection portion. The recording information about the executed recording process is stored in the storage unit of the image recording device.
A server device characterized by that. A recording unit that records an image by attaching a recording material to the recording paper, a connection unit to which a cartridge filled with the recording material is detachably connected, a first communication unit that communicates with a server device, and a storage unit. And a first control unit, the unexecuted state indicating that the predetermined service is in the unexecuted state, the standby state indicating that the predetermined service is in the standby state, and the predetermined service being executed. An image recording device that can take an implementation state indicating that it is in a state, and
The server device including the information processing device, the second communication unit capable of communicating with the image recording device, and the second control unit.
In a communication system equipped with
The first control unit
It has a second transmission means for transmitting the second identification information for identifying the image recording device of the transmission source to the server device via the first communication unit.
The second control unit
A first receiving means for receiving user information for identifying a user from the information processing device via the second communication unit.
A second receiving means that receives the second identification information transmitted by the second transmitting means via the second communication unit, and
It is a start request for starting the predetermined service when the user information is received by the first receiving means and the second identification information is received by the second receiving means, and the second identification information is used. A third transmission means for transmitting a switching command for shifting the identified image recording device from the unexecuted state to the standby state to the image recording device via the second communication unit.
When the response of the command transmitted by the third transmitting means is received from the image recording device via the second communication unit, the identification is made to the user specified by the user information received by the first receiving means. An output means that outputs a command to deliver a cartridge of the type
Have,
The image recording device is
When the switching command from the third transmission means of the server device is received, the state shifts from the unexecuted state to the standby state, and a specific type of cartridge is connected to the connection portion of the image recording device. In the transition from the standby state to the implementation state,
The first control unit of the image recording device
In the unimplemented state, when the specific type of cartridge is not connected to the connection portion, a recording process is executed using a cartridge that is not the specific type of cartridge, and the specific type of cartridge is connected to the connection portion. When the cartridge is connected, the recording process is not executed, and in the standby state and the execution state, the recording process is executed using the cartridge connected to the connection portion, and in the execution state, the said Stores recording information about a recording process performed when the particular type of cartridge is connected to the connection.
A communication system characterized by that. A recording unit that records an image by attaching a recording material to the recording paper, a connection unit to which a cartridge filled with the recording material is detachably connected, a first communication unit that communicates with a server device, and a storage unit. And a first control unit, the unexecuted state indicating that the predetermined service is in the unexecuted state, the standby state indicating that the predetermined service is in the standby state, and the predetermined service being executed. An image recording device that can take an implementation state indicating that it is in a state, and
The server device including the information processing device, the second communication unit capable of communicating with the image recording device, and the second control unit.
In a communication system equipped with
The first control unit
It has a second transmission means for transmitting the second identification information for identifying the image recording device of the transmission source to the server device via the first communication unit.
According to the first mode, the recording process is executed when a specific type of cartridge is not connected to the connection portion, and the recording process is not executed when the specific type of cartridge is connected.
The second control unit
A first receiving means for receiving user information for identifying a user from the information processing device via the second communication unit.
A second receiving means that receives the second identification information transmitted by the second transmitting means via the second communication unit, and
It is a start request for starting the predetermined service when the user information is received by the first receiving means and the second identification information is received by the second receiving means, and the second identification information is used. A fourth transmission means for transmitting a program for executing the identified image recording device in the standby state to the image recording device via the second communication unit, and
When the response of the command transmitted by the fourth transmitting means is received from the image recording device via the second communication unit, the identification is made to the user specified by the user information received by the first receiving means. An output means that outputs a command to deliver a cartridge of the type
Have,
The image recording device is
When the program is received from the fourth transmission means of the server device, the state shifts from the unexecuted state to the standby state, and a specific type of cartridge is connected to the connection portion of the image recording device. , The transition from the standby state to the implementation state,
The first control unit of the image recording device
A third receiving means that receives the program transmitted by the fourth transmitting means via the first communication unit, and
An installation means for installing the program received by the third receiving means, and
Have,
In the standby state and the implementation state, the recording process is executed using the cartridge connected to the connection portion, and in the implementation state, when the specific type of cartridge is connected to the connection portion. The recording information about the executed recording process is stored in the storage unit of the image recording device.
A communication system characterized by that.

Images