WO2014175336A1 - Image formation device - Google Patents
Image formation device Download PDFInfo
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- WO2014175336A1 WO2014175336A1 PCT/JP2014/061439 JP2014061439W WO2014175336A1 WO 2014175336 A1 WO2014175336 A1 WO 2014175336A1 JP 2014061439 W JP2014061439 W JP 2014061439W WO 2014175336 A1 WO2014175336 A1 WO 2014175336A1
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- WIPO (PCT)
- Prior art keywords
- paper
- unit
- service
- amount
- image forming
- Prior art date
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Classifications
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- G—PHYSICS
- G03—PHOTOGRAPHY; CINEMATOGRAPHY; ANALOGOUS TECHNIQUES USING WAVES OTHER THAN OPTICAL WAVES; ELECTROGRAPHY; HOLOGRAPHY
- G03G—ELECTROGRAPHY; ELECTROPHOTOGRAPHY; MAGNETOGRAPHY
- G03G15/00—Apparatus for electrographic processes using a charge pattern
- G03G15/55—Self-diagnostics; Malfunction or lifetime display
- G03G15/553—Monitoring or warning means for exhaustion or lifetime end of consumables, e.g. indication of insufficient copy sheet quantity for a job
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
- B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
- B41J29/00—Details of, or accessories for, typewriters or selective printing mechanisms not otherwise provided for
- B41J29/17—Cleaning arrangements
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- G—PHYSICS
- G03—PHOTOGRAPHY; CINEMATOGRAPHY; ANALOGOUS TECHNIQUES USING WAVES OTHER THAN OPTICAL WAVES; ELECTROGRAPHY; HOLOGRAPHY
- G03G—ELECTROGRAPHY; ELECTROPHOTOGRAPHY; MAGNETOGRAPHY
- G03G15/00—Apparatus for electrographic processes using a charge pattern
- G03G15/50—Machine control of apparatus for electrographic processes using a charge pattern, e.g. regulating differents parts of the machine, multimode copiers, microprocessor control
- G03G15/5016—User-machine interface; Display panels; Control console
- G03G15/502—User-machine interface; Display panels; Control console relating to the structure of the control menu, e.g. pop-up menus, help screens
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- G—PHYSICS
- G03—PHOTOGRAPHY; CINEMATOGRAPHY; ANALOGOUS TECHNIQUES USING WAVES OTHER THAN OPTICAL WAVES; ELECTROGRAPHY; HOLOGRAPHY
- G03G—ELECTROGRAPHY; ELECTROPHOTOGRAPHY; MAGNETOGRAPHY
- G03G15/00—Apparatus for electrographic processes using a charge pattern
- G03G15/55—Self-diagnostics; Malfunction or lifetime display
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N1/00—Scanning, transmission or reproduction of documents or the like, e.g. facsimile transmission; Details thereof
- H04N1/32—Circuits or arrangements for control or supervision between transmitter and receiver or between image input and image output device, e.g. between a still-image camera and its memory or between a still-image camera and a printer device
- H04N1/333—Mode signalling or mode changing; Handshaking therefor
- H04N1/33376—Mode signalling or mode changing; Handshaking therefor according to characteristics or state of one of the communicating parties, e.g. available memory capacity
Definitions
- 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 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.
- 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.
- MFP maintenance service providers mainly provide two types of maintenance service.
- the first maintenance service type is an annual contract 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.
- 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. .
- both parties often negotiate the price when parts are replaced, which may further increase the user's decision-making time.
- the second maintenance type is a service full package 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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 Region 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.
- 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.
- 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
- 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 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.
- 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.
- the display unit displays a notification screen using at least the paper limit, the paper usage, and the service communication basic information.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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 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.
- 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.
- the image forming apparatus 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.
- 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.
- 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 includes a copy unit including an image forming unit and an input unit used to input a paper preset copy amount used for copying.
- 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.
- the image forming unit has a toner cartridge used to store toner, and the toner cartridge is exchanged for free or for a fee.
- FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a multifunction machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- the 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- the maintenance service ends, the user cannot receive the maintenance service, and cannot use all the functions of the multifunction device 1.
- 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.
- 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.
- the paper usage early warning threshold value is 95% of the paper limited amount.
- 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.
- 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.
- the read / write unit 3 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.
- 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.
- the maintenance service provider 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- the user can perform image forming operations such as printing, copying, or faxing with peace of mind.
- the user can contact a maintenance service provider to obtain a maintenance service.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- the notification unit 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.
- the display unit 10 finishes the notification operation by displaying a warning screen as the notification unit.
- FIG. 7 is a flowchart of the multifunction machine according to the embodiment of the present invention.
- 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.
- 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 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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 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.
- 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.
- the operation control unit 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- the maintenance service provider provides consumables such as toner free of charge.
- 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.
- FIG. 8 is a block diagram of a multifunction machine according to a modification of the present invention.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
- 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 S2-19 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 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
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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
本発明は画像形成装置に関し、特にメンテナンスサービス終了後にファックスユニットにファックス信号を正常に受信させることができる画像形成装置に関するものである。
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.
複合機(Multi-Function Printer,MFP)は印刷、コピー、スキャン、ファックス等の多様な画像形成機能を一つにまとめた集約化オフィス設備である。機能が非常に多く、操作が簡単なため、オフィススペースでは次第に広く応用されるようになった。
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.
一般の家電と異なり、複合機は様々な精密部品からなり、これら部品の性能は使用時間の増加と使用回数の増加に伴い低下していき、それにより最終画像形成の質に影響を及ぼす可能性がある。また、使用中も、トナーや用紙等の消耗品の消耗が発生する。そのため、複合機にクリーニング、調整または部品交換、消耗品の補充等の日常のメンテナンスサービスを提供することが必要である。現在、複合機のメンテナンスサービス業者は主に二種類のメンテナンスサービスタイプを提供している。
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.
一つ目のメンテナンスサービスタイプは年間契約型である。当該タイプでは、複合機のメンテナンスサービス業者はユーザーと一定期限を有する整備契約を締結し、当該期限中、ユーザーに無料のクリーニング、部品調整及び有償の部品交換、消耗品補充等のメンテナンスサービスを提供することを約束する。しかし、部品の交換には定額外の費用が必要なため、ユーザーが部品交換をするかどうかについて意思決定する時間を延ばし、長時間の意思決定はユーザーの正常な業務使用にマイナスの影響を与える。また、部品の市場価格が絶えず変化するため、部品交換時にしばしば双方が価格交渉する現象が発生し、ユーザーの意思決定時間をさらに延ばしている可能性がある。さらに、ユーザーはしばしば部品の交換を望まず、部品調整だけを望み、当該部品の性能はまた不安定になり、そのためメンテナンスサービス業者はユーザー所在地への往復を繰り返す必要があり、当該部品の性能調整は、メンテナンスサービス業者のサービスコストを上げ、メンテナンスサービス業者の利益を損ねている。また、当該メンテナンスサービスは期限に基づいて提供するものであり、あるユーザーの期限内の使用頻度が比較的低いときも、依然として正常使用頻度を有するその他ユーザーと同じ費用を負担する必要がある。このようなメンテナンスサービスタイプは当該ユーザーにとって明らかに不公平であり、当該ユーザーの利益を損ねている。
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.
二つ目の整備タイプはサービスフルパッケージ型である。当該タイプでは、複合機のメンテナンスサービス業者はユーザーとサービスフルパッケージ契約を締結し、一定の用紙使用量に基づいてユーザーに無料のクリーニング、部品調整等のサービス、例えば用紙を10万枚消耗するごとに一回顧客に訪問メンテナンスサービスを提供することを約束する。これは、複合機の精密部品の性能が使用回数の増加と共に低下していくためであり、そのため使用量に基づいてメンテナンスサービス提供するのは的確性が高く、年間契約型メンテナンスサービスの欠点を克服できる。必要に応じて定額外の費用を支払うタイプ、当該サービスフルパッケージ契約はさらに消耗品を含むサービスフルパッケージ契約と消耗品を含まないサービスフルパッケージ契約に分けられる。
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.
消耗品を含むサービスフルパッケージ契約では、クリーニング、調整、部品交換、消耗品の補充及び整備士の定期訪問整備等のトータルサービス費用は用紙の単位出力費用に転嫁され、ユーザーは用紙の実際の使用量に応じて費用を支払う。一定期間内の実際の使用量が多ければ、単位出力費用は相対的に安くなり、実際の使用量が少なければ、単位出力費用は相対的に高くなる。しかしながら、メンテナンスサービス業者がトナー等の消耗品を無料提供するため、現在の複合機はメンテナンスサービス終了後ユーザーのトナー使用を禁止する機能があるか、ユーザーの購入したメンテナンスサービス終了後、ユーザーはさらに残ったトナーを引き続き使用でき、これはメンテナンスサービス業者の利益を損ねる。
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.
消耗品を含まないサービスフルパッケージ契約では、クリーニング、部品調整と整備員の定期訪問整備等のサービス費用だけが単位出力費用に転嫁され、部品交換と消耗品補充の費用は別途計算となる。しかしながら、ユーザーが他のルートからトナーを入手する可能性があり、メンテナンスサービス業者がトナーの提供を担わないため、トナーの使用状況からメンテナンスサービス状態を知ることはできず、ユーザーにメンテナンスサービスファイルを構築することができず、さらに当該ファイルに基づいてユーザーに自発的に訪問メンテナンスサービスを提供できず、速やかにユーザーのためにメンテナンスサービス関連の問題を解決できない。もう一つの面では、現在の複合機はメンテナンスサービスが間もなく終了または終了するときに自発的にユーザーに注意を促すことができず、ユーザーは日常で複合機を使用時にメンテナンスサービス状態を特に注意することなく、しばしばメンテナンスサービス契約の更新を忘れてしまう。このように、メンテナンスサービス期限終了後に複合機が故障し、ユーザーがメンテナンスサービス業者に連絡したとき、初めてメンテナンスサービスが既に終了していることを知り、すぐにメンテナンスサービスを受けることができない。このとき、ユーザーはお金を出して規定外の時間にメンテナンスサービス契約を延長するまたは他のメンテナンスサービス業者を探す必要があり、その間、複合機はずっと作業できない状態にあり、ユーザーの正常な仕事は深刻な影響を受け、ユーザーの利益にマイナスとなる。
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.
本発明は前記問題を解決するために行うものであり、メンテナンスサービス終了後もファックスユニットにファックス信号を正常に受信させる画像形成装置を提供することを目的とする。
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.
本発明は前記目的を実現するため、以下の構造を採用する。
The present invention adopts the following structure in order to achieve the above object.
本発明は、少なくとも画像形成装置の外部から入力される情報を記憶し、当該情報はメンテナンスサービスとトナーの使用に関連する用紙限界量、メンテナンスサービス業者に対応するサービス連絡基本情報、及び計数機能を有するサービス関連運行プログラムを含むサービス関連情報記憶部;計数機能を使用して画像形成部が画像形成を終えた用紙を計数し、用紙使用量を取得する第二計数部;用紙使用量を用紙限界量と比較するのに用いる比較部;比較部が比較して用紙使用量が用紙限界量以上になった場合、画像形成部はファックスユニットがファックス信号を受信したときにのみ作動するように制御される運行制御部;及び、比較部が比較して用紙使用量が用紙限界量以上になった場合、サービス連絡基本情報をユーザーに通知する通知部を含むことを特徴とする、少なくともトナーを使用して用紙上で画像形成を行う画像形成部、画像形成を終えた用紙を累計計数する第一計数部、及び画像形成部を含むファックスユニットを含み、かつメンテナンスサービス業者が少なくとも画像形成部に関連するメンテナンスサービスを提供できる画像形成装置を提供する。
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.
本発明によれば、メンテナンスサービス終了後もファックスユニットにファックス信号を正常に受信させる画像形成装置を提供することができる。
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.
以下、図面及び発明を実施するための形態を組み合わせて、本発明に関する複合機について詳しく説明する。
Hereinafter, the MFP according to the present invention will be described in detail by combining the drawings and embodiments for carrying out the invention.
本実施形態は少なくとも画像形成装置の外部から入力される情報を記憶し、当該情報はメンテナンスサービスとトナーの使用に関連する用紙限界量、メンテナンスサービス業者に対応するサービス連絡基本情報、及び計数機能を有するサービス関連運行プログラムを含むサービス関連情報記憶部;計数機能を使用して画像形成部が画像形成を終えた用紙を計数し、用紙使用量を取得する第二計数部;用紙使用量を用紙限界量と比較するのに用いる比較部;比較部が比較して用紙使用量が用紙限界量以上になった場合、画像形成部はファックスユニットがファックス信号を受信したときにのみ作動するように制御する運行制御部;及び、比較部が比較して用紙使用量が用紙限界量以上になった場合、サービス連絡基本情報をユーザーに通知する通知部を含むことを特徴とする、少なくともトナーを使用して用紙上で画像形成を行う画像形成部、画像形成を終えた用紙を累計計数する第一計数部、及び画像形成部を含むファックスユニットを含み、かつメンテナンスサービス業者が少なくとも画像形成部に関連するメンテナンスサービスを提供できる画像形成装置を提供する。
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.
本実施形態の画像形成装置はさらに、少なくとも用紙限界量、用紙使用量及びサービス連絡基本情報を用いてメンテナンスサービスに関連するメンテナンスサービス状態を表示する表示部を含み、その中でサービス関連情報記憶部がさらにユーザーにメンテナンスサービスがすでに終了していることを警告するのに用いる警告画面を記憶し、表示部は通知部として警告画面の表示により通知の作動を終える。
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.
また、本実施形態の画像形成装置では、サービス関連情報記憶部はさらに画像形成装置の外部から入力されるユーザーに現在の用紙使用に関係するメンテナンスサービス状態を告知するのに用いる告知画面を記憶し、用紙使用量が用紙限界量より少ないとき、表示部は少なくとも用紙限界量、用紙使用量及び前記サービス連絡基本情報を用いて告知画面を表示する。
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.
また、実施形態の画像形成装置では、サービス関連情報記憶部はさらに画像形成装置の外部から入力される用紙使用早期警告しきい値、及びユーザーにメンテナンスサービスが間もなく終了すること予め警告するのに用いる早期警告画面を記憶し、用紙使用量が用紙限界量より少ないとき、比較部はさらに用紙使用量と用紙使用早期警告しきい値を比較し、比較部が比較して用紙使用量が用紙使用早期警告しきい値以上になった場合、表示部が早期警告画面を表示する。
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.
また、本実施形態の画像形成装置では、サービス関連情報記憶部はさらに画像形成装置の外部から入力されるメンテナンスサービスに対応するサービス内容情報、及びユーザーに享受できるメンテナンスサービス内容を告知するのに用いるサービス内容画面を記憶し、告知画面、早期警告画面及び警告画面はさらにそれぞれユーザーにサービス内容情報を調べさせるのに用いるサービス内容選択キーを含み、サービス内容選択キーが選択された後、表示部がサービス内容画面を表示する。
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.
また、本実施形態の画像形成装置では、サービス関連情報記憶部はさらに画像形成装置の外部から入力されるメンテナンスサービス業者に対応するサービス連絡詳細情報、及びユーザーにサービス連絡詳細情報を告知するのに用いる連絡詳細画面を記憶し、告知画面、早期警告画面及び警告画面はさらにそれぞれユーザーにサービス連絡詳細情報を調べさせるのに用いる連絡詳細選択キーを含み、連絡詳細選択キーが選択された後、表示部がさらに連絡詳細画面を表示する。
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.
また、本実施形態の画像形成装置は、メンテナンスサービス業者が発行する着脱可能なSDメモリーカード及びサービス関連情報記憶部に対して読み書きを行うのに用いる読み書き部を含み、その中でSDメモリーカードが用紙限界量、用紙使用早期警告しきい値、サービス連絡基本情報、サービス関連運行プログラム、告知画面、早期警告画面、警告画面、サービス内容画面、連絡詳細画面を記憶し、サービス関連情報記憶部が読み書き部を介してSDメモリーカードの中から用紙限界量、用紙使用早期警告しきい値、サービス連絡基本情報、サービス関連運行プログラム、告知画面、早期警告画面、警告画面、サービス内容画面、連絡詳細画面を取得し、読み書き部が第二計数部で計数した用紙使用量をサービス関連情報記憶部及び前記SDメモリーカードに書き込む。
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.
また、本実施形態の画像形成装置は、外部設備と通信するのに用いる外部設備通信部、及び、外部設備通信部が外部設備から取得した用紙限界量、用紙使用早期警告しきい値、サービス連絡基本情報、サービス関連運行プログラム、告知画面、早期警告画面、警告画面、サービス内容画面、連絡詳細画面をサービス関連情報記憶部に書き込み、また第二計数部で計算した用紙使用量をサービス関連情報記憶部に書き込むことに用いる読み書き部を含み、その中で外部設備通信部が用紙使用量を外部設備に送信する。
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.
また,本実施形態の画像形成装置はさらに、画像形成部を含む印刷ユニット、及び、上位機が送信してきた印刷に用いる用紙プリセット印刷量を受信するのに用いる上位機通信部を含み、その中で用紙使用量が用紙限界量より少ないとき、比較部はさらに用紙使用量と用紙限界量から用紙残量を取得し、用紙プリセット印刷量と前記用紙残量を比較し、用紙プリセット印刷量が用紙残量以下のとき、運行制御部は印刷ユニットが印刷作業を行うように制御し、用紙プリセット印刷量が用紙残量より多いとき、運行制御部は印刷ユニットが作業を停止するように制御し、上位機通信部を介して上位機に印刷不可の情報を送信する。
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.
また、本実施形態の画像形成装置は、画像形成部を含むコピーユニット、及び、コピーするのに用いる用紙プリセットコピー量を入力するのに用いる入力部を含み、その中で用紙使用量が用紙限界量より少ないとき、比較部がさらに用紙使用量と用紙限界量から用紙残量を取得し、用紙プリセットコピー量と用紙残量を比較し、用紙プリセットコピー量が用紙残量以下のとき、運行制御部はコピーユニットが印刷作業を行うように制御し、用紙プリセットコピー量が前記用紙残量より多いとき、前記運行制御部は前記コピーユニットが作業を停止するように制御し、表示部を介してコピー不可の情報を表示する。
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.
また、本実施形態の画像形成装置では、画像形成部がトナーを収容するのに用いるトナーカートリッジを有し、トナーカートリッジは無料交換または有料交換される。
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.
<実施例>
図1は本発明実施例の複合機のブロック図である。 <Example>
FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a multifunction machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.
図1は本発明実施例の複合機のブロック図である。 <Example>
FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a multifunction machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.
図1に示すように、複合機1は画像形成装置としてメンテナンスサービス業者が画像形成に関するメンテナンスサービスを提供でき、サービス関連情報記憶部17、読み書き部3、上位機通信部4、第一計数部5、第二計数部27、比較部6、画面記憶部7、一時記憶部8、表示部10、入力部11、運行制御部12、印刷機能部13、コピー機能部14、ファックス機能部15、スキャンユニット80、通知部22、トナーカートリッジ16及び上記各部を全体制御するのに用いる制御部9を含む。印刷ユニットは印刷機能部13とトナーカートリッジ16から成り、コピーユニットはコピー機能部14とトナーカートリッジ16から成り、ファックスユニットはファックス機能部15とトナーカートリッジ16から成る。
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.
サービス関連情報記憶部17は、画像形成装置の外部から入力する情報を記憶するのに用い、当該情報はメンテナンスサービスとトナーの使用に関連する用紙限定量、メンテナンスサービス業者に対応するサービス連絡基本情報、告知画面、早期警告画面、警告画面、サービス内容画面、連絡詳細画面及び計数機能を有するサービス関連運行プログラム等を含む。本実施例では、当該外部入力の情報はSDメモリーカード2内に保存した情報とする。
SDメモリーカード(Secure Digital Memory Card,SDカード)2はメンテナンスサービス業者が発行する着脱可能なメモリーカードであり、複合機1のメンテナンスサービスとトナーの使用に関連する情報を記憶し、これらの情報は用紙限定量、用紙使用量、用紙使用早期警告しきい値、メンテナンスサービス業者に関連するサービス連絡基本情報とサービス連絡詳細情報等を含む。当該SDメモリーカード2は外付のプリペイドカードであり、ユーザーは必ず当該SDメモリーカード2を購入しなければならない。当該SDメモリーカード2を対応する複合機1に差し込んでやっと複合機1の印刷機能とコピー機能を含む全ての機能を正常に使用でき、当該SDメモリーカード2のタイプに対応するメンテナンスサービスを受けることができる。メンテナンスサービス業者が提供するメンテナンスサービスのタイプに基づいて、SDメモリーカード2はメンテナンスサービス業者がトナーサービスを無料提供するSDカードとトナーサービスを有料提供するSDカードに分かれる。ユーザーはメンテナンスサービス業者がトナーサービスを無料提供するSDカードを購入した場合、メンテナンスサービス提供時にメンテナンスサービス業者からトナーを無料提供してもらえる。ユーザーはトナーサービスを有料提供するSDカードを購入した場合、メンテナンスサービス提供時にユーザーはメンテナンスサービス業者にお金を払ってトナーを購入する必要があり、ユーザーは他のサプライヤーからもトナーを購入することができる。 The service-relatedinformation 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 theMFP 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.
SDメモリーカード(Secure Digital Memory Card,SDカード)2はメンテナンスサービス業者が発行する着脱可能なメモリーカードであり、複合機1のメンテナンスサービスとトナーの使用に関連する情報を記憶し、これらの情報は用紙限定量、用紙使用量、用紙使用早期警告しきい値、メンテナンスサービス業者に関連するサービス連絡基本情報とサービス連絡詳細情報等を含む。当該SDメモリーカード2は外付のプリペイドカードであり、ユーザーは必ず当該SDメモリーカード2を購入しなければならない。当該SDメモリーカード2を対応する複合機1に差し込んでやっと複合機1の印刷機能とコピー機能を含む全ての機能を正常に使用でき、当該SDメモリーカード2のタイプに対応するメンテナンスサービスを受けることができる。メンテナンスサービス業者が提供するメンテナンスサービスのタイプに基づいて、SDメモリーカード2はメンテナンスサービス業者がトナーサービスを無料提供するSDカードとトナーサービスを有料提供するSDカードに分かれる。ユーザーはメンテナンスサービス業者がトナーサービスを無料提供するSDカードを購入した場合、メンテナンスサービス提供時にメンテナンスサービス業者からトナーを無料提供してもらえる。ユーザーはトナーサービスを有料提供するSDカードを購入した場合、メンテナンスサービス提供時にユーザーはメンテナンスサービス業者にお金を払ってトナーを購入する必要があり、ユーザーは他のサプライヤーからもトナーを購入することができる。 The service-related
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
その中で用紙限定量は、ユーザーの購入したSDメモリーカード2がユーザー使用を許可する最大用紙量である。用紙限定量の違いに応じて、SDメモリーカード2は12万枚SDカード、30万枚SDカードと60万枚SDカードに分かれる。
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.
12万枚SDカードでは、用紙限定量は12万枚で、即ち、ユーザーが実際に消費した累計用紙量が12万枚未満の時、ユーザーは正常な、例えばクリーニング、部品調整等のメンテナンスサービスを受けることができる。ユーザーが実際に消費した累計用紙量が12万枚以上の時、メンテナンスサービスは終了し、ユーザーは上記メンテナンスサービスを受けることができなくなり、また複合機1の全ての機能を使用できない。ユーザーはSDメモリーカード2を新たに購入し、複合機1で使用すれば、メンテナンスサービス業者の提供するメンテナンスサービスを引き続き受けることができる。30万枚SDカードの用紙限定量は30万枚で、即ち、ユーザーが実際に消費した累計用紙量が30万枚未満のとき、メンテナンスサービスを受けることができるが、超えると受けられなくなる。ユーザーは引き続くサービスを受けたい場合、新しいSDメモリーカード2を購入するしかない。60万枚のSDカードの用紙限定量は60万枚で、含まれるメンテナンスサービスは上記と同じである。
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.
用紙使用量はユーザーが現時点で実際に消費した累計用紙量である。ユーザーが用紙を消費する画像形成を行うたびに、用紙使用量は更新され、サービス関連情報記憶部17に再書き込みされる。このようにして、ユーザーは次の用紙を消耗する画像形成を行う前に、いつも実際に消費した累計用紙量を入手できる。用紙使用量は複合機1に現在のメンテナンスサービス状態を判断するのに用いられる。用紙使用量が用紙限定量より多いとき、複合機1は現在のメンテナンスサービスはすでに終了したと判断し、一部機能の使用を停止し、ユーザーは必ず新しいSDメモリーカード2を購入しなければ、全ての機能を使用できず、さらなるメンテナンスサービスを受けられない。
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.
用紙使用早期警告しきい値は複合機1が現在のメンテナンスサービス状態が間もなく終了であることを判断するのに用いる基準値である。本実施例では、用紙使用早期警告しきい値は用紙限定量の95%である。ユーザーの消費する用紙使用量が用紙使用早期警告しきい値以上の時、複合機1は現在のメンテナンスサービス状態は間もなく終了すると判断し、ユーザーに速やかにメンテナンスサービス業者と連絡をとる必要があると提示し、ユーザーが不注意により招くメンテナンスサービスの終了を回避し、さらにメンテナンスサービスが既に終了していたことにより、複合機1が全ての機能を使用できなくなりユーザーに不便と損失をもたらすことを回避する。
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.
サービス連絡情報は、メンテナンスサービス業者の連絡方式等の情報であり、サービス連絡基本情報とサービス連絡詳細情報を含む。サービス連絡基本情報はメンテナンスサービス業者の社名と連絡先電話番号を含む。サービス連絡詳細情報はさらにメンテナンスサービス業者のファックス番号、連絡先住所及び電子メール等のその他連絡方式を含み、ユーザーが様々な方式でメンテナンスサービス業者と連絡を取るのに役立つ。ユーザーが新しいSDメモリーカード2を購入する必要がある、または複合機1に故障が発生し整備する必要があるとき、ユーザーは表示されたサービス連絡情報を介してすぐにメンテナンスサービス業者と連絡をとることができる。メンテナンスサービスはどのメンテナンスサービス業者が提供していたのか改めて探し出す必要がなく、ユーザー管理メンテナンスサービスのコストを節約できる。
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.
読み書き部3はSDメモリーカード2の型番に対応し、SDメモリーカード2を識別し、SDメモリーカード2に記憶した情報を読み書きするのに用いる。読み書き部3はSDメモリーカード2内に記憶した用紙限定量、用紙使用早期警告しきい値、サービス連絡基本情報、サービス関連運行プログラム、告知画面、早期警告画面、警告画面、サービス内容画面、連絡詳細画面等のサービ関連情報をサービス関連情報記憶部17内に保存する。第二計数部27はサービス関連運行プログラム内に記憶した計数機能を使用して、画像形成部23が画像形成を完了した用紙を計数して用紙使用量を取得し、読み書き部3は第二計数部27で計数した用紙使用量をサービス関連情報記憶部17及びSDメモリーカード2内に書き込む。
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.
印刷、コピーまたはファックス等の画像形成を開始したとき、読み書き部3はサービス関連情報記憶部17から用紙限定量、用紙使用早期警告しきい値、前の画像形成終了時の用紙使用量を読み取る。今回の画像形成終了後、読み書き部3は今回の画像形成が消費した用紙量を含む用紙使用量をサービス関連情報記憶部17及びSDメモリーカード2内に書き込む。読み書き部3はさらにサービス連絡基本情報とサービス連絡詳細情報を読み取り、表示部10を介して表示し、ユーザーに必要に応じてメンテナンスサービス業者に連絡するように告知する。
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.
上位機通信部4は上位機が送信してきた印刷待ちドキュメントを受信するのに用い、当該印刷待ちドキュメントに基づいて印刷に用いる用紙プリセット印刷量を取得し、当該用紙プリセット印刷量を一時記憶部8に保存する。用紙プリセット印刷量は印刷ユニットが一回の印刷を終えるのに実際に消費する用紙量である。
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.
スキャンユニット80は外部設備が送信してきたスキャン信号を受信するのに用いる。
入力部11はコピー待ちドキュメントを入力するのに用い、当該コピー待ちドキュメントに基づいてコピーに用いる用紙プリセットコピー量を取得し、当該用紙プリセットコピー量を一時記憶部8に保存する。用紙プリセットコピー量はコピーユニットが一回のコピーを終えるのに実際に消費した用紙量である。 Thescan unit 80 is used to receive a scan signal transmitted from an external facility.
Theinput 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.
入力部11はコピー待ちドキュメントを入力するのに用い、当該コピー待ちドキュメントに基づいてコピーに用いる用紙プリセットコピー量を取得し、当該用紙プリセットコピー量を一時記憶部8に保存する。用紙プリセットコピー量はコピーユニットが一回のコピーを終えるのに実際に消費した用紙量である。 The
The
ファックス機能部15は上位装置が送信してきたファックス待ちドキュメントを受信するのに用い、ファックス待ちドキュメントに基づいてファックスに用いる用紙プリセットファックス量を取得し、当該用紙プリセットファックス量を一時記憶部8に保存する。用紙プリセットファックス量はファックスユニットが一回のファックスを終えるのに実際に消費した用紙量である。
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.
トナーカートリッジ16は用紙上で画像形成するトナーを収容するのに用い、画像形成部23内にある。メンテナンスサービス実施中に、ユーザーの購入したSDメモリーカード2のタイプに基づいて、メンテナンスサービス業者はユーザーにトナーカートリッジ16の無料交換メンテナンスサービスまたはトナーカートリッジ16の有料交換メンテナンスサービスを提供できる。トナーを使い終わった後、ユーザーは契約更新したい次のメンテナンスサービスのタイプを自由に選択できる。メンテナンスサービス業者がユーザーの購入したSDメモリーカード2のタイプに応じて相応のトナーカートリッジ16向け交換サービスを提供するため、ユーザーがトナーカートリッジ16の無料交換メンテナンスサービスを選択後、ユーザーはトナーカートリッジ16の無料交換メンテナンスサービスに対応するSDメモリーカード2を購入する必要があり、ユーザーがトナーカートリッジ16の有料交換メンテナンスサービスを選択後、ユーザーはトナーカートリッジ16の有料交換メンテナンスサービスに対応するSDメモリーカード2を購入する必要がある。
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.
印刷機能部13は制御部9の命令に基づいて印刷作業を行うのに用いる。コピー機能部14は制御部9の命令に基づいてコピー作業を行うのに用いる。ファックス機能部15は制御部9の命令に基づいてファックス作業を行うのに用いる。
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.
第一計数部5は画像形成を終えた用紙を累計計数するのに用いる。複合機1が一度起動すると、第一計数部5は用紙の実際の消費量を累計し始める。当該実際の消耗量は複合機1の使用回数を判断して複合機1の性能状況を推定するのに用いられる。
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.
第二計数部27は画像形成部23が画像形成を終えた用紙を計数し、用紙使用量を取得し、メンテナンスサービスに関連する。印刷、コピーまたはファックスを始めると、読み書き部5がサービス関連情報記憶部17内に記憶した用紙使用量を読み取り、第二計数部27に送信する。印刷、コピーまたはファックスを終えたとき、第二計数部27は用紙使用量と今回の印刷、コピーまたはファックスの用紙プリセット使用量の和を新たな用紙使用量とし、読み書き部5に送信し、読み書き部5が更新後の用紙使用量をサービス関連情報記憶部17とSDメモリーカード2に書き込む。
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.
一時記憶部8は上位機通信部4が得た用紙プリセット印刷量、入力部11が得た用紙プリセットコピー量とファックス機能部15が得た用紙プリセットファックス量等の情報を一時記憶するのに用いる。
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. .
比較部6はサービス関連情報記憶部17から用紙使用量、用紙限定量と用紙使用早期警告しきい値を読み取り、用紙使用量と用紙限定量を比較して用紙残量を取得し、用紙使用量と用紙使用早期警告しきい値を比較する。比較部6はさらに一時記憶部8から用紙プリセット印刷量、用紙プリセットコピー量または用紙プリセットファックス量を読み取り、用紙プリセット使用量、用紙プリセットコピー量または用紙プリセットファックス量をそれぞれ用紙残量と比較し、比較結果を取得し、運行制御部12に比較結果に基づいて印刷ユニット、コピーユニットまたはファックスユニットの次の作動を制御させる。
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.
表示部10は少なくとも用紙限定量、用紙使用量、用紙残量及びサービス連絡基本情報を用いてそれぞれ告知画面、早期警告画面、警告画面、サービス内容画面及び連絡詳細画面に表示する。告知画面、早期警告画面及び警告画面上にはそれぞれメンテナンスサービスに関連するメンテナンスサービス状態を表示する。
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.
図2は本発明実施例の告知画面の略図である。
FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of the notification screen of the embodiment of the present invention.
図2に示すように、告知画面30はユーザーに現在の用紙使用に関連するメンテナンスサービス状態を告知するのに用いる。告知画面30は「現在メンテナンスサービス提供中」というメッセージを有し、ユーザーに目の前で当該告知画面30を表示する複合機は現在メンテナンスサービス提供中であることを示す。ユーザーは当該メッセージを見たとき、安心して印刷、コピーまたはファックス等の画像形成作業を行うことができる。このとき、複合機に故障が起きて正常な作業ができなくなった場合、ユーザーはメンテナンスサービス業者に連絡し、メンテナンスサービスを得ることができる。このとき、ユーザーの購入したSDメモリーカード2がトナーの無料提供サービスを含んでいた場合、複合機のトナーを使い終わったとき、ユーザーはメンテナンスサービス業者に連絡しトナーの無料提供サービスを受けることができる。
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.
告知画面30はさらに用紙使用量、用紙限定量と用紙残量を表示し、ユーザーにメンテナンスサービスに関連する用紙使用状態をリアルタイム提示するのに用い、ユーザーに印刷、コピーまたはファックス等の画像形成作業実施中に迅速に使用している複合機1のメンテナンスサービス状態を理解させ、ユーザーのメンテナンスサービス契約の更新忘れを防止できる。
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.
告知画面30はさらにメンテナンスサービス業者の社名と連絡先電話番号を含むメンテナンスサービス業者のサービス連絡基本情報を表示し、ユーザーが複合機1の故障発生時またはメンテナンスサービス終了後に速やかにメンテナンスサービス業者に連絡し、できる限り早くメンテナンスサービスまたはメンテナンスサービスを提供させ、ユーザーの正常な作業が影響を受けないようにすることができる。
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.
図3は本発明実施例の早期警告画面の略図である。
FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of the early warning screen of the embodiment of the present invention.
図3に示すように、早期警告画面18はユーザーにメンテナンスサービスが間もなく終了することを予め警告するのに用いる。早期警告画面18は「現在、メンテナンスサービスは間もなく終了します。速やかに契約更新手続をしてください」というメッセージ有し、ユーザーに事前にメンテナンスサービス業者と契約更新する必要があることを促し、メンテナンスサービス終了後にプリンタとコピー機が停止ししたことにより、印刷またはコピーを正常に行えなくなり、作業の遅れから自身に損失を与えること防ぐ。
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.
早期警告画面18も用紙使用量、用紙限定量、用紙残量とメンテナンスサービス業者のサービス連絡基本情報を表示し、ユーザーにメンテナンスサービスが間もなく終了することを促し、ユーザーにメンテナンスサービス業者に連絡する十分な時間を与える。
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.
図4は本発明実施例の警告画面の略図である。
FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of a warning screen according to an embodiment of the present invention.
図4に示すように、警告画面19はユーザーにメンテナンスサービスがすでに終了していることを警告するのに用いる。警告画面19は「現在、メンテナンスサービスはすでに終了しています。現在印刷とコピーを行うことができません。下記の会社に連絡を取ってください」というメッセージを有し、ユーザーにメンテナンスサービスがすでに終了していることを示す。ユーザーはSDメモリーカード2を再購入し、サービス契約を更新後、印刷機能部13とコピー機能部14を引き続き正常に使用できる。
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.
告知画面30、早期警告画面18と警告画面19はさらにそれぞれ連絡詳細選択キー、即ち、告知画面30、早期警告画面18と警告画面19の中に表示する「その他連絡方式」というメッセージを有する。当該連絡詳細選択キーはユーザーにサービス連絡詳細情報を調べさせるのに用いる。連絡詳細選択キーが選択された後、表示部10は連絡詳細画面を表示する。
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.
図5は本発明実施例の連絡詳細画面の略図である。
FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of the contact details screen of the embodiment of the present invention.
図5に示すように、連絡詳細画面21はユーザーにメンテナンスサービス業者のサービス連絡詳細情報を告知するのに用い、当該サービス連絡詳細情報は社名、連絡先電話番号、ファックス番号、連絡先住所と電子メールなどを含み、ユーザーが様々な方式でメンテナンスサービス業者に連絡するのに役立つ。
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.
告知画面30、早期警告画面18と警告画面19はさらにそれぞれサービス内容選択キー、即ち、告知画面30、早期警告画面18と警告画面19内に表示する「サービス内容」というメッセージを有す。当該サービス内容選択キーはユーザーにメンテナンスサービス業者の提供するサービス内容情報を調べさせるのに用いる。サービス内容選択キーが選択された後、表示部10はサービス内容画面を表示する。
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.
図6は本発明実施例のサービス内容画面の略図である。
FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of the service content screen of the embodiment of the present invention.
図6に示すように、サービス内容画面20はユーザーが受けることのできるメンテナンスサービス内容を告知するのに用いる。当該サービス内容はトナーカートリッジの無料交換、無料クリーニング、定着ローラーの交換、用紙の無料提供、無料訪問サービス(10万枚に一回)等を含む。当該サービス内容はユーザーの購入したサービスに対応し、ユーザーの購入したSDメモリーカード2のタイプの違いに伴って異なる。
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.
運行制御部12は印刷ユニット、コピーユニットとファックスユニットの運行を制御するのに用いる。複合機1の始動セルフチェック中、比較部6が比較し用紙使用量が用紙限定量以上になった場合、運行制御部12はファックス機能部15がファックス信号を受信したときのみ画像形成部が作動するように制御する。
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.
通知部は比較部6が比較し用紙使用量が用紙限定量以上になった場合、ユーザーに印刷ユニットとコピーユニットが停止した原因はメンテナンスサービスがすでに終了していたため起こったものであり、複合機1自体の故障によるものではないことを知らせ、ユーザーに速やかにメンテナンスサービス業者に連絡させ、メンテナンスサービスの継続を得るため、ユーザーにサービス連絡基本情報を伝えるのに用いる。通知部はメンテナンスサービスが終了していたことによる印刷ユニットとコピーユニットの停止を様々な方式でユーザーに通知でき、例えば言語提示、画面表示等である。通知部が画面表示方式でユーザーに告知するとき、表示部10は通知部として警告画面の表示により通知作動を終える。
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.
以下、複合機1の作業プロセスについて詳細に説明する。
The work process of MFP 1 is described in detail below.
図7は本発明実施例の複合機のフローチャートである。
FIG. 7 is a flowchart of the multifunction machine according to the embodiment of the present invention.
図7に示すように、複合機1の作業プロセスは以下の通りである。
As shown in Fig. 7, the work process of MFP 1 is as follows.
ステップS1-1:
複合機1は始動セルフチェック作動を起動し、読み書き部3がサービス関連情報記憶部17から用紙限定量NL、用紙累計量N1、用紙使用量N2と用紙使用早期警告しきい値NVを取得し、用紙限定量NL、用紙使用量N2と用紙使用早期警告しきい値NVを一時記憶部8に保存する。比較部6は用紙限定量NLと用紙使用量N2を比較し用紙残量NRを取得し、用紙残量NRを一時記憶部8に保存し、ステップS1-2に進む。 Step S1-1:
Themultifunction 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.
複合機1は始動セルフチェック作動を起動し、読み書き部3がサービス関連情報記憶部17から用紙限定量NL、用紙累計量N1、用紙使用量N2と用紙使用早期警告しきい値NVを取得し、用紙限定量NL、用紙使用量N2と用紙使用早期警告しきい値NVを一時記憶部8に保存する。比較部6は用紙限定量NLと用紙使用量N2を比較し用紙残量NRを取得し、用紙残量NRを一時記憶部8に保存し、ステップS1-2に進む。 Step S1-1:
The
ステップS1-2:
比較部6は用紙使用量N2と用紙限定量NLを比較する。比較部6が比較し用紙使用量N2が用紙限定量NL以上になった場合,ステップS1-5に進む。比較部6が比較し用紙使用量N2が用紙限定量NL未満のとき、ステップS1-3に進む。 Step S1-2:
Thecomparison 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.
比較部6は用紙使用量N2と用紙限定量NLを比較する。比較部6が比較し用紙使用量N2が用紙限定量NL以上になった場合,ステップS1-5に進む。比較部6が比較し用紙使用量N2が用紙限定量NL未満のとき、ステップS1-3に進む。 Step S1-2:
The
ステップS1-3:
比較部6が引き続き用紙使用量N2と用紙使用早期警告しきい値NVを比較する。比較部6が比較し用紙使用量N2が用紙使用早期警告しきい値NV以上になった場合、ステップS1-6に進む。比較部6が比較し用紙使用量N2が用紙使用早期警告しきい値NV未満のとき、ステップS1-4に進む。 Step S1-3:
Comparingunit 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.
比較部6が引き続き用紙使用量N2と用紙使用早期警告しきい値NVを比較する。比較部6が比較し用紙使用量N2が用紙使用早期警告しきい値NV以上になった場合、ステップS1-6に進む。比較部6が比較し用紙使用量N2が用紙使用早期警告しきい値NV未満のとき、ステップS1-4に進む。 Step S1-3:
Comparing
ステップS1-4:
読み書き部3がサービス関連情報記憶部17からサービス連絡基本情報を読み取り、表示部10は用紙使用量N2、用紙限定量NL、及び用紙残量NRを用いてサービス連絡基本情報を含む告知画面を表示し、ステップS1-10に進む。 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.
読み書き部3がサービス関連情報記憶部17からサービス連絡基本情報を読み取り、表示部10は用紙使用量N2、用紙限定量NL、及び用紙残量NRを用いてサービス連絡基本情報を含む告知画面を表示し、ステップS1-10に進む。 Step S1-4:
The read /
ステップS1-5:
運行制御部12は、ファックス機能部15がファックス信号を受信したときのみ画像形成部23が作動するように制御し、ステップS1-7に進む。 Step S1-5:
Theoperation 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.
運行制御部12は、ファックス機能部15がファックス信号を受信したときのみ画像形成部23が作動するように制御し、ステップS1-7に進む。 Step S1-5:
The
ステップS1-6:
読み書き部3がサービス関連情報記憶部17からサービス連絡基本情報を読み取り、表示部10は用紙使用量N2、用紙限定量NL、及び用紙残量NRを用いてサービス連絡基本情報を含む早期警告画面を表示し、それからステップS1-10に進む。 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.
読み書き部3がサービス関連情報記憶部17からサービス連絡基本情報を読み取り、表示部10は用紙使用量N2、用紙限定量NL、及び用紙残量NRを用いてサービス連絡基本情報を含む早期警告画面を表示し、それからステップS1-10に進む。 Step S1-6:
The read /
ステップS1-7:
読み書き部3がサービス関連情報記憶部17からサービス連絡基本情報を読み取り、表示部10は用紙使用量N2、用紙限定量NL、及び用紙残量NRを用いてサービス連絡基本情報を含む警告画面を表示し、それからステップS1-8に進む。 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.
読み書き部3がサービス関連情報記憶部17からサービス連絡基本情報を読み取り、表示部10は用紙使用量N2、用紙限定量NL、及び用紙残量NRを用いてサービス連絡基本情報を含む警告画面を表示し、それからステップS1-8に進む。 Step S1-7:
The read /
ステップS1-8:
制御部9はファックス機能部15がファックスドキュメントを受信したか判断する。制御部9はファックス機能部15がファックスドキュメントを受信したと判断したとき、ステップS1-9に進む。制御部9はファックス機能部15がファックスドキュメントを受信していないと判断したとき、終了状態に進む。 Step S1-8:
Thecontrol 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.
制御部9はファックス機能部15がファックスドキュメントを受信したか判断する。制御部9はファックス機能部15がファックスドキュメントを受信したと判断したとき、ステップS1-9に進む。制御部9はファックス機能部15がファックスドキュメントを受信していないと判断したとき、終了状態に進む。 Step S1-8:
The
ステップS1-9:
ファックス機能部15は受信したファックスドキュメントに画像形成を行い、当該ファックスドキュメントに基づいて用紙プリセットファックス量NFを取得し、当該用紙プリセットファックス量NFを一時記憶部8に保存する。第二計数部27は計数を停止し、同時に、第一計数部5が累計を行い、即ちN1=N1+NFとし、それから終了状態に進む。 Step S1-9:
Thefax 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.
ファックス機能部15は受信したファックスドキュメントに画像形成を行い、当該ファックスドキュメントに基づいて用紙プリセットファックス量NFを取得し、当該用紙プリセットファックス量NFを一時記憶部8に保存する。第二計数部27は計数を停止し、同時に、第一計数部5が累計を行い、即ちN1=N1+NFとし、それから終了状態に進む。 Step S1-9:
The
ステップS1-10:
制御部9は複合機1が間もなく印刷、コピーそれともファックス作業を行うか判断する。制御部9は複合機1が印刷作業を行うと判断したとき、ステップS1-11に進む。制御部9が複合機1はファックス作業を行うと判断したとき、ステップS1-17に進む。制御部9が複合機1はコピー作業を行うと判断したとき、ステップS1-19に進む。 Step S1-10:
Thecontrol 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.
制御部9は複合機1が間もなく印刷、コピーそれともファックス作業を行うか判断する。制御部9は複合機1が印刷作業を行うと判断したとき、ステップS1-11に進む。制御部9が複合機1はファックス作業を行うと判断したとき、ステップS1-17に進む。制御部9が複合機1はコピー作業を行うと判断したとき、ステップS1-19に進む。 Step S1-10:
The
ステップS1-11:
上位機通信部4が、上位機が送信してきた印刷待ちドキュメントを受信し、印刷に用いる用紙プリセット印刷量NPを取得し、当該用紙プリセット印刷量NPを一時記憶部8に記憶し、それからステップS1-12に進む。 Step S1-11:
Uppermachine 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.
上位機通信部4が、上位機が送信してきた印刷待ちドキュメントを受信し、印刷に用いる用紙プリセット印刷量NPを取得し、当該用紙プリセット印刷量NPを一時記憶部8に記憶し、それからステップS1-12に進む。 Step S1-11:
Upper
ステップS1-12:
比較部6が一時記憶部8から用紙残量NRと用紙プリセット印刷量NPを読み取り、用紙プリセット印刷量NPと用紙残量NRを比較する。用紙プリセット印刷量NPが用紙残量NR以下の時、ステップS1-13に進む。用紙プリセット印刷量NPが用紙残量NRを超えるとき、ステップS1-15に進む。 Step S1-12:
Thecomparison 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.
比較部6が一時記憶部8から用紙残量NRと用紙プリセット印刷量NPを読み取り、用紙プリセット印刷量NPと用紙残量NRを比較する。用紙プリセット印刷量NPが用紙残量NR以下の時、ステップS1-13に進む。用紙プリセット印刷量NPが用紙残量NRを超えるとき、ステップS1-15に進む。 Step S1-12:
The
ステップS1-13:
印刷機能部13が正常に印刷を行い、印刷待ちドキュメントを画像形成し、完了後、ステップS1-14に進む。 Step S1-13:
Theprinting function unit 13 performs printing normally, forms an image of a document waiting for printing, and proceeds to step S1-14 after completion.
印刷機能部13が正常に印刷を行い、印刷待ちドキュメントを画像形成し、完了後、ステップS1-14に進む。 Step S1-13:
The
ステップS1-14:
第二計数部27が一時記憶部8から用紙プリセット印刷量NPを読み取り、用紙使用量N2と用紙プリセット印刷量NPの和を新しい用紙使用量N2とし、新しい用紙使用量N2を読み書き部5に送信し、読み書き部5が新しい用紙使用量Nをサービス関連情報記憶部17とSDメモリーカード2に書き込み、即ちN2=N2+NPとする。同時に、第一計数部5が一時記憶部8から用紙プリセット印刷量NPを読み取り、用紙累計量N1と用紙プリセット印刷量NPの和を新しい用紙累計量N1とし、新しい用紙累計量N1を読み書き部5に送信し、読み書き部5が新しい用紙累計量N1をサービス関連情報記憶部17とSDメモリーカード2に書き込み、即ちN1=N1+NPとし、それから終了状態に進む。 Step S1-14:
Read the paper preset print quantity N P from thesecond 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 .
第二計数部27が一時記憶部8から用紙プリセット印刷量NPを読み取り、用紙使用量N2と用紙プリセット印刷量NPの和を新しい用紙使用量N2とし、新しい用紙使用量N2を読み書き部5に送信し、読み書き部5が新しい用紙使用量Nをサービス関連情報記憶部17とSDメモリーカード2に書き込み、即ちN2=N2+NPとする。同時に、第一計数部5が一時記憶部8から用紙プリセット印刷量NPを読み取り、用紙累計量N1と用紙プリセット印刷量NPの和を新しい用紙累計量N1とし、新しい用紙累計量N1を読み書き部5に送信し、読み書き部5が新しい用紙累計量N1をサービス関連情報記憶部17とSDメモリーカード2に書き込み、即ちN1=N1+NPとし、それから終了状態に進む。 Step S1-14:
Read the paper preset print quantity N P from the
ステップS1-15:
運行制御部12は、印刷機能部13が作業を停止するよう制御し、それからステップS1-16に進む。 Step S1-15:
Theoperation control unit 12 controls the printing function unit 13 to stop the work, and then proceeds to step S1-16.
運行制御部12は、印刷機能部13が作業を停止するよう制御し、それからステップS1-16に進む。 Step S1-15:
The
ステップS1-16:
印刷機能部13は上位機に印刷不可の表示情報を送信し、それから終了状態に進む。 Step S1-16:
Theprint function unit 13 transmits display information indicating that printing is not possible to the host machine, and then proceeds to the end state.
印刷機能部13は上位機に印刷不可の表示情報を送信し、それから終了状態に進む。 Step S1-16:
The
ステップS1-17:
ファックス機能部15がファックスドキュメントを受信し、当該ファックスドキュメントを画像形成し、当該ファックスドキュメントに基づいて用紙プリセットファックス量NFを取得し、当該用紙プリセットファックス量NFを一時記憶部8に保存し、それからステップS1-18に進む。 Step S1-17:
Thefax 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.
ファックス機能部15がファックスドキュメントを受信し、当該ファックスドキュメントを画像形成し、当該ファックスドキュメントに基づいて用紙プリセットファックス量NFを取得し、当該用紙プリセットファックス量NFを一時記憶部8に保存し、それからステップS1-18に進む。 Step S1-17:
The
ステップS1-18:
第二計数部27が一時記憶部8から用紙プリセットファックス量NFを読み取り、用紙使用量N2と用紙プリセットファックス量NFの和を新しい用紙使用量N2とし、新しい用紙使用量N2を読み書き部5に送信し、読み書き部5が新しい用紙使用量Nをサービス関連情報記憶部17とSDメモリーカード2に書き込み、即ちN2=N2+NFとする。同時に、第一計数部5が一時記憶部8から用紙プリセットファックス量NFを読み取り、用紙累計量N1と用紙プリセットファックス量NFの和を新しい用紙累計量N1とし、新しい用紙累計量N1を読み書き部5に送信し、読み書き部5が新しい用紙累計量N1をサービス関連情報記憶部17とSDメモリーカード2に書き込み、即ちN1=N1+NFとし、それから終了状態に進む。 Step S1-18:
Thesecond 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. .
第二計数部27が一時記憶部8から用紙プリセットファックス量NFを読み取り、用紙使用量N2と用紙プリセットファックス量NFの和を新しい用紙使用量N2とし、新しい用紙使用量N2を読み書き部5に送信し、読み書き部5が新しい用紙使用量Nをサービス関連情報記憶部17とSDメモリーカード2に書き込み、即ちN2=N2+NFとする。同時に、第一計数部5が一時記憶部8から用紙プリセットファックス量NFを読み取り、用紙累計量N1と用紙プリセットファックス量NFの和を新しい用紙累計量N1とし、新しい用紙累計量N1を読み書き部5に送信し、読み書き部5が新しい用紙累計量N1をサービス関連情報記憶部17とSDメモリーカード2に書き込み、即ちN1=N1+NFとし、それから終了状態に進む。 Step S1-18:
The
ステップS1-19:
入力部11がコピー待ちドキュメントを受信し、コピーに用いる用紙プリセットコピー量NCを取得し、当該用紙プリセットコピー量NCを一時記憶部8に記憶し、それからステップS1-20に進む。 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.
入力部11がコピー待ちドキュメントを受信し、コピーに用いる用紙プリセットコピー量NCを取得し、当該用紙プリセットコピー量NCを一時記憶部8に記憶し、それからステップS1-20に進む。 Step S1-19:
ステップS1-20:
比較部6が一時記憶部8から用紙残量NRと用紙プリセットコピー量NCを読み取り、用紙プリセットコピー量NCと用紙残量NRを比較する。用紙プリセットコピー量NCが用紙残量NR以下の時、ステップS1-21に進む。用紙プリセットコピー量NCが用紙残量NRを超えるとき、ステップS1-23に進む。 Step S1-20:
Thecomparison 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.
比較部6が一時記憶部8から用紙残量NRと用紙プリセットコピー量NCを読み取り、用紙プリセットコピー量NCと用紙残量NRを比較する。用紙プリセットコピー量NCが用紙残量NR以下の時、ステップS1-21に進む。用紙プリセットコピー量NCが用紙残量NRを超えるとき、ステップS1-23に進む。 Step S1-20:
The
ステップS1-21:
コピー機能部14が正常にコピーを行い、コピー待ちドキュメントを画像形成し、完了後、ステップS1-22に進む。 Step S1-21:
Thecopy function unit 14 normally copies, forms an image of the document waiting for copying, and proceeds to step S1-22 after completion.
コピー機能部14が正常にコピーを行い、コピー待ちドキュメントを画像形成し、完了後、ステップS1-22に進む。 Step S1-21:
The
ステップS1-22:
第二計数部27が一時記憶部8から用紙プリセットコピー量NCを読み取り、用紙使用量N2と用紙プリセットコピー量NCの和を新しい用紙使用量N2とし、新しい用紙使用量N2を読み書き部5に送信し、読み書き部5が新しい用紙使用量Nをサービス関連情報記憶部17とSDメモリーカード2に書き込み、即ちN2=N2+NCとする。同時に、第一計数部5が一時記憶部8から用紙プリセットコピー量NCを読み取り、用紙累計量N1と用紙プリセットコピー量NCの和を新しい用紙累計量N1とし、新しい用紙累計量N1を読み書き部5に送信し、読み書き部5が新しい用紙累計量N1をサービス関連情報記憶部17とSDメモリーカード2に書き込み、即ちN1=N1+NCとし、それから終了状態に進む。 Step S1-22:
Read the paper preset copy quantity N C from thesecond 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. .
第二計数部27が一時記憶部8から用紙プリセットコピー量NCを読み取り、用紙使用量N2と用紙プリセットコピー量NCの和を新しい用紙使用量N2とし、新しい用紙使用量N2を読み書き部5に送信し、読み書き部5が新しい用紙使用量Nをサービス関連情報記憶部17とSDメモリーカード2に書き込み、即ちN2=N2+NCとする。同時に、第一計数部5が一時記憶部8から用紙プリセットコピー量NCを読み取り、用紙累計量N1と用紙プリセットコピー量NCの和を新しい用紙累計量N1とし、新しい用紙累計量N1を読み書き部5に送信し、読み書き部5が新しい用紙累計量N1をサービス関連情報記憶部17とSDメモリーカード2に書き込み、即ちN1=N1+NCとし、それから終了状態に進む。 Step S1-22:
Read the paper preset copy quantity N C from the
ステップS1-23:
運行制御部12は、コピー機能部14が作業を停止するよう制御し、それからステップS1-24に進む。 Step S1-23:
Theoperation control unit 12 controls the copy function unit 14 to stop the work, and then proceeds to step S1-24.
運行制御部12は、コピー機能部14が作業を停止するよう制御し、それからステップS1-24に進む。 Step S1-23:
The
ステップS1-24:
コピーユニットは表示部10を介してコピー不可の情報を表示し、それから終了状態に進む。 Step S1-24:
The copy unit displays information indicating that copying cannot be performed via thedisplay unit 10, and then proceeds to an end state.
コピーユニットは表示部10を介してコピー不可の情報を表示し、それから終了状態に進む。 Step S1-24:
The copy unit displays information indicating that copying cannot be performed via the
<実施例の作用と効果>
本発明実施例の複合機は、比較部が比較して用紙使用量が用紙限定量以上になった場合、運行制御部は直ちに印刷ユニットとコピーユニットを作業を停止するように制御し、ユーザーはこれから簡単にメンテナンスサービスが既に終了していることを知ることができ、それによって速やかにメンテナンスサービス業者に連絡し、メンテナンスサービスを提供してもらうことができる。別の面においては、ユーザーがメンテナンスサービスの契約を更新せず、さらに当該複合機の販売を準備していたとしても、メンテナンスサービス業者は当該複合機に最後のメンテナンスサービスを行うことができ、当該複合機を最善の性能で販売させることができ、メンテナンスサービス業者が新規購入者の間で良好なサービスイメージを確立するのに役立つ。また、ユーザーは印刷ユニットとコピーユニットが作業を停止しているかどうかからメンテナンスサービスを終了するか否か簡単に判断でき、それにより担当者を派遣して複合機を管理する必要がなく、ユーザーの管理コストを効果的に削減できる。 <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.
本発明実施例の複合機は、比較部が比較して用紙使用量が用紙限定量以上になった場合、運行制御部は直ちに印刷ユニットとコピーユニットを作業を停止するように制御し、ユーザーはこれから簡単にメンテナンスサービスが既に終了していることを知ることができ、それによって速やかにメンテナンスサービス業者に連絡し、メンテナンスサービスを提供してもらうことができる。別の面においては、ユーザーがメンテナンスサービスの契約を更新せず、さらに当該複合機の販売を準備していたとしても、メンテナンスサービス業者は当該複合機に最後のメンテナンスサービスを行うことができ、当該複合機を最善の性能で販売させることができ、メンテナンスサービス業者が新規購入者の間で良好なサービスイメージを確立するのに役立つ。また、ユーザーは印刷ユニットとコピーユニットが作業を停止しているかどうかからメンテナンスサービスを終了するか否か簡単に判断でき、それにより担当者を派遣して複合機を管理する必要がなく、ユーザーの管理コストを効果的に削減できる。 <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.
また、比較部が比較して用紙使用量が用紙限定量以上になった場合、運行制御部はさらにファックスユニットが正常作動状態を保持するように制御し、ユーザーが印刷ユニットとコピーユニットの作業を停止させたときも、依然として正常にファックスユニットを使用してファックスを送受信できるようにし、重要なファックスを受信できないようなことがなく、ユーザーのファックス業務が遅れを受けないことを保証する。
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.
また、複合機が正常に作動しているときに故障が発生した場合、このときメンテナンスサービスは提供中であり、ユーザーもメンテナンスサービス業者にメンテナンスサービスを提供してもらう十分な時間があるため、日常業務の遅延を招くことはない。
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.
さらに、本実施例はメンテナンスサービスに関連するSDカードと運行制御部を用いて複合機の印刷ユニット、コピーユニットとファックスユニットを補助制御するため、メンテナンスサービス業者がトナー等の消耗品を無料提供するとき、一旦SDカードが記録するメンテナンスサービスが終了すると、運行制御部がすぐに印刷ユニットとコピーユニットの作業を停止し、ユーザーの購入したメンテナンスサービスが終了後、ユーザーは残ったトナーを引き続き使うことができず、メンテナンスサービス業者の利益に役立つ。
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.
<変形例一>
図8は本発明変形例一の複合機のブロック図である。 <Modification 1>
FIG. 8 is a block diagram of a multifunction machine according to a modification of the present invention.
図8は本発明変形例一の複合機のブロック図である。 <
FIG. 8 is a block diagram of a multifunction machine according to a modification of the present invention.
図8に示すように、複合機201はSDメモリーカードがなく、外部設備通信部204を設置するのでもよい。
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.
外部設備通信部204は上位機と通信し、上位機が送信してきた印刷待ちドキュメントを受信するのに用い、当該印刷待ちドキュメントに基づいて印刷に用いる用紙プリセット印刷量を取得し、当該用紙プリセット印刷量を一時記憶部208に保存する。外部設備通信部204はさらにその他外部設備と通信し、用紙限定量、用紙使用早期警告しきい値、サービス連絡基本情報、サービス関連運行プログラム、告知画面、早期警告画面、警告画面、サービス内容画面、連絡詳細画面等サービ関連情報を受信するのに用いる。
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.
読み書き部203は、外部設備通信部204が外部設備から獲得した用紙限定量、用紙使用早期警告しきい値、サービス連絡基本情報、サービス関連運行プログラム、告知画面、早期警告画面、警告画面、サービス内容画面、連絡詳細画面をサービス関連情報記憶部224に書き込み、第二計数部205で計数した用紙使用量をサービス関連情報記憶部224に書き込むのに用いる。
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.
外部設備通信部204はさらに用紙使用量を外部設備に送信する。
The external equipment communication unit 204 further transmits the amount of paper used to the external equipment.
複合機201はさらに画像形成の完了した用紙を累計する第一計数部225を含む。第一計数部225は画像形成の完了した用紙を累計し、用紙累計値を取得するのに用いる。累計値は実際に画像形成を行った用紙の総量であり、複合機201が使用開始したときからずっと累加していき、複合機201の性能または新旧の程度を判断するのに用いられる。
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.
図9は本変形例複合機の作業フローチャートである。
Fig. 9 is a flowchart of the operation of this modified multifunction machine.
図9に示すように、複合機201の作業プロセスは以下の通り。
As shown in Fig. 9, the work process of the MFP 201 is as follows.
ステップS2-1:
複合機201が始動セルフチェック作動を起動し、読み書き部203がサービス関連情報記憶部224から用紙限定量NL、用紙累計量N1、用紙使用量N2と用紙使用早期警告しきい値NVを取得し、用紙限定量NL、用紙使用量N2と用紙使用早期警告しきい値NVを一時記憶部208に保存する。比較部206が用紙限定量NLと用紙使用量N2を比較して用紙残量NRを取得し、用紙残量NRを一時記憶部208に保存し、ステップS2-2に進む。 Step S2-1:
TheMFP 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.
複合機201が始動セルフチェック作動を起動し、読み書き部203がサービス関連情報記憶部224から用紙限定量NL、用紙累計量N1、用紙使用量N2と用紙使用早期警告しきい値NVを取得し、用紙限定量NL、用紙使用量N2と用紙使用早期警告しきい値NVを一時記憶部208に保存する。比較部206が用紙限定量NLと用紙使用量N2を比較して用紙残量NRを取得し、用紙残量NRを一時記憶部208に保存し、ステップS2-2に進む。 Step S2-1:
The
ステップS2-2:
比較部206が用紙使用量N2と用紙限定量NLを比較する。比較部206が比較して用紙使用量N2が用紙限定量NL以上になった場合、ステップS2-5に進む。比較部206が比較して用紙使用量N2が用紙限定量NL未満のとき、ステップS2-3に進む。 Step S2-2:
Thecomparison 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.
比較部206が用紙使用量N2と用紙限定量NLを比較する。比較部206が比較して用紙使用量N2が用紙限定量NL以上になった場合、ステップS2-5に進む。比較部206が比較して用紙使用量N2が用紙限定量NL未満のとき、ステップS2-3に進む。 Step S2-2:
The
ステップS2-3:
比較部206が引き続き用紙使用量N2と用紙使用早期警告しきい値NVを比較する。比較部206が比較して用紙使用量N2が用紙使用早期警告しきい値NV以上になった場合、ステップS2-6に進む。比較部206が比較して用紙使用量N2が用紙使用早期警告しきい値NV未満のとき、ステップS2-4に進む。 Step S2-3:
Comparingunit 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.
比較部206が引き続き用紙使用量N2と用紙使用早期警告しきい値NVを比較する。比較部206が比較して用紙使用量N2が用紙使用早期警告しきい値NV以上になった場合、ステップS2-6に進む。比較部206が比較して用紙使用量N2が用紙使用早期警告しきい値NV未満のとき、ステップS2-4に進む。 Step S2-3:
Comparing
ステップS2-4:
読み書き部203がサービス関連情報記憶部224からサービス連絡基本情報を読み取り、表示部210が用紙使用量N2、用紙限定量NL、及び用紙残量NRを用いてサービス連絡基本情報を含む告知画面を表示し、ステップS2-10に進む。 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.
読み書き部203がサービス関連情報記憶部224からサービス連絡基本情報を読み取り、表示部210が用紙使用量N2、用紙限定量NL、及び用紙残量NRを用いてサービス連絡基本情報を含む告知画面を表示し、ステップS2-10に進む。 Step S2-4:
The reading /
ステップS2-5:
運行制御部212はファックス機能部215がファックス信号を受信したときのみ画像形成部223が作動するように制御し、ステップS2-7に進む。 Step S2-5:
Theoperation 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.
運行制御部212はファックス機能部215がファックス信号を受信したときのみ画像形成部223が作動するように制御し、ステップS2-7に進む。 Step S2-5:
The
ステップS2-6:
読み書き部203がサービス関連情報記憶部224からサービス連絡基本情報を読み取り、表示部210が用紙使用量N2、用紙限定量NL、及び用紙残量NRを用いてサービス連絡基本情報を含む早期警告画面を表示し、それからステップS2-10に進む。 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.
読み書き部203がサービス関連情報記憶部224からサービス連絡基本情報を読み取り、表示部210が用紙使用量N2、用紙限定量NL、及び用紙残量NRを用いてサービス連絡基本情報を含む早期警告画面を表示し、それからステップS2-10に進む。 Step S2-6:
Read /
ステップS2-7:
読み書き部203がサービス関連情報記憶部224からサービス連絡基本情報を読み取り、表示部210は用紙使用量N2、用紙限定量NL、及び用紙残量NRを用いてサービス連絡基本情報を含む警告画面を表示し、それからステップS2-8に進む。 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.
読み書き部203がサービス関連情報記憶部224からサービス連絡基本情報を読み取り、表示部210は用紙使用量N2、用紙限定量NL、及び用紙残量NRを用いてサービス連絡基本情報を含む警告画面を表示し、それからステップS2-8に進む。 Step S2-7:
The read /
ステップS2-8:
制御部217はファックス機能部215がファックスドキュメントを受信したか判断する。制御部217はファックス機能部215がファックスドキュメントを受信したと判断したとき、ステップS2-9に進む。制御部217はファックス機能部215がファックスドキュメントを受信していないと判断したとき、終了状態に進む。 Step S2-8:
Thecontrol 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.
制御部217はファックス機能部215がファックスドキュメントを受信したか判断する。制御部217はファックス機能部215がファックスドキュメントを受信したと判断したとき、ステップS2-9に進む。制御部217はファックス機能部215がファックスドキュメントを受信していないと判断したとき、終了状態に進む。 Step S2-8:
The
ステップS2-9:
ファックス機能部215は受信したファックスドキュメントに画像形成を行い、当該ファックスドキュメントに基づいて用紙プリセットファックス量NFを取得し、当該用紙プリセットファックス量NFを一時記憶部208に保存する。第二計数部225は計数を停止し、同時に、第一計数部205が累計を行い、即ちN1=N1+NFとし、それから終了状態に進む。 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.
ファックス機能部215は受信したファックスドキュメントに画像形成を行い、当該ファックスドキュメントに基づいて用紙プリセットファックス量NFを取得し、当該用紙プリセットファックス量NFを一時記憶部208に保存する。第二計数部225は計数を停止し、同時に、第一計数部205が累計を行い、即ちN1=N1+NFとし、それから終了状態に進む。 Step S2-9:
ステップS2-10:
制御部217は、複合機201が間もなく印刷、コピーそれともファックス作業を行うか判断する。制御部217は複合機201が印刷作業を行うと判断したとき、ステップS2-11に進む。制御部217は複合機201がファックス作業を行うと判断したとき、ステップS2-17に進む。制御部217が複合機201はコピー作業を行うと判断したとき、ステップS2-19に進む。 Step S2-10:
Thecontrol 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.
制御部217は、複合機201が間もなく印刷、コピーそれともファックス作業を行うか判断する。制御部217は複合機201が印刷作業を行うと判断したとき、ステップS2-11に進む。制御部217は複合機201がファックス作業を行うと判断したとき、ステップS2-17に進む。制御部217が複合機201はコピー作業を行うと判断したとき、ステップS2-19に進む。 Step S2-10:
The
ステップS2-11:
外部設備通信部204は上位機が送信してきた印刷待ちドキュメントを受信し、印刷に用いる用紙プリセット印刷量NPを取得し、当該用紙プリセット印刷量NPを一時記憶部208に記憶し、それからステップS2-12に進む。 Step S2-11:
Externalequipment 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.
外部設備通信部204は上位機が送信してきた印刷待ちドキュメントを受信し、印刷に用いる用紙プリセット印刷量NPを取得し、当該用紙プリセット印刷量NPを一時記憶部208に記憶し、それからステップS2-12に進む。 Step S2-11:
External
ステップS2-12:
比較部206が一時記憶部208から用紙残量NRと用紙プリセット印刷量NPを読み取り、用紙プリセット印刷量NPと用紙残量NRを比較する。用紙プリセット印刷量NPが用紙残量NR以下の時、ステップS2-13に進む。用紙プリセット印刷量NPが用紙残量NRより多いとき、ステップS2-15に進む。 Step S2-12:
Thecomparison 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.
比較部206が一時記憶部208から用紙残量NRと用紙プリセット印刷量NPを読み取り、用紙プリセット印刷量NPと用紙残量NRを比較する。用紙プリセット印刷量NPが用紙残量NR以下の時、ステップS2-13に進む。用紙プリセット印刷量NPが用紙残量NRより多いとき、ステップS2-15に進む。 Step S2-12:
The
ステップS2-13:
印刷機能部213が正常に印刷を行い、印刷待ちドキュメントを画像形成し、完了後、ステップS2-14に進む。 Step S2-13:
Theprinting function unit 213 performs printing normally, forms an image of a document waiting for printing, and proceeds to step S2-14 after completion.
印刷機能部213が正常に印刷を行い、印刷待ちドキュメントを画像形成し、完了後、ステップS2-14に進む。 Step S2-13:
The
ステップS2-14:
第二計数部225は一時記憶部208から用紙プリセット印刷量NPを読み取り、用紙使用量N2と用紙プリセット印刷量NPの和を新しい用紙使用量N2とし、新しい用紙使用量N2を読み書き部203に送信し、読み書き部203が新しい用紙使用量Nをサービス関連情報記憶部224に書き込み、即ちN2=N2+NPとし、外部設備に送信する。同時に、第一計数部205が一時記憶部208から用紙プリセット印刷量NPを読み取り、用紙累計量N1と用紙プリセット印刷量NPの和を新しい用紙累計量N1とし、新しい用紙累計量N1を読み書き部203に送信し、読み書き部203が新しい用紙累計量N1をサービス関連情報記憶部224に書き込み、即ちN1=N1+NPとし、それから終了状態に進む。 Step S2-14:
Read the paper preset print quantity N P from thesecond 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.
第二計数部225は一時記憶部208から用紙プリセット印刷量NPを読み取り、用紙使用量N2と用紙プリセット印刷量NPの和を新しい用紙使用量N2とし、新しい用紙使用量N2を読み書き部203に送信し、読み書き部203が新しい用紙使用量Nをサービス関連情報記憶部224に書き込み、即ちN2=N2+NPとし、外部設備に送信する。同時に、第一計数部205が一時記憶部208から用紙プリセット印刷量NPを読み取り、用紙累計量N1と用紙プリセット印刷量NPの和を新しい用紙累計量N1とし、新しい用紙累計量N1を読み書き部203に送信し、読み書き部203が新しい用紙累計量N1をサービス関連情報記憶部224に書き込み、即ちN1=N1+NPとし、それから終了状態に進む。 Step S2-14:
Read the paper preset print quantity N P from the
ステップS2-15:
運行制御部212は印刷機能部213が作業を停止するように制御し、それからステップS2-16に進む。 Step S2-15:
Theoperation control unit 212 controls the printing function unit 213 to stop the operation, and then proceeds to step S2-16.
運行制御部212は印刷機能部213が作業を停止するように制御し、それからステップS2-16に進む。 Step S2-15:
The
ステップS2-16:
印刷機能部213は上位機に印刷不可の表示情報を送信し、それから終了状態に進む。 Step S2-16:
Theprint function unit 213 transmits display information indicating that printing is not possible to the host machine, and then proceeds to the end state.
印刷機能部213は上位機に印刷不可の表示情報を送信し、それから終了状態に進む。 Step S2-16:
The
ステップS2-17:
ファックス機能部215がファックスドキュメントを受信し、当該ファックスドキュメントに画像形成を行い、当該ファックスドキュメントに基づいて用紙プリセットファックス量NFを取得し、当該用紙プリセットファックス量NFを一時記憶部208に保存し、それからステップS2-18に進む。 Step S2-17:
Thefax 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.
ファックス機能部215がファックスドキュメントを受信し、当該ファックスドキュメントに画像形成を行い、当該ファックスドキュメントに基づいて用紙プリセットファックス量NFを取得し、当該用紙プリセットファックス量NFを一時記憶部208に保存し、それからステップS2-18に進む。 Step S2-17:
The
ステップS2-18:
第二計数部225が一時記憶部208から用紙プリセットファックス量NFを読み取り、用紙使用量N2と用紙プリセットファックス量NFの和を新しい用紙使用量N2とし、新しい用紙使用量N2を読み書き部203に送信し、読み書き部203が新しい用紙使用量Nをサービス関連情報記憶部224に書き込み、即ちN2=N2+NFとする。同時に、第一計数部205が一時記憶部208から用紙プリセットファックス量NFを読み取り、用紙累計量N1と用紙プリセットファックス量NFの和を新しい用紙累計量N1とし、新しい用紙累計量N1を読み書き部203に送信し、読み書き部203が新しい用紙累計量N1をサービス関連情報記憶部224に書き込み、即ちN1=N1+NFとし、それから終了状態に進む。 Step S2-18:
Thesecond 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.
第二計数部225が一時記憶部208から用紙プリセットファックス量NFを読み取り、用紙使用量N2と用紙プリセットファックス量NFの和を新しい用紙使用量N2とし、新しい用紙使用量N2を読み書き部203に送信し、読み書き部203が新しい用紙使用量Nをサービス関連情報記憶部224に書き込み、即ちN2=N2+NFとする。同時に、第一計数部205が一時記憶部208から用紙プリセットファックス量NFを読み取り、用紙累計量N1と用紙プリセットファックス量NFの和を新しい用紙累計量N1とし、新しい用紙累計量N1を読み書き部203に送信し、読み書き部203が新しい用紙累計量N1をサービス関連情報記憶部224に書き込み、即ちN1=N1+NFとし、それから終了状態に進む。 Step S2-18:
The
ステップS2-19:
入力部211がコピー待ちドキュメントを受信し、コピーに用いる用紙プリセットコピー量NCを取得し、当該用紙プリセットコピー量NCを一時記憶部208に記憶し、それからステップS2-20に進む。 Step S2-19:
Theinput 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.
入力部211がコピー待ちドキュメントを受信し、コピーに用いる用紙プリセットコピー量NCを取得し、当該用紙プリセットコピー量NCを一時記憶部208に記憶し、それからステップS2-20に進む。 Step S2-19:
The
ステップS2-20:
比較部206が一時記憶部208から用紙残量NRと用紙プリセットコピー量NCを読み取り、用紙プリセットコピー量NCと用紙残量NRを比較する。用紙プリセットコピー量NCが用紙残量NR以下のとき、ステップS2-21に進む。用紙プリセットコピー量NCが用紙残量NRを超えるとき、ステップS2-23に進む。 Step S2-20:
Thecomparison 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.
比較部206が一時記憶部208から用紙残量NRと用紙プリセットコピー量NCを読み取り、用紙プリセットコピー量NCと用紙残量NRを比較する。用紙プリセットコピー量NCが用紙残量NR以下のとき、ステップS2-21に進む。用紙プリセットコピー量NCが用紙残量NRを超えるとき、ステップS2-23に進む。 Step S2-20:
The
ステップS2-21:
コピー機能部214が正常にコピーを行い、コピー待ちドキュメントを画像形成し、完了後、ステップS2-22に進む。 Step S2-21:
Thecopy function unit 214 normally copies, forms an image of the document waiting for copying, and proceeds to step S2-22 after completion.
コピー機能部214が正常にコピーを行い、コピー待ちドキュメントを画像形成し、完了後、ステップS2-22に進む。 Step S2-21:
The
ステップS2-22:
第二計数部225が一時記憶部208から用紙プリセットコピー量NCを読み取り、用紙使用量N2と用紙プリセットコピー量NCの和を新しい用紙使用量N2とし、新しい用紙使用量N2を読み書き部203に送信し、読み書き部203が新しい用紙使用量Nをサービス関連情報記憶部224とSDメモリーカード2に書き込み、即ちN2=N2+NCとする。同時に、第一計数部205が一時記憶部208から用紙プリセットコピー量NCを読み取り、用紙累計量N1と用紙プリセットコピー量NCの和を新しい用紙累計量N1とし、新しい用紙累計量N1を読み書き部203に送信し、読み書き部203が新しい用紙累計量N1をサービス関連情報記憶部224とSDメモリーカード2に書き込み、即ちN1=N1+NCとし、それから終了状態に進む。 Step S2-22:
Read the paper preset copy quantity N C from thesecond 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 .
第二計数部225が一時記憶部208から用紙プリセットコピー量NCを読み取り、用紙使用量N2と用紙プリセットコピー量NCの和を新しい用紙使用量N2とし、新しい用紙使用量N2を読み書き部203に送信し、読み書き部203が新しい用紙使用量Nをサービス関連情報記憶部224とSDメモリーカード2に書き込み、即ちN2=N2+NCとする。同時に、第一計数部205が一時記憶部208から用紙プリセットコピー量NCを読み取り、用紙累計量N1と用紙プリセットコピー量NCの和を新しい用紙累計量N1とし、新しい用紙累計量N1を読み書き部203に送信し、読み書き部203が新しい用紙累計量N1をサービス関連情報記憶部224とSDメモリーカード2に書き込み、即ちN1=N1+NCとし、それから終了状態に進む。 Step S2-22:
Read the paper preset copy quantity N C from the
ステップS2-23:
運行制御部212はコピー機能部214が作業を停止するように制御し、それからステップS2-24に進む。 Step S2-23:
Theoperation control unit 212 controls the copy function unit 214 to stop the work, and then proceeds to step S2-24.
運行制御部212はコピー機能部214が作業を停止するように制御し、それからステップS2-24に進む。 Step S2-23:
The
ステップS2-24:
コピーユニットが表示部210を介してコピー不可の情報を表示し、それから終了状態に進む。 Step S2-24:
The copy unit displays information indicating that copying cannot be performed via thedisplay unit 210, and then proceeds to an end state.
コピーユニットが表示部210を介してコピー不可の情報を表示し、それから終了状態に進む。 Step S2-24:
The copy unit displays information indicating that copying cannot be performed via the
<実施例の作用と効果>
本発明実施例の画像形成装置は、比較部が比較して用紙使用量が用紙限定量以上になった場合、運行制御部は直ちに印刷ユニットとコピーユニットが作業を停止するように制御し、ユーザーはこれから簡単にメンテナンスサービスがすでに終了していることを知ることができ、それによって速やかにメンテナンスサービス業者に連絡し、メンテナンスサービスを提供してもらうことができる。別の面においては、ユーザーがメンテナンスサービスの契約を更新せず、当該画像形成装置を販売しようと準備していても、メンテナンスサービス業者は当該複合機に最後のメンテナンスサービスを行うことができ、当該画像形成装置を最善の性能で売りに出させることができ、メンテナンスサービス業者が新規購入者の間で良好なサービスイメージを確立するのに役立つ。また、ユーザーはユニットとコピーユニットが作業を停止したかどうかからメンテナンスサービスが終了しているかどうか簡単に判断でき、そのため担当者を派遣して複合機を管理する必要がなく、ユーザーの管理コストを効果的に削減できる。 <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.
本発明実施例の画像形成装置は、比較部が比較して用紙使用量が用紙限定量以上になった場合、運行制御部は直ちに印刷ユニットとコピーユニットが作業を停止するように制御し、ユーザーはこれから簡単にメンテナンスサービスがすでに終了していることを知ることができ、それによって速やかにメンテナンスサービス業者に連絡し、メンテナンスサービスを提供してもらうことができる。別の面においては、ユーザーがメンテナンスサービスの契約を更新せず、当該画像形成装置を販売しようと準備していても、メンテナンスサービス業者は当該複合機に最後のメンテナンスサービスを行うことができ、当該画像形成装置を最善の性能で売りに出させることができ、メンテナンスサービス業者が新規購入者の間で良好なサービスイメージを確立するのに役立つ。また、ユーザーはユニットとコピーユニットが作業を停止したかどうかからメンテナンスサービスが終了しているかどうか簡単に判断でき、そのため担当者を派遣して複合機を管理する必要がなく、ユーザーの管理コストを効果的に削減できる。 <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.
また、比較部が比較して用紙使用量が用紙限定量以上になった場合、運行制御部はさらにファックスユニットが正常作動状態を保持するように制御し、ユーザーが印刷ユニットとコピーユニットの作業を停止させたときも、依然として正常にファックスユニットを使用してファックスを送受信できるようにし、重要なファックスを受信できないようなことがなく、ユーザーのファックス業務が遅れを受けないことを保証する。
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.
また、複合機が正常に作動しているときに故障が発生した場合、このときメンテナンスサービスは提供中であり、ユーザーもメンテナンスサービス業者にメンテナンスサービスを提供してもらう十分な時間があるため、日常業務の遅延を招くことはない。
さらに、本変形例はメンテナンスサービスに関連するSDカードと運行制御部を用いて複合機の印刷ユニット、コピーユニットとファックスユニットを補助制御するため、メンテナンスサービス業者がトナー等の消耗品を無料提供するとき、一旦SDカードが記録するメンテナンスサービスが終了すると、運行制御部がすぐに印刷ユニットとコピーユニットの作業を停止し、ユーザーの購入したメンテナンスサービスが終了後、ユーザーは残ったトナーを引き続き使うことができず、メンテナンスサービス業者の利益に役立つ。 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.
さらに、本変形例はメンテナンスサービスに関連するSDカードと運行制御部を用いて複合機の印刷ユニット、コピーユニットとファックスユニットを補助制御するため、メンテナンスサービス業者がトナー等の消耗品を無料提供するとき、一旦SDカードが記録するメンテナンスサービスが終了すると、運行制御部がすぐに印刷ユニットとコピーユニットの作業を停止し、ユーザーの購入したメンテナンスサービスが終了後、ユーザーは残ったトナーを引き続き使うことができず、メンテナンスサービス業者の利益に役立つ。 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.
また、一つの面ではユーザーにメンテナンスサービス業者が無料で提供したトナーを継続使用させず、メンテナンスサービス業者の利益に役立ち、別の面ではユーザーに速やかにメンテナンスサービス業者に連絡させ、メンテナンスサービス契約を更新し、メンテナンスサービス期限終了後に画像形成装置に故障が発生し保証整備できないという現象を防ぐことができ、整備ユーザーの利益に役立つ。
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.
本発明の画像形成装置は、比較部が比較して用紙使用量が用紙限定量以上と判断したとき、運行制御部はファックスユニットがファックス信号を受信したときのみ画像形成部が作動するように制御するため、ユーザーはこれに基づいて簡単にメンテナンスサービスが既に終了していることを知ることができ、それによって速やかにメンテナンスサービス業者に連絡し、メンテナンスサービスを提供してもらうことができる。別の面においては、ユーザーがメンテナンスサービス契約の更新をせず、さらに当該画像形成装置を売り出そうと準備していたとしても、メンテナンスサービス業者は当該画像形成装置に最後のメンテナンスサービスを行い、当該画像形成装置を最善の性能で売り出させることができ、メンテナンスサービス業者が新規購入者の間で良好なサービスイメージを確立するのに役立つ。また、ユーザーは印刷ユニットとコピーユニットが作動を停止しているかどうかから簡単にメンテナンスサービスを終了するかどうか判断でき、それにより担当者を派遣して画像形成装置を管理する必要はなく、ユーザーの管理コストを効果的に下げることができる。また、メンテナンスサービス終了後も、ユーザーは依然として正常にファックスユニット使用してファックスを送受信でき、重要なファックスを受信できないようなことがなく、ユーザーのファックス業務が遅れを受けないことを保証する。
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.
別の面においては、当該画像形成装置はそれぞれ使用する全ての用紙枚数を累計する第一計数部とメンテナンスサービスに関係する用紙についてのみ計数する第二計数部を設置し、メンテナンスサービスが終了または画像形成装置に異常状態が発生すると、第二計数部がすぐに計数を停止し、同時に第一計数部は引き続き計数でき、そのため当該複合機の新旧状態を表示し、同時にメンテナンスサービス状態も表示でき,二つの計数機能が互いに影響し合わない効果を果たしている。
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.
以上、本発明の好ましい実施形態を説明したが、本発明はこのような実施形態に限定されず、本発明の趣旨を離脱しない限り、本発明に対するあらゆる変更は本発明の技術的範囲に属する。
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.
本国際出願は2013年4月26日に出願された中華人民共和国特許出願第201310151681.7号に基づく優先権を主張するものであり、その全内容をここに援用する。
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 (11)
- 少なくともトナーを使用して用紙上で画像形成を行う画像形成部、前記画像形成を終えた用紙を累計計数する第一計数部、及び前記画像形成部を含むファックスユニットを含み、メンテナンスサービス業者が少なくとも前記画像形成部に関連するメンテナンスサービスを提供できる画像形成装置であって、
少なくとも画像形成装置の外部から入力される情報を記憶し、当該情報はメンテナンスサービスとトナーの使用に関連する用紙限界量、メンテナンスサービス業者に対応するサービス連絡基本情報、及び計数機能を有するサービス関連運行プログラムを含むサービス関連情報記憶部、
計数機能を使用して画像形成部が画像形成を終えた用紙を計数し、用紙使用量を取得する第二計数部、
前記用紙使用量を前記用紙限界量と比較するのに用いる比較部、
前記比較部の比較により前記用紙使用量が前記用紙限界量以上になった場合、前記画像形成部を前記ファックスユニットがファックス信号を受信したときにのみ作動するように制御する運行制御部、及び
前記比較部の比較により前記用紙使用量が前記用紙限界量以上になった場合、前記サービス連絡基本情報をユーザーに通知する通知部を含む、ことを特徴とする画像形成装置。 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. - 少なくとも前記用紙限界量、前記用紙使用量及び前記サービス連絡基本情報を用いて、前記メンテナンスサービスに関連するメンテナンスサービス状態を表示する表示部を含み、
前記サービス関連情報記憶部はさらにユーザーに前記メンテナンスサービスがすでに終了していることを警告するのに用いる警告画面を記憶し、
前記表示部は前記通知部として前記警告画面の表示により通知の動作を行うことを特徴とする、請求項1に記載の画像形成装置。 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. - 前記サービス関連情報記憶部はさらに前記画像形成装置の外部から入力されるユーザーに現在の用紙使用に関係するメンテナンスサービス状態を告知するのに用いる告知画面を記憶し、
前記用紙使用量が前記用紙限界量より少ないとき、前記表示部は少なくとも前記用紙限界量、前記用紙使用量及び前記サービス連絡基本情報を用いて前記告知画面を表示する、ことを特徴とする請求項2に記載の画像形成装置。 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. - 前記サービス関連情報記憶部はさらに前記画像形成装置の外部から入力される用紙使用早期警告しきい値、及びユーザーに前記メンテナンスサービスが間もなく終了することを予め警告するのに用いる早期警告画面を記憶し、
前記用紙使用量が前記用紙限界量より少ないとき、前記比較部はさらに前記用紙使用量と前記用紙使用早期警告しきい値を比較し、
前記比較部の比較により前記用紙使用量が前記用紙使用早期警告しきい値以上になった場合、前記表示部が前記早期警告画面を表示する、ことを特徴とする請求項3に記載の画像形成装置。 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. - 前記サービス関連情報記憶部はさらに前記画像形成装置の外部から入力される前記メンテナンスサービスに対応するサービス内容情報、及びユーザーに享受できるメンテナンスサービス内容を告知するのに用いるサービス内容画面を記憶し、
前記告知画面、前記早期警告画面及び前記警告画面はさらにそれぞれユーザーに前記サービス内容情報を調べさせるのに用いるサービス内容選択キーを含み、前記サービス内容選択キーが選択された後、前記表示部が前記サービス内容画面を表示する、ことを特徴とする請求項4に記載の画像形成装置。 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. - 前記サービス関連情報記憶部はさらに前記画像形成装置の外部から入力される前記メンテナンスサービス業者に対応するサービス連絡詳細情報、及びユーザーに前記サービス連絡詳細情報を告知するのに用いる連絡詳細画面を記憶し、
前記告知画面、前記早期警告画面及び前記警告画面はさらにそれぞれユーザーに前記サービス連絡詳細情報を調べさせるのに用いる連絡詳細選択キーを含み、前記連絡詳細選択キーが選択された後、前記表示部がさらに前記連絡詳細画面を表示する、ことを特徴とする請求項5に記載の画像形成装置。 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. - 前記メンテナンスサービス業者から提供される着脱可能なSDメモリーカード及び前記サービス関連情報記憶部に対して読み書きを行うのに用いる読み書き部をさらに含み、
前記SDメモリーカードが前記用紙限界量、前記用紙使用早期警告しきい値、前記サービス連絡基本情報、前記サービス関連運行プログラム、前記告知画面、前記早期警告画面、前記警告画面、前記サービス内容画面、前記連絡詳細画面を記憶し、
前記サービス関連情報記憶部が前記読み書き部を介して前記SDメモリーカードの中から前記用紙限界量、前記用紙使用早期警告しきい値、前記サービス連絡基本情報、前記サービス関連運行プログラム、前記告知画面、前記早期警告画面、前記警告画面、前記サービス内容画面、前記連絡詳細画面を取得し、
前記読み書き部が前記第二計数部で計数した前記用紙使用量を前記サービス関連情報記憶部及び前記SDメモリーカードに書き込む、ことを特徴とする請求項6に記載の画像形成装置。 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. - 外部設備と通信するのに用いる外部設備通信部、及び
前記外部設備通信部が前記外部設備から取得した前記用紙限界量、前記用紙使用早期警告しきい値、前記サービス連絡基本情報、前記サービス関連運行プログラム、前記告知画面、前記早期警告画面、前記警告画面、前記サービス内容画面、前記連絡詳細画面を前記サービス関連情報記憶部に書き込み、また前記第二計数部で計算した前記用紙使用量を前記サービス関連情報記憶部に書き込むことに用いる読み書き部を含み、
前記外部設備通信部が前記用紙使用量を前記外部設備に送信する、ことを特徴とする請求項6に記載の画像形成装置。 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. - 前記画像形成部を含む印刷ユニット、及び
上位機が送信してきた印刷に用いる用紙プリセット印刷量を受信するのに用いる上位機通信部を含み、
前記用紙使用量が前記用紙限界量より少ないとき、前記比較部はさらに前記用紙使用量と前記用紙限界量から用紙残量を取得し、前記用紙プリセット印刷量と前記用紙残量を比較し、
前記用紙プリセット印刷量が前記用紙残量以下のとき、前記運行制御部は前記印刷ユニットが印刷作業を行うように制御し、
前記用紙プリセット印刷量が前記用紙残量より多いとき、前記運行制御部は前記印刷ユニットが作業を停止するように制御し、前記上位機通信部を介して前記上位機に印刷不可の情報を送信することを特徴とする請求項7または8に記載の画像形成装置。 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. - 前記画像形成部を含むコピーユニット、及び
コピーするのに用いる用紙プリセットコピー量を入力するのに用いる入力部を含み、
前記用紙使用量が前記用紙限界量より少ないとき、前記比較部はさらに前記用紙使用量と前記用紙限界量から用紙残量を取得し、前記用紙プリセットコピー量と前記用紙残量を比較し、
前記用紙プリセットコピー量が前記用紙残量以下のとき、前記運行制御部は前記コピーユニットが印刷作業を行うように制御し、
前記用紙プリセットコピー量が前記用紙残量より多いとき、前記運行制御部は前記コピーユニットが作業を停止するように制御し、前記表示部を介してコピー不可の情報を表示する、ことを特徴とする請求項7または8に記載の画像形成装置。 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. - 前記画像形成部が前記トナーを収容するのに用いるトナーカートリッジを有し、
前記トナーカートリッジは無料交換または有料交換される、ことを特徴とする請求項1に記載の画像形成装置。 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.
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