KR102831346B1 - Integrated Management System for Rental Multifunction Printers - Google Patents

Abstract

The integrated management system of a rental multifunction printer according to the present invention is characterized by including: a rental multifunction printer including an optical sensor for detecting the remaining amount of toner in a toner cartridge and a counter for recording the number of outputs; a central control server communicating with the rental multifunction printer, the central control server including a classification module for classifying and storing data by model name, customer name, person in charge, and registration date for each rental multifunction printer; a usage identification module for identifying the usage of the rental multifunction printer based on data on the remaining amount of toner and the number of outputs; and a guidance module for transmitting the usage to a user of the rental multifunction printer.
According to the integrated management system of a rental multifunction printer according to the present invention, it is possible to provide customized information to users and manage efficient operation of the multifunction printer based on usage data, and it has the effect of supporting calculation of billing and establishment of maintenance plans by increasing data reliability.

Description

{Integrated Management System for Rental Multifunction Printers}

The present invention relates to an integrated management system for a rental multi-function printer, and more specifically, to an integrated management system for a rental multi-function printer that accurately determines the usage of a rental multi-function printer through an optical sensor and a counter, systematically manages the usage data of each user of the rental multi-function printer through a central control server, and provides guidance to the user while supporting billing efficiency.

Nowadays, rental copier services, where copiers are rented and used by various companies and institutions, are becoming common.

These services are highly preferred by many users because they reduce initial purchase costs and allow flexible management based on usage.

Rental multifunction printers are required to perform basic tasks such as printing, copying, and scanning, as well as advanced management functions that can manage data such as consumable status and print volume records in real time.

In particular, in an environment where multiple copiers are rented and used, accurately determining the usage of each copier, monitoring the status of consumables in real time, and performing maintenance in a timely manner are key elements in maximizing the efficiency of the system.

In response to these demands, existing multi-function printer management systems have evolved to provide management functions based on consumable status and output data.

However, conventional technologies have problems in systematically managing usage data or effectively linking consumable status with user notifications and billing calculations.

For example, some systems simply recorded the number of copies printed per copier or manually checked the remaining toner, which lacked real-time analysis and user-tailored information. In addition, there were frequent cases where the copier was not able to provide accurate billing data to users or was not able to notify them in a timely manner when consumables needed to be replaced, resulting in frequent downtime for the copier.

In particular, in large-scale environments using multiple multi-function printers, there was a problem of difficulty in efficient operation due to the absence of an integrated management system that collects and analyzes usage data of each multi-function printer in real time to accurately predict the status of consumables, provide clear information to users, and perform timely maintenance.

Therefore, there is a need to develop a new and advanced rental multifunction printer integrated management system that can collect and analyze rental multifunction printer usage data in real time to accurately predict the status of consumables, provide clear information to users, and perform timely maintenance to maximize the operating rate of multifunction printers and increase operational efficiency.

Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2023-0089206

The present invention has been devised to overcome the problems of the above technology, and its main purpose is to implement an integrated management system that analyzes usage data of a rental multi-function printer and systematically performs user notification and data management based on the data.

Another object of the present invention is to implement a maintenance management system that accurately predicts the need for replacement of consumables and maintenance based on the usage amount and registration date data of a rental multi-function printer, and systematically plans and records maintenance work.

A further object of the present invention is to implement a coating solution that removes contamination of an optical sensor and forms an antifouling and moisture-proof coating to restore sensor performance and maintain reliability.

In order to achieve the above object, the integrated management system of a rental multifunction printer according to the present invention is characterized by including: a rental multifunction printer including an optical sensor for detecting the remaining amount of toner in a toner cartridge and a counter for recording the number of outputs; a central control server including a classification module communicating with the rental multifunction printer and classifying and storing data by model name, customer name, person in charge, and registration date for each rental multifunction printer; a usage identification module for identifying the usage of the rental multifunction printer based on data on the remaining amount of toner and the number of outputs; and a guidance module for transmitting the usage to a user of the rental multifunction printer.

In addition, the central control server is characterized by including a maintenance management module that predicts the time when maintenance is required based on the usage amount and registration date, plans maintenance work, and records the details of the completed maintenance work.

In addition, the maintenance management module is characterized by including a consumables analysis unit that analyzes the usage amount to predict the replacement cycle of consumables including toner cartridges, and a sensor status analysis unit that analyzes the relationship between the remaining toner amount and the number of outputs to identify an abnormality in the optical sensor and determines whether to execute a service for applying a coating liquid to the surface of the optical sensor to restore the status of the optical sensor.

According to the integrated management system of the rental complex according to the present invention,

1) It has the advantage of providing customized information based on usage data and efficient operation management of the multifunction printer, and can support billing calculation and maintenance plan establishment by increasing data reliability.

2) By increasing the accuracy of maintenance timing, stable operation of the multi-function printer can be guaranteed, and management efficiency and work reliability can be improved through maintenance record management.

3) It has the effect of preventing signal distortion of the optical sensor, enhancing long-term stability and durability, extending the maintenance cycle of the complex machine, and increasing the operating rate.

Figure 1 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the system of the present invention.
Figure 2 is a conceptual diagram illustrating an example of a rental complex.
Figure 3 is a conceptual diagram illustrating information on detailed classification and usage by complex machine.
Figure 4 is a conceptual diagram illustrating an example of a service management module.
Figure 5 is a conceptual diagram illustrating an example of a maintenance record module.

Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. The attached drawings are not drawn to scale, and like reference numerals in each drawing indicate like components.

Figure 1 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the system of the present invention.

As can be seen from Figure 1, the system of the present invention is basically for determining the billing of a rental complex machine (100) and additionally managing the service processing and maintenance of the rental complex machine, and is based on including a rental complex machine (100) and a central control server (200).

The integrated management system for a rental multifunction printer of the present invention can be implemented around a central control server (200) that is communicatively linked to a rental multifunction printer (100). In other words, in the system of the present invention, the central control server (200) is the subject of data collection, analysis, and processing for managing the usage of the rental multifunction printer (100) and performing consumable status and maintenance work.

Therefore, unless otherwise stated, it is understood that the subject of the present invention system is the central control server (200).

This central control server (200) is a series of entities for implementing the system of the present invention, and includes a server PC, network communication network, etc. that can collect and process data in conjunction with multiple rental complex machines (100) and user clients.

In addition, the central control server (200) is a hardware-based system equipped with a central processing unit (CPU), memory, and storage means such as a hard disk, and a program, i.e. software, that can be executed on the central processing unit (200) is installed and executed. The specific configuration of this software will be explained in terms of configuration units such as 'module', 'unit', 'part', and 'section'.

Here, the configurations such as 'module', 'part', 'section', etc. mean a series of configurations including an interface with a software or hardware device that is executed via a CPU and memory while installed and stored in a storage means of the central control server (200). In addition, these configurations may be configured in hardware such as an FPGA or ASIC or an addressable storage medium, and may be designed to be executed in one or more processors.

For example, in the system of the present invention, 'module', 'unit', 'part', and 'section' may include the following elements.

It may include software components such as a data analysis algorithm for collecting and processing usage data of a rental multifunction printer (100), a database component for recording and managing the remaining amount of consumables (toner, drum) and the number of outputs, and an interface software component for network communication and status monitoring with the rental multifunction printer (100).

In addition, the central control server (200) can be understood as a central control and analysis system that collects real-time data from multiple rental complex machines (100) and analyzes the data to calculate billing and perform maintenance plans.

In addition, the central control server (200) may be understood to encompass a hardware device including at least one processor and a software configuration operating on the hardware. For example, the central control server (200) of the present system may be configured in a hybrid form that combines a cloud-based server and a data analysis module running on a local device.

Hereinafter, the specific functions and operations of the system of the present invention based on the rental complex machine (100) and software configuration linked to the central control server (200) will be described with drawings as follows.

Figure 2 is a conceptual diagram illustrating an example of a rental complex.

A multifunction printer is a printer that records usage data and detects the status of consumables based on performing output work (copying, printing, scanning, etc.). The rental multifunction printer (100) of the present invention refers to a multifunction printer rented by a system manager.

Therefore, the rental complex machine (100) of the present invention has the same basic configuration and functions as the known complex machine, and additionally includes a configuration for determining the amount of usage, but this is also the same as the known rental complex machine.

To briefly explain the structure of the multifunction printer, the multifunction printer includes a paper supply section, a processing section, and an output section, and each section operates organically to provide the function of performing various tasks such as printing, copying, and scanning.

The Paper Feed Unit is responsible for supplying paper for printing or copying. The paper stacked in the Paper Tray is picked up by the Pickup Roller and delivered to the processing unit through the Feed Roller. In addition, the Separation Pad ensures that the paper is accurately fed one sheet at a time.

The processing unit is the core component of the multifunction printer, and is the element where actual work (printing, copying, scanning, etc.) is performed. It transfers toner to paper through the imaging drum and transfers the printed content by bringing the paper into contact with the drum through the transfer roller. The printed content is fixed at high temperature through the fuser unit, and copying and scanning can be performed through the scanner module.

The Output Unit provides the function of ejecting processed paper to the outside. It moves the processed paper to the Output Tray through the Output Roller, and finally stacks the output paper on the Output Tray.

This structure allows the multifunction printer to efficiently perform various printing and scanning tasks.

In this basic configuration, the rental complex machine (100) of the present invention includes an optical sensor and a counter included in a known complex machine, particularly a rental complex machine.

An optical sensor is a device that detects the reflection, transmission or blocking phenomenon of light to check the status of a target object. In a multi-function printer (including a rental multi-function printer (100)), it mainly provides a function to detect the amount of toner remaining in a toner cartridge, the status of printed paper, and whether there is contamination.

The optical sensor may be installed on one side of the output section described above or between the toner cartridge and the output path.

When an optical sensor is installed on one side of the output section, it detects the presence or absence of printed paper or checks the output status to monitor whether the output job has been completed normally, and when it is installed between the toner cartridge and the output path, it detects the remaining toner amount in real time to identify toner shortage or excessive consumption.

Optical sensors come in many types, including reflective sensors, transmissive sensors, image sensors, and optical distance sensors. Among these, the most commonly used optical sensor in copiers is the reflective sensor, which operates by receiving light emitted from a light source that is reflected by a target object using a detector.

This reflective sensor measures changes in the reflected intensity of light to determine the presence of paper printed on the output unit or to detect the amount of toner remaining in the toner cartridge.

A reflective sensor includes a light source, a light receiving unit (light detector), a signal processing unit, and a sensor housing.

The light source emits light using a light source such as an LED or laser, and the photodetector (light detector) detects the light reflected from the target object and converts it into an electrical signal.

Additionally, the signal processing unit analyzes the signal received from the light receiving unit to determine the presence, location, and condition of an object, and the sensor housing can be designed to protect the light source and light receiving unit and ensure that light is emitted and received only in the desired direction.

It is relatively simple and has high accuracy, so it is widely used in multipurpose output devices such as copiers.

That is, the optical sensor, particularly the reflective sensor, installed in the rental complex (100) detects changes in the intensity of light reflection and measures the amount of toner remaining inside the toner cartridge in real time. This optical sensor can analyze the amount of light reflected from the surface of the toner to determine whether there is sufficient toner remaining, insufficient toner, or excessive toner accumulation.

Furthermore, optical sensors can also be used to indirectly detect drum usage by analyzing the condition of the drum surface. This works by estimating the degree of wear or contamination through changes in light reflectivity on the drum surface, thereby determining how much of the drum's lifespan has been consumed.

The function of these optical sensors is to detect the usage or remaining amount of consumables, such as toner and drum, inside the multifunction printer in real time, and to accurately predict the time of consumable replacement, thereby providing a basis for efficient management of maintenance.

A counter is a device that records the number of sheets (prints, copies) output from a multifunction printer and the number of scan jobs to aggregate usage data. It can be installed mainly between the processing unit and the output unit of a multifunction printer or on one side of the output roller of the output unit.

A counter can be composed of a detection unit, a signal processing unit, and a recording unit.

The detection unit detects the movement of the paper using an optical sensor or mechanical switch, and the signal processing unit converts the detected signal into data and stores it in the recording unit.

The detection unit uses an optical sensor or mechanical switch to detect the movement of paper in the multifunction printer. The optical sensor used here is an independent sensor for detecting the number of output sheets, and is separate from the optical sensor described above that detects the amount of toner remaining.

This optical sensor is also a reflective sensor, which detects the signal of light emitted from a light source being reflected from the surface of the moving paper and returning to the light receiving unit, analyzes the intensity of the reflected light to determine the presence and movement of the paper, and records this as a counter each time the paper moves.

The signal processing unit converts the signals generated from the detection unit into data, and the recording unit stores this to accumulate work data such as the number of outputs and copies.

Furthermore, the counter may detect movement of the document during a scan operation or record the number of scans based on a scan completion signal.

To achieve this, the counter is linked to sensors inside the automatic document feeder (ADF) and the scan module, using a reflective optical sensor to detect the movement of a document as it passes through the scan area in the ADF, or a physical passing signal via a mechanical switch, and transmits this to the counter.

At this time, in the case of single-sided scanning, the document passes through the scan area only once and is recorded as one copy in the counter, and in the case of double-sided scanning, the document is flipped over and passes through the scan area again and is recorded as a second copy. When a work completion signal is generated from the scan module, the counter converts this into data and records it, and the recorded data can be utilized to store and manage the number of scans and the work log.

These optical sensors and counters also have the same structure and function as the publicly known rental complex machine, so separate specific drawings are omitted.

The central control server (200) of the present invention basically includes a classification module (210), a usage amount identification module (220), and a guidance module (230).

Figure 3 is a conceptual diagram illustrating information on detailed classification and usage by complex machine.

The classification module (210) provides a function to classify and save by model name, customer name, person in charge, and registration date for each complex machine.

At this time, the model name is used as unique information to identify the type of each rental multifunction printer (100) and to manage functional differences and consumable requirements, and the customer name refers to the name or company name of the customer who rented the rental multifunction printer (100) and is managed by linking usage and billing data for each customer.

The person in charge indicates the information of the manager in charge who is responsible for the management and maintenance of the rental multifunction printer (100), and is used for processing maintenance requests and managing customer service quality, and the registration date is the date the rental multifunction printer (100) was rented or installed, and is used as reference data for calculating the maintenance cycle and consumables replacement time.

Specifically, the classification module (210) automatically organizes data based on attributes such as the model name, customer name, person in charge, and registration date of the rental complex machine (100) described above, and filters data by each attribute to enable quick retrieval of data of a specific rental complex machine (100) or customer.

In addition, the classification module (210) systematically manages the usage history, consumable status, maintenance records, etc. of the rental complex printer (100) based on the classified data, and can support the provision of accurate user-specific data and maintenance efficiency by linking with other modules in the central control server (200).

The usage identification module (220) provides a function for analyzing the usage of the rental multifunction printer (100) based on data collected through the optical sensor and counter included in the rental multifunction printer (100), i.e., the remaining amount of toner in the toner cartridge and the number of prints. This usage is used as basic information for billing calculation and user notification.

At this time, the usage may include the number of prints, color output ratio and black and white output ratio, number of scans, toner consumption (toner remaining), drum usage, and estimated consumable replacement cycle data.

That is, the usage identification module (220) provides a function to analyze the toner remaining amount data measured by the optical sensor to calculate the toner consumption and combine the output number data recorded by the counter to identify the detailed usage of the rental multifunction printer (100) as well as the output pattern by user.

Specifically, the usage identification module (220) analyzes the ratio of color output and black-and-white output based on the number of prints, and generates detailed usage data for each user by segmenting the frequency and type of print jobs. In addition, by combining with the scan number data, the proportion of print and scan jobs can be identified, and the consumables status can be precisely tracked based on the toner consumption data analyzed in real time through the optical sensor. The drum usage is estimated by combining the number of prints and the expected lifespan data of the drum or by indirectly analyzing the drum surface status, and the consumables replacement cycle can be predicted based on this data.

In addition, the usage identification module (220) comprehensively analyzes the number of outputs and consumables usage per user to provide basic data for user notifications and billing calculations, and can also provide a basis for analyzing usage patterns to determine the need for maintenance or derive efficient management methods.

At this time, charging can be performed by a charging module included in the central control server (200), and a flat monthly fee, for example, 2,000 monthly prints can be set as the basic amount and additional charges can be applied per print for more than that, or a charging method that reflects the output pattern of each user can be applied by applying differential charging according to the ratio of color output to black and white output.

When the usage identification module (220) identifies the usage of a specific rental multifunction printer (100) as 8,000 sheets per month and analyzes that 3,000 of these are color prints and 5,000 are black-and-white prints, the data, i.e. detailed usage, is provided to the billing calculation module of the central control server (200) so that the monthly bill can be calculated based on the color and black-and-white print ratios for each user.

This charging information is delivered to the user through the guidance module (230), and the administrator can plan efficient resource management and maintenance based on this.

The guidance module (230) provides a function for transmitting the usage amount to the user of the above-mentioned complex machine.

The basic function of the guidance module (230) is to analyze the usage data of the rental multifunction printer (100) and transmit it to the user in real time, and provide information (usage) such as the number of prints, color and black and white print ratio, and remaining toner amount through the user interface. Through this, the user can efficiently check the current status of the multifunction printer and the status of consumables management.

In addition, the guidance module (230) can provide the user with information other than usage, such as maintenance-related information such as notification of abnormal conditions of the multi-function printer, for example, paper jams, network connection problems, and the need for replacement of consumables.

In addition, the guidance module (230) can also provide the user with monthly usage reports, expected maintenance schedules, and billing details of the multi-function printer on a regular basis to help the user effectively manage the operation of the multi-function printer.

At this time, the transmission method of the guidance module (230) can utilize various technologies for efficient data transmission between the user and the central control server (200).

First, you can regularly send users emails with usage data (number of pages printed, remaining toner, etc.), billing information, and maintenance notifications. For example, you can send them a message like, "This month's number of pages printed is 1,800, and the remaining toner is 15%. It's almost time to replace it."

Additionally, real-time usage information and maintenance notifications can be provided in the form of push notifications via a user-only mobile app, including messages such as "Toner remaining amount has dropped below 10%. Replacement is recommended."

Additionally, it is possible to provide a web-based dashboard where users can log in and check the usage data of the multifunction printer, allowing them to check monthly output data, consumable status, and expected maintenance schedules on the dashboard.

In addition, it may support API integration that transmits usage in real time through SMS messages or by linking with internal corporate systems.

In summary, the system of the present invention accurately determines the usage of a rental multifunction printer (100) through an optical sensor and a counter, and then systematically manages the usage data of each user of the rental multifunction printer (100) through a central control server (200) to provide guidance to the user, thereby providing a characteristic of supporting billing efficiency.

Figure 4 is a conceptual diagram illustrating an example of a service management module.

Referring to FIG. 4, it can be seen that the central control server (200) includes a service management module (240) that processes service reception according to a user's request, connects the reception to a management engineer, and records service processing history.

The service management module (240) can receive service request data received from users and transmit it to the central control server (200), analyze the urgency and type of the request (e.g., replacement of consumables, equipment failure), etc., and automatically transmit work instructions to a management engineer based on the analysis results, thereby supporting schedule coordination and real-time status updates between users and management engineers.

In addition, the service management module (240) can increase service satisfaction by recording service processing history after work is completed, storing it in the database of the central control server (200), and notifying the user of the processing result.

Through this, the service processing process is automated and managed efficiently, thereby reducing maintenance speed and optimizing the operating rate of the rental complex machine (100).

For example, if a user reports a toner shortage issue through an online portal, the service management module (240) analyzes the issue, determines the urgency, and then sends a work instruction to a nearby maintenance technician.

The management engineer checks the user address and device status information in the system, then visits the site to replace the toner and records the service processing history in the module after the work is completed.

This service processing history is sent to the user as an email or mobile notification by the service management module (240) and can be stored in the database of the central control server (200) and utilized as a maintenance history.

Additionally, the central control server (200) of the present invention may further include a multiple inspection management module (250) that collects and analyzes inspection requests generated from multiple complex machines, determines the priority of the inspection, and transmits work instructions to a management engineer.

First, the multi-inspection management module (250) integrates inspection request data such as error notifications, consumable shortage notifications, and network connection status transmitted from each rental complex machine (100) into the central control server (200) and manages them.

Thereafter, the multiple inspection management module (250) determines the urgency of the inspection based on the type of inspection request (e.g., paper jam, toner shortage, poor printing), occurrence frequency, severity, customer importance, etc.

Next, it automatically determines the work priority so that high-urgency requests are processed first, and sends work instructions to the management engineer, including information such as the inspection location and expected time required.

In addition, the multiple inspection management module (250) can track the inspection processing progress in real time and automatically record completed tasks and store them in a maintenance history database.

As an example of a multi-check management module (250), when a request for toner shortage and paper jam inspection occurs simultaneously in multiple rental multi-function printers (100), the multi-check management module (250) analyzes this and determines that the paper jam problem is more urgent and sets the problem as a priority.

Afterwards, the work instruction is sent to the nearest management engineer to guide them to immediately resolve the paper jam problem, and the toner shortage problem is classified as a low priority task and assigned to a subsequent task. When each task is completed, the multi-check management module (250) records the inspection details and notifies the user and management engineer of the completion.

This multiple inspection management module (250) not only shortens the inspection processing speed and increases the operating rate of the rental complex machine (100) through efficient distribution of management resources, but also statistically analyzes inspection request data to predict problems likely to occur in the future and plan preventive measures.

Figure 5 is a conceptual diagram illustrating an example of a maintenance record module.

As can be seen from Figure 5, the central control server (200) of the present invention may include a maintenance management module (260).

The maintenance management module (260) provides a function for predicting the timing of maintenance needs based on usage and registration date, planning maintenance work, and recording the details of completed maintenance work.

Specifically, the maintenance management module (260) calculates the lifespan of consumables and the work cycle of the device based on the number of prints, remaining toner, and drum usage data collected from the rental multifunction printer (100).

In addition, a regular inspection schedule is automatically created by referring to the registration date of the rental complex machine (100), maintenance notifications are sent to users and management engineers, usage data is analyzed to detect excessive use or faster-than-expected wear of specific parts, and the need for urgent inspection is determined.

This maintenance management module (260) can be linked to the database of the central control server (200) to reference the usage history and maintenance details of each complex machine and optimize the expected parts replacement and inspection schedule.

The maintenance plan is delivered as a work order to the management engineer and used as a preventive measure to maximize the operating rate of the rental complex machine (100). In addition, the maintenance data can be statistically analyzed to prevent recurring problems in a specific machine type or usage environment in advance.

For example, the maintenance management module (260) can analyze data indicating that the number of prints from a specific rental multifunction printer (100) has reached 10,000 and the remaining toner has decreased to 10% or less, and determine that it is time to replace consumables for the rental multifunction printer (100).

Afterwards, the maintenance management module (260) plans to transmit work instructions to the maintenance engineer to perform toner replacement and regular inspection at the same time.

After the maintenance work is completed, the maintenance management module (260) automatically records the maintenance details and stores them in the database of the central control server (200), and may also link with the guidance module (230) to inform the user of the rental multifunction printer (100) that maintenance has been completed.

Additionally, the maintenance management module (260) may include a consumables analysis unit (261) and a sensor status analysis unit (262).

The consumables analysis unit (261) analyzes the usage amount described above to analyze the consumption status of the toner cartridge as well as the drum and provides a function to predict the replacement cycle of consumables including these.

The consumables analysis unit (261) can use data on the number of prints and number of scans to calculate the expected service life of consumables and provide a function for tracking the remaining toner amount and drum usage in real time.

It is also possible to detect abnormal increases in consumable consumption by analyzing usage patterns (e.g., color output ratio, frequency of high-volume print jobs) and comparing them to typical consumption rates.

When replacement of consumables is imminent or the replacement period has been exceeded, the consumables analysis unit (261) can communicate with the guidance module (230) to transmit work instructions to the management engineer and send a replacement notification to the user, thereby supporting smooth management of consumables and continuous operation of the rental multifunction printer (100).

The sensor status analysis unit (262) analyzes the relationship between the remaining toner amount and the number of prints to identify an abnormal condition of the optical sensor included in the rental multifunction printer (100) and provides a function to determine whether to execute a service for applying a coating liquid to the surface of the optical sensor in order to restore the condition of the optical sensor.

The optical sensor is a key component that detects the remaining toner or the number of prints in real time in the rental multifunction printer (100), but it can become contaminated due to environmental factors such as dust, toner dust, and moisture during continuous use. Such contamination lowers the accuracy of toner remaining detection by distorting or weakening the optical sensor's light reflection or transmission signal, and if left unattended, it is likely to affect the data reliability of the entire multifunction printer management system.

Therefore, the sensor status analysis unit (262) has the purpose and significance of detecting performance degradation of the optical sensor in advance and taking measures to restore it by applying a coating solution to the surface of the optical sensor through an on-site service (application service) by a management engineer to organize the surface of the optical sensor and strengthen functions such as anti-fouling properties.

The principle of identifying an abnormal state of an optical sensor in the sensor status analysis unit (262) can be implemented as a process of analyzing the possibility of signal distortion based on the relationship between the remaining toner amount and the number of output sheets.

The sensor status analysis unit (262) estimates the toner consumption based on the number of prints data and compares it with the remaining amount data detected by the optical sensor. If the remaining amount data detected by the optical sensor shows an abnormally low or high tendency in relation to the number of prints, this may mean that the data detection accuracy has deteriorated due to contamination or signal distortion of the sensor surface.

Based on these analysis results, the sensor status analysis unit (262) can decide to execute a coating solution application service to restore the status of the optical sensor.

That is, if the discrepancy between the number of prints and the remaining toner data exceeds a set threshold or the volatility of the sensor detection data is abnormally high, it is determined that it is necessary to apply a coating solution to remove contamination from the optical sensor surface and restore normal detection conditions.

In the present invention, the coating service means a task of applying a coating solution to the surface of the sensor to restore the performance of the optical sensor included in the rental complex (100), thereby removing contamination and maintaining the optical sensor to enable reliable data detection.

The coating solution is a special compound designed to form an antifouling coating on the surface of the optical sensor and prevent signal distortion. It also prevents the attachment of dust and toner particles, removes contamination from the surface of the optical sensor, and maintains stable detection performance in the long term.

These coating solutions may be composed of components such as polymeric substances providing waterproofing and antifouling properties, solvents for removing moisture and cleaning residual substances, and ionic liquids for preventing static electricity, which will be described in more detail below.

The application service is primarily performed directly by the management engineer, and may further be performed through an automatic application device additionally installed in the rental complex machine (100).

As an example of the manual application method by a maintenance technician, the maintenance technician uses a fine brush or ultra-fine cloth to evenly spread the coating solution while exposing the optical sensor surface, and removes any remaining coating solution after the work to form a thin coating layer on the sensor surface.

During the application process, it is important to use non-abrasive tools and a suitable application liquid to prevent damage to the lens of the optical sensor, and after application, the sensor must be initialized to check whether it operates normally without signal distortion. This application service can provide a function to prevent data detection errors due to contamination of the optical sensor in advance and maximize the maintenance efficiency of the rental complex machine (100).

As an example of this sensor status analysis unit (262), if the sensor status analysis unit (262) detects that the optical sensor has 5% of the remaining toner even though the number of prints has reached 10,000 in a specific rental multifunction printer (100), the unit analyzes the discrepancy between the remaining amount data and the number of prints data to diagnose the possibility of sensor surface contamination and determines that application of a coating solution is necessary. Thereafter, the application service can be performed through a maintenance technician.

In addition, additional diagnostics such as sensor surface reflectivity analysis can be performed through regular on-site service by management engineers. At this time, if the intensity of light reflected from the optical sensor deviates from the standard range or the signal sensitivity decreases, the sensor status analysis unit (262) determines that the optical sensor is in an abnormal state and comprehensively reviews this data to determine when application of the coating solution is necessary.

More specifically, the sensor status analysis unit (262) may include an output status identification part (262a), a toner status identification part (262b), and a sensor abnormal status identification part (262c).

The output status identification part (262a) provides a function for estimating the possibility of contamination of the optical sensor based on the number of outputs.

That is, the output status identification part (262a) calculates the operating frequency of the optical sensor based on the number of outputs and evaluates the possibility of dust or contaminants accumulating on the surface of the optical sensor due to long-term use.

At this time, if the number of outputs exceeds a certain threshold or the usage pattern of the rental multifunction printer (100) (e.g., mass output work) exceeds a certain standard, it is determined that the possibility of contamination of the optical sensor surface has increased. In addition, by analyzing the number of outputs data, it is assessed that the risk of contamination of the optical sensor is greater in an environment where the rental multifunction printer (100) is used frequently (e.g., an office, a public institution with a lot of output work).

This contamination possibility can be expressed as a score such as 85, and a higher score can be understood as a higher contamination possibility.

This output status part (262a) quantitatively calculates the possibility of contamination of the optical sensor and transmits the data to the central control server (200) and is based on basic data that determines whether to execute the application service performing application of the application liquid.

The toner status assessment part (262b) provides a function to estimate the possibility of dust accumulation due to excessive toner consumption by analyzing the ratio of toner remaining amount to the number of output sheets.

This toner status detection part (262b) performs a comparative analysis with the toner consumption in normal printing work by combining the toner remaining amount data measured by the optical sensor with the output number data recorded by the counter.

If the toner consumption is excessively high compared to the number of prints or an abnormal pattern, i.e., a sudden increase in toner consumption compared to the color output ratio, is detected, this means that excessive toner dust is likely to be generated inside the rental copier (100) and accumulate around the optical sensor. This analysis is comprehensively performed by considering not only the frequency of print jobs but also the consumables usage pattern and environmental factors (e.g., use of low-quality toner, frequent large-volume print jobs).

The toner status detection part (262b) transmits the result of the analysis to the sensor status analysis part (262) if the possibility of dust accumulation exceeds a certain threshold value so that the necessity of the application service described above can be determined.

For example, if the number of prints per month in a rental multifunction printer (100) is recorded as 5,000, and the analysis of the toner remaining amount data shows that 25% more toner is consumed than the expected consumption, the toner status identification part (262b) determines this as an abnormal consumption pattern and analyzes that the possibility of toner dust accumulating around the optical sensor has increased. In addition, the possibility of such dust accumulation can be expressed as a score such as 80 points, and it can be understood that the higher the score, the higher the possibility of dust accumulation.

The results of this analysis are transmitted to the sensor abnormality detection part (262c) described later and used to evaluate the possibility of signal distortion due to dust accumulation and determine whether application service is necessary.

The sensor abnormality detection part (262c) comprehensively analyzes data on the possibility of contamination of the optical sensor and the possibility of toner dust accumulation, thereby providing a function for detecting an abnormality, including the possibility of signal distortion of the optical sensor.

The purpose of this sensor abnormality detection part (262c) is to evaluate the possibility that the optical sensor may not output an accurate signal based on the data received from the output status detection part (262a) and the toner status detection part (262b).

That is, the contamination probability and dust accumulation probability scores are integrated with weights to quantitatively calculate the sensor abnormality, and if the abnormality exceeds the threshold, it is determined to be an abnormality.

For example, the sensor abnormality detection part (262c) can first calculate the sensor abnormality score by integrating the contamination possibility score analyzed in the output status detection part (262a) and the dust accumulation possibility score analyzed in the toner status detection part (262b). In the score calculation process, it is possible to increase accuracy by differentially applying weights according to the severity of each factor and the usage environment of the multi-function printer (e.g., output frequency, whether or not a large amount of work is being done).

Afterwards, if the sensor abnormality score exceeds a pre-set threshold (e.g., 85 points out of 100), it is judged as an abnormality.

For example, in a rental multifunction printer (100), if the output status identification part (262a) calculates a contamination possibility score of 80 points based on an output quantity of 50,000 sheets and the toner status identification part (262b) calculates a dust accumulation possibility score of 85 points based on an analysis of toner consumption compared to the output quantity, the sensor abnormality identification part (262c) integrates the two scores with a weight to calculate a sensor abnormality score of 90 points and determines that since this score exceeds a preset threshold (e.g., 85 points), it is determined that this is an abnormality and that application service execution is necessary.

This result can be transmitted to the central control server (200) and reflected in the maintenance work plan, and it can be recorded that the status has been restored after the work is completed.

As a result, the data analyzed in the output status identification part (262a) and the toner status identification part (262b) are synthesized to quantitatively evaluate the possibility of signal distortion of the optical sensor and to support planning of appropriate maintenance work by identifying abnormal conditions in advance.

As briefly mentioned above, the coating solution, which is the core of the coating service of the present invention, may be composed of a mixture of special ingredients to further enhance the performance of preventing attachment of dust and toner dust, removing contamination of the optical sensor surface, and maintaining stable detection performance in the long term. The specific ingredients and functions included in the coating solution will be described.

Specifically, it is preferable that the coating solution contains 20 to 30 parts by weight of hexakis(trifluoroethoxy)cyclotriphosphazene, 15 to 25 parts by weight of trimethylolpropane tricaprylate, 5 to 10 parts by weight of 1-ethyl-3-methylimi dazoliumtetrafluroborate, 10 to 20 parts by weight of poly(chlorotrifluoroethyle ne), and 20 to 30 parts by weight of triethylene glycol monobutyl ether, based on 100 parts by weight of the coating solution.

Hexakis(trifluoroethoxy)cyclotriphosphazene is a fluorine-based compound with high chemical and heat resistance, which is a compound with six trifluoroethoxy (-OC2H2F3) substituents bonded to a cyclotriphosphazene (P3N3) ring structure. This material can lower surface energy and maximize chemical stability by including fluorinated substituents, while simultaneously providing hydrophobicity and antifouling properties.

In the coating solution, this substance forms an antifouling coating on the surface of the optical sensor, thereby preventing the attachment of dust, toner dust, moisture, etc. In addition, it maintains the detection accuracy of the sensor by lowering the surface energy, and prevents signal distortion by suppressing static electricity accumulation.

That is, the inherent stability of the cyclotriphosphazene structure can enhance the durability of the applied coating and provide long-term protection after removal of contamination from the optical sensor surface. In addition, the high heat resistance ensures that the performance of the coating solution is maintained even when the optical sensor is operated in a high-temperature environment.

Trimethylolpropane tricaprylate is a triple ester composed of ester bonds of trimethylol propane (C5H12O3) and caprylic acid (C8H16O2). This compound has low viscosity and high thermal stability, and provides excellent lubrication and moisture-proofing properties. Structurally, it contains an alkyl chain of caprylic acid, providing both hydrophobicity and stability, and chemically, it has excellent oxidation resistance and durability.

In the coating solution, trimethylolpropane tricaprylate provides lubricating and moisture-proofing functions to reduce friction on the surface of the optical sensor included in the rental complex (100) and prevent signal distortion due to moisture exposure. When applied, it forms a thin, uniform coating layer on the surface of the optical sensor to minimize physical wear and chemical corrosion.

In addition, this material works stably even in high-temperature environments, helping to maintain the performance of optical sensors for a long time. In addition, it has the function of suppressing static electricity accumulation on the surface of the optical sensor and preventing detection errors caused by moisture in the surrounding environment of the sensor through waterproof properties. These properties are major factors in enhancing the reliability of optical sensors after application and extending the maintenance cycle.

1-Ethyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate is an imidazolium-based ionic liquid, consisting of a 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium cation ([C6H11N2]+) and a tetrafluoroborate anion ([BF4]-). It has low volatility and high chemical stability, and its physical and chemical properties are maintained even in extreme environments. Structurally, the cation part is hydrophobic and the anion part is hydrophilic, and it has excellent conductivity and thermal stability.

In the coating solution, this material provides the function of suppressing static electricity accumulation on the surface of the optical sensor included in the rental complex (100) and preventing signal distortion due to electrical interference.

In addition, it improves detection accuracy by reducing the adhesion of dust and toner particles on the surface of the optical sensor, and stabilizes charge distribution around the optical sensor by maintaining electrical conductivity on the coated surface after application.

In addition, it enhances the durability of the optical sensor surface, minimizing the influence of the external environment, and maintains performance for a long time after application thanks to its high chemical stability.

Poly(chlorotrifluoroethylene) is a polymer compound in which chlorotrifluoroethylene (C2ClF3) units are repeatedly bonded, and is characterized by high chemical resistance and low moisture permeability. Due to the characteristics of chlorine (Cl) and fluorine (F) combined in the molecular structure, it has extremely low surface energy and excellent water resistance and durability. In addition, it has excellent thermal stability, and its physical/chemical properties are stably maintained even in low and high temperature environments.

In the coating solution, poly(chlorotrifluoroethylene) forms a waterproof and anti-fouling coating on the surface of the optical sensor included in the rental complex (100), thereby preventing detection errors caused by moisture and dust.

Additionally, the extremely low moisture permeability protects the optical sensor surface from moisture while operating stably in high and low temperature environments, thereby enhancing the durability of the optical sensor.

In addition, the low surface energy suppresses the attachment of dust and toner particles, increases the chemical stability of the sensor surface, and minimizes the influence of the external environment, thereby continuously maintaining the detection accuracy of the optical sensor.

Triethylene glycol monobutyl ether is an ether compound in which a butyl ether (BuO-) functional group is bonded to a triethylene glycol (TEG) molecule, and its molecular formula is C10H22O4. This substance has high polarity and low volatility, and has excellent solubility and moisture absorption ability. In addition, it has low surface tension, so it can be applied uniformly, and it provides cleaning and moisture-proofing properties. It also has excellent thermal stability and maintains mixing stability with various organic and inorganic compounds.

In the coating solution, triethylene glycol monobutyl ether provides the function of removing moisture from the surface of the optical sensor and effectively cleaning contaminants (toner dust and dirt).

In addition, it acts as a detergent in the coating solution to dissolve contaminants attached to the surface of the optical sensor and remove residues remaining after coating, thereby improving detection accuracy, and prevents signal distortion by suppressing moisture on the sensor surface through its moisture absorption properties.

In addition, it plays an important role in maintaining long-term stable detection performance of the optical sensor by forming a moisture-proof coating.

In summary, the coating solution of the present invention forms an anti-fouling, moisture-proof, and anti-static coating on the surface of an optical sensor, thereby maintaining reliable data detection performance of the sensor, preventing signal distortion caused by dust and toner dust, and enhancing the long-term durability of the optical sensor.

Below, the experimental results on the antifouling and moisture-proofing performance and antistatic performance among the various functions of the coating solution of the present invention are presented.

<Example>

The coating solution for the example was prepared by containing 25 parts by weight of hexakis(trifluoroethoxy)cyclotriphosphazene, 20 parts by weight of trimethylolpropane tricaprylate, 8 parts by weight of 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate, 15 parts by weight of poly(chlorotrifluoroethylene), and 25 parts by weight of triethylene glycol monobutyl ether.

Specifically, first, hexakis(trifluoroethoxy)cyclotriphosphazene and poly(chlorotrifluoroethylene) were added to triethylene glycol monobutyl ether, and stirred at 300 rpm for 15 minutes to form a uniform solution. Thereafter, trimethylolpropane tricaprylate and 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate were sequentially added, and stirred at 400 rpm for an additional 10 minutes to complete the coating solution.

<Comparative Example>

The coating solution of the comparative example was prepared by containing 40 parts by weight of polydimethylsiloxane and 60 parts by weight of dipropylene glycol.

First, polydimethylsiloxane was added to dipropylene glycol, and stirred at 200 rpm for 10 minutes to form a uniform solution.

[Experiment 1: Anti-fouling and moisture-proofing performance test]

The optical sensor used in this experiment is a reflective optical sensor included in a rental complex. The sensor surface is composed of a transparent acrylic lens and has a structure that detects the intensity of reflected light to collect data.

The anti-fouling performance test was conducted by applying the coating solutions of examples and comparative examples to the optical sensor surface according to the ISO 15989 standard, and then measuring the contact angle in a dry state for 24 hours.

A water droplet (10 μL) was dropped onto the surface using a fixed angle measuring device (Goniometer), and the contact angle formed between the water droplet and the surface was recorded. The measurements were repeated five times for each sample and the average value was calculated.

Additionally, an inclined plane device was used to measure the lower sliding angle according to the ASTM D7334 standard. After dropping a water droplet on the optical sensor surface, the angle of the inclined plane was increased by 1° and the angle at which the water droplet started to move was recorded.

The moisture-proof performance test measured the water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) according to the ASTM E96 standard. The coating solution was applied to the optical sensor surface and the water vapor transmission amount was recorded for 24 hours under conditions of 50% RH and 23°C.

The sample size was fixed at 10 cm², and the measured water vapor transmission rate was converted to 1 m² and the results were expressed in g/m²·day units.

Table 1 below shows the experimental results.

Contact Angle (°) Lower Sliding Angle (°) WVTR (g/m²·day) Example 2.83 9.67 Comparative example 4.29 15.67

The coating solution of the example demonstrated excellent antifouling performance by recording a high contact angle (113.2°) and a low sliding angle (7.9°) in the ISO 15989 and ASTM D7334 standards, and the moisture-proofing performance (WVTR 0.92 g/m² day) was also confirmed to be superior to that of the comparative example in accordance with the ASTM E96 standard. These results prove that the coating solution of the example provides an excellent protective effect on the optical sensor surface.

[Experiment 2: Anti-static performance test]

In this experiment, the antistatic performance was evaluated by applying a coating solution to the surface of an optical sensor included in a rental complex.

Surface resistance measurements were performed according to the ASTM D257 standard, and the surface resistance values were recorded by applying a DC voltage of 500 V to the optical sensor surface dried for 24 hours after each coating solution was applied. The surface resistance was measured five times per sample and the average value was calculated.

Additionally, the measurement of static electricity accumulation was performed by measuring the amount of static electricity generated through friction according to the IEC 61340-4-5 standard.

After drying the coating solution applied to the surface of the optical sensor, the friction pad was rubbed at a constant speed for 10 seconds, and the amount of charge generated was recorded using an electrostatic voltmeter. This process was also repeated five times for each sample, and the average value was calculated.

Table 2 below shows the experimental results.

Surface resistance (Ω) Static charge accumulation (V) Example 4.28 × 10^9 42.8 Comparative example 2.63 × 10^11 168.3

The coating solution of the example has a surface resistance value more than 100 times lower than that of the comparative example, so that electrons do not accumulate on the surface but easily flow or discharge, effectively preventing static electricity accumulation. The static electricity accumulation amount was significantly reduced to 42.8 V, which is lower than that of the comparative example (168.3 V). This proves that the coating solution of the example provides excellent static electricity prevention performance on the surface of the optical sensor.

As described so far, the configuration and operation of the integrated management system of the rental complex according to the present invention have been expressed in the above description and drawings, but this is merely an example, and the spirit of the present invention is not limited to the above description and drawings, and it goes without saying that various changes and modifications are possible within a scope that does not depart from the technical spirit of the present invention.

100: Rental complex 200: Central control server
210: Classification Module 220: Usage Identification Module
230: Guidance Module 240: Service Management Module
250: Multi-check management module 260: Maintenance management module
261: Consumables Analysis Section 262: Sensor Status Analysis Section
262a: Output status determination part 262b: Toner status determination part
262c: Sensor abnormality detection part

Claims (7)

As an integrated management system for rental complex machines,
A rental multifunction printer including an optical sensor that detects the amount of toner remaining in the toner cartridge and a counter that records the number of prints; and
As for communicating with the above rental complex,
A central control server including a classification module that classifies and stores data by model name, customer name, person in charge, and registration date for each rental multifunction printer, a usage identification module that identifies the usage of the rental multifunction printer based on data on the remaining toner and number of prints, a guidance module that transmits the usage to the user of the rental multifunction printer, and a maintenance management module that predicts the timing of maintenance need based on the usage and registration date, plans maintenance work, and records the details of the completed maintenance work;
The above maintenance management module,
It includes a consumables analysis unit that analyzes the above usage amount to predict the replacement cycle of consumables including toner cartridges, and a sensor status analysis unit that analyzes the relationship between the remaining toner amount and the number of outputs to identify an abnormal state of the optical sensor and determines whether to execute a service of applying a coating solution applied to the surface of the optical sensor to restore the state of the optical sensor.
The above coating solution is based on 100 parts by weight of the coating solution.
An integrated management system for a rental complex, characterized in that it comprises 20 to 30 parts by weight of hexakis(trifluoroethoxy)cyclotriphosphazene, 15 to 25 parts by weight of trimethylolpropane tricaprylate, 5 to 10 parts by weight of 1-ethyl-3-methylimi dazoliumtetrafluroborate, 10 to 20 parts by weight of poly(chlorotrifluoroethyle ne), and 20 to 30 parts by weight of triethylene glycol monobutyl ether. In paragraph 1,
The above central control server,
An integrated management system for a rental complex, characterized by including a service management module that processes service reception according to the request of the user, connects it to a management engineer, and records the service processing history. In paragraph 1,
The above central control server,
An integrated management system for a rental multi-function printer, characterized in that it further includes a multi-inspection management module that collects and analyzes inspection requests generated from a plurality of multi-function printers, determines the priority of the inspection, and transmits work instructions to a management engineer. In paragraph 1,
The above sensor status analysis unit,
An output status identification part that estimates the possibility of contamination of the optical sensor based on the above output quantity,
A toner status identification part that estimates the possibility of dust accumulation due to excessive toner consumption by analyzing the ratio of toner remaining amount to the number of prints above, and
An integrated management system for a rental complex, characterized by including a sensor abnormality detection part that detects an abnormality, including a possibility of signal distortion of the optical sensor, based on the possibility of contamination and dust accumulation. delete delete delete