JP2023030536A - Image forming apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

[Problem] It is possible to prompt appropriate users to replace consumables according to the amount of consumables used by each user. [Solution] An image forming device 100 includes a C toner usage sensor 160C, an M toner usage sensor 160M, a Y toner usage sensor 160Y, a K toner usage sensor 160K, and paper count sensors 161a-161c that detect the amount of each consumable used, a user destination information database 132 that stores destination information for each user, a notification recipient specification unit 123 that specifies a notification recipient and a destination of the notification recipient based on the amount of consumables used by each user when the remaining amount calculated from the amount of consumables used is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold, and a notification issuing unit 124 that issues a notification to the destination of the notification recipient to prompt the replacement or replenishment of the consumables. [Selected Figure] Figure 3

Description

The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus used by many users.

2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, a system has been proposed for consumables in an image forming apparatus that calculates the replacement timing of the consumables by various means and delivers appropriate consumables at an appropriate delivery time after considering various factors. .

For example, the abstract of Patent Literature 1 states that "compared to a configuration in which the consumable consumption time is determined using a single criterion, the replenishment time of consumables can be brought closer to the time requested by the user." (See the abstract of Patent Document 1).

Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2020-148836

The management system described in Patent Literature 1 obtains the measured values of the characteristic values related to fluctuations in the amount of consumption, based on the premise that the consumption rate of consumables is not constant, and requests the replenishment timing of consumables from the user. It brings us closer to the time.

By the way, users who actually replace consumables are often users who encounter the timing when the consumables run out. This is because it is up to the user to determine who replaces the consumables.

Some users who use a large amount of the prescribed consumables of the image forming apparatus execute only their own jobs as a temporary measure and replace the consumables even though the time to replace the consumables is approaching. There are people who leave it without doing it.

Therefore, even a user who uses a small amount of the consumable may encounter a timing when the consumable has run out. As a result, some users feel unfairness in the task of exchanging consumables. This is because consumables should be replaced by users who use the consumables in large amounts.

Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to prompt appropriate users to replace consumables according to the amount of consumables used by each user.

That is, the above problems of the present invention are solved by the following configurations.
(1) a detection unit that detects the usage amount of each consumable;
a destination information storage unit that stores destination information of each user;
When the remaining amount calculated from the usage amount of the consumables is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold, based on the usage amount of the consumables for each user, a notification target person and a destination of the notification target person are specified, and the notification target person's destination is specified. a control unit that issues a notification prompting a destination to replace or replenish the consumables;
An image forming apparatus comprising:

(2) the control unit,
When a notification prompting replacement or replenishment of the consumables is issued to the notification target person, and the consumables are not replaced or replenished within a predetermined time, the other person who is in a cooperative state on the network prohibiting the use of the image forming device by the person in charge of notification until the consumables are replaced or replenished;
The image forming apparatus according to (1).

(3) the predetermined threshold for prompting replacement or replenishment of the consumables is changeable;
The image forming apparatus according to (1) or (2).

(4) The control unit
If there is no response from the person to be notified for a predetermined period of time, the notification is issued again to the address of the person to be notified and the address of the superior.
The image forming apparatus according to any one of (1) to (3).

(5) If the response from the person to be notified is refusal,
The control unit
issuing a notification prompting replacement or replenishment of the consumables to the destination of the person with the second highest priority and the destination of the person concerned;
The image forming apparatus according to any one of (1) to (4).

(6) If the response from the person to be notified is refusal,
The control unit
issuing a notification prompting replacement or replenishment of the consumable to a user who has used a large amount of the consumable in the most recent predetermined period;
The image forming apparatus according to any one of (1) to (4).

(7) The criteria for selecting the person with the second highest priority and the timing of notification can be changed by the administrator.
The image forming apparatus according to (5).

(8) a size detection unit that detects the size of each sheet;
a counting unit that counts how many sheets of each size have been used by each user;
The control unit
When the remaining number of sheets of any size from the number of used sheets counted by the counting unit becomes equal to or less than a predetermined threshold, sheets of the size are replenished to the destination of the user who uses a large number of sheets of the size. Trigger a notification to
resetting the count value of sheets of the size for each user to zero when the sheets of the size are replenished;
The image forming apparatus according to (1).

(9) having a toner usage amount detection unit that detects the usage amount of each toner for each print job executed by the user;
The control unit
When the amount of residual toner of any of the toners becomes equal to or less than a predetermined threshold based on the integrated value of the amount of toner used detected by the toner amount detection unit, the toner is replaced or replenished to the user who has used a large amount of toner. Trigger a notification to
When the toner is replaced or replenished, the integrated value of the toner usage amount for each user is reset to zero.
The image forming apparatus according to (1).

(10) The control unit
After issuing a notification prompting replacement or replenishment of the consumables to the destination of the notification target,
receive an instruction to determine the next highest priority person from the person to be notified;
The image forming apparatus according to any one of (5) to (7).

(11) having an operation display unit that displays buttons;
If the person to be notified has not replaced or replenished the consumables for a predetermined period of time,
The control unit
A button prompting replacement or replenishment of the consumables is displayed on the operation display unit, and when the button is pressed by a user other than the person to be notified, the replacement or replenishment of the consumables is sent to the destination of the person to be notified. Re-issue a notification prompting for replenishment,
The image forming apparatus according to (1).

(12) further comprising a user authentication unit that authenticates a user;
When a user other than the notification target person replaces or replenishes the consumables after being authenticated by the user authentication unit,
The control unit
removing the user from a list of people who should be replaced or replenished with consumables next time;
The image forming apparatus according to (1).

(13) a detection unit that detects the remaining amount of each consumable;
a destination information storage unit that stores destination information of each user;
When the remaining amount of the consumables is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold, based on the amount of use for each user calculated from the remaining amount of the consumables, a notification target person and a destination of the notification target person are specified, and the notification target person's destination is specified. a control unit that issues a notification prompting a destination to replace or replenish the consumables;
An image forming apparatus comprising:

According to the present invention, it is possible to prompt appropriate users to replace consumables according to the amount of consumables used by each user.

1 is a perspective view of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment; FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment; FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram showing an example of functions of the image forming apparatus according to the embodiment; FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a process in which the control unit in the image forming apparatus according to the embodiment issues a notification prompting replacement or replenishment of consumables to a destination of a notification target person (No. 1). 9 is a flow chart showing the process of issuing a notification prompting replacement or replenishment of consumables to a destination of a notification target by the control unit in the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment (No. 2). 3 is a flow chart showing a process in which the control unit in the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment issues a notification prompting replacement or replenishment of consumables to the destination of the notification target (No. 3). This is table information showing the user's usage amount for each consumable item. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing a display screen for consumable replacement/replenishment conditions for changing a predetermined threshold value on an application; FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an exchange request mail sent to Taro Tokkyo who is a notification target; FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing a concept of prohibiting the use of not only an image forming apparatus but also other image forming apparatuses that are in a linked state on a network by transmitting usage prohibition information for a specific user by a CPU; . FIG. 13 is an application screen showing an approval request flow for changing the flow for exchanging consumables; FIG. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing the contents of an approval notice mail in which Hanako Tokkyo approved changes to Taro Tokkyo; FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing the contents of a denial notice mail in which Hanako Tokkyo denied changing Taro Tokkyo;

EMBODIMENT OF THE INVENTION Below, the form for implementing this invention is demonstrated in detail. The embodiment described below is an example for realizing the present invention, and should be appropriately modified or changed according to the configuration of the apparatus to which the present invention is applied and various conditions. It is not limited to the embodiment of Moreover, in each figure, the same code|symbol is attached|subjected about the same structure, and description is abbreviate|omitted suitably.

<This embodiment>
According to the present invention, the image forming apparatus prompts a user who uses a large amount of each consumable to replace the consumable. Since the consumables used by the user are replaced, it is possible to proceed with the replacement work of each consumable after the user is satisfied. In addition, since the determination is made mechanically based on the information recorded by the control unit of the image forming apparatus, it is possible to eliminate the feeling of unfairness among those who replace consumables without human emotions.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an image forming apparatus 100. FIG. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the image forming apparatus 100. As shown in FIG. FIG. 3 is a functional block diagram showing an example of functions of the image forming apparatus 100. As shown in FIG.

The image forming apparatus 100 is a multi-function peripheral (MFP) equipped with multiple functions such as a scanner function, a copy function, a facsimile function, a network function, and a BOX function. The image forming apparatus 100 employs, for example, an intermediate transfer method using an electrophotographic process technology.

Image forming apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment includes scanner unit 2 that optically reads a document to obtain image data, and print engine 6 that prints an image on paper based on the image data. A feeder 4 for feeding documents to the scanner unit 2 is arranged on the upper surface of the main body of the image forming apparatus 100, and a plurality of paper trays 9a to 9c for supplying paper to the print engine 6 are arranged on the lower part of the main body of the image forming apparatus 100. be done. Further, a manual feed tray 7 is provided on the side surface of the main body of the image forming apparatus 100, and in FIG. 1, the manual feed tray 7 is folded and stored in the main body. Also, in the central portion of the image forming apparatus 100, there is formed a paper discharge tray 8 for discharging paper on which an image has been formed by the print engine 6. As shown in FIG.

An operation panel device 1 having a touch panel display is attached to the front side (the side facing the user) of the upper surface of the main body of the image forming apparatus 100 . The operation panel device 1 is a device for operating the image forming apparatus 100 . As will be described later, the operation panel device 1 includes a plurality of keys for accepting operations such as various instructions from the user, inputs such as numbers, letters, and symbols, and a touch panel display. This touch panel display uses a touch panel as an input function, and displays various information in response to a user operation and/or a menu screen for receiving various operations on the liquid crystal display to the user. Also, this touch panel display acquires the position touched by the user and acquires the input information according to the acquired position.

As shown in FIG. 2, the image forming apparatus 100 includes a control section 110, an image output device 61, an operation panel device 1, an image reading device 21, a panel control section 11, an OCR (Optical Character Recognition) control section 22, and a printer controller 62. , a recording unit 170 , a network interface 180 , a user authentication unit 190 and an authentication device 195 .

The control unit 110 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 111 , a ROM (Read Only Memory) 112 and a RAM (Random Access Memory) 113 .

A CPU 111 is a central processing unit, reads out a program corresponding to processing contents from a ROM 112 , develops it in a RAM 113 , and controls each component of the image forming apparatus 100 in cooperation with the developed program. Specifically, the CPU 111 implements each processing unit shown in FIG. Each processing unit embodied by the CPU 111 will be described later with reference to FIG.

The RAM 113 functions as a work area that temporarily stores various programs read from the ROM 112 and executable by the CPU 111, input data, output data, parameters, and the like in various processes executed and controlled by the CPU 111.

The printer controller 62 controls the image output device 61 to form an image on printing paper based on image data for printing. The printer controller 62 and the image output device 61 shown in FIG. 2 constitute the print engine 6 shown in FIG. The image output device 61 forms an image on printing paper using, for example, an electrophotographic process technology. The electrophotographic process technology is an image forming method including charging, exposure, development, and transfer steps. Specifically, the image output device 61 intermediately transfers yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K) toner images formed on a photosensitive drum (not shown). Primary transfer is performed on a belt (not shown). The image output device 61 superimposes four-color toner images on an intermediate transfer belt (not shown), and then secondary-transfers them onto a sheet to form a toner image. The photosensitive drums corresponding to the four colors of YMCK are arranged along the moving direction of the intermediate transfer belt. Note that the image forming apparatus 100 employs a tandem system in which toner images of respective colors are sequentially transferred onto an intermediate transfer belt.

The operation panel device 1 (operation display unit) is composed of, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) with a touch panel and operation keys. The operation panel device 1 includes an operation section 141 and a display section 142 . The operation unit 141 includes various operation keys such as ten keys and a start key. The panel control portion 11 receives various input operations by the user through the operation portion 141 and outputs operation signals to the control portion 110 . The panel control unit 11 displays various operation screens, image status display, operation status of each function, and the like on the display unit 142 .

The image reading device 21 includes a scanner section 2 (see FIG. 1) that optically reads a document to obtain image data, and a feeder 4 (see FIG. 1) that feeds the document to the scanner section 2 . Image data obtained by optically reading a document is OCR-processed by the OCR control unit 22 as necessary.

The recording unit 170 includes a print execution history database 131 and a user destination information database 132, which will be described later (see FIG. 3). The print execution history database 131 records the print execution history of each user. The user destination information database 132 is a destination information storage unit that stores destination information of each user. The recording unit 170 is composed of a large-capacity storage device, such as a hard disk drive, a non-volatile memory, or the like.

The network interface 180 is a communication unit that has a communication interface and communicates with external devices on the network. As a result, the control unit 110 can communicate variously with an external device (for example, a personal computer) connected to a communication network such as a LAN (Local Area Network) or a WAN (Wide Area Network) via the network interface 180. Send and receive data. The control unit 110 receives, for example, image data transmitted from an external device, and forms a toner image on a sheet based on this image data (input image data).

The user authentication unit 190 authenticates the user by comparing information such as an ID and a password input by the user from the operation unit 141 of the operation panel device 1 with preset reference data. In other words, the user authentication unit 16 functions as a first authentication unit that uses preset confidential information to determine whether or not the user is authorized to execute processing.

The authentication device 195 functions as a second authentication unit that uses second confidential information different from the confidential information in the user authentication unit 16 to determine whether or not there is an authority to execute processing. Second confidential information is registered in the authentication device 195 in advance for each user. The authentication device 195 is composed of a card authentication device that reads user identification information stored in a magnetic card, an IC card, or the like, or a biometric authentication device that reads a user's biometric information (fingerprint, voiceprint, iris, face recognition data, etc.). The authentication device 195 compares the user identification information read from the card or the biometric information read from the user with the second confidential information of the target user, and determines whether or not the two match. In addition, in this embodiment, at least one of the user authentication unit 190 and the authentication device 195 can be used to authenticate the user.

Image forming apparatus 100 also includes C toner usage sensor 160C, M toner usage sensor 160M, Y toner usage sensor 160Y, K toner usage sensor 160K, paper count sensors 161a to 161c, paper size sensors 162a to 162c, It comprises paper trays 9 a and 9 b and a manual feed tray 7 .

The C toner usage amount sensor 160C is a detection unit that detects the usage amount of cyan (C) toner. Cyan (C) toner is a consumable used for each print job. The C toner usage sensor 160C detects the usage of cyan toner for each print job executed by the user.

The M toner usage amount sensor 160M is a detection unit that detects the usage amount of magenta (M) toner. Magenta (M) toner is a consumable used for each print job. The M toner usage sensor 160M detects the usage of magenta toner for each print job executed by the user.

The Y toner usage amount sensor 160Y is a detection unit that detects the usage amount of yellow (Y) toner. Yellow (Y) toner is a consumable used for each print job. The Y toner usage sensor 160Y detects the usage of yellow toner for each print job executed by the user.

The K toner usage amount sensor 160K is a detection unit that detects the usage amount of black (K) toner. Black (K) toner is a consumable used for each print job. The K toner usage sensor 160K detects the usage of black toner for each print job executed by the user.

The paper trays 9a and 9b contain sheets identified based on basis weight and size (for example, standard long sheets, A4 sheets, OHP (Over Head Projector) sheets, etc.) for each preset type. be. For example, the manual feed tray 7 is set with sheets or back papers that are not stored in the paper trays 9a and 9b. Each sheet is a consumable used for each print job.

The paper count sensor 161a is a counting unit that counts how many sheets of a predetermined size (printing paper, OHP sheets, etc.) stored in the paper tray 9a are used by each user. The paper size sensor 162a is a size detection unit that detects the size of the sheets accommodated in the paper tray 9a. In the following description, it is assumed that A3 size paper is stored in the paper tray 9a.

The paper count sensor 161b is a counting unit that counts how many sheets of a predetermined size accommodated in the paper tray 9b are used by each user. The paper size sensor 162b is a size detection unit that detects the size of the sheets accommodated in the paper tray 9b. In the following description, it is assumed that A4 size paper is stored in the paper tray 9b.

The paper count sensor 161c is a counting unit that counts how many sheets of a predetermined size accommodated in the paper tray 9c are used by each user. The paper size sensor 162c is a size detection unit that detects the size of the sheets accommodated in the paper tray 9c. In the following description, it is assumed that B5 size paper is stored in the paper tray 9c.

The paper count sensor 161d is a counting unit that counts how many sheets of a predetermined size accommodated in the manual feed tray 7 are used by each user. The paper size sensor 162 d is a size detection unit that detects the size of the sheet conveyed from the manual feed tray 7 to the print engine 6 .

In the present embodiment, each of the C toner usage sensor 160C, M toner usage sensor 160M, Y toner usage sensor 160Y, and K toner usage sensor 160K detects each toner (consumed) for each print job executed by the user. It configures a toner usage amount detection unit that detects the amount of toner usage.

The paper count sensors 161a to 161d constitute a detection section that detects the amount of each paper (consumable) used, and constitute a count section that counts how many sheets of each size have been used by each user. .

Note that these consumables and the detection unit that detects the amount of use of the consumables are merely examples, and the present invention is not limited to these.

Next, functions of the CPU 111 of the image forming apparatus 100 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

As shown in FIG. 3, the CPU 111 executes a control program (not shown) stored in the ROM 112 of FIG. The reporting unit 124 is embodied.

Usage amount accumulator 121 uses C toner usage amount sensor 160C, M toner usage amount sensor 160M, Y toner usage amount sensor 160Y, K toner usage amount sensor 160K, and paper count sensors 161a to 161d. The usage amount of consumables is accumulated for each user.

The print history recording unit 122 records the print execution history of each user in the print execution history database 131 . The print execution history database 131 stores information on jobs executed by users, amounts of each toner used in the jobs, and the number of sheets printed in the jobs.

When the remaining amount calculated from the usage amount of the consumables is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold, the notification target person specifying unit 123 specifies the notification target person based on the usage amount of each consumable item accumulated for each user by the usage amount accumulating unit 121. Then, the user destination information database 132 is referenced to specify the destination of the person to be notified. The destination information of each user in the user destination information database 132 stores the user's e-mail address, a cloud service account represented by SNS (Social Network Service), and the like.

The notification unit 124 issues a notification prompting replacement or replenishment of consumables to the specified destination of the notification target. A predetermined threshold for prompting replacement or replenishment of consumables can be changed by the administrator. Note that the administrator means an administrator who manages the image forming apparatus 100 or a system including the image forming apparatus 100 . In addition, issuing an alert means notifying or notifying the user by notification means such as e-mail or cloud service.

Further, if the consumables are not replaced or replenished within a predetermined period of time even if a notification prompting the subject to replace or replenish the consumables is issued, the control unit 110 is in a linked state on the network. Other image forming apparatuses are also prohibited from being used by this subject until consumables are replaced or replenished. Thereby, the control unit 110 can motivate the subject to replace or replenish the consumables.

If there is no response from the person to be notified for a predetermined period of time, the control unit 110 issues another notification to the destination of the person to be notified and the destination of his/her superior. Thereby, the control unit 110 can make the superior recognize that the subject has not replaced or replenished the consumables.

When the response (replacement or replenishment of consumables) from the person to be notified is refusal, the control unit 110 prompts the destination of the person with the second highest priority and the destination of the person concerned to replace or replenish the consumables. Trigger a notification. By predetermining who will replace the consumables in the second place without notifying the manager or superior, it is possible to avoid repeated requests for replacement of consumables. In this case, the administrator can change the criteria for selecting the person with the second highest priority and the timing of notification. For example, if the notified user's response is "reject", the administrator of the image forming apparatus 100 can freely change the settings to determine whether to notify the person in charge of clerical work or the person with the next highest priority. It is possible to

In addition, when the response (replacement or replenishment of consumables) from the person to be notified is refusal, the control unit 110 determines that the amount of use of this consumable is the next highest based on the amount of use of this consumable by each user. A notification prompting replacement or replenishment of this consumable is issued to the user's destination. As a result, for example, when the person to be notified works remotely, the administrator of the image forming apparatus 100 accepts the user's response of "refusal" and prompts the next person to replace or replenish the consumables. can be encouraged.

Further, the control unit 110 calculates the remaining amount of paper (sheets) of each size from the number of used paper counted by the paper count sensors 161a to 161d. Then, when the remaining amount of paper (sheets) of any size becomes equal to or less than a predetermined threshold, the control unit 110 selects this size for the destination of the user who uses a large number of paper (sheets) of this size. Issues a notification prompting the supply of paper (sheets). The control unit 110 resets the count value of this paper for each user to zero when the paper (sheet) of this size is replenished. Note that zero reset means resetting the counter value to zero, which is the initial value. Also, zero reset is synonymous with zero clear, which overwrites the counter value with zero to clear it.

Further, control unit 110 determines which toner is used based on the integrated value detected by C toner usage amount sensor 160C, M toner usage amount sensor 160M, Y toner usage amount sensor 160Y, and K toner usage amount sensor 160K. When the remaining amount becomes equal to or less than a predetermined threshold, the user who has used a large amount of toner is issued a notification prompting replacement or replenishment of this toner. When the toner is replaced or replenished, the control unit 110 resets the integrated value of the used amount of toner to zero.

Further, the control unit 110 may issue a notification prompting replacement or replenishment of consumables to the destination of the notification target, and then accept an instruction to determine a person with the second highest priority from the notification target. .

Further, when the person to be notified has not replaced or replenished the consumables for a predetermined period of time, the control unit 110 displays a button prompting replacement or replenishment of the consumables on the display unit 142 of the operation panel device 1 . If this button is pressed by a user other than the person to be notified, the control unit 110 may issue another notification to the person to be notified, prompting replacement or replenishment of consumables.

In addition, when a user other than the person to be notified replaces or replenishes consumables after being authenticated by the user authentication unit 190, the control unit 110 provides the user with a list of people to be replaced or replenished with consumables next time. can be deleted from

Conventionally, some users of the image forming apparatus 100 do not replace the consumables even though the time to replace the consumables is approaching. There was a person who left it without replacing it. As a result, even a user who does not use the image forming apparatus 100 often encounters the time to replace the consumables depending on the timing of the job.

Originally, a person who uses a large amount of consumables of the image forming apparatus 100 should replace the consumables. The control unit 110 of the present embodiment issues a notification to prompt the user who uses a large amount of consumables to replace or replenish the consumables.

As a result, a notification prompting replacement or replenishment of the consumables is sent based on the usage amount of the consumables by each user, so that each user can proceed with the replacement work after being satisfied. In particular, because it is mechanically determined who should replace or replenish consumables based on the print execution history recorded in the image forming apparatus 100, it is possible to eliminate inequality in replacement work.

Note that the control unit 110 of the image forming apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment may install and execute an application. may be controlled.

<First Embodiment>
[Operation of the control part]
Next, the operation of the control unit 110 in the image forming apparatus 100 according to this embodiment will be described.

4A to 4C are flowcharts showing the process of issuing a notification prompting replacement or replenishment of consumables to the destination of the notification target by the control unit 110 in the image forming apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment.

4A to 4C, the control unit 110 of the image forming apparatus 100 records the print execution history, the print execution count, and each job execution in the recording unit 170 of the image forming apparatus 100. FIG. When control unit 110 detects “near empty” information indicating that consumables are about to run out, control unit 110 selects a user who frequently uses corresponding image forming apparatus 100 based on the number of job executions. to notify the replacement of the target consumables. Note that "near empty" specifically refers to a state when the remaining amount of each consumable is less than or equal to a predetermined threshold.

First, after the administrator starts the application, the usage amount accumulating unit 121 of the CPU 111 starts accumulating the usage amount of each user for each consumable item (step S001). In this embodiment, the recording unit 170 is configured with a non-volatile memory, and the information accumulated by the usage amount accumulation unit 121 of the CPU 111 is stored in the print execution history database 131 of the recording unit 170 by the printing history recording unit 122 each time. recorded in

Specifically, the C toner usage sensor 160C, M toner usage sensor 160M, Y toner usage sensor 160Y, K toner usage sensor 160K, and paper count sensors 161a to 161d each measure the usage amount of each consumable. to detect The used amount accumulating section 121 detects the consumption of toner by using a C toner used amount sensor 160C, an M toner used amount sensor 160M, a Y toner used amount sensor 160Y, a K toner used amount sensor 160K, and paper count sensors 161a to 161d. Accumulate product usage for each user.

The print history recording unit 122 records the print execution history of each user in the print execution history database 131 .

The notification target identification unit 123 of the CPU 111 determines whether or not the integrated value of the usage amount of the consumables is close to the upper limit (step S003). Here, the upper limit of the integrated value of the usage amount of consumables corresponds to a predetermined threshold value (lower limit) of the remaining amount of consumables. When the integrated value of the usage amount of the consumables is close to the upper limit (Yes in step S003), the notification target identification unit 123 proceeds to step S005 and identifies a user with a high usage amount (step S005). The notification target person specifying unit 123 advances to step S007 and calls the destination information of the user with the large amount of usage (step S007).

That is, when the remaining amount calculated from the usage amount of a certain consumable item is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold value, the notification target person specifying unit 123 determines the notification target person based on the usage amount of the consumable item for each user and the notification target person list. and specify the destination of the person to be notified. Here, the notification target person list refers to a list of users to be notified. If the user voluntarily replenishes consumables even though the user has not been notified of replacement or replenishment of consumables, the user will be added to the notification target list at the next replacement or replenishment of consumables. Excluded.

FIG. 5 is table information showing the user's usage amount for each consumable item. The table information shown in FIG. 5 includes, as consumables, the remaining amount of cyan (C) toner, the remaining amount of magenta (M) toner, the remaining amount of yellow (Y) toner, and the amount of black (K) toner. Remaining amount columns are provided. The table information also includes columns for remaining A3-size paper, remaining A4-size paper, remaining B5-size paper, and remaining paper in the manual feed tray 7 as consumables. there is This table information records the remaining amount of each consumable item and the usage amount for each user. Also, the user names are recorded as Shiro Tokkyo, Saburo Tokkyo, Jiro Tokkyo, and Taro Tokkyo.

For example, the remaining amount of cyan (C) toner is 50%, the remaining amount of magenta (M) toner is 5%, and the remaining amount of yellow (Y) toner is 100%. , and the remaining amount of black (K) toner is 67 [%]. Also, the remaining amount of A3 size paper is 40%, the remaining amount of A4 size paper is 24%, the remaining amount of B5 size paper is 34%, and the remaining amount of manual feed tray 7. is 98[%]. Note that yellow (Y) is 100[%] because the toner has just been replaced.

The amount of cyan (C) toner used by Tokkyo Shiro is 13%, the amount of magenta (M) toner is 20%, and the amount of yellow (Y) toner is 17[%], and the amount of black (K) toner used is 1[%]. The usage of A3 size paper used by Tokkyo Shiro is 0 [%], the usage of A4 size paper is 25 [%], and the usage of B5 size paper is 15 [%]. The usage amount of the paper of 7 is 0 [%].

The amount of cyan (C) toner used by Saburo Tokkyo is 5 [%], the amount of magenta (M) toner used is 3 [%], and the amount of yellow (Y) toner used is 2[%], and the amount of black (K) toner used is 1[%]. The amount of A3 size paper used by Tokkyo Saburo was 2%, the amount of A4 size paper was 3%, and the amount of B5 size paper was 13%. The usage amount of the paper of 7 is 0 [%].

The amount of cyan (C) toner used by Jiro Tokkyo is 6 [%], the amount of magenta (M) toner used is 5 [%], and the amount of yellow (Y) toner used is 3[%], and the amount of black (K) toner used is 20[%]. The amount of A3 size paper used by Jiro Tokoku is 0 [%], the amount of A4 size paper used is 23 [%], and the amount of B5 size paper used is 12 [%]. The amount of paper used in 7 is 1 [%].

The amount of cyan (C) toner used by Taro Tokkyo is 21 [%], the amount of magenta (M) toner used is 25 [%], and the amount of yellow (Y) toner used is 20[%], and the amount of black (K) toner used is 3[%]. The amount of A3 size paper used by Taro Tokkyo is 21%, the amount of A4 size paper is 0%, and the amount of B5 size paper is 5%. is 0 [%].

Here, for example, for magenta (M) toner, the predetermined threshold value (near empty) is set to 5[%]. The notification target person specifying unit 123 specifies, as a notification target person, Taro Tokkyo, who uses the largest amount of magenta (M) toner for the magenta (M) toner remaining amount of 5% or less. .

In addition, the predetermined threshold for prompting replacement or replenishment of consumables can be changed. The predetermined threshold is trigger information for notification, and the administrator can use the application to change the predetermined threshold.

FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing a display screen 181 for consumable replacement/replenishment conditions for changing the predetermined threshold value on the application.

As shown in FIG. 6, setting columns 183 to 189 are provided on a display screen 181 for consumable replacement/replenishment conditions. A setting field 183 is used to set a predetermined threshold for toner replacement, and for example, 10[%] is set. For example, in FIG. 5, the predetermined threshold is 5[%] as near-empty, but as shown in FIG. 6, by inputting 10[%], the administrator can change the predetermined threshold.

Also, in the setting field 184, a predetermined threshold value for supplying A3 sheets to the tray 9a is set, and 10 [sheets] is set. In the setting field 187, a predetermined threshold value for supplying A4 sheets to the tray 9b is set, and 20 [sheets] is set. In the setting field 188, a predetermined threshold value for replenishing the tray 9c with B5 paper is set, and 10 [sheets] is set. In the setting field 189, a predetermined threshold value for supplying paper to the manual feed tray 7 is set, and 10 [sheets] is set.

Returning to FIG. 4A, the description of the flowchart continues.
The notification target identification unit 123 calls the destination information of the identified user (Taro Tokkyo, the notification target) (step S007). Then, the notification unit 124 of the CPU 111 uses notification means such as e-mail or cloud service to notify the user of replacement or replenishment of consumables whose remaining amount is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold (step S009).

In this case, the notification target person specifying unit 123 retrieves the destination information of Taro Tokkyo from the user destination information database 132 . Then, the notification unit 124 issues a replacement request to Taro Tokkyo, who is the person to be notified, by notification means such as e-mail or a cloud service for the magenta (M) toner remaining amount of 5% or less. report.

FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an exchange request mail sent to Taro Tokkyo, who is the person to be notified. Taro Tokkyo receives the e-mail requesting the exchange of the e-mail shown in FIG.

As shown in FIG. 7, in the exchange request mail, "Please replace the consumable (toner M)" is described to Taro Tokkyo. 145 to 148 are selectable. Note that toner M refers to magenta (M) toner.

That is, when Taro Tokkyo approves the replacement of the toner M, he presses the button 145 to replace the toner M. FIG. On the other hand, when refusing the replacement of the toner M, Taro Tokkyo can press the button 148 to reject the replacement of the toner M. FIG.

Buttons 146 and 147 are buttons for selecting a party to whom a request for replacement of toner M is to be sent instead of Taro Tokkyo when Taro Tokkyo refuses to replace the toner M. FIG. The other party of the exchange request corresponding to the buttons 146 and 147 can be set by the administrator. For example, the administrator sets the person in charge of clerical work as the second highest priority person in the button 146, and sets Jiro Tokkyo as the user who used a large amount of toner K in the most recent predetermined period in the button 147. FIG.

Returning to FIG. 4A, the description of the flowchart continues.
Next, CPU 111 of control unit 110 arranges a reminder button on the screen of display unit 142 of operation panel device 1 of image forming apparatus 100 (MFP) (step S011).

Anyone can press the prompt button on the screen of the display unit 142 of the operation panel device 1 when the consumables have not been replaced for a predetermined time. When someone (another user) presses the reminder button, the control unit 110 reissues a notification prompting Taro Tokkyo, who is the target of notification, to replace or replenish the toner M, and prompts the user.

It should be noted that the information about the urger and the urged Taro Tokkyo may be displayed on the screen of the display unit 142 of the operation panel device 1, or may not be displayed at all, and is not particularly limited. Also, the timing of placing the reminder button may be, for example, 30 minutes after issuing the exchange request to Taro Tokkyo, or it may be placed immediately.

After arranging the prompt button on the screen of the display unit 142 of the operation panel device 1, the CPU 111 advances to step S013 to determine whether or not replacement or replenishment of the toner M (corresponding consumable) by the user has been detected (step S013). S013). In step S013, the CPU 111 authenticates the user and determines replacement or replenishment of consumables.

Here, if it is detected that the toner M (corresponding consumable) has been replaced or replenished by the user (Yes in step S013), the CPU 111 proceeds to step S033.

In step S013, if replacement or replenishment of toner M (corresponding consumable) by the user is not detected (No in step S013), the CPU 111 proceeds to step S015 and determines whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed (step S015). ).

In step S015, if Taro Tokkyo does not replace or replenish the toner M within a predetermined time (Yes in step S015), the CPU 111 prohibits Taro Tokoku from using all image forming apparatuses on the same network (step S015). S017). Then, the CPU 111 prohibits other image forming apparatuses in a linked state on the network from using Taro Tokkyo (notified person) until the toner M is replaced or replenished.

In FIG. 8, the CPU 111 transmits usage prohibition information for a specific user to not only the image forming apparatus 100 but also the other image forming apparatuses 100a to 100c that are in cooperation on the network, thereby prohibiting their use. It is an explanatory view showing a concept.

As shown in FIG. 8, the CPU 111 transmits usage prohibition information for Taro Tokkyo, who is a specific user, to the image forming apparatuses 100a to 100c. As a result, the CPU 111 prohibits Taro Tokkyo from using not only the image forming apparatus 100 but also the other image forming apparatuses 100a to 100c.

At step S017 in FIG. 4A, it is assumed that Taro Tokkyo ignores the notification prompting replacement or replenishment of consumables. If Taro Tokkyo ignores the notification, Taro Tokkyo will not be able to use not only this image forming apparatus 100 but also the other image forming apparatuses 100a to 100c that are in a linked state on the network. As a result, Taro Tokkyo is unable to use not only the image forming apparatus 100 that sent the notification prompting replacement or replenishment of consumables, but also the other image forming apparatuses 100a to 100c. can be motivated to replace

Thus, in step S017, the CPU 111 can motivate Taro Tokkyo (notified person) to replace or replenish consumables.

Returning to FIG. 4B, the description continues.
After prohibiting Taro Tokkyo from using all other image forming apparatuses in a linked state on the network (step S017), the CPU 111 notifies the superior and Taro Tokkyo himself again (step S019). That is, when there is no response from Taro Tokkyo (notified person) for a predetermined period of time, the CPU 111 issues another notification to the address of Taro Tokkyo and the address of his superior. Thereby, the control unit 110 can make the superior recognize that the subject has not replaced or replenished the consumables. Then, the CPU 111 proceeds to step S021.

In step S021, the CPU 111 determines whether replacement or replenishment of toner M has been detected (step S021). In step S021, the CPU 111 authenticates the user and determines replacement or replenishment of consumables.

Here, if replacement or replenishment of toner M (corresponding consumable) by the user is detected (Yes in step S021), the CPU 111 proceeds to step S033.

On the other hand, if replacement or replenishment of toner M (corresponding consumable) by the user is not detected (No in step S021), the CPU 111 advances to step S023 to determine whether the response from Taro Tokkyo (notified person) is "reject". (step S023).

In step S023, if the response from Taro Tokkyo (notified person) is "rejected" (Yes in step S023), the CPU 111 adds toner M A notification prompting replacement or replenishment of is issued (step S025).

For example, due to the spread of remote work, Taro Tokkyo is working from home, and Taro Tokkyo may be physically far away when he receives an email requesting replacement of toner M. In this case, Taro Tokkyo can reject the replacement of the toner M by pressing the mail button 148 in FIG. As a result, Taro Tokkyo can replace himself (Taro Tokkyo) with, for example, an office worker or an assistant who has the second highest priority, and the manager can select the person who will replace the toner M next. decide.

FIG. 9 is an application screen 151 showing an approval request flow for changing the flow for replacing the toner M. FIG. When Taro Tokkyo presses the mail button 146 in FIG. 7, an approval request application screen 151 shown in FIG. 9 is displayed in the application flow screen. In this case, the administrator can freely change the notification recipients on the application.

As shown in FIG. 9, pull-down boxes 153 and 156, an applicant box 154, and an approver box 155 are displayed on the application screen 151 of the approval request.

A pull-down box 153 is used to select a child flow when changing the flow, and currently the approval request flow is selected.

Applicant box 154 is entered by Taro Tokkyo, who is the person requesting the change in the process of exchanging consumables and who is the sender of the mail.

An approver box 155 is a person who approves the change request of the person to be notified, and Hanako Patent, who is the approver, is entered. Hanako Tokkyo, the approver, corresponds to Taro Tokkyo's boss.

A pull-down box 156 selects the person in charge of clerical work to be notified next as the person who replaces consumables instead of Taro Tokkyo (notified person).

The administrator applies to Hanako Patent, who is the approver, to change the notification target person using the application screen 151 for the approval request. For example, unlike Taro Tokkyo, the person in charge of clerical work does not work from home, and usually goes to work every day. On the other hand, Taro Tokkyo, Jiro Tokkyo, Saburo Tokkyo, and Shiro Tokkyo are technical workers, and all of them are working from home. Since the person in charge of clerical work usually goes to work, he is the person with the second highest priority over Taro Tokkyo who works from home.

FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing the contents of an approval notification mail in which Hanako Tokkyo (approver) approves the change of Taro Tokkyo (notified person).

As shown in FIG. 10, the notification content 161 of the approval notification includes a destination box 163, a subject 164, and an email text 165. In FIG.

The destination box 163 displays “Taro Tokkyo” as the destination. Actually, Taro Tokkyo's e-mail address is displayed.

The subject 164 displays "Hanako Tokkyo has approved the change of the person to be notified."

In the mail body 165, it is displayed that "Since it was approved by Hanako Tokkyo, the approved file will be converted to PDF and sent. After that, the person in charge of clerical work will be notified of the replacement of toner M."

As a result, Taro Tokkyo can notify the person in charge of clerical work, who has the second highest priority, that the toner M will be replaced without replacing the toner M. FIG. The criteria for selecting the person with the second highest priority and the timing of notification can be changed by the administrator. Even if Taro Tokkyo applies for approval to Hanako Tokkyo, who is the approver, it may be denied.

FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing the contents of a denial notice mail in which Hanako Tokkyo (approver) denies the change of the person to be notified.

As shown in FIG. 11, a destination box 173, a subject 174, and an email text 175 are displayed in the notification content 171 of the denial notification.

The destination box 173 displays “Taro Tokkyo” as the destination. Actually, Taro Tokkyo's e-mail address is displayed.

The subject line 164 displays "Hanako Tokkyo denied the change of the person to be notified."

In the mail text 175, it is displayed that "Hanako Tokkyo denied the change of the person to be notified. Please replace the toner M the next time you come to work."

In the above description, Hanako Tokkyo, who is the approver, notifies Taro Tokkyo to the person in charge of clerical work with the second highest priority, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the button 147 in FIG. 7 is set with Jiro Tokkyo in FIG. 5 as a user who used a large amount of toner K during the most recent predetermined period.

In this case, when Taro Tokkyo selects the button 147 in FIG. 7, the administrator applies for approval of Jiro Tokkyo who has used a large amount of toner K in the most recent predetermined period. Further, when the application for approval is approved, the CPU 111 of the control unit 110 can issue a notification to Jiro Tokoku, who used a large amount of the toner K in the most recent predetermined period, to prompt replacement or replenishment of the toner M. FIG. Toner K is black (K) toner.

Returning to FIG. 4B, the description continues.
As described above, when the response from Taro Tokkyo (notified person) is not "rejection" (No in step S023), the CPU 111 of the control unit 110 returns to step S013. In addition, when a notification prompting replacement or replenishment of toner M (consumables) is issued to the destination of the person with the second highest priority and the destination of the person concerned (step S025), the CPU 111 returns to step S013. . Then, the CPU 111 waits for replacement or replenishment detection of the consumable toner M (No in step S013), and repeats the processing from step S013.

In step S033, the CPU 111 of the control unit 110 determines whether or not the person to be notified of toner M, which is a consumable item, has replaced or replenished the consumable item (step S033). That is, if Taro Tokkyo, who is the person to be notified, has replaced or replenished the consumables (Yes in step S033), the CPU 111 proceeds to step S035.

In step S035, when Taro Tokkyo is prohibited from using the other image forming apparatuses 100a to 100c, the CPU 111 cancels the prohibition of using the other image forming apparatuses 100a to 100c (step S035). Proceed to S039.

On the other hand, if a person who is not Taro Tokkyo (a person to be notified) replaces or replenishes toner M, which is a consumable item (No in step S033), the CPU 111 designates the current person as the next person to be notified. Delete from the list (step S037) and proceed to step S039.

For example, when Jiro Tokken, who used a large amount of toner K in the most recent predetermined period, replaced toner M instead of Taro Tokken, Jiro Tokken is deleted from the list of persons to be notified of replacement of consumables. Similarly, when the person in charge of clerical work replaces the toner M, the person in charge of clerical work is deleted from the list of persons to be notified of replacement of consumables.

In step S039, CPU 111 deletes the reminder button provided on display unit 142 of operation panel device 1 of image forming apparatus 100 (step S039), and proceeds to step S041.

In step S041, the CPU 111 resets the integrated value of the used amount of the replaced or replenished toner M for each user to zero (step S041), and ends the process. That is, when the toner M is replaced or replenished, the CPU 111 resets the integrated value of the used amount of the toner M to zero, and terminates the process of issuing a notification prompting replacement or replenishment of the consumables.

Here, a case in which Jiro Tokkyo, who uses a large amount of toner K, replaces toner M instead of Taro Tokkyo will be described with reference to the table information in FIG.

When Jiro Tokoku replaces the toner M, the CPU 111 resets the integrated value of the amount of toner M used by each user (Taro Tokoku to Shiro Tokaku) to zero, and changes the remaining amount of toner M to 100 [%]. .

Here, as shown in FIG. 5, Jiro Tokoku, who used a large amount of toner K, used 20 [%] of toner K, and Jiro Tokoku continued to use the image forming apparatus 100. In this case, there is a high possibility that Jiro Toner will be a candidate for notification regarding replacement or replenishment of toner K.

Therefore, in the present embodiment, the CPU 111 excludes Jiro Tokkyo from the persons to be notified regarding replacement or replenishment of the toner K. FIG.

As a result, Jiro Tokken, who uses a large amount of toner K, does not have to continuously replace toner M and toner K, which are consumables, so that Jiro Tokaku can avoid feeling unfair. It should be noted that Jiro Tokkyo may be excluded from the notification recipients regarding various sizes of paper without being limited to this, and there is no particular limitation.

As described above, the image forming apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment includes the C toner usage sensor 160C, the M toner usage sensor 160M, the Y toner usage sensor 160Y, and the K toner usage sensor 160K. It is composed of a history recording unit 122 , a notification target person identification unit 123 , and an alarming unit 124 .

According to the first embodiment, when the remaining amount calculated from the usage amount of any consumable is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold, the image forming apparatus 100 causes the notification target identification unit 123 to determine the usage of the consumable for each user. Based on the volume, the person to be notified and the destination of the person to be notified are identified. The image forming apparatus 100 uses the notification unit 124 to issue a notification to the specified notification target person to prompt replacement or replenishment of consumables.

As a result, the image forming apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment can prompt appropriate users to replace consumables according to the amount of consumables used by each user. Therefore, the control unit 110 of the image forming apparatus 100 can prompt appropriate users to replace the consumables at appropriate timings, so that the consumables can be replaced without giving each user a sense of inequality. can.

Note that the consumables described above have been described using the toner M as an example, but the first embodiment can also be applied to sheets.

<Second embodiment>
The image forming apparatus 100 according to the second embodiment includes paper size sensors 162a to 162c (size detection units) that detect each size of sheets, and paper sensors that count how many sheets of each size have been used by each user. and count sensors 161a to 161d (counting units).

The notification unit 124 of the control unit 110 calculates the remaining number of sheets from the number of used sheets of each size counted by the sheet count sensors 161a to 161d. When the remaining amount of sheets of a certain size becomes equal to or less than a predetermined threshold, the notification unit 124 issues a notification urging the user who uses a large number of sheets of that size to replenish the sheets of that size. report. Then, the CPU 111 of the control unit 110 resets the integrated value (count value) of each user related to the sheet of that size to zero when the sheet of that size is replenished.

As a result, even if the consumable is a sheet, the image forming apparatus 100 according to the second embodiment can prompt an appropriate user to replace the sheet according to the amount of sheet usage by each user. The sheets can be exchanged without giving the user a sense of inequality.

<Third Embodiment>
The image forming apparatus 100 according to the third embodiment includes a C toner usage sensor 160C, an M toner usage sensor 160M, a Y toner usage sensor 160Y, and a K toner usage sensor 160K (toner usage detection unit). configured as follows. Each of the C toner usage sensor 160C, M toner usage sensor 160M, Y toner usage sensor 160Y, and K toner usage sensor 160K detects the usage of each toner for each print job executed by the user.

The notification unit 124 of the control unit 110 selects one of the integrated values detected by the C toner usage amount sensor 160C, the M toner usage amount sensor 160M, the Y toner usage amount sensor 160Y, and the K toner usage amount sensor 160K. When the amount of toner remaining in the toner falls below a predetermined threshold, a notification is sent to the user who has used a large amount of toner to prompt replacement or replenishment of the toner.

When the toner is replaced or replenished, the CPU 111 of the control unit 110 resets the integrated value of the amount of toner used for each user to zero.

As a result, the image forming apparatus 100 according to the third embodiment can prompt an appropriate user to replace the toner according to the amount of toner used by each user, thereby giving each user a sense of inequality. Toner can be replaced without

<Fourth Embodiment>
The image forming apparatus according to the fourth embodiment includes paper size sensors 162a to 162d (size detection units) that detect each size of sheets, and remaining paper sensors (not shown) that detect the remaining amount of sheets of each size. ) and

The notification unit 124 of the control unit 110 detects the remaining amount of sheets of each size using a remaining sheet sensor, and calculates the amount used by each user based on changes in the remaining amount due to each user's print job. Then, when the remaining amount of sheets of a certain size becomes equal to or less than a predetermined threshold value, a notification prompting the replenishment of sheets of that size is issued.

As a result, the image forming apparatus 100 according to the fourth embodiment can prompt the appropriate user to replace the sheet according to the remaining amount of sheets by each user, thereby giving each user a sense of inequality. Sheets can be replaced without It is also possible to provide a sensor for detecting the remaining amount of toner of each color, and calculate the usage amount of each user from the change in the remaining amount of toner of each color due to each user's print job.

In the first to fourth embodiments, if the response (replacement or replenishment of consumables) from Taro Tokkyo (the person to be notified) is refusal, the administrator puts the next priority on the application. However, the present embodiment is not limited to this. For example, if the response from Taro Tokkyo (notification target) is refusal, a new notification target to replace Taro Tokkyo may be received directly from Taro Tokkyo (notification target).

Further, when the response from Taro Tokkyo is refusal, Jiro Tokoku, who uses a large amount of toner K, is set to button 147 in the exchange request mail of FIG. This embodiment is not limited to this. For example, the administrator may set button 147 to Shiro Tokoku, who has used the next largest amount of toner M after Taro Tokkyo during the most recent predetermined period.

1 Operation Panel Device 11 Panel Control Section 2 Scanner Section 21 Image Reading Device 22 OCR Control Section 4 Feeder 6 Print Engine 61 Image Output Device 62 Printer Controller 100 Image Forming Device 110 Control Section 110
111 CPUs
112 ROMs
113 RAM
121 usage amount accumulating unit 122 printing history recording unit 123 notification target person specifying unit 124 reporting unit 131 printing execution history database 132 user destination information database (destination information storage unit)
141 operation unit (operation display unit)
142 display unit (operation display unit)
150 fixing section 160C C toner usage amount sensor (detection section, toner usage amount detection section)
160M M toner usage sensor (detector, toner usage detector)
160Y Y toner usage sensor (detector, toner usage detector)
160K K toner usage sensor (detector, toner usage detector)
161a to 161d Paper count sensor (counter)
162a to 162d Paper size sensor (size detector)
170 recording unit 180 network interface (communication unit)
190 user authentication unit 195 authentication device 9a, 9b paper tray 7 manual feed tray 8 paper discharge tray

Claims (13)

a detection unit that detects the usage amount of each consumable;
a destination information storage unit that stores destination information of each user;
When the remaining amount calculated from the usage amount of the consumables is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold, based on the usage amount of the consumables for each user, a notification target person and a destination of the notification target person are specified, and the notification target person's destination is specified. a control unit that issues a notification prompting a destination to replace or replenish the consumables;
An image forming apparatus comprising: The control unit
When a notification prompting replacement or replenishment of the consumables is issued to the notification target person, and the consumables are not replaced or replenished within a predetermined time, the other person who is in a cooperative state on the network prohibiting the use of the image forming device by the person in charge of notification until the consumables are replaced or replenished;
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1. the predetermined threshold value prompting replacement or replenishment of the consumable is changeable;
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 or 2. The control unit
If there is no response from the person to be notified for a predetermined period of time, the notification is issued again to the address of the person to be notified and the address of the superior.
The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3. If the response from the person to be notified is refusal,
The control unit
issuing a notification prompting replacement or replenishment of the consumables to the destination of the person with the second highest priority and the destination of the person concerned;
The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4. If the response from the person to be notified is refusal,
The control unit
issuing a notification prompting replacement or replenishment of the consumable to a user who has used a large amount of the consumable in the most recent predetermined period;
The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4. The criteria for selecting the person with the second highest priority and the timing of notification can be changed by the administrator.
The image forming apparatus according to claim 5. a size detection unit for detecting the size of each sheet;
a counting unit that counts how many sheets of each size have been used by each user;
The control unit
When the remaining number of sheets of any size from the number of used sheets counted by the counting unit becomes equal to or less than a predetermined threshold, sheets of the size are replenished to the destination of the user who uses a large number of sheets of the size. Trigger a notification to
resetting the count value of sheets of the size for each user to zero when the sheets of the size are replenished;
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1. a toner usage amount detection unit that detects the usage amount of each toner for each print job executed by a user;
The control unit
When the amount of residual toner of any of the toners becomes equal to or less than a predetermined threshold based on the integrated value of the amount of toner used detected by the toner amount detection unit, the toner is replaced or replenished to the user who has used a large amount of toner. Trigger a notification to
When the toner is replaced or replenished, the integrated value of the toner usage amount for each user is reset to zero.
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1. The control unit
After issuing a notification prompting replacement or replenishment of the consumables to the destination of the notification target,
receive an instruction to determine the next highest priority person from the person to be notified;
The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 5 to 7. Equipped with an operation display that displays buttons,
If the person to be notified has not replaced or replenished the consumables for a predetermined period of time,
The control unit
A button prompting replacement or replenishment of the consumables is displayed on the operation display unit, and when the button is pressed by a user other than the person to be notified, the replacement or replenishment of the consumables is sent to the destination of the person to be notified. Re-issue a notification prompting for replenishment,
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1. further comprising a user authentication unit for authenticating a user,
When a user other than the notification target person replaces or replenishes the consumables after being authenticated by the user authentication unit,
The control unit
removing the user from a list of people who should be replaced or replenished with consumables next time;
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1. a detection unit that detects the remaining amount of each consumable;
a destination information storage unit that stores destination information of each user;
When the remaining amount of the consumables is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold, based on the amount of use for each user calculated from the remaining amount of the consumables, a notification target person and a destination of the notification target person are specified, and the notification target person's destination is specified. a control unit that issues a notification prompting a destination to replace or replenish the consumables;
An image forming apparatus comprising:

Images