WO2014175336A1

WO2014175336A1 - Image formation device

Info

Publication number: WO2014175336A1
Application number: PCT/JP2014/061439
Authority: WO
Inventors: 勇大木
Original assignee: 理光（中国）投資有限公司
Priority date: 2013-04-26
Filing date: 2014-04-23
Publication date: 2014-10-30
Also published as: CN104125359B; CN104125359A

Abstract

This invention pertains to an image formation device in which a fax unit can be made to receive a fax signal normally even after the expiration of a maintenance service. If a comparison performed by a comparison unit indicates that a paper usage amount has reached or exceeded a limiting paper amount, an operation control unit controls this image formation device such that an image formation unit only activates when a fax unit receives a fax signal. A user can thereby be easily made aware of the fact that a maintenance service has expired, and the user can thus promptly contact a maintenance-service provider and have a final maintenance service performed on the image formation device, making it possible to maintain the best possible performance from beginning to end. Another aspect is that the user can continue to use the fax unit normally and send and receive faxes even after the expiration of the maintenance service, preventing the user from being unable to receive important faxes and preventing delays in the user's fax operations.

Description

Image forming apparatus

The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus, and more particularly to an image forming apparatus that allows a fax unit to normally receive a fax signal after maintenance service ends.

Multi-function printers (MFPs) are integrated office facilities that combine various image forming functions such as printing, copying, scanning, and faxing. It has a lot of functions and is easy to operate, so it has become increasingly widely used in office spaces.

Unlike ordinary home appliances, multifunction devices consist of a variety of precision parts, and the performance of these parts decreases with increasing usage time and number of uses, which can affect the quality of final image formation. There is. In addition, consumption of consumables such as toner and paper occurs during use. Therefore, it is necessary to provide daily maintenance services such as cleaning, adjustment or replacement of parts, replenishment of consumables, etc. to the multifunction peripheral. Currently, MFP maintenance service providers mainly provide two types of maintenance service.

The first maintenance service type is an annual contract type. For this type, the maintenance service contractor of the multifunction machine concludes a maintenance contract with a certain period of time, and provides maintenance services such as free cleaning, parts adjustment and paid parts replacement, and replenishment of consumables during the period. I promise to do. However, replacement of parts requires an extra-fixed cost, which increases the time for users to make decisions about whether or not to replace parts, and long-term decisions have a negative impact on the user's normal business use. . In addition, since the market price of parts constantly changes, there is a possibility that both parties often negotiate the price when parts are replaced, which may further increase the user's decision-making time. In addition, users often do not want to replace a part, only want to adjust the part, and the performance of the part will also become unstable, so the maintenance service provider will have to repeat the trip to the user location and adjust the performance of the part. Increases service costs for maintenance service providers and undermines the benefits of maintenance service providers. In addition, the maintenance service is provided based on a deadline, and when a certain user's usage frequency is relatively low, it is still necessary to bear the same cost as other users who have normal usage frequency. Such a maintenance service type is clearly unfair to the user and detrimental to the user.

The second maintenance type is a service full package type. With this type, the maintenance service provider of the MFP enters into a service full package contract with the user, and services such as free cleaning and parts adjustment for the user based on a certain amount of paper used, for example, every time 100,000 sheets are consumed. We promise to provide customer maintenance service once. This is because the performance of precision parts of the multifunction machine decreases as the number of uses increases, so it is highly accurate to provide maintenance services based on usage, and overcome the drawbacks of annual contract-type maintenance services. it can. This type of service full package contract that pays a non-fixed amount as necessary, is further divided into a service full package contract that includes consumables and a service full package contract that does not include consumables.

In a service full package contract including consumables, the total service cost such as cleaning, adjustment, replacement of parts, replenishment of consumables and regular visitor maintenance is transferred to the unit output cost of the paper, and the user uses the actual amount of paper used. Pay the cost according to. The unit output cost is relatively low when the actual usage amount within a certain period is large, and the unit output cost is relatively high when the actual usage amount is small. However, since maintenance service providers offer toner and other consumables free of charge, the current multifunction device has a function that prohibits the use of toner by the user after the maintenance service ends. The remaining toner can continue to be used, which detracts from the benefits of the maintenance service provider.

In a service full package contract that does not include consumables, only the service costs for cleaning, parts adjustment and regular maintenance of maintenance personnel are transferred to unit output costs, and the costs for parts replacement and consumables replenishment are calculated separately. However, since there is a possibility that the user obtains toner from other routes and the maintenance service provider is not responsible for providing the toner, it is impossible to know the maintenance service status from the usage status of the toner. It cannot be constructed, and it is impossible to voluntarily provide a visit maintenance service to the user based on the file, and a problem related to the maintenance service cannot be quickly solved for the user. In another aspect, current multifunction devices cannot voluntarily alert the user when the maintenance service is about to end or end, and users pay particular attention to the maintenance service status when using the multifunction device on a daily basis. Without forgetting to renew maintenance service contracts often. As described above, when the multifunction device breaks down after the end of the maintenance service period and the user contacts the maintenance service provider, the user knows that the maintenance service has already ended for the first time and cannot receive the maintenance service immediately. At this time, the user needs to pay money to extend the maintenance service contract at an unspecified time or to find another maintenance service contractor, while the MFP is in a state where it can not work for a long time, and the user's normal work is Seriously affected and negative to user interests.

The present invention is made to solve the above-described problem, and an object of the present invention is to provide an image forming apparatus that allows a fax unit to normally receive a fax signal even after the maintenance service ends.

The present invention adopts the following structure in order to achieve the above object.

The present invention stores at least information input from the outside of the image forming apparatus, and the information includes a paper limit amount related to maintenance service and toner use, service contact basic information corresponding to a maintenance service provider, and a counting function. Service-related information storage unit including service-related operation program that has; second counting unit that counts the sheets on which the image forming unit has completed image formation using the counting function, and obtains the sheet usage amount; Comparison unit used to compare the amount; if the comparison unit compares and the paper usage exceeds the paper limit, the image forming unit is controlled to operate only when the fax unit receives a fax signal. When the paper usage exceeds the paper limit by comparison between the operation control unit and the comparison unit, the service notification basic information is notified to the user. A fax unit including an image forming unit that forms an image on paper using at least toner, a first counting unit that cumulatively counts the paper on which image formation has been completed, and an image forming unit, including a notification unit And an image forming apparatus capable of providing a maintenance service related to at least the image forming unit.

According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an image forming apparatus that allows a fax unit to normally receive a fax signal even after the maintenance service ends.

1 is a block diagram of a multifunction machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is the schematic of the notification screen of an Example of this invention. 6 is a schematic diagram of an early warning screen according to an embodiment of the present invention. 4 is a schematic diagram of a warning screen according to an embodiment of the present invention. 4 is a schematic diagram of a contact details screen according to an embodiment of the present invention. 4 is a schematic diagram of a service content screen according to an embodiment of the present invention. 3 is an operation flowchart of the multifunction machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. It is a block diagram of the multifunctional machine of the modification 1 of this invention. It is an operation | movement flowchart of this modification multifunction peripheral.

Hereinafter, the MFP according to the present invention will be described in detail by combining the drawings and embodiments for carrying out the invention.

This embodiment stores at least information input from the outside of the image forming apparatus, and the information includes a paper limit amount related to maintenance service and use of toner, service contact basic information corresponding to a maintenance service provider, and a counting function. Service-related information storage unit including service-related operation program that has; second counting unit that counts the sheets on which the image forming unit has completed image formation using the counting function, and obtains the sheet usage amount; Comparison unit used to compare the amount; when the comparison unit compares and the paper usage exceeds the paper limit, the image forming unit controls to operate only when the fax unit receives a fax signal The operation control unit; and the comparison unit compare and notify the user of basic service contact information when the paper usage exceeds the paper limit. A fax unit including an image forming unit that forms an image on paper using at least toner, a first counting unit that cumulatively counts the paper on which image formation has been completed, and an image forming unit, including a notification unit And an image forming apparatus capable of providing a maintenance service related to at least the image forming unit.

The image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment further includes a display unit that displays a maintenance service state related to the maintenance service using at least the sheet limit amount, the sheet usage amount, and the basic service communication information, and the service related information storage unit is included therein. Further stores a warning screen used to warn the user that the maintenance service has already ended, and the display unit terminates the notification operation by displaying the warning screen as a notification unit.

In the image forming apparatus of the present embodiment, the service related information storage unit further stores a notification screen used for notifying the user input from the outside of the image forming apparatus about the maintenance service status related to the current paper use. When the paper usage is smaller than the paper limit, the display unit displays a notification screen using at least the paper limit, the paper usage, and the service communication basic information.

In the image forming apparatus according to the embodiment, the service-related information storage unit is further used to alert the user in advance that the maintenance service is about to end soon, and a paper usage early warning threshold value input from the outside of the image forming apparatus. When the early warning screen is memorized and the paper usage is less than the paper limit, the comparator further compares the paper usage with the paper early warning threshold, and the comparator compares the paper usage with the paper usage early. If the warning threshold is exceeded, the display unit displays an early warning screen.

In the image forming apparatus of this embodiment, the service-related information storage unit is further used to notify service content information corresponding to a maintenance service input from the outside of the image forming apparatus and maintenance service content that can be enjoyed by the user. The service content screen is stored, and the notification screen, the early warning screen, and the warning screen each further include a service content selection key used for allowing the user to check the service content information. After the service content selection key is selected, the display unit Display the service details screen.

In the image forming apparatus of the present embodiment, the service related information storage unit further notifies the user of the service contact detailed information corresponding to the maintenance service provider input from the outside of the image forming apparatus and the service contact detailed information. The contact details screen to be used is stored, and the notification screen, the early warning screen and the warning screen each further include a contact detail selection key used to allow the user to check the service contact details information, and is displayed after the contact detail selection key is selected. Department further displays the contact details screen.

The image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment includes a removable SD memory card issued by a maintenance service provider and a read / write unit used to read / write data from / to a service-related information storage unit. Stores the paper limit amount, paper usage early warning threshold, service contact basic information, service related operation program, notification screen, early warning screen, warning screen, service content screen, contact details screen, and the service related information storage section reads and writes From the SD memory card through the SD memory card, paper limit amount, paper usage early warning threshold, service contact basic information, service related operation program, notification screen, early warning screen, warning screen, service content screen, contact details screen The paper usage amount acquired and counted by the second counting unit by the reading / writing unit is stored in the service related information storage unit and the SD memo. Write to Kado.

In addition, the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment includes an external equipment communication unit used for communication with external equipment, a paper limit amount acquired from the external equipment by the external equipment communication unit, a paper use early warning threshold value, and service communication. Basic information, service-related operation program, notification screen, early warning screen, warning screen, service content screen, contact details screen are written in the service-related information storage unit, and the paper usage calculated by the second counting unit is stored in the service-related information A reading / writing unit used for writing in the unit is included, and the external equipment communication unit transmits the paper usage amount to the external equipment.

The image forming apparatus of the present embodiment further includes a printing unit including an image forming unit, and a higher-level machine communication unit used to receive a paper preset print amount used for printing transmitted from the higher-level machine. When the paper usage amount is less than the paper limit amount, the comparison unit further obtains the remaining paper amount from the paper usage amount and the paper limit amount, and compares the paper preset print amount with the paper remaining amount. When the remaining amount is less than the remaining amount, the operation control unit controls the printing unit to perform printing work, and when the paper preset printing amount is larger than the remaining amount of paper, the operation control unit controls the printing unit to stop the operation, Information indicating that printing is not possible is transmitted to the host machine via the host machine communication unit.

The image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment includes a copy unit including an image forming unit and an input unit used to input a paper preset copy amount used for copying. When the amount is less than the amount, the comparison unit further obtains the remaining paper amount from the paper usage amount and the paper limit amount, compares the paper preset copy amount with the paper remaining amount, and when the paper preset copy amount is less than the paper remaining amount, operation control The copy unit controls the printing unit to perform printing work, and when the paper preset copy amount is larger than the remaining amount of paper, the operation control unit controls the copy unit to stop working, and via the display unit Displays information that cannot be copied.

Further, in the image forming apparatus of the present embodiment, the image forming unit has a toner cartridge used to store toner, and the toner cartridge is exchanged for free or for a fee.

<Example>
FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a multifunction machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 1, the multifunction machine 1 can provide a maintenance service related to image formation by a maintenance service provider as an image forming apparatus, a service-related information storage unit 17, a read / write unit 3, a higher-level machine communication unit 4, a first counting unit 5 , Second counting unit 27, comparison unit 6, screen storage unit 7, temporary storage unit 8, display unit 10, input unit 11, operation control unit 12, printing function unit 13, copy function unit 14, fax function unit 15, scan A unit 80, a notification unit 22, a toner cartridge 16, and a control unit 9 used for overall control of each unit are included. The printing unit includes a printing function unit 13 and a toner cartridge 16, the copying unit includes a copying function unit 14 and a toner cartridge 16, and the fax unit includes a fax function unit 15 and a toner cartridge 16.

The service-related information storage unit 17 is used to store information input from the outside of the image forming apparatus. This information is a limited amount of paper related to the maintenance service and toner use, and basic service contact information corresponding to the maintenance service provider. , A notice screen, an early warning screen, a warning screen, a service content screen, a contact details screen, and a service related operation program having a counting function. In this embodiment, the external input information is information stored in the SD memory card 2.
The SD memory card (Secure Digital Memory Card, SD card) 2 is a removable memory card issued by a maintenance service provider that stores information related to the maintenance service of the MFP 1 and toner usage. This includes the limited amount of paper, the amount of paper used, the early warning threshold for paper usage, basic service contact information and detailed service contact information related to the maintenance service provider. The SD memory card 2 is an external prepaid card, and the user must purchase the SD memory card 2 without fail. After inserting the SD memory card 2 into the corresponding multifunction device 1, you can finally use all the functions of the multifunction device 1 including the printing and copying functions normally and receive maintenance services corresponding to the type of the SD memory card 2. Can do. Based on the type of maintenance service provided by the maintenance service provider, the SD memory card 2 is divided into an SD card for which the maintenance service provider provides toner service for free and an SD card for which toner service is provided for a fee. When a maintenance service provider purchases an SD card that provides toner service free of charge, the user can receive toner free from the maintenance service provider when the maintenance service is provided. When a user purchases an SD card that provides toner service for a fee, the user must pay toner to the maintenance service provider when purchasing the maintenance service, and the user may purchase toner from other suppliers. it can.

Among them, the limited amount of paper is the maximum amount of paper that the SD memory card 2 purchased by the user allows the user to use. SD memory card 2 is divided into 120,000 SD cards, 300,000 SD cards and 600,000 SD cards according to the difference in the limited amount of paper.

With a 120,000-sheet SD card, the limited amount of paper is 120,000 sheets, that is, when the cumulative amount of paper actually consumed by the user is less than 120,000 sheets, the user can perform normal maintenance services such as cleaning and component adjustment. Can receive. When the cumulative amount of paper actually consumed by the user is 120,000 sheets or more, the maintenance service ends, the user cannot receive the maintenance service, and cannot use all the functions of the multifunction device 1. If the user purchases a new SD memory card 2 and uses it in the multifunction device 1, the user can continue to receive the maintenance service provided by the maintenance service provider. The 300,000 SD card is limited to 300,000 sheets, that is, when the cumulative amount of paper actually consumed by the user is less than 300,000, the maintenance service can be received, but it cannot be received. Users can only purchase a new SD memory card 2 if they want to receive subsequent services. The 600,000 SD card limit is 600,000, and the maintenance service included is the same as above.

用紙 Paper usage is the cumulative amount of paper actually consumed by the user at the present time. Each time the user performs image formation that consumes paper, the paper usage is updated and rewritten in the service-related information storage unit 17. In this way, the user can always obtain the total amount of sheets actually consumed before performing image formation that consumes the next sheet. The amount of paper used is used to determine the current maintenance service status of the multifunction device 1. When the amount of paper used is greater than the limited amount of paper, the MFP 1 determines that the current maintenance service has already ended, stops using some functions, and the user must purchase a new SD memory card 2. All functions cannot be used and no further maintenance service is available.

The paper usage early warning threshold is a reference value used by the multi-function device 1 to determine that the current maintenance service status is about to end. In this embodiment, the paper usage early warning threshold value is 95% of the paper limited amount. When the amount of paper consumed by the user is equal to or greater than the paper usage early warning threshold, the multifunction device 1 determines that the current maintenance service status will end soon, and the user needs to contact the maintenance service provider immediately. Presenting and avoiding the inadvertent maintenance service from being terminated by the user, and avoiding inconvenience and loss to the user due to the MFP 1 being unable to use all the functions because the maintenance service has already ended. To do.

Service contact information is information such as the contact method of the maintenance service provider, and includes basic service contact information and detailed service contact information. The basic service contact information includes the name of the maintenance service provider and a contact telephone number. The service contact details information further includes other contact methods such as the maintenance service provider's fax number, contact address and email, to help the user contact the maintenance service provider in various ways. When the user needs to purchase a new SD memory card 2 or the MFP 1 fails and needs to be serviced, the user immediately contacts the maintenance service provider via the displayed service contact information. be able to. There is no need to find out which maintenance service provider provided the maintenance service, and the cost of the user-managed maintenance service can be saved.

The read / write unit 3 corresponds to the model number of the SD memory card 2, identifies the SD memory card 2, and is used to read and write information stored in the SD memory card 2. Read / write unit 3 stores the limited amount of paper stored in SD memory card 2, early warning threshold for paper usage, basic information for service communication, service related operation program, notification screen, early warning screen, warning screen, service content screen, contact details Service related information such as a screen is stored in the service related information storage unit 17. The second counting unit 27 uses the counting function stored in the service-related operation program, counts the sheets on which the image forming unit 23 has completed image formation, and acquires the sheet usage. The paper usage counted by the unit 27 is written in the service-related information storage unit 17 and the SD memory card 2.

When image formation such as printing, copying, or faxing is started, the read / write unit 3 reads the paper-limited amount, the paper usage early warning threshold value, and the paper usage amount at the end of the previous image formation from the service-related information storage unit 17. After completion of the current image formation, the read / write unit 3 writes the paper usage amount including the paper amount consumed by the current image formation in the service related information storage unit 17 and the SD memory card 2. The read / write unit 3 further reads the basic service contact information and the detailed service contact information, displays the information via the display unit 10, and notifies the user to contact the maintenance service provider as necessary.

The higher-level machine communication unit 4 is used to receive a print-waiting document transmitted from the higher-level machine, acquires a paper preset print amount used for printing based on the print-waiting document, and stores the paper preset print amount as a temporary storage unit 8 Save to. The paper preset printing amount is the amount of paper that is actually consumed when the printing unit finishes one printing.

The scan unit 80 is used to receive a scan signal transmitted from an external facility.
The input unit 11 is used to input a copy waiting document, acquires a paper preset copy amount used for copying based on the copy waiting document, and stores the paper preset copy amount in the temporary storage unit 8. The paper preset copy amount is the amount of paper actually consumed by the copy unit to finish one copy.

The fax function unit 15 is used to receive a fax waiting document sent from the host device, acquires a paper preset fax amount to be used for a fax based on the fax waiting document, and stores the paper preset fax amount in the temporary storage unit 8. To do. The paper preset fax amount is the amount of paper actually consumed by the fax unit to finish one fax.

The toner cartridge 16 is used to store toner for forming an image on paper, and is in the image forming unit 23. During the maintenance service, based on the type of SD memory card 2 purchased by the user, the maintenance service provider can provide the user with a free replacement maintenance service for the toner cartridge 16 or a paid replacement maintenance service for the toner cartridge 16. After using the toner, the user is free to select the next type of maintenance service that they want to renew. In order for the maintenance service provider to provide replacement service for the toner cartridge 16 corresponding to the type of SD memory card 2 purchased by the user, after the user selects the free replacement maintenance service for the toner cartridge 16, the user It is necessary to purchase the SD memory card 2 that supports the free replacement maintenance service, and after the user selects the paid replacement maintenance service for the toner cartridge 16, the user selects the SD memory card 2 that supports the paid replacement maintenance service for the toner cartridge 16. Need to buy.

The printing function unit 13 is used to perform printing work based on instructions from the control unit 9. The copy function unit 14 is used to perform a copy operation based on an instruction from the control unit 9. The fax function unit 15 is used to perform a fax operation based on an instruction from the control unit 9.

The first counting unit 5 is used for cumulatively counting the sheets on which image formation has been completed. Once the multifunction device 1 is activated, the first counting unit 5 starts accumulating the actual consumption of paper. The actual consumption amount is used to estimate the performance status of the multifunction device 1 by judging the number of times the multifunction device 1 is used.

The second counting unit 27 counts the sheets on which the image forming unit 23 has completed the image formation, acquires the sheet usage, and relates to the maintenance service. When printing, copying or faxing is started, the read / write unit 5 reads the paper usage amount stored in the service related information storage unit 17 and transmits it to the second counting unit 27. When printing, copying or faxing is completed, the second counting unit 27 sets the new paper usage to the sum of the paper usage and the paper preset usage for this printing, copying or faxing, and sends it to the read / write unit 5 for reading and writing. The unit 5 writes the updated paper usage in the service related information storage unit 17 and the SD memory card 2.

The temporary storage unit 8 is used to temporarily store information such as the paper preset printing amount obtained by the host device communication unit 4, the paper preset copy amount obtained by the input unit 11, and the paper preset fax amount obtained by the fax function unit 15. .

The comparison unit 6 reads the paper usage amount, the paper usage limit and the paper usage early warning threshold value from the service-related information storage unit 17, compares the paper usage amount with the paper usage limit, obtains the paper remaining amount, and uses the paper usage amount. Compare the paper usage early warning threshold. The comparison unit 6 further reads the paper preset print amount, the paper preset copy amount or the paper preset fax amount from the temporary storage unit 8, and compares the paper preset usage amount, the paper preset copy amount or the paper preset fax amount with the remaining paper amount, respectively. The comparison result is acquired, and the operation control unit 12 controls the next operation of the printing unit, the copy unit, or the fax unit based on the comparison result.

The display unit 10 displays the information on the notification screen, the early warning screen, the warning screen, the service content screen, and the contact details screen using at least the limited amount of paper, the amount of paper used, the remaining amount of paper, and the basic service communication information. The maintenance service status related to the maintenance service is displayed on the notification screen, the early warning screen, and the warning screen, respectively.

FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of the notification screen of the embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 2, the notification screen 30 is used to notify the user of the maintenance service status related to the current paper use. The notification screen 30 has a message “currently providing a maintenance service” and indicates to the user that the multifunction peripheral displaying the notification screen 30 in front of the user is currently providing a maintenance service. When the user sees the message, the user can perform image forming operations such as printing, copying, or faxing with peace of mind. At this time, if a failure occurs in the multifunction peripheral and normal operations cannot be performed, the user can contact a maintenance service provider to obtain a maintenance service. At this time, if the SD memory card 2 purchased by the user includes a toner free service, the user may contact the maintenance service provider and receive the toner free service when the toner of the MFP is finished. it can.

Announcement screen 30 also displays the amount of paper used, the amount of paper limited, and the remaining amount of paper, and is used to present the paper usage status related to the maintenance service to the user in real time. It is possible to understand the maintenance service status of the MFP 1 that is being used quickly during implementation, and to prevent the user from forgetting to renew the maintenance service contract.

The notification screen 30 further displays the basic service contact information of the maintenance service provider including the company name and contact telephone number of the maintenance service provider, and the user immediately contacts the maintenance service provider when the MFP 1 fails or after the maintenance service ends. In addition, the maintenance service or the maintenance service can be provided as soon as possible so that the normal operation of the user is not affected.

FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of the early warning screen of the embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 3, the early warning screen 18 is used to warn the user in advance that the maintenance service will be finished soon. The early warning screen 18 has a message “Maintenance service will be terminated soon. Please renew the contract as soon as possible” and prompts the user to renew the contract with the maintenance service provider in advance. Since the printer and the copier are stopped after the service is finished, printing or copying cannot be performed normally, and it is prevented from losing itself due to work delay.

Early warning screen 18 also displays the amount of paper used, the limited amount of paper, the remaining amount of paper and the basic service contact information of the maintenance service provider, prompts the user to close the maintenance service soon, and contacts the maintenance service provider enough Give you time.

FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of a warning screen according to an embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in Fig. 4, the warning screen 19 is used to warn the user that the maintenance service has already ended. Warning screen 19 has the message “Maintenance service has already ended. Printing and copying cannot be performed at this time. Please contact the following company” and the maintenance service has already ended for the user. Indicates that After the user purchases the SD memory card 2 again and renews the service contract, the user can continue to use the print function unit 13 and the copy function unit 14 normally.

The notification screen 30, the early warning screen 18 and the warning screen 19 each further have a contact detail selection key, that is, a message “other communication method” displayed on the notification screen 30, the early warning screen 18 and the warning screen 19. The contact detail selection key is used to make the user check the service contact detail information. After the contact details selection key is selected, the display unit 10 displays a contact details screen.

FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of the contact details screen of the embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 5, the contact details screen 21 is used to notify the user of the service contact details of the maintenance service provider, and the service contact details include the company name, contact telephone number, fax number, contact address and electronic information. Help users contact maintenance service providers in various ways, including email.

The notification screen 30, the early warning screen 18 and the warning screen 19 further have a service content selection key, that is, a message “service content” displayed in the notification screen 30, the early warning screen 18 and the warning screen 19, respectively. The service content selection key is used to make the user check service content information provided by the maintenance service provider. After the service content selection key is selected, the display unit 10 displays a service content screen.

FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of the service content screen of the embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 6, the service content screen 20 is used to notify the maintenance service content that the user can receive. This service includes free replacement of toner cartridges, free cleaning, replacement of fixing rollers, free provision of paper, free visit service (once every 100,000 sheets), and the like. The service content corresponds to the service purchased by the user, and varies depending on the type of SD memory card 2 purchased by the user.

The operation control unit 12 is used to control the operation of the printing unit, copy unit, and fax unit. During the start-up self-check of MFP 1, if the comparison unit 6 compares and the amount of paper used exceeds the paper limit, the operation control unit 12 operates the image forming unit only when the fax function unit 15 receives a fax signal. Control to do.

When the comparison unit 6 compares and the amount of paper used exceeds the limited amount, the notification unit has been stopped because the maintenance service has already been completed. 1 Informs the user that the failure is not caused by itself, prompts the user to contact the maintenance service provider promptly, and uses it to convey basic service contact information to the user so that the maintenance service can be continued. The notification unit can notify the user of the stop of the printing unit and the copying unit due to the end of the maintenance service in various ways, such as language presentation and screen display. When the notification unit notifies the user by the screen display method, the display unit 10 finishes the notification operation by displaying a warning screen as the notification unit.

The work process of MFP 1 is described in detail below.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart of the multifunction machine according to the embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in Fig. 7, the work process of MFP 1 is as follows.

Step S1-1:
The multifunction device 1 starts the start self-check operation, and the read / write unit 3 reads from the service-related information storage unit 17 the limited amount of paper N _L , the total amount of paper N ₁ , the amount of paper used N _2, and the paper usage early warning threshold N _V acquires, stores paper limited amount N _L, a paper consumption N ₂ and the paper used early warning threshold N _V in the temporary storage unit 8. Comparing unit 6 acquires the remaining sheets N _R compares the paper limited amount N _L and paper consumption N _2, to save the remaining sheets N _R in the temporary storage unit 8, the process proceeds to step S1-2.

Step S1-2:
The comparison unit 6 compares the paper usage amount N ₂ with the paper limited amount N _L. If the comparison part 6 compares paper consumption N ₂ is equal to or greater than the paper limited amount N _L, the process proceeds to step S1-5. When the comparison part 6 compares paper consumption N ₂ is less than the paper limited amount N _L, the process proceeds to step S1-3.

Step S1-3:
Comparing unit 6 continues to compare the paper consumption N ₂ and the paper used early warning thresholds N _V. If the comparison part 6 is paper consumption N ₂ compared became more paper using early warning threshold N _V, the process proceeds to step S1-6. When the comparison part 6 compares paper consumption N ₂ is less than the paper used early warning threshold N _V, the process proceeds to step S1-4.

Step S1-4:
The read / write unit 3 reads the service contact basic information from the service related information storage unit 17, and the display unit 10 uses the paper usage amount N ₂ , the paper limited amount N _L , and the paper remaining amount N _R to include the service communication basic information. A screen is displayed and it progresses to step S1-10.

Step S1-5:
The operation control unit 12 controls the image forming unit 23 to operate only when the fax function unit 15 receives a fax signal, and proceeds to step S1-7.

Step S1-6:
The read / write unit 3 reads the service contact basic information from the service related information storage unit 17, and the display unit 10 uses the paper usage amount N ₂ , the paper limited amount N _L , and the paper remaining amount N _R to include the service communication basic information at an early stage. A warning screen is displayed, and then the process proceeds to step S1-10.

Step S1-7:
The read / write unit 3 reads the service contact basic information from the service related information storage unit 17, and the display unit 10 uses the paper usage amount N ₂ , the paper limited amount N _L , and the paper remaining amount N _R to include the service communication basic information. Display the screen, then go to step S1-8.

Step S1-8:
The control unit 9 determines whether the fax function unit 15 has received a fax document. When the control unit 9 determines that the fax function unit 15 has received the fax document, the control unit 9 proceeds to step S1-9. When the control unit 9 determines that the fax function unit 15 has not received a fax document, the control unit 9 proceeds to an end state.

Step S1-9:
The fax function unit 15 forms an image on the received fax document, acquires a paper preset fax amount N _F based on the fax document, and stores the paper preset fax amount N _F in the temporary storage unit 8. The second counter 27 stops counting at the same time, the first counter 5 performs cumulative, i.e. the _{_{_{N 1 = N 1 + N F}}} , then proceeds to the end state.

Step S1-10:
The control unit 9 determines whether the multifunction device 1 will perform printing, copying or faxing soon. When the control unit 9 determines that the multifunction device 1 performs the printing operation, the process proceeds to step S1-11. When the control unit 9 determines that the multifunction device 1 performs the fax operation, the process proceeds to step S1-17. When the control unit 9 determines that the multifunction device 1 performs the copying operation, the process proceeds to step S1-19.

Step S1-11:
Upper machine communication unit 4 receives a print waiting document-level machine has transmitted, obtains the paper preset printing amount N _P used for printing, and stores the paper preset printing amount N _P in the temporary storage unit 8, then Proceed to step S1-12.

Step S1-12:
The comparison unit 6 reads the remaining paper amount N _R and the paper preset printing amount N _P from the temporary storage unit 8, and compares the paper preset printing amount N _P and the remaining paper amount N _R. When paper preset printing amount N _P is equal to or less than the residual paper N _R, the process proceeds to step S1-13. When the paper preset printing amount NP exceeds the paper remaining amount N _R , the process proceeds to step S1-15.

Step S1-13:
The printing function unit 13 performs printing normally, forms an image of a document waiting for printing, and proceeds to step S1-14 after completion.

Step S1-14:
Read the paper preset print quantity N _P from the second counter 27 is a temporary storage unit 8, the sum of paper consumption N ₂ and paper preset print quantity N _P as a new paper consumption N _2, a new paper consumption N ₂ The data is transmitted to the read / write unit 5, and the read / write unit 5 writes the new sheet usage N to the service-related information storage unit 17 and the SD memory card 2, that is, N ₂ = N ₂ + N _P. At the same time, the first counting unit 5 reads the paper preset printing amount N _P from the temporary storage unit 8 and sets the sum of the paper total printing amount N ₁ and the paper preset printing amount N _P as a new paper total printing amount N _1. ₁ is sent to the read / write unit 5, and the read / write unit 5 writes the new accumulated paper amount N ₁ to the service-related information storage unit 17 and the SD memory card 2, that is, N ₁ = N ₁ + N _P, and then proceeds to the end state .

Step S1-15:
The operation control unit 12 controls the printing function unit 13 to stop the work, and then proceeds to step S1-16.

Step S1-16:
The print function unit 13 transmits display information indicating that printing is not possible to the host machine, and then proceeds to the end state.

Step S1-17:
The fax function unit 15 receives the fax document, forms an image of the fax document, obtains a paper preset fax amount N _F based on the fax document, and stores the paper preset fax amount N _F in the temporary storage unit 8. Then, the process proceeds to step S1-18.

Step S1-18:
The second counting unit 27 reads the paper preset fax amount N _F from the temporary storage unit 8, sets the sum of the paper use amount N ₂ and the paper preset fax amount N _F as a new paper use amount N _2, and sets the new paper use amount N ₂ transmitted to the reading and writing unit 5, read-write unit 5 to write the new paper consumption N in the service-related information storage unit 17 and the SD memory card 2, that is, N ₂ = N ₂ + N _F. At the same time, the first counting unit 5 reads the paper preset fax amount N _F from the temporary storage unit 8 and sets the sum of the paper total amount N ₁ and the paper preset fax amount N _F as a new paper total amount N _1. ₁ is sent to the read / write unit 5, and the read / write unit 5 writes the new accumulated paper amount N ₁ to the service related information storage unit 17 and the SD memory card 2, that is, N ₁ = N ₁ + N _F, and then proceeds to the end state. .

Step S1-19:
Input unit 11 receives the copy waiting document, obtains the paper preset copy quantity N _C used for copying, storing the paper preset copy quantity NC in the temporary storage unit 8, then the process proceeds to step S1-20.

Step S1-20:
The comparison unit 6 reads the remaining paper amount N _R and the paper preset copy amount N _C from the temporary storage unit 8, and compares the paper preset copy amount N _C with the remaining paper amount N _R. When the paper preset copy amount N _C is equal to or less than the paper remaining amount N _R , the process proceeds to step S1-21. When the paper preset copy amount N _C exceeds the remaining paper amount N _R , the process proceeds to step S1-23.

Step S1-21:
The copy function unit 14 normally copies, forms an image of the document waiting for copying, and proceeds to step S1-22 after completion.

Step S1-22:
Read the paper preset copy quantity N _C from the second counter 27 is a temporary storage unit 8, the sum of paper consumption N ₂ and paper preset copy quantity N _C a new paper consumption N _2, a new paper consumption N ₂ The data is transmitted to the read / write unit 5, and the read / write unit 5 writes the new paper usage N in the service-related information storage unit 17 and the SD memory card 2, that is, N ₂ = N ₂ + N _C. At the same time, the first counting unit 5 reads the paper preset copy amount N _C from the temporary storage unit 8 and sets the sum of the paper total copy amount N ₁ and the paper preset copy amount N _C as the new paper total copy amount N _1. ₁ is sent to the read / write unit 5, and the read / write unit 5 writes the new accumulated paper amount N ₁ to the service related information storage unit 17 and the SD memory card 2, that is, N ₁ = N ₁ + N _C, and then proceeds to the end state. .

Step S1-23:
The operation control unit 12 controls the copy function unit 14 to stop the work, and then proceeds to step S1-24.

Step S1-24:
The copy unit displays information indicating that copying cannot be performed via the display unit 10, and then proceeds to an end state.

<Operation and effect of embodiment>
In the MFP according to the embodiment of the present invention, when the comparison unit compares and the amount of paper used exceeds the limited amount of paper, the operation control unit immediately controls the printing unit and the copy unit to stop working, and the user From now on, it is possible to easily know that the maintenance service has already ended, thereby promptly contacting the maintenance service provider and providing the maintenance service. In another aspect, even if the user has not renewed the maintenance service contract and is preparing to sell the MFP, the maintenance service provider can perform the final maintenance service on the MFP, The MFP can be sold with the best performance, and it helps the maintenance service provider to establish a good service image among new buyers. In addition, the user can easily determine whether or not to end the maintenance service based on whether the printing unit and the copying unit have stopped working, so that it is not necessary to send a person in charge to manage the multifunction peripheral, Management costs can be effectively reduced.

In addition, when the comparison unit compares the amount of paper used to exceed the limited amount of paper, the operation control unit further controls the fax unit to maintain a normal operating state, and the user performs the work of the printing unit and the copying unit. When stopped, it will still be able to successfully send and receive faxes using the fax unit, ensuring that important faxes will not be received and that the user's fax operations will not be delayed.

Also, if a failure occurs while the MFP is operating normally, maintenance service is being provided at this time, and the user has enough time to provide maintenance service to the maintenance service provider. There will be no business delay.

Furthermore, in this embodiment, since the SD card and operation control unit related to the maintenance service are used for auxiliary control of the printing unit, copy unit and fax unit of the multifunction machine, the maintenance service provider provides consumables such as toner free of charge. Once the maintenance service recorded by the SD card is finished, the operation control unit immediately stops the operation of the printing unit and the copy unit, and after the maintenance service purchased by the user is finished, the user continues to use the remaining toner. This is useful for the benefit of maintenance service providers.

<Modification 1>
FIG. 8 is a block diagram of a multifunction machine according to a modification of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 8, the MFP 201 does not have an SD memory card, and an external equipment communication unit 204 may be installed.

The external equipment communication unit 204 communicates with the host device, receives the print-waiting document transmitted by the host device, acquires the paper preset print amount used for printing based on the print-waiting document, The amount is stored in the temporary storage unit 208. The external equipment communication unit 204 further communicates with other external equipment, paper limited amount, paper use early warning threshold, service communication basic information, service related operation program, notification screen, early warning screen, warning screen, service content screen, Used to receive service related information such as contact details screens.

The reading / writing unit 203 is a limited amount of paper acquired by the external equipment communication unit 204 from the external equipment, paper usage early warning threshold, service contact basic information, service related operation program, notification screen, early warning screen, warning screen, service content The screen and the contact detail screen are written in the service related information storage unit 224, and the sheet usage counted by the second counting unit 205 is used to write in the service related information storage unit 224.

The external equipment communication unit 204 further transmits the amount of paper used to the external equipment.

The multifunction machine 201 further includes a first counting unit 225 that accumulates sheets on which image formation has been completed. The first counting unit 225 is used for accumulating the sheets on which image formation has been completed and obtaining the accumulated sheet value. The cumulative value is the total amount of sheets on which image formation has actually been performed. The cumulative value is accumulated all the time since the multifunction device 201 started to be used, and is used to determine the performance of the multifunction device 201 or the degree of old and new.

Fig. 9 is a flowchart of the operation of this modified multifunction machine.

As shown in Fig. 9, the work process of the MFP 201 is as follows.

Step S2-1:
The MFP 201 starts the start self-check operation, and the read / write unit 203 reads from the service-related information storage unit 224 the limited amount of paper N _L , the total amount of paper N ₁ , the amount of paper used N _2, and the paper usage early warning threshold N _V acquires, stores the paper limited amount N _L, paper consumption N ₂ and the paper using early warning thresholds N _V temporary storage unit 208. Comparing unit 206 obtains the remaining sheets N _R by comparing the paper limited amount N _L and paper consumption N _2, to save the remaining sheets N _R in the temporary storage unit 208, the process proceeds to step S2-2.

Step S2-2:
The comparison unit 206 compares the paper usage amount N ₂ with the paper limited amount N _L. If paper consumption N ₂ comparator section 206 compares becomes more paper limited amount N _L, the process proceeds to step S2-5. When paper consumption N ₂ is less than the paper limited amount NL comparing unit 206 compares, the process proceeds to step S2-3.

Step S2-3:
Comparing unit 206 continues to compare the paper consumption N ₂ and the paper used early warning thresholds N _V. If the comparison unit 206 is paper consumption N ₂ compared became more paper using early warning threshold N _V, the process proceeds to step S2-6. When paper consumption N ₂ is less than the paper used early warning threshold N _V comparing unit 206 compares, the process proceeds to step S2-4.

Step S2-4:
The reading / writing unit 203 reads the service contact basic information from the service related information storage unit 224, and the display unit 210 uses the paper usage amount N ₂ , the paper limited amount N _L , and the paper remaining amount N _R to include the service communication basic information. A screen is displayed and it progresses to step S2-10.

Step S2-5:
The operation control unit 212 controls the image forming unit 223 to operate only when the fax function unit 215 receives a fax signal, and proceeds to step S2-7.

Step S2-6:
Read / write unit 203 reads service contact basic information from service related information storage unit 224, and display unit 210 uses service amount N ₂ , paper limited amount N _L , and remaining paper amount N _R to include service contact basic information A warning screen is displayed, and then the process proceeds to step S2-10.

Step S2-7:
The read / write unit 203 reads the service contact basic information from the service related information storage unit 224, and the display unit 210 uses the paper usage amount N ₂ , the paper limited amount N _L , and the paper remaining amount N _R to include the service contact basic information. Display the screen, then go to step S2-8.

Step S2-8:
The control unit 217 determines whether the fax function unit 215 has received a fax document. When the control unit 217 determines that the fax function unit 215 has received the fax document, the control unit 217 proceeds to step S2-9. When the control unit 217 determines that the fax function unit 215 has not received the fax document, the control unit 217 proceeds to an end state.

Step S2-9:
Facsimile function unit 215 performs an image forming fax documents received, obtains the paper preset fax amount N _F, based on the fax document, and stores the paper preset fax amount NF in the temporary storage unit 208. The second counting unit 225 stops counting, at the same time, the first counting unit 205 performs the cumulative, i.e. the _{_{_{N 1 = N 1 + N F}}} , then proceeds to the end state.

Step S2-10:
The control unit 217 determines whether the multi-function peripheral 201 will perform printing, copying, or faxing soon. When the control unit 217 determines that the multifunction device 201 performs a printing operation, the control unit 217 proceeds to step S2-11. When the control unit 217 determines that the multifunction machine 201 performs the fax operation, the control unit 217 proceeds to step S2-17. When the control unit 217 determines that the multifunction machine 201 performs a copy operation, the process proceeds to step S2-19.

Step S2-11:
External equipment communication unit 204 receives the print waiting document-level machine has transmitted, it obtains the paper preset printing amount N _P used for printing, and stores the paper preset printing amount N _P in the temporary storage unit 208, then step Proceed to S2-12.

Step S2-12:
The comparison unit 206 reads the remaining paper amount N _R and the paper preset printing amount N _P from the temporary storage unit 208, and compares the paper preset printing amount N _P and the remaining paper amount N _R. When paper preset printing amount N _P is equal to or less than the residual paper N _R, the process proceeds to step S2-13. When paper preset print quantity N _P is larger than the residual paper N _R, the process proceeds to step S2-15.

Step S2-13:
The printing function unit 213 performs printing normally, forms an image of a document waiting for printing, and proceeds to step S2-14 after completion.

Step S2-14:
Read the paper preset print quantity N _P from the second counter 225 is a temporary storage unit 208, the sum of paper consumption N ₂ and paper preset print quantity N _P as a new paper consumption N _2, a new paper consumption N ₂ The data is transmitted to the read / write unit 203, and the read / write unit 203 writes the new paper usage N in the service-related information storage unit 224, that is, N ₂ = N ₂ + N _P and transmits it to the external equipment. At the same time, the first counting unit 205 reads the paper preset printing amount N _P from the temporary storage unit 208, sets the sum of the paper cumulative amount N1 and the paper preset printing amount N _P as a new paper cumulative amount N _1, and creates a new paper cumulative amount N _1. sends to the reading and writing portion 203, the reading and writing portion 203 writes the new sheet total amount N ₁ in the service-related information storage unit 224, i.e., the _{_{_{N 1 = N 1 + N P}}} , then the process proceeds to the end state.

Step S2-15:
The operation control unit 212 controls the printing function unit 213 to stop the operation, and then proceeds to step S2-16.

Step S2-16:
The print function unit 213 transmits display information indicating that printing is not possible to the host machine, and then proceeds to the end state.

Step S2-17:
The fax function unit 215 receives the fax document, forms an image on the fax document, acquires the paper preset fax amount NF based on the fax document, stores the paper preset fax amount NF in the temporary storage unit 208, Then, the process proceeds to step S2-18.

Step S2-18:
The second counting unit 225 reads the paper preset fax amount N _F from the temporary storage unit 208, sets the sum of the paper use amount N ₂ and the paper preset fax amount N _F as the new paper use amount N _2, and sets the new paper use amount N ₂ transmitted to the reading and writing portion 203, the reading and writing portion 203 writes the new paper consumption N in the service-related information storage unit 224, that is, _{_{_{N 2 = N 2 + N F}}} . At the same time, the first counting unit 205 reads the paper preset fax amount N _F from the temporary storage unit 208, sets the sum of the paper total amount N ₁ and the paper preset fax amount N _F as a new paper total amount N _1, and creates a new paper total amount N. transmits _one to the reading and writing portion 203, the reading and writing portion 203 writes the new sheet total amount N ₁ in the service-related information storage unit 224, i.e., the _{_{_{N 1 = N 1 + N F}}} , then proceeds to the end state.

Step S2-19:
The input unit 211 receives the document waiting for copying, acquires the paper preset copy amount N _C used for copying, stores the paper preset copy amount N _C in the temporary storage unit 208, and then proceeds to step S2-20.

Step S2-20:
The comparison unit 206 reads the remaining sheet amount N _R and the sheet preset copy amount N _C from the temporary storage unit 208, and compares the sheet preset copy amount N _C and the remaining sheet amount N _R. When the paper preset copy amount N _C is equal to or less than the paper remaining amount N _R , the process proceeds to step S2-21. When the paper preset copy amount N _C exceeds the remaining paper amount N _R , the process proceeds to step S2-23.

Step S2-21:
The copy function unit 214 normally copies, forms an image of the document waiting for copying, and proceeds to step S2-22 after completion.

Step S2-22:
Read the paper preset copy quantity N _C from the second counter 225 is a temporary storage unit 208, the sum of paper consumption N ₂ and paper preset copy quantity N _C a new paper consumption N _2, a new paper consumption N ₂ The data is transmitted to the read / write unit 203, and the read / write unit 203 writes the new sheet usage N to the service-related information storage unit 224 and the SD memory card 2, that is, N ₂ = N ₂ + N _C. At the same time, the first counting unit 205 reads the paper preset copy amount N _C from the temporary storage unit 208, and sets the sum of the paper total copy amount N ₁ and the paper preset copy amount N _C as a new paper total copy amount N _1. transmits _one to the reading and writing portion 203, the reading and writing portion 203 writes the new sheet total amount N ₁ in the service-related information storage unit 224 and the SD memory card 2, i.e. the _{_{_{N 1 = N 1 + N C}}} , then proceeds to the end state .

Step S2-23:
The operation control unit 212 controls the copy function unit 214 to stop the work, and then proceeds to step S2-24.

Step S2-24:
The copy unit displays information indicating that copying cannot be performed via the display unit 210, and then proceeds to an end state.

<Operation and effect of embodiment>
In the image forming apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention, the operation control unit immediately controls the printing unit and the copy unit to stop the operation when the comparison unit compares and the amount of used paper exceeds the limited amount of paper. From now on, it is easy to know that the maintenance service has already ended, so that it is possible to promptly contact the maintenance service provider and provide the maintenance service. In another aspect, even if the user does not renew the maintenance service contract and is preparing to sell the image forming apparatus, the maintenance service provider can perform the last maintenance service for the multifunction peripheral, The image forming apparatus can be put on the market with the best performance, and it helps the maintenance service provider to establish a good service image among new buyers. In addition, the user can easily determine whether the maintenance service has been completed based on whether the unit and the copy unit have stopped working, so there is no need to send a person in charge to manage the multifunction device, reducing the user management cost. It can be effectively reduced.

Also, if a failure occurs while the MFP is operating normally, maintenance service is being provided at this time, and the user has enough time to provide maintenance service to the maintenance service provider. There will be no business delay.
In addition, this modification uses the SD card and operation control unit related to the maintenance service to assist in controlling the printing unit, copy unit, and fax unit of the multifunction machine, so the maintenance service provider provides consumables such as toner free of charge. Once the maintenance service recorded by the SD card is finished, the operation control unit immediately stops the operation of the printing unit and the copy unit, and after the maintenance service purchased by the user is finished, the user continues to use the remaining toner. This is useful for the benefit of maintenance service providers.

Also, in one aspect, it does not allow users to continue using toner provided free of charge by the maintenance service provider, which helps the maintenance service provider, and in another aspect, the user promptly contacts the maintenance service provider and enters into a maintenance service contract. It is possible to prevent the phenomenon that the image forming apparatus has failed and cannot be guaranteed and repaired after the maintenance service period ends, which is useful for the maintenance user.

In the image forming apparatus of the present invention, the operation control unit controls the image forming unit to operate only when the fax unit receives a fax signal when the comparison unit determines that the amount of paper used is equal to or greater than the limited amount of paper. Therefore, based on this, the user can easily know that the maintenance service has already ended, thereby promptly contacting the maintenance service provider and providing the maintenance service. In another aspect, even if the user does not renew the maintenance service contract and is preparing to sell the image forming apparatus, the maintenance service provider performs the last maintenance service on the image forming apparatus and The forming device can be marketed with the best performance, helping the maintenance service provider establish a good service image among new buyers. In addition, the user can easily determine whether to end the maintenance service based on whether the printing unit and the copying unit have stopped operating, so that it is not necessary to dispatch a person in charge to manage the image forming apparatus. Management costs can be effectively reduced. Also, after the maintenance service ends, the user can still successfully send and receive faxes using the fax unit, ensuring that important faxes are not received and that the user's fax operations are not delayed.

In another aspect, the image forming apparatus includes a first counting unit that accumulates the total number of sheets used and a second counting unit that counts only the sheets related to the maintenance service. When an abnormal condition occurs in the forming device, the second counting unit immediately stops counting, and at the same time, the first counting unit can continue to count, so it can display the old and new status of the MFP and the maintenance service status at the same time, The two counting functions do not affect each other.

The preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described above. However, the present invention is not limited to such embodiments, and all modifications to the present invention belong to the technical scope of the present invention unless departing from the spirit of the present invention.

This international application claims priority based on the Chinese patent application No. 201310151681.7 filed on April 26, 2013, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Claims

Including at least an image forming unit that forms an image on a sheet using toner, a first counting unit that cumulatively counts the sheets on which the image has been formed, and a fax unit that includes the image forming unit. An image forming apparatus capable of providing a maintenance service related to the image forming unit,
At least information input from the outside of the image forming apparatus is stored, and the information includes a limit amount of paper related to maintenance service and toner use, service contact basic information corresponding to a maintenance service provider, and service related operation having a counting function. Service-related information storage unit including programs,
A second counting unit that counts the sheets on which the image forming unit has completed image formation using a counting function, and obtains the sheet usage amount;
A comparison unit used to compare the paper usage with the paper limit;
An operation control unit that controls the image forming unit to operate only when the fax unit receives a fax signal when the sheet usage amount exceeds the sheet limit amount by comparison of the comparison unit; and An image forming apparatus, comprising: a notification unit that notifies the user of the basic service communication information when the amount of paper used exceeds a sheet limit amount by comparison of a comparison unit.
A display unit for displaying a maintenance service status related to the maintenance service using at least the paper limit amount, the paper usage amount, and the service contact basic information;
The service related information storage unit further stores a warning screen used to warn the user that the maintenance service has already ended,
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the display unit performs a notification operation by displaying the warning screen as the notification unit.
The service-related information storage unit further stores a notification screen used for notifying a user input from the outside of the image forming apparatus of a maintenance service state related to the current paper use,
The display unit displays the notification screen using at least the paper limit amount, the paper use amount, and the service contact basic information when the paper use amount is smaller than the paper limit amount. The image forming apparatus according to 2.
The service-related information storage unit further stores a paper usage early warning threshold value input from the outside of the image forming apparatus and an early warning screen used to warn the user in advance that the maintenance service will be completed soon. ,
When the paper usage is less than the paper limit, the comparison unit further compares the paper usage with the paper usage early warning threshold,
4. The image formation according to claim 3, wherein the display unit displays the early warning screen when the paper usage amount becomes equal to or greater than the paper usage early warning threshold value by comparison of the comparison unit. apparatus.
The service related information storage unit further stores service content information corresponding to the maintenance service input from the outside of the image forming apparatus, and a service content screen used to notify the user of the maintenance service content that can be enjoyed by the user,
The notification screen, the early warning screen, and the warning screen each further include a service content selection key used for allowing a user to check the service content information, and after the service content selection key is selected, the display unit displays the service content selection key. The image forming apparatus according to claim 4, wherein a service content screen is displayed.
The service related information storage unit further stores service contact detailed information corresponding to the maintenance service provider input from the outside of the image forming apparatus, and a contact detail screen used to notify the user of the service contact detailed information. ,
The notification screen, the early warning screen, and the warning screen each further include a contact detail selection key used for allowing a user to check the service contact detail information, and after the contact detail selection key is selected, the display unit The image forming apparatus according to claim 5, further displaying the contact details screen.
A readable / writable SD memory card provided by the maintenance service provider and a read / write unit used to read / write the service related information storage unit;
The SD memory card has the paper limit amount, the paper use early warning threshold, the service communication basic information, the service related operation program, the notification screen, the early warning screen, the warning screen, the service content screen, the Memorize the contact details screen,
The service related information storage unit through the read / write unit from the SD memory card the paper limit amount, the paper use early warning threshold, the service contact basic information, the service related operation program, the notification screen, Get the early warning screen, the warning screen, the service content screen, the contact details screen,
The image forming apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the read / write unit writes the sheet usage amount counted by the second counting unit to the service-related information storage unit and the SD memory card.
External equipment communication unit used for communication with external equipment, and the paper limit amount acquired by the external equipment communication unit from the external equipment, the paper use early warning threshold, the service contact basic information, the service related operation The program, the notification screen, the early warning screen, the warning screen, the service content screen, and the contact details screen are written in the service related information storage unit, and the paper usage calculated by the second counting unit is used as the service Including a read / write unit used to write to the related information storage unit,
The image forming apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the external equipment communication unit transmits the paper usage amount to the external equipment.
A printing unit including the image forming unit, and a higher-level machine communication unit used to receive a paper preset printing amount used for printing transmitted by the higher-level machine,
When the paper usage amount is smaller than the paper limit amount, the comparison unit further obtains a paper remaining amount from the paper usage amount and the paper limit amount, and compares the paper preset printing amount with the paper remaining amount,
When the paper preset printing amount is less than or equal to the remaining paper amount, the operation control unit controls the printing unit to perform a printing operation,
When the paper preset printing amount is greater than the remaining amount of paper, the operation control unit controls the printing unit to stop working and transmits information indicating that printing cannot be performed to the higher-level machine via the higher-level machine communication unit. The image forming apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the image forming apparatus is an image forming apparatus.
A copy unit including the image forming unit, and an input unit used to input a paper preset copy amount used for copying;
When the paper usage amount is less than the paper limit amount, the comparison unit further obtains a paper remaining amount from the paper usage amount and the paper limit amount, and compares the paper preset copy amount with the paper remaining amount,
When the paper preset copy amount is less than or equal to the remaining paper amount, the operation control unit controls the copy unit to perform a printing operation,
When the paper preset copy amount is greater than the remaining amount of paper, the operation control unit controls the copy unit to stop working, and displays information indicating that copying cannot be performed via the display unit. The image forming apparatus according to claim 7 or 8.
A toner cartridge used by the image forming unit to store the toner;
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the toner cartridge is replaced free of charge or charged.