JP5694004B2 - Recommended system for using recycled consumables, image forming apparatus using the same, and recommended method for using recycled consumables - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a system for recommending the use of recycled consumables, an image forming apparatus using the same, and a method for recommending the use of recycled consumables, and in particular, the use of recycled consumables as consumables used in purchased or leased image forming apparatuses. The present invention relates to a recommended system for recommending the use of recycled consumables, an image forming apparatus using the system, and a recommended method for using consumables for recycling.

In recent years, in image forming apparatuses such as copiers, facsimiles, and printers, in consideration of the global environment, consumables and replacement parts used in the image forming apparatus use regenerated products that reduce the burden on the global environment. It has been promoted.
In addition, in order to reduce the CO ₂ emission amount, an improvement is recommended to the user.

As a conventional technique, for example, as a consumable unit that can be attached to and detached from a printing apparatus, a consumable unit sold with a greenhouse gas emission right is used. There has been proposed a method in which an evaluation for reduction is performed, an evaluation result is displayed on an operation panel or the like, and the evaluation result is printed on paper (see Patent Document 1).
Thereby, since the user can confirm the evaluation with respect to reduction of greenhouse gas, he can raise recognition to greenhouse gas reduction.

In addition, for example, an image forming apparatus is proposed that presents a recommended mode in which the CO ₂ emission amount is smaller than the print mode set by the user (see Patent Document 2).
Thus, in terms of power consumption by use of the image forming apparatus in CO ₂ emissions, this was added CO ₂ emissions from the consumption of consumables, since obtaining the total CO ₂ emissions, CO ₂ emission actual It is easy to grasp, and it is possible to present a recommended mode of how the user can use the apparatus to reduce the CO ₂ emission amount, and to perform improvement prediction.

JP 2010-2442 A Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2002-6696

  However, according to the printing apparatus of Patent Document 1 described above, although the user's awareness of greenhouse gas reduction can be increased, the user cannot be urged to use recycled consumables that can reduce greenhouse gas emissions. There is a problem that image forming apparatus manufacturers and consumables manufacturers cannot contribute to achieving the greenhouse gas reduction target.

  According to the image forming apparatus disclosed in Patent Document 2, when the presented recommended mode is selected, a user other than the administrator can use only the print mode limited to the recommended mode, and the print mode limited to the recommended mode can be used. Since only the administrator can cancel, for example, if the administrator is absent on a business trip or training, there is no person who can cancel, and the convenience of the image forming apparatus is for users who want to print in a mode other than the recommended mode. There is a problem that it falls.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above-described conventional problems, and can contribute to the achievement of greenhouse gas reduction targets of image forming apparatus manufacturers and consumables manufacturers. By providing this information, it is possible to provide a system for recommending the use of recycled consumables that is even more environmentally friendly to all users, without compromising the convenience of the image forming apparatus, and to provide an image forming apparatus using the same and a recommended method for using consumables for recycling. The purpose is to do.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, a reproduction consumable use recommendation system according to the present invention, an image forming apparatus using the same, and a reproduction consumable use recommendation method are as follows.

The present invention relates to a reproduction consumable use recommendation system that recommends the use of a reclaimable consumable as a consumable used for a purchased or leased image forming apparatus, and the data of the image forming apparatus and the consumable sales destination Storage means provided in the consumables used in the image forming apparatus, connected to a management server via a communication means, and configured to be able to monitor the usage status of the consumables of the image forming apparatus by the seller. Alternatively, a detection unit that detects information stored in the recording unit, a reproduction consumable information storage unit that stores information on a reproduction consumable used in the image forming apparatus, a detection result by the detection unit, and the reproduction consumption Consumable item determining means for collating the information (data) of the recyclable consumable item stored in the consumable information storage means to determine whether or not the consumable item is a recycled consumable item, and the consumable item And a message notifying unit for notifying the image forming apparatus of a recommended use message for a reusable consumable when the determining unit determines that the consumable is not a reusable consumable. The image forming apparatus includes a detection result notifying unit for notifying the data management server of a detection result by the detecting unit, and a reproduction consumable as an icon for selecting an operation process is used in the reproduction consumable use encouragement message. A reusable consumable selection icon for selecting use of the consumable and a confirm transmission icon for confirming and transmitting the selection, and confirming the use of the reproducible consumable is transmitted by the confirm transmission icon. in Rukoto, in the consumables sales destination data management server of the image forming apparatus to be a user of the reproduction consumables Noboru It is characterized in being.

In the present invention, it is preferable that a notification of a use recommendation message for the recycle consumable is displayed on the display unit of the image forming apparatus when the image forming apparatus is ready.
In the present invention, when the image forming apparatus is ready, when warming up, between print jobs, or when there is no input signal from the input unit (when the user is not operating the image forming apparatus), the scanner When there is no signal for placing a document in the unit.

  In addition, the present invention provides a display unit of a specific terminal device that is connected to the image forming apparatus, for example, a terminal device (personal computer) of an administrator of the image forming apparatus. Is preferably displayed.

  Further, the present invention includes a touch panel or operation keys that are substantially integrated as a configuration of the display unit, and the display unit displays a recommendation message for using the recycled consumable by operating the touch panel or the operation keys on the display unit. It is preferable to display on the part.

  Note that the touch panel and the operation keys may be provided separately, or a display unit using the touch panel and a display unit that performs only display, that is, a plurality of display units may be provided.

  In the present invention, it is preferable that the consumable item is provided with a carbon footprint mark (carbon footprint label).

In the present invention, the carbon footprint mark is obtained by converting greenhouse gas emissions in the life cycle into carbon dioxide.
Moreover, it is preferable that an explanatory text explaining the carbon footprint mark is provided, and it is preferable that the carbon footprint mark or an explanatory text thereof is provided on the consumable item itself or the packing material of the consumable item.

  In the present invention, it is preferable to use any one of an IC chip (for example, a wireless IC tag, a contact type CRUM), a barcode, and a QR code (registered trademark) as the storage means or recording means for the consumables.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image forming apparatus that has been purchased or leased, and is characterized by using the reproduction consumable use recommendation system according to any one of claims 1 to 6 .

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for recommending the use of reclaimed consumables as a consumable used for a purchased or leased image forming apparatus, wherein the image forming apparatus according to claim 7 is used. It is characterized by this.

According to the reproduction consumable use recommendation system of the present invention, a reproduction consumable use recommendation system that recommends the use of a reproduction consumable as a consumable used in a purchased or leased image forming apparatus, the image forming apparatus And the data management server of the consumables sales destination are connected via a communication unit, and the usage status of the consumables of the image forming apparatus can be monitored by the sales destination, and is used for the image forming apparatus. Detection means for detecting information stored in the storage means or recording means provided in the consumables to be provided, regenerated consumable information storage means for storing information on recyclable consumables used in the image forming apparatus, and The result of detection by the detection means is checked against the information (data) of the recycled consumables stored in the recycled consumable information storage means to determine whether the consumable is a recycled consumable. Use of a resumable consumable that is recommended to be used in the image forming apparatus when the consumable determining unit determines that the consumable is not a reclaimable consumable A message notification unit that notifies a recommendation message, and the image forming apparatus includes a detection result notification unit that notifies the data management server of a detection result by the detection unit. As an icon for selecting an operation process, a recycle consumable selection icon for selecting use of a recycle consumable and a confirmed transmission icon for confirming and transmitting this selection are transmitted. by ascertaining the use of goods it is transmitted, in the consumables sales destination data management server of the above image forming apparatus reproducing expendable By registering that you are a user, you can promote the sales of recycled consumables and reduce the amount of greenhouse gas generated in the life cycle of consumables. Or consumables manufacturers can use the GHG reduction quotas to approach GHG reduction targets. In addition, by encouraging users to use recycled consumables that generate a small amount of greenhouse gases, it is possible to promote an increase in environmental awareness. Furthermore, since the use of genuine recycled consumables can be promoted, the failure of the image forming apparatus due to the use of non-genuine consumables that are not sold through regular sales channels can be suppressed.

  Further, according to the present invention, the image forming apparatus and a data management server of the consumables sales destination are connected via communication means, and the usage status of the consumables of the image forming apparatus is determined by the sales destination. The image forming apparatus can be monitored, and the image forming apparatus includes a detection result notifying unit that notifies the data management server of the detection result of the detecting unit, so that the use status of the image forming apparatus can be confirmed on the data management server side. Therefore, it is possible to deal with the consumables used in the image forming apparatus based on the latest information.

  Further, according to the present invention, a display screen for displaying the recommended use message for the reclaimed consumable without switching the display screen by including an icon for selecting an operation process in the reusable consumable use recommended message. The process which concerns on the following process can be selected above.

  In addition, according to the present invention, the notification of the recommended use message for the recycle consumable is displayed on the display unit of the image forming apparatus when the image forming apparatus is ready, so that a plurality of users can use the image forming apparatus. Even in such an environment, it is possible to notify the recommended use message of the playback consumables without interfering with the copy operation, mail operation, and FAX operation of other users.

  Further, according to the present invention, the notification of the recommended message for use of the consumable item is displayed on a display unit of a specific terminal device that is communicatively connected to the image forming device, for example, a terminal device of an administrator of the image forming device. In this way, the administrator can be notified regardless of other user's use status of the image forming apparatus, and the recommended message for using the reclaimable consumables without interfering with other users' copy operation, mail operation, and FAX operation. Can be notified.

  Further, according to the present invention, as the configuration of the display unit, a touch panel or an operation key is provided substantially integrally, and the use recommendation message for the playback consumable is obtained by operating the touch panel or the operation key on the display unit. By displaying the information on the display unit, each information can be easily displayed directly from the image forming apparatus or a specific terminal device connected to the image forming apparatus, so that a plurality of users can use the image forming apparatus. Even in such an environment, it is possible to display a recommended message for using the consumables for reproduction without interfering with the copy operation, the mail operation, and the FAX operation.

  In addition, according to the present invention, since the consumable item is provided with a carbon footprint mark, the user can be urged to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and to raise awareness of global environmental conservation.

  Further, according to the present invention, by using any one of an IC chip (for example, a wireless IC tag, a contact type CRUM), a barcode, and a QR code (registered trademark) as the storage means or the recording means for the consumables, It is possible to easily detect whether a consumable currently in use is a new consumable or a recycled consumable.

Further, according to the image forming apparatus of the present invention, by using the recycling consumable use recommendation system according to any one of claims 1 to 6 , the sales of the recycling consumable can be promoted, and the greenhouse gas in the life cycle of the consumable The amount of greenhouse gas generated can be reduced, and the reduced greenhouse gas amount can be applied to the greenhouse gas reduction frame by the image forming apparatus manufacturer or the consumables manufacturer to approach the greenhouse gas reduction target. In addition, by encouraging users to use recycled consumables that generate a small amount of greenhouse gases, it is possible to promote an increase in environmental awareness. Furthermore, since the use of genuine recycled consumables can be promoted, the failure of the image forming apparatus due to the use of non-genuine consumables that are not sold through regular sales channels can be suppressed.

According to the recommended method for using recycled consumables according to the present invention, the use of the image forming apparatus according to claim 7 promotes the sales of recycled consumables, and the amount of greenhouse gas generated in the life cycle of the consumables. The image forming apparatus manufacturer or the consumables manufacturer can apply the reduced greenhouse gas amount to the greenhouse gas reduction frame to approach the greenhouse gas reduction target. In addition, by encouraging users to use recycled consumables that generate a small amount of greenhouse gases, it is possible to promote an increase in environmental awareness. Furthermore, since the use of genuine recycled consumables can be promoted, the failure of the image forming apparatus due to the use of non-genuine consumables that are not sold through regular sales channels can be suppressed.

1 is an explanatory diagram showing an overall configuration of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of the image forming apparatus. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the communication network which comprises the reproduction | regeneration consumables use recommendation system of the said image forming apparatus. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structure of the operation panel which comprises the reproduction | regeneration consumables use recommendation system of the said image forming apparatus. It is explanatory drawing which shows the initial screen of DOCUMENT FILING mode displayed on the display part which comprises the said operation panel. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the preview display of the use recommendation message of the reproduction | regeneration consumables notified from the store displayed on the said display part. It is explanatory drawing which shows the initial screen of the IMAGE SEND mode displayed on the said display part. 6 is a flowchart showing a procedure for recommending the use of a reclaimed consumable by the reclaimable consumable use recommended system of the image forming apparatus. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a preview display of a reproduction consumable use recommendation message displayed on the display unit of the image forming apparatus according to the first modification of the embodiment of the recycle consumable use recommendation system of the present invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structure of the modification 2 of embodiment which concerns on the reproduction | regeneration consumables use recommendation system of this invention.

Hereinafter, embodiments for carrying out the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing an overall configuration of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention, which is an example of an embodiment of the present invention.

  This embodiment is an image forming apparatus that is purchased or leased as shown in FIG. 1 and is used in the image forming apparatus 1 that is connected to a data management server and forms an image using toner by an electrophotographic method. As a recycling consumable use recommendation system that recommends the use of recycled consumables as a product, the configuration of a characteristic system for recommending use of recycled consumables according to the present invention is adopted.

First, the overall configuration of the image forming apparatus 1 will be described.
The image forming apparatus 1 forms an image on a predetermined sheet (recording paper, recording medium) according to image data transmitted from the outside. As shown in FIG. 1, the image forming apparatus 1 mainly includes an image forming unit 3 including an electrophotographic process unit (not shown) which is a main unit, an operation panel 100, and a scanner unit (not shown). The image reading unit 2 is provided.

  The image data obtained by reading the original image with the scanner unit is subjected to various processes and then temporarily stored in the memory. In response to an output instruction, the image data is output from the memory to the image forming unit 3 and is exposed to light. After being reproduced as a visible image on a body drum (not shown), the image is transferred onto a sheet to form a toner image.

A paper feed unit 4 for supplying paper adjacent to the image forming unit 3 is configured.
The sheet feeding unit 4 includes first to third cassettes 31, 32, and 33, and a large-capacity cassette 34 as an option. The large-capacity cassette 34 can accommodate a large amount of standard paper that is most frequently used, for example, A4 size.

A paper discharge tray 51 is formed between the image reading unit 2 and the image forming unit 3.
A post-processing device 5 is configured adjacent to the image forming unit 3.
The post-processing device 5 is provided with a first paper discharge tray 52 and a second paper discharge tray 53.

  The image forming apparatus 1 is connected to a PC, FAX, and a data management server such as a manufacturer, sales destination or lease destination via a network line (LAN, telephone line, etc.) not shown.

Here, the configuration of the image forming apparatus 1 will be described with reference to a block diagram.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of the image forming apparatus according to the present exemplary embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the image forming apparatus 1 includes, as an electrical configuration, a control unit 501 that controls the operation of the image forming apparatus 1, a storage unit 502, a calculation unit 503, a display unit 101, an input unit 505, and a network line. A communication unit 506 that performs LAN connection with a PC or the like, an image processing unit 508 that performs image processing, an image forming unit 509 that performs image formation, a fixing unit 510 that performs toner image fixing processing, and a scanner that reads an image A reading unit 507, a control unit 511 for controlling the operation of the post-processing device 5 (referring to the peripheral device in FIG. 2), and the like are provided.

  In the present embodiment, the consumables used in the image forming apparatus 1 include an IC chip (wireless IC tag or contact type CRUM), bar code, QR code (registered trademark), or the like as a storage unit or a recording unit. It has been.

The image forming apparatus 1 includes a detection unit (detection unit) 509a that detects information stored in the storage unit or the recording unit of the consumables.
The detection unit 509a detects information on consumables used by the user in the image forming apparatus 1 (whether or not it is a recycled consumable).

  The control unit 501 has a function (detection result notifying unit) for notifying the data management server 701 of the detection result detected by the detection unit 509a.

  In the present embodiment, when the data management server 701 determines that the consumable item detected by the detection unit 509a is not a reproduction consumable item, the control unit 501 selects a reproduction consumable item notified from the data management server 701. The display unit 101 displays a usage recommendation message for a recyclable consumable that is recommended for use, and the image forming apparatus 1 is activated to a ready state.

Next, a characteristic reproduction consumable use recommendation system used in the image forming apparatus 1 of the present embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a communication network that constitutes the recommended system for use of recycled consumables of the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment. FIG. FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing the initial screen of the DOCUMENT FILING mode displayed on the display unit constituting the operation panel, and FIG. 6 is notified from the dealer displayed on the display unit. FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing an initial screen of the IMAGE SEND mode displayed on the display unit.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the system for recommending the use of recycled consumables of the image forming apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment uses the recycled consumables as consumables to which the greenhouse gas emission right used for the image forming apparatus 1 is granted. This is a recommended system for recommended use of recycled consumables. The communication unit 506 connects the image forming apparatus 1 to a data management server 701 such as a manufacturer, a sales destination, or a lease destination via a LAN (local area network) 700, and data A feature of the management server 701 is to notify a user of a use recommendation message for a recycle consumable that recommends the use of the recycle consumable to the user.

  In this reproduction consumable use recommended system, the image forming apparatus 1 and the consumable sales destination data management server 701 are connected via a LAN (local area network (communication means)) 700 as a communication connection. The use status of the consumables of the forming apparatus 1 is configured to be monitored, and information stored in storage means or recording means provided in the consumables used in the image forming apparatus 1 is detected on the image forming apparatus 1 side. A function (detection means) and a function (detection result notification means) for notifying the data management server 701 of the detection result, and storing information on the consumables used for the image forming apparatus 1 on the data management server 701 side. The consumables by collating the function to be performed (recycled consumables information storage means) with the detection result and the information of the recycled consumables stored on the data management server 701 side. A function to determine whether or not a consumable is a consumable (consumables determination means), and if it is determined that the consumable is not a consumable for recycling, it is recommended to use the consumable for the image forming apparatus. And a function (message notifying means) for notifying a recommended use message for the recycle consumables.

  In the present embodiment, the image forming apparatus 1 includes a detection unit 509a that detects information stored in a storage unit or a recording unit included in a consumable used for the image forming apparatus 1, and the control unit 501 includes: The detection unit 509a is configured to function as a detection result notification unit that notifies the data management server 701 of a detection result.

  In addition, the data management server 701 functions as a playback consumable information storage unit that stores information on the playback consumables used in the image forming apparatus 1, and the detection result and data management by the detection unit 509 a notified from the image forming apparatus 1. The consumable item functions as a consumable item determining unit that checks whether or not the consumable item is a reproduction consumable item by collating with the information of the reproduction consumable item stored on the server 701 side. If it is determined that there is not, the image forming apparatus 1 is configured to function as a message notification unit that notifies the image forming apparatus 1 of a recommended use message for a reclaimable consumable that recommends the use of the reclaimable consumable.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the display unit 101 of the operation panel 100 is configured to function as a display unit of a reproduction consumable use recommendation system.

As shown in FIG. 4, the operation panel 100 has an operation surface (input unit) 100 a configured in a substantially planar shape, and a display unit 101 configured in a substantially central portion thereof.
The display unit 101 may not be flush with the operation surface (input unit) 100a, but may be openable and closable with respect to the operation surface (input unit) 100a. What is the operation surface (input unit) 100a? It may be provided separately. Moreover, you may combine them.

  The display unit 101 includes a touch panel or operation keys substantially integrally. The display unit 101 is configured to display a use recommendation message for a recycle consumable by operating the touch panel or the operation keys on the display unit 101.

  As shown in FIGS. 5 and 7, the display unit 101 displays operation keys 110 for selecting a processing mode by the image forming apparatus 1. The operation key 110 is provided with an icon 111a for DOCUMENT FILING mode, an icon 111b for IMAGE SEND mode, and an icon 111c for COPY mode. By using the operation key 110, a COPY mode, an IMAGE SEND mode, and a DOCUMENT FILING mode can be selected.

  When the power of the image forming apparatus 1 is turned on, an initial screen (not shown) is displayed on the display unit 101. When the icon 111a for the DOCUMENT FILING mode is selected from the operation keys 110, as shown in FIG. The initial screen 110a of the DOCUMENT FILING mode is displayed.

  A preview confirmation icon 120a as an operation key is displayed at the lower left of the initial screen 110a in the DOCUMENT FILING mode. When the preview confirmation icon 120 a is touched, information such as an email received by the image forming apparatus 1 is displayed on the display unit 101.

  In the present embodiment, when a new mail is received by the image forming apparatus 1, the icon 111 a for DOCUMENT FILING mode blinks. Then, when the preview confirmation icon 120a is selected, as shown in FIG. 6, for example, a recommended use message (notification email) of a reclaimable consumable that recommends using a reclaimable consumable as a consumable from a store. The preview screen 101 a is displayed on the display unit 101.

The use recommendation message for the recycle consumable includes an icon for selecting an operation process.
That is, as shown in FIG. 6, a playback consumable item selection “use playback consumables in the future” is selected as a thumbnail of a selection switch for selecting an operation process at the bottom of the preview screen 101a of the usage recommendation message for the playback consumables. An icon 131, a confirmed transmission icon 132 indicating that the selected result is “determined and transmitted”, and a screen switching icon 133 for switching (closing) the preview screen 101a are displayed side by side.

  Here, when the user selects the reproduction consumable item selection icon 131 to “use the reproduction consumable item in the future” and selects the confirmation transmission icon 132 to “confirm and transmit” this selection, "Use recycled consumables" is notified to consumables sales companies and leasing companies.

  Therefore, it is registered in the user management list of the consumables sales company or the leasing company that the user is the user who orders the reclaimed consumables. It is possible to easily order and obtain recycled consumables without transmitting information identifying the item to the consumables sales company or leasing company.

  When the screen switching icon 133 is selected, the notification process of information relating to the consumables ends, and the preview screen 101a of the playback consumable use recommendation message (notification mail) changes to the initial screen.

  When the IMAGE SEND mode icon 111b of the operation keys 110 is selected, an initial screen 110b in the IMAGE SEND mode is displayed as shown in FIG.

An Ecoview icon 120b as an operation key is displayed at the lower left of the initial screen 110b in the IMAGE SEND mode. When the Ecoview icon 120b is touched, a selection screen for acquiring information related to the image forming apparatus 1 being used is displayed on the display unit 101. The information related to the image forming apparatus 1 includes information on the recyclable consumables used for the image forming apparatus 1. In this embodiment, the recycled consumable is a consumable with a greenhouse gas emission right.
Here, description of acquisition of information regarding the image forming apparatus 1 is omitted.

  The operation panel 100 also includes an icon (not shown) for switching between list display and thumbnail display, and an icon (not shown) for returning to the initial screen 110b in the IMAGE SEND mode.

Recycled consumables are provided with a carbon footprint label (carbon footprint mark). In addition, the recycled consumable item may display a value obtained by converting the greenhouse gas emission amount in the life cycle of the recycled consumable item into the CO ₂ emission amount and an explanatory text explaining the value.

The carbon footprint label uses an LCA (life cycle assessment) method that quantitatively calculates the environmental load throughout the life cycle from procurement of raw materials for products and services to disposal and recycling, and greenhouse gas emissions throughout the life cycle. The amount is converted into CO ₂ and displayed.

The weight (kg) displayed in the mark on the carbon footprint label indicates, for example, the total amount of converted CO ₂ emissions from raw material procurement to disposal / recycling at the life cycle stage of toner cartridges that are consumables. is there.

  Here, the information in the life cycle of toner cartridges refers to the types and emissions of greenhouse gases that begin during the raw material procurement stage of toner cartridges and during the production, distribution, use / maintenance, and disposal / recycling stages. It is quantity information.

There are 6 types of greenhouse gases: CO ₂ , CH ₄ , N ₂ O, HFCs, PFCs, and SF ₆ that are targeted by the Kyoto Protocol, but the value converted to CO ₂ is recorded on the label. since, CO ₂ conversion value of the toner cartridge is displayed on the Ecoview thumbnail display.
The CO ₂ emission amount is calculated by the following general formula (I) using an LCA (life cycle assessment) method.

CO ₂ emissions = Σ (activity i x CO ₂ emissions intensity) (I)
i is an activity amount (process) from the above-mentioned raw material procurement to disposal / recycling.
Each stage of the life cycle and an example of the amount of activity (process) are shown in (1) to (5).
(1) The amount of activity at the raw material procurement stage is the amount of material used.
(2) The amount of activity at the production stage is the assembly weight and the power consumption during production.
(3) The amount of activity in the distribution stage is the transport amount (the product of the transport distance, the loading rate, and the truck load).
(4) The amount of activity at the usage / maintenance stage is the amount of power consumed during use.
(5) The amount of activity at the disposal / recycling stage is landfill weight and recycled weight.
The unit of CO ₂ emission is (kg).
Thus, the label information of the character and the CO ₂ emissions CO ₂ (kg) is described.
Further, the unit of the CO ₂ emission amount may be a unit representing a weight such as (g) or (t) in addition to (kg).

For example, when the recycled consumable is a toner cartridge, the toner cartridge is basically cleaned, filled with a toner, and attached with a cap. Therefore, compared with a new toner cartridge, the above (1) and (2) can be greatly reduced. Therefore, the CO ₂ emission conversion value in the life cycle can be reduced. Therefore, by using a large amount of recycled consumables for a plurality of users, it is possible to use the recycled consumables for the greenhouse gas reduction frame and to approach the greenhouse gas reduction target.

  Furthermore, the user is prompted to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and protect the global environment by looking at the carbon footprint label displayed on the toner cartridge and its description.

  Next, the connection between the image forming apparatus 1 and the data management server 701 constituting the reproduction consumable use recommendation system used in the image forming apparatus 1 of the present embodiment will be described.

  In the present embodiment, overall control of the image forming apparatus 1 is performed by a control unit 501 as shown in FIG. Further, product information of the recyclable consumables used in the image forming apparatus 1 and ecolabel information that is environment-acquisition acquisition information of the recyclable consumables are stored in a storage unit (recycled consumable information storage unit) (not shown) of the data management server 701. ing. The storage unit may be an HDD device, a Blu-ray disk device, a ROM or RAM, a USB memory, or a memory card memory.

  In the present embodiment, the image forming apparatus 1 and the data management server 701 are connected via a communication unit. For example, as shown in FIG. 3, a plurality of users A, B, and C are connected to an image forming apparatus or consumables via a LAN (local area network) 700 by the communication unit 506 of the image forming apparatus 1 that is each terminal. It is possible to connect to a data management server 701 such as a store or a leasing company, or to connect via a satellite communication infrastructure 710 using a communication satellite 711.

  As the LAN (local area network) 700, in the case of wired, Ethernet IEEE standards 10BASE-T, 100BASE-TX, 10GBASE-T, etc., and their optical multimode 10BASE-F, 100BASE-F, 1000BASE-X 10GBASE-R, 10GBASE-W, 10GBASE-X, in the case of wireless, WiMAX IEEE 802.16 (broadband wireless standard), IEEE 802.16a (standard wireless communication standard, modified frequency band of IEEE 802.16 standard) ), IEEE 802.16-2004 (method used for fixed sections, also known as IEEE 802.16a / REVd), WAN, and cloud computing services (dedicated operators: cloud providers) can also be used.

The communication connection method between the image forming apparatus 1 and the data management server 701 is not particularly limited. For example, the Internet, an intranet, an extranet, an ISDN, a VAN, a CATV communication network, a virtual private network, A telephone line network, a mobile communication network, etc. can be used.
Also, the transmission medium constituting the communication network is not particularly limited. For example, even in the case of wired such as IEEE 1394, USB, power line carrier, cable TV line, telephone line, ADSL line, etc., infrared rays such as IrDA and remote control, Bluetooth, etc. (Registered trademark), 802.11 radio, and radio such as HDR, mobile phone network, satellite line, terrestrial digital network, etc.

Next, a procedure for recommending a user to use a recycled consumable as a consumable to be used for the image forming apparatus 1 by the reproduction consumable use recommended system of the image forming apparatus 1 will be described with reference to a flowchart.
FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a procedure for recommending the use of a reclaimed consumable by the reclaimable consumable use recommended system of the image forming apparatus of this embodiment.

  When the control for detecting the consumables used for the image forming apparatus 1 is started by the system for recommending the use of reclaimed consumables by turning on the power of the image forming apparatus 1 (step S1), first, the consumables used for the image forming apparatus 1 are used. The data management server 701 of the product sales destination is connected to the image forming apparatus 1 to check whether communication is possible (step S2). If the data management server 701 and the image forming apparatus 1 can communicate, the establishment of communication is recognized (step S3).

  Next, it is determined whether or not a consumable item is attached to the image forming apparatus 1 (step S4). This is determined based on whether or not a consumable has been detected by the detection unit 509a provided in the image forming apparatus 1.

  In this embodiment, the consumable is provided with an IC chip (wireless IC tag or contact type CRUM) (not shown), a bar code, a QR code (registered trademark), and the like, and these are detected by the detection unit 509a. .

If it is determined in step S4 that no consumable item is attached to the image forming apparatus 1, the processing by the reusable consumable item use recommendation system ends.
On the other hand, if it is determined in step S4 that a consumable item is attached to the image forming apparatus 1, it is determined whether the consumable item is a recycled consumable item (step S5).

Specifically, information on the storage means provided in the consumables detected by the detection unit 509a is transmitted to the data management server 701 via the LAN 700 connected to the communication unit 506.
Then, the data management server 701 collates the result of detection by the detection unit 509a with the information on the reclaimed consumables stored in the storage means (recycled consumable information storage means) provided in the data management server 701. It is determined whether the product is a recycled consumable product.

If it is determined in step S5 that the consumable information is collated by the data management server 701, and the consumable is determined to be a recycled consumable, the processing by the reusable consumable use recommendation system ends.
On the other hand, if it is determined in step S5 that the consumable is not a reclaimable consumable, the data management server 701 reads a use recommendation message recommending the use of the reclaimable consumable from a storage unit (not shown), and the image forming apparatus 1 Preparation for message notification is performed (step S6).

  If the consumable item being used is not a genuine consumable item, it may be displayed on the display unit 101 that it is a non-genuine consumable item. In addition, the content displayed for non-genuine consumables is, for example, a warning or warning to the user such as "This image forming device may not operate normally because non-genuine consumables are used." It can be a message.

  In this embodiment, the data management server 701 on the store side and the image forming apparatus 1 on the user side are always connected via the LAN 700 so that the store can manage the state of the image forming apparatus 1 of the user. That is, the sales store can monitor what consumables are currently used in the image forming apparatus 1, the usage status of the consumables, the malfunction of the image forming apparatus 1, the maintenance timing of the image forming apparatus 1, and the like.

  Then, the data management server 701 communicates with the control unit 501 of the image forming apparatus 1 via the LAN 700 to check the operation status of the image forming apparatus 1, for example, whether it is warming up or executing a print job. It is monitored whether there is an input signal on the operation panel or an original placement signal from the scanner (step S7).

  In step S7, if the image forming apparatus 1 is not warming up, printing JOB is not being executed, if there is no input signal on the operation panel 100, or if there is no document placement signal from the scanner, the data The management server 701 determines that the user is not operating the operation panel 100 of the image forming apparatus 1, and transmits a use recommendation message for the recycle consumables to the image forming apparatus 1 (step S8). Then, the display unit 101 of the operation panel 100 displays a preview screen 101a for the recommended message for use of the recycle consumables shown in FIG.

  In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 6, on the preview screen 101a for the recommended message for use of recycled consumables, an icon that functions as a selection switch, that is, a recycled consumable selection icon 131, a confirmed transmission icon 132, and a screen switching icon. By selecting operation 133, it is possible to select an instruction “use playback consumables in the future”, confirm the selected result and transmit it to the data management server 701, or switch the preview screen 101a. it can.

  Thus, the process for recommending the use of the recycle consumable by the recycle consumable use recommendation system is completed.

  The data management server 701 stores the transmitted reproduction consumable use recommendation message in the storage unit 502 of the image forming apparatus 1, and then blinks the icon 111a for the DOCUMENT FILING mode as shown in FIG. Inform you that you have new mail. When the user touches the preview confirmation icon 120a when the image forming apparatus 1 is not in an operating state (for example, when warming up, when printing JOB is not performed, or when there is no input signal on the operation panel). In addition, as shown in FIG. 6, a preview screen 101 a of a recommended message for use of recycled consumables may be displayed on the display unit 101 of the operation panel 100.

  Since it comprised as mentioned above, according to this embodiment, the reproduction | regeneration consumables use recommendation system which recommends using a recycle consumable as a consumable to which the greenhouse gas emission right used for the image forming apparatus 1 was provided. In this configuration, the image forming apparatus 1 and the consumable sales destination data management server 701 are connected via the LAN 700 so that the sales status of the consumables in the image forming apparatus 1 can be monitored by the sales destination. The forming apparatus 1 includes a detection unit 509a that detects information stored in a storage unit or a recording unit included in a consumable used in the image forming apparatus 1, and the control unit 501 uses the detection result of the detection unit 509a as data. It is configured to function as a detection result notifying means for notifying the management server 701, and the data management server 701 is used as a consumable for reproduction used in the image forming apparatus 1. The consumable item information storage unit that stores information is collated with the detection result by the detection unit 509a notified from the image forming apparatus 1 and the consumable item information stored in the data management server 701 to collate the consumable item. Functions as a consumable item determination unit that determines whether or not the consumable item is a recycled consumable item, and uses the recycled consumable item for the image forming apparatus 1 when it is determined that the consumable item is not a recycled consumable item. The display unit 101 of the image forming apparatus 1 displays the preview screen 101a for the recommended use of the recyclable consumables by functioning as a message notification unit that notifies the recommended use of the reusable consumables to be performed. Therefore, it is possible to recommend the user to use a recycling consumable that is friendly to the global environment. This promotes the sale of recycled consumables and reduces the amount of greenhouse gas generated in the life cycle of consumables. The reduced greenhouse gas amount can be used as a greenhouse gas reduction frame by image forming equipment manufacturers or consumables manufacturers. Appropriate to bring it closer to the greenhouse gas reduction target. In addition, by encouraging users to use recycled consumables that generate a small amount of greenhouse gases, it is possible to promote an increase in environmental awareness. Furthermore, since the use of genuine recycled consumables can be promoted, the failure of the image forming apparatus due to the use of non-genuine consumables that are not sold through regular sales channels can be suppressed.

  Further, in the present embodiment, icons that function as selection switches, that is, a playback consumable selection icon 131, a confirmed transmission icon 132, and a screen switching icon 133 are displayed on the preview screen 101a of the usage recommendation message for the playback consumables. Therefore, by selecting and operating those icons, an instruction “use playback consumables in the future” is selected, the selected result is confirmed and transmitted to the data management server 701, or the preview screen 101a is displayed. Switching can be easily performed.

  In this embodiment, since the carbon footprint label (environmental performance information) is provided in the consumable item, it is a consumable item that can reduce the burden on the global environment even for users with high environmental awareness. I can let you know.

Further, the environmental performance information such as a carbon footprint label may be displayed on the consumable packaging material, or the explanatory text of the environmental performance information may be displayed on the consumable or consumable packaging material.
This makes it easier to know what the carbon footprint label indicates, and knowing the consumables before opening them from the packaging material reduces the burden on the global environment without the hassle of opening them. It can be notified that the consumable can be reduced.

  In this embodiment, the data management server 701 is managed by a business unit such as a manufacturer, a sales destination, or a lease destination. For example, an image forming apparatus manufacturer, a consumables manufacturer, and a cloud computing service are provided. It may be managed by a cloud provider.

  The storage unit 502 of the image forming apparatus 1 and the storage unit of the data management server 701 (not shown) include, for example, a tape system such as a magnetic tape and a cassette tape, a magnetic disk such as a floppy (registered trademark) disk / hard disk, and a CD-ROM. / MO / MD / DVD / CD-R / Blu-ray and other optical discs, IC cards (including memory cards) / optical cards, etc., mask ROM / EPROM / EEPROM / flash ROM, etc. A semiconductor memory system or the like can be used.

  Further, the configuration of the display unit 101 of the image forming apparatus 1 includes a liquid crystal display, an organic EL display (Organic Electro-Luminescence Display), a plasma display (Plasma Display Panel), a plasma tube array display (Plasma Tubes Array Display). ), An electronic paper display using electrophoresis or the like, and a display using an electron-emitting device (Field Emission Display, Surface-conduction Electron-emitter Display) can be used.

  In the above-described embodiment, the example in which the configuration of the system for recommending use of reclaimed consumables according to the present invention is applied to the image forming apparatus 1 having the operation panel 100 as shown in FIG. 1 has been described. As long as the device has a display unit capable of displaying a recommendation message, the device is not limited to the image forming apparatus and the copying machine having the above-described configuration, and is an inkjet recording device or other devices such as home appliances and consumer products. Equipment (electronic devices, devices, or terminals related to video, audio, communication, etc., intended for use by general consumers or in general homes, or developed and designed on the premise thereof) Products and standards), and business equipment (products (corporates, schools, government offices, etc.) That.

  In addition, although a touch panel is used as the input unit 505, a gesture input device using a Ubi-Finger device or the like may be used.

  In this embodiment, the display unit 101 is provided with the preview confirmation icon 120a and the Ecoview icon 120b, and is used as a display changeover switch. However, the screen size is small, and the operation unit (menu key, numeric keypad, print key, etc.) is provided. In the case where the small preview confirmation icon 120a and the Ecoview icon 120b are not provided, a preview confirmation operation key and an Ecoview operation key may be provided in a place other than the display unit 101. In this embodiment, the preview confirmation icon 120a and the Ecoview icon 120b are provided at the lower right side of the display unit 101. However, the present invention is not particularly limited, and any part of the upper, lower, left, or right side of the display unit 101 can be used. May be provided.

  In this embodiment, the image forming apparatus 1 and the data management server 701 that sells consumables are connected via communication means, and the consumables used in the image forming apparatus 1 by the data management server 701 are connected. Although it is configured to determine whether or not it is a recycled consumable and notify the image forming apparatus 1 of a recommended message for using the recycled consumable, the present invention is not limited to this configuration.

(Modification 1)
Below, the modification 1 of the reproduction | regeneration consumables use recommendation system of embodiment mentioned above is demonstrated. FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a preview display of a reproduction consumable use recommendation message displayed on the display unit of the image forming apparatus according to the first modified example of the embodiment of the reproduction consumable use recommendation system of the present invention.

  The reproduction consumable use recommendation system according to the first modification is characterized in that the image forming apparatus 1 alone constitutes the reproduction consumable use recommendation system without the image forming apparatus 1 being connected to the data management server 701. .

  Specifically, the reproduction consumable use recommendation system according to the modification 1 detects in the image forming apparatus 1 the information stored in the storage unit or the recording unit provided in the consumable used in the image forming apparatus. 509a (detection unit), a storage unit 502 (reproduction consumable information storage unit) that stores information of a consumable product used in the image forming apparatus, and a detection result by the detection unit 509a and the storage unit 502. It functions as a consumable item determining means for determining whether or not the consumable item is a recycled consumable item by collating and calculating the information of the recycled consumable item with the calculation unit 503, and determining that the consumable item is not a recycled consumable item If it is displayed, the recommended use message for the reusable consumables recommended to use the reusable consumables for the display unit 101 of the image forming apparatus 1 (recommended use message for the reclaimable consumables shown in FIG. 9). Is for the controller 501 that functions as a message notifying means for previewing see screen 201a) Showing (notification) comprising: a.

In the storage unit 502, in addition to the information on the consumables used for the image forming apparatus, a use recommendation message for the consumables is stored.
If the control unit 501 determines that the consumable item is not a recycle consumable item, the control unit 501 extracts a use recommendation message for the recycle consumable item from the storage unit 502 and, as shown in FIG. 9, the display unit of the image forming apparatus 1 101 is configured to display a preview screen 201a of a playback consumable use recommendation message.
The calculation unit 503 performs a collation operation on the detection value (detection result) detected by the detection unit 509 a and the information on the recycled consumables stored in the storage unit 502.

  With the configuration as described above, since information on the consumables to be recycled is stored in the storage unit 502, the detection result by the detection unit 509a is not transmitted to the data management server 701 as in the above-described embodiment. In the forming apparatus 1, the detection result by the detection unit 509 a and the information on the recycled consumables stored in the storage unit 502 can be calculated and collated. If it is determined that the consumable item is not a recyclable consumable item, the display unit of the image forming apparatus 1 does not notify the reusable consumable item use recommendation message from the data management server 701 as in the above-described embodiment. A preview screen 201a of a recommended message for use of recycled consumables can be displayed on 101.

  The product information and ecolabel information of consumables stored in the storage unit 502 are, for example, manufacturers, dealers, and leasing companies that have environmental ecolabel information of toner cartridges via a network through a LAN connection in the communication unit 506 as a communication connection. Or you can get it by accessing a website such as a cloud provider.

  In the above-described embodiment and modification 1, the use recommendation message for the reclaimable consumables notified by the reusable consumable use recommendation system is displayed on the display unit 101 of the image forming apparatus 1. Is not limited to this configuration.

(Modification 2)
Below, the modification 2 of the reproduction | regeneration consumables use recommendation system of embodiment mentioned above is demonstrated. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration of a second modification of the embodiment according to the reproduction consumable use recommendation system of the present invention.

  In addition to the configuration of the recommended system for use of recycled consumables of the above-described embodiment, the recommended system for use of recycled consumables of Modification 2 includes an image forming apparatus 1 and an administrator of the image forming apparatus 1 as shown in FIG. The terminal device 800 (for example, a personal computer) is communicatively connected to display a preview screen 801a of a recommended message for use of the playback consumables on the display unit 801 of the terminal device 800 owned by the administrator. is there.

  Note that, as described with reference to FIG. 6, the user selects the playback consumables selection icon 131 “use playback consumables in the future”, and selects the confirmed transmission icon 132 “confirm and send” this selection. Then, the information “Continued to use recycled consumables” is notified to the consumables sales company and the leasing company.

  Therefore, it is registered in the user management list of the consumables sales company or the leasing company that the user is the user who orders the reclaimed consumables. It is possible to easily order and obtain recycled consumables without transmitting the specified information to a consumables sales company or leasing company.

  When the screen switching icon 133 is selected, the notification process of information related to the consumables ends, and the preview screen 801a of the recommended usage message (notification mail) for the consumables is changed to the initial screen.

  The reproduction consumable use recommendation system is configured to transfer a reproduction consumable use recommendation message notified from the data management server 701 to the terminal device 800 owned by the administrator when the control unit 501 of the image forming apparatus 1 detects the message. Has been.

  With the above-described configuration, the administrator knows the use recommendation message for the playback consumables by using the terminal device 800 that he / she manages without being affected by the usage status of the image forming apparatus 1 by other users. be able to.

  Note that the terminal device 800 owned by the administrator who can operate the image forming apparatus 1 via the LAN 700 and the image forming apparatus 1 of this embodiment is a personal computer, a portable information terminal, a liquid crystal display, an organic display, or the like. EL display (Organic Electro-Luminescence Display), Plasma display (Plasma Display Panel), Plasma tube array display (Plasma Tubes Array Display), Electronic paper display using electrophoresis etc., Display using electron emission element (Field Emission Display) , Surface-conduction Electron-emitter Display) can also be used.

  As described above, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications can be made within the scope of the claims. That is, embodiments obtained by combining technical means appropriately changed within the scope not departing from the gist of the present invention are also included in the technical scope of the present invention.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Image forming apparatus 100 Operation panel 101 Display part 101a, 201a, 801a Preview screen 110 Operation key 110a Initial screen of DOCUMENT FILING mode 110b Initial screen of IMAGE SEND mode 120a Preview confirmation icon 120b Ecoview icon 131 Playback consumable selection icon 132 Confirmation Transmission icon 133 Screen switching icon 501 Control unit (detection result notification means)
502 storage unit 503 calculation unit 505 input unit 506 communication unit 509a detection unit (detection means)
700 LAN (Local Area Network)
701 Data management server (recycled consumable information storage means,
Consumables determination means, message notification means)
710 Satellite communication infrastructure 800 Terminal device 801 Display unit

Claims (8)

A recycling consumable use recommended system that recommends the use of recycled consumables as consumables used in purchased or leased image forming apparatuses,
The image forming apparatus and a data management server of the consumable sales destination are connected via a communication unit, and the sales status of the consumable of the image forming apparatus can be monitored by the sales destination.
Detection means for detecting information stored in a storage means or recording means provided in a consumable used in the image forming apparatus;
Recycled consumable information storage means for storing information of recyclable consumables used in the image forming apparatus,
A consumable item determination unit that determines whether or not the consumable item is a recycled consumable item by collating a detection result by the detecting unit with information on the recycled consumable item stored in the recycled consumable item information storage unit;
If the consumables determination means determines that the consumables are not reclaimable consumables, a message notification means for notifying the image forming apparatus that a reusable consumable use recommendation message is recommended. And comprising
The image forming apparatus includes a detection result notification unit that notifies the data management server of a detection result by the detection unit,
The recycle consumable use encouragement message includes a replay consumable selection icon for selecting use of a recycle consumable as an icon for selecting an operation process, and a confirmed transmission icon for confirming and transmitting this selection. Including
In the data management server of the consumables sales destination, the image forming apparatus is a user who uses the recyclable consumables by transmitting confirmation of the use of the consumables by the confirmation transmission icon. Recyclable consumable use recommended system characterized by being registered.   The system for recommending use of reclaimed consumables according to claim 1, wherein the notification of the use recommendation message for reclaimable consumables is displayed on a display unit of the image forming apparatus when the image forming apparatus is ready.   The system for recommending the use of reclaimed consumables according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the notification of the use recommendation message for the reclaimable consumables is displayed on a display unit of a specific terminal device that is communicatively connected to the image forming apparatus. . The display unit includes a touch panel or operation keys substantially integrally,
4. The regeneration consumable use recommendation system according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the display consumable use message is displayed on the display by operating the touch panel or the operation key on the display.   5. The recycling consumable use recommendation system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the consumable is provided with a carbon footprint mark.   6. The recycling consumable use recommendation system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the consumable storage means or recording means uses any one of an IC chip, a bar code, and a QR code. .   An image forming apparatus that is purchased or leased, wherein the recycling consumable use recommendation system according to any one of claims 1 to 6 is used.   A reproduction consumable use recommendation method for recommending the use of a recycle consumable as a consumable used for a purchased or leased image forming apparatus, wherein the image forming apparatus according to claim 7 is used. Recommended method of using consumables.

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