JP2010056955A - Radio apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To solve the problem that it is desired to appropriately set any one mode in a radio apparatus having a base station mode and a terminal mode. <P>SOLUTION: A data processing section 30 carries out communication using an AP processing part 50 or an STA processing part 52. A control section 32 controls operations relating to the AP processing part 50 and the STA processing part 52. In the case that a terminal mode is selected, a determination section 112 determines switching from the terminal mode to a base station mode. A notification section 114 notifies another radio apparatus set to the base station mode about the determined switching. In the case that switching is permitted from the other radio apparatus set to a base station device after the notification of switching, a switching section 118 switches an operation target from the STA processing part 52 to the AP processing part 50. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2010,JPO&amp;INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to communication technology, and more particularly, to a wireless device that performs communication with another wireless device.

  In recent years, a wireless LAN (Local Area Network) compliant with a standard such as IEEE802.11 has become widespread. Such a wireless LAN includes two types of network configurations. One is infrastructure mode and the other is ad hoc mode. Furthermore, a network configuration called a wireless distribution system (WDS) is also included. The infrastructure mode is configured by a base station device and a terminal device existing in a radio cell formed by the base station device.

A network formed by a combination of one base station apparatus and a plurality of terminal apparatuses connected to the base station apparatus is called a BSS (Basic Service Set). The base station apparatus is generally connected to a wired backbone network, and relays packet signals between the backbone network and terminal apparatuses. Furthermore, the base station device also relays packet signals between terminal devices. On the other hand, the ad hoc mode does not include a base station device and is configured only by a terminal device. In general, terminal devices do not have a function of relaying packet signals, and directly transmit packet signals to each other. Furthermore, the WDS relays packet signals between base station devices (see, for example, Non-Patent Document 1).
Masahiro Morikura, Shuji Kubota, 802.11 high-speed wireless LAN textbook, Japan, Impress, January 1, 2005, p. 60-63

  In general, a base station device has a function as a base station device (hereinafter referred to as “base station mode”), and a terminal device has a function as a terminal device (hereinafter referred to as “terminal mode”). Implemented. That is, the base station device and the terminal device are configured as different devices. On the other hand, radio apparatuses having a different form from these have been proposed. In such a wireless device, a base station mode and a terminal mode are implemented, and either one is selected. For this reason, in a wireless network formed by such wireless devices, a wireless device to select a base station mode is arbitrarily set. However, in order to maintain stable communication in a wireless network, it is necessary to appropriately set the base station mode or the terminal mode in each wireless device.

  The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to provide a technique for appropriately setting one of the modes in a radio apparatus having a base station mode and a terminal mode.

  In order to solve the above-described problems, a radio apparatus according to an aspect of the present invention includes a base station mode in which a plurality of other radio apparatuses are multiplex-connected and a terminal mode connected to another radio apparatus set in the base station mode. And a communication unit that performs communication, and a control unit that controls operations related to the base station mode and the terminal mode in the communication unit. When the communication unit is set to the terminal mode, the control unit determines the switching from the terminal mode to the base station mode, and another wireless device set to the base station mode via the communication unit To the notification unit that notifies the switching determined by the determination unit, and after the switching is notified by the notification unit, when switching is permitted from another wireless device set to the base station mode, the communication unit is set to the base station mode. And a switching unit for switching to.

  It should be noted that any combination of the above-described constituent elements and a conversion of the expression of the present invention between a method, an apparatus, a system, a recording medium, a computer program, etc. are also effective as an aspect of the present invention.

  According to the present invention, any mode can be appropriately set in a radio apparatus having a base station mode and a terminal mode.

  Before describing the present invention in detail, an outline will be described. Embodiments described herein relate generally to a communication system that performs communication in a network formed by a plurality of wireless devices. Each radio apparatus is compatible with both the base station mode and the terminal mode, and either one is selected and used. As described above, the selection needs to be made appropriately, but there are a plurality of types of scenes to be selected, and processing corresponding to each of them should be performed. In the following, 1. 1. After the general outline of the communication system is explained, To 5. In each case, we will explain each scene. Note that the communication system may include a normal base station device and a normal terminal device in addition to the above-described wireless device. However, unless necessary, these will be omitted here. In the following, a wireless device that supports both the base station mode and the terminal mode is referred to as a “wireless device”, a wireless device dedicated to the base station device is referred to as a “base station device”, and a wireless device dedicated to the terminal device is referred to as a “wireless device”. Although referred to as a “terminal device”, a wireless device dedicated to the base station device or a wireless device dedicated to the terminal device may be referred to as a “wireless device”.

1. Outline of Operation The communication system supports an infrastructure mode, an ad hoc mode, and WDS (inter-AP communication). Furthermore, the communication system also supports a mode (hereinafter referred to as “switching mode”) in which a wireless device that supports both the base station mode and the terminal mode selects and communicates between the base station mode and the terminal mode. To do. First, the configuration of the infrastructure mode, ad hoc mode, and switching mode will be briefly described as the configuration of the communication system.

  1A to 1B show a configuration of a communication system 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The communication system 100 includes a first wireless device 10a, a second wireless device 10b, a third wireless device 10c, and a fourth wireless device 10d, which are collectively referred to as the wireless device 10. FIG. 1A shows a case where four wireless devices 10 are operating in the ad hoc mode. Each wireless device 10 selects the terminal mode or is the terminal device itself. Since a known technique may be used as communication processing in the ad hoc network, a description thereof is omitted here, but one wireless device 10 directly transmits a packet signal to the wireless device 10 to be communicated.

  FIG. 1B shows a case where four wireless devices 10 are operating in the infrastructure mode. The first radio apparatus 10a selects the base station mode or is the base station apparatus itself. On the other hand, the second wireless device 10b, the third wireless device 10c, and the fourth wireless device 10d are selecting the terminal mode or are the terminal devices themselves. In communication between the radio devices 10 in the terminal mode, the packet signal is relayed by the radio device 10 in the base station mode. For example, when a packet signal is transmitted from the second radio apparatus 10b to the fourth radio apparatus 10d, the second radio apparatus 10b first transmits the packet signal to the first radio apparatus 10a. The first radio apparatus 10a transmits the received packet signal to the fourth radio apparatus 10d.

  That is, the radio apparatus 10 or base station apparatus in the base station mode uses as a communication target a packet signal including data whose initial transmission source and final destination are not itself. In the case of the above example, the first transmission source of data is the second wireless device 10b, the final destination of data is the fourth wireless device 10d, and the first wireless device 10a in the base station mode is Also not included. The base station mode radio apparatus 10 or the base station apparatus multiplex-connects a plurality of terminal mode radio apparatuses 10. For multiple connections, CSMA (Carrier Sense Multiple Access), TDMA (Time Division Multiple Access), FDMA (Frequency Division Multiple Access), CDMA (Code DiviS Multi M s s)

  On the other hand, the wireless device 10 or the terminal device in the terminal mode uses a packet signal including data whose initial transmission source or final destination is itself as a communication target. In the case of the above-described example, the packet signal transmitted from the second radio apparatus 10b includes data having the second radio apparatus 10b as the first transmission source, and is included in the packet signal received by the fourth radio apparatus 10d. Includes data having the fourth wireless device 10d as a final destination. The same applies to the ad hoc network of FIG. Further, in the infrastructure mode and the switching mode, the wireless device 10 in the terminal mode or the terminal device is connected to the wireless device 10 set in the base station mode. In that case, the radio | wireless apparatus 10 of two terminal modes performs communication via the radio | wireless apparatus 10 set to base station mode, without performing direct communication.

  2A to 2B show another configuration of the communication system 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention. 2A to 2B show a case where the four wireless devices 10 are operating in the switching mode. In FIG. 2A, the first radio apparatus 10a operates in the base station mode, and the second radio apparatus 10b, the third radio apparatus 10c, and the fourth radio apparatus 10d operate in the terminal mode. On the other hand, in FIG. 2B, the second radio apparatus 10b operates in the base station mode, and the first radio apparatus 10a, the third radio apparatus 10c, and the fourth radio apparatus 10d operate in the terminal mode. In the switching mode, the state shown in FIG. 2A and the state shown in FIG. 2B are appropriately switched. The period and timing for switching may be arbitrary values. Here, the state of FIG. 2A is equivalent to that of FIG. That is, in the switching mode, processing similar to that in the infrastructure mode is performed at a predetermined timing, and the difference between the two is whether or not the radio apparatus 10 corresponding to the base station apparatus is changed.

2. Mode setting at startup First, the outline will be described. When the wireless device 10 has an infrastructure mode, an ad hoc mode, and a switching mode, the wireless device 10 needs to select one of these operation modes when starting up. In general, when starting up, a user has a desire for an operation mode to be used. Therefore, it is preferable to select an operation mode that reflects the user's wishes. When the wireless device 10 is activated in the switching mode, the wireless device 10 needs to select the base station mode or the terminal mode. Since there is a possibility that the base station mode or the terminal mode wireless device 10 already exists in the surroundings, it is preferable that the selection of these modes is determined according to the mode in the surrounding wireless device 10. In order to cope with this, the radio apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment performs the following operation.

  The wireless device 10 receives an instruction from the user in any of the infrastructure mode, ad hoc mode, and switching mode before activation, and selects an operation mode to be used according to the instruction. The wireless device 10 performs setting so that the selected operation mode is set. On the other hand, when the wireless device 10 is activated in the switching mode, the wireless device 10 executes the terminal mode in the initial state. That is, the wireless device 10 is activated as a terminal device. Thereafter, the wireless device 10 receives a notification signal, that is, a beacon signal from another wireless device 10 over a certain period. If reception is not possible, it is presumed that there is no wireless device 10 in the base station mode around, so the wireless device 10 switches from the terminal mode to the base station mode.

  FIG. 3 shows a configuration of the wireless device 10 according to the embodiment of the present invention. The wireless device 10 includes an antenna 20, a communication execution unit 22, and a battery 24. The communication execution unit 22 includes a wireless unit 26, a modem unit 28, a data processing unit 30, a control unit 32, an operation unit 34, an IF unit 36, and a storage unit 38. Furthermore, the data processing unit 30 includes an AP processing unit 50 and an STA processing unit 52, and the control unit 32 includes a detection unit 40, a fixed mode reception unit 42, a switching mode reception unit 44, a switching unit 46, and a maintenance unit 48. .

  The wireless unit 26 performs communication with the other wireless device 10 while using a packet signal. As a reception process, the radio unit 26 performs frequency conversion on a radio frequency packet signal received via the antenna 20 to generate a baseband packet signal. Further, the radio unit 26 outputs a baseband packet signal to the modem unit 28. In general, baseband packet signals are formed by in-phase and quadrature components, so two signal lines should be shown, but here only one signal line is shown for clarity. Shall be shown. The wireless unit 26 also includes an LNA (Low Noise Amplifier), a mixer, an AGC, and an A / D conversion unit.

  As a transmission process, the radio unit 26 performs frequency conversion on the baseband packet signal input from the modem unit 28 to generate a radio frequency packet signal. Further, the radio unit 26 transmits a radio frequency packet signal from the antenna 20. The wireless unit 26 also includes a PA (Power Amplifier), a mixer, and a D / A conversion unit.

  The modem unit 28 demodulates the baseband packet signal from the radio unit 26 as a reception process. Further, the modem unit 28 outputs the demodulated result to the data processing unit 30. Further, the modem unit 28 performs modulation on the data from the data processing unit 30 as a transmission process. Further, the modem unit 28 outputs the modulated result to the radio unit 26 as a baseband packet signal. When the radio apparatus 10 supports an OFDM modulation scheme such as the IEEE802.11a standard, the modem unit 28 also executes FFT (Fast Fourier Transform) as reception processing and IFFT (Inverse Fast Fourier Transform) as transmission processing. Execute.

  Further, when the wireless apparatus 10 supports a spread spectrum system such as the IEEE802.11b standard, the modem unit 28 also performs despreading as reception processing and also performs spreading as transmission processing. Furthermore, when the radio apparatus 10 supports a MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple Output) system such as IEEE802.11n, the modem unit 28 also executes adaptive array signal processing as reception processing, and distributes to a plurality of streams as transmission processing. Processing is also executed.

  The AP processing unit 50 executes the above-described base station mode processing. As the processing of the base station mode, it is only necessary to use a known technology of the base station apparatus. Therefore, the description is omitted here, but at least as described above, communication between the radio apparatuses 10 in the terminal mode (not shown) is relayed. That is, the AP processing unit 50 receives data that is a demodulation result from the modem unit 28 as a reception process. The final destination of the data is not its own wireless device 10 but another wireless device 10 (not shown). As a transmission process, the AP processing unit 50 outputs the received data to the modem unit 28 with another wireless device 10 (not shown) as a final destination. The first transmission source of the data is not the wireless device 10 itself but the wireless device 10 (not shown) that has transmitted the data received in the reception process.

  The STA processing unit 52 executes the above-described terminal mode processing. As the terminal mode processing, a known terminal device technique may be used, and thus the description thereof is omitted. However, the terminal mode processing is arranged at least at the end of the network and does not execute the relay processing. That is, the STA processing unit 52 receives data that is a demodulation result from the modem unit 28 as a reception process. The final destination of the data is its own wireless device 10. The STA processing unit 52 performs a predetermined process on the received data, and then outputs the result to the control unit 32. As a transmission process, the STA processing unit 52 outputs data received from the control unit 32 to the modulation / demodulation unit 28 while using another wireless device 10 (not shown) as a final destination. The first transmission source of the data is its own wireless device 10.

  The control unit 32 controls operations related to the base station mode and the terminal mode in the data processing unit 30. That is, the control unit 32 selects the operation of the AP processing unit 50 or the operation of the STA processing unit 52. In addition, the control unit 32 defines an infrastructure mode, an ad hoc mode, and a switching mode as the operation mode of the wireless device 10, and selects one of these operation modes. As described above, the ad hoc mode is an operation mode in which the AP processing unit 50 or the STA processing unit 52 is fixedly used, and the switching mode is an operation in which the AP processing unit 50 and the STA processing unit 52 are switched. Mode. In the ad hoc mode, only the STA processing unit 52 is used.

  The operation unit 34 includes buttons and receives instructions from the user. Further, when the wireless device 10 is configured to be connected to a personal computer, the operation unit 34 may be a keyboard and a mouse provided in the personal computer. The IF unit 36 is an interface with devices and components not shown. For example, when the wireless device 10 is connected to a personal computer or printer, the IF unit 36 is an interface with the personal computer or printer. On the other hand, when the wireless device 10 is built in a portable information terminal device or the like, the IF unit 36 is an interface with each component of the portable information terminal device, for example, a display, a speaker, and a CPU.

  The user inputs an operation mode selection instruction using the operation unit 34. That is, a selection instruction for the infrastructure mode, ad hoc mode, and switching mode is input. In the infrastructure mode, an instruction to select the base station mode or the terminal mode is also input. When the instruction input by the operation unit 34 is an infrastructure mode selection instruction or an ad hoc mode selection instruction, the fixed mode reception unit 42 receives the instructions. In addition, when receiving an instruction to select an infrastructure mode, the fixed mode receiving unit 42 also receives an instruction to select a base station mode or a terminal mode.

  When the instruction input by the operation unit 34 is a switching mode selection instruction, the switching mode reception unit 44 receives the instruction. When the wireless device 10 is activated, the control unit 32 selects any one of the infrastructure mode, the ad hoc mode, and the switching mode as the operation mode of the data processing unit 30, and sets the selected operation mode. Further, the control unit 32 operates either the AP processing unit 50 or the STA processing unit 52 in accordance with the operation mode. More specifically, when the fixed mode reception unit 42 is an instruction to select an infrastructure mode and receives an instruction to select a base station mode, the control unit 32 operates the AP processing unit 50.

  On the other hand, when the fixed mode reception unit 42 is an instruction to select an infrastructure mode and receives an instruction to select a terminal mode, or when the fixed mode reception unit 42 receives an instruction to select an ad hoc mode, the control unit 32 Operates the STA processing unit 52. When the switching mode reception unit 44 receives a switching mode selection instruction, the control unit 32 operates the STA processing unit 52. That is, in the switching mode, the control unit 32 activates the wireless device 10 while selecting the STA processing unit 52. When the wireless device 10 operates in the infrastructure mode or the ad hoc mode, the control unit 32 specifies the base station mode or the terminal mode according to a user instruction. On the other hand, when the wireless device 10 operates in the switching mode, the control unit 32 does not specify the base station mode or the terminal mode by the user instruction, and automatically selects the terminal mode as the initial value.

  The storage unit 38 stores various data and settings. For example, the storage unit 38 stores the settings received in the fixed mode reception unit 42 and the switching mode reception unit 44. The battery 24 is a power source that drives the wireless device 10. Note that the wireless device 10 may be driven by an AC adapter instead of the battery 24.

  Hereinafter, processing when the wireless device 10 is activated as the switching mode will be described. In such a case, as described above, the STA processing unit 52 is activated. The detection unit 40 is a packet signal transmitted from another wireless device 10 (not shown) until a predetermined period elapses after activation through the wireless unit 26, the modem unit 28, and the STA processing unit 52. In addition, it detects whether a packet signal containing broadcast information, that is, a beacon signal is received. When such a beacon signal is received, it can be said that another wireless device 10 or a base station device in the base station mode exists in the vicinity of the wireless device 10. If a beacon signal is not detected during a certain period, the detection unit 40 notifies the switching mode reception unit 44 to that effect. Furthermore, the switching mode reception unit 44 notifies the switching unit 46 to that effect. When the switching unit 46 receives the notification, the switching unit 46 stops the operation of the STA processing unit 52 and operates the AP processing unit 50. That is, the switching unit 46 switches the operation of the data processing unit 30 from the terminal mode to the base station mode.

  On the other hand, when the detection unit 40 detects a beacon signal during a certain period, the detection unit 40 outputs the fact to the switching mode reception unit 44 together with the content of the beacon signal. Here, the beacon signal includes information regarding the device that transmitted the beacon signal. One of such information is information indicating whether the transmission source of the beacon signal is another wireless device 10 corresponding to the base station mode and the terminal mode or a normal base station device. When switching mode accepting unit 44 accepts that a beacon signal has been detected, it confirms the type of the transmission source device based on the contents of the beacon signal. When the wireless device 10 is compatible with the base station mode and the terminal mode, the switching mode reception unit 44 outputs the received information to the maintenance unit 48. On the other hand, in the case of a normal base station device, the switching mode reception unit 44 outputs the received information to the switching unit 46.

  When the maintenance unit 48 receives information from the switching mode reception unit 44, the maintenance unit 48 maintains the operation of the STA processing unit 52. That is, the maintenance unit 48 maintains the terminal mode setting. When the switching unit 46 receives information from the switching mode reception unit 44, the switching unit 46 stops the operation of the STA processing unit 52 and operates the AP processing unit 50.

  This configuration can be realized in terms of hardware by a CPU, memory, or other LSI of any computer, and in terms of software, it is realized by a program having a communication function loaded in the memory. Describes functional blocks realized by collaboration. Accordingly, those skilled in the art will understand that these functional blocks can be realized in various forms by hardware only, software only, or a combination thereof.

  The operation of the communication system 100 configured as above will be described. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing a setting procedure in the wireless device 10. The power is turned on (S10). If the switching mode reception unit 44 has received an instruction for activation in the switching mode (Y in S12), the control unit 32 activates the operation of the STA processing unit 52. That is, the control unit 32 sets a terminal mode (hereinafter also referred to as “STA mode”, but uses them without distinction) (S14). If the detection unit 40 does not receive a beacon signal for a certain period (N in S16), the switching unit 46 stops the operation of the STA processing unit 52 and operates the AP processing unit 50. That is, the switching unit 46 switches to the base station mode (hereinafter also referred to as “AP mode”, but uses both without distinction) (S20).

  On the other hand, the detection unit 40 receives a beacon signal for a certain period (Y in S16), and the transmission source of the beacon signal is also referred to as a normal base station device (hereinafter referred to as “AP-dedicated device”). If it is used (Y in S18), the switching unit 46 switches to the AP mode (S20). If the source of the beacon signal is not an AP-dedicated device (N in S18), the process ends. When switching mode reception unit 44 has not received an instruction to start in switching mode (N in S12), that is, fixed mode reception unit 42 has received an instruction to start in infrastructure mode or ad hoc mode The fixed mode reception unit 42 confirms whether the AP mode or the STA mode. When it is AP mode (Y of S22), the control part 32 operates the AP process part 50. FIG. That is, the control unit 32 sets the AP mode (S24). On the other hand, when not in the AP mode (N in S22), the control unit 32 sets the STA mode (S26).

  According to this embodiment, since the operation mode is selected based on an instruction from the user when starting up, the user's desire can be reflected. In addition, since the terminal mode is selected when starting in the switching mode, it is possible to avoid a situation where there are a plurality of radio apparatuses in the base station mode, and it is possible to maintain communication stability. If no beacon signal is received, the terminal mode is switched to the base station mode, so that communication in the switching mode can be executed. Further, when the received beacon signal is transmitted from the AP dedicated device, the terminal mode is switched to the base station mode, so that communication in the switching mode can be executed separately from the communication in the infrastructure mode.

3. Mode setting during connection First, an outline will be described. WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) has been developed as a simple connection method for wireless devices in a wireless LAN. As a premise of WPS, as wireless LANs become widespread in recent years, security protection enhancement in wireless LANs is required. Therefore, the length of the encryption key and the initialization vector (IV: Initial Vector) are short, and instead of WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy) where the integrity of the message could not be guaranteed, the length of the encryption key is extended and fixed. WPA (Wi-Fi Protected Access) that employs TKIP (Temporal Key Integrity Protocol) that can renew the encryption key for each period and MIC (Message Integrity Code) that detects message tampering has been developed to protect wireless LAN security Strengthening is planned.

  WPA supports PSK (Pre-Shared Key) in order to realize mutual authentication between wireless LAN devices. In order to construct a wireless LAN network protected by PSK, the user needs to set PSK in the base station apparatus and the terminal apparatus connected to the base station apparatus. In addition to PSK, the user needs to make a number of settings in order to protect the security of the wireless LAN network, such as setting an SSID (Service Set Identifier) that is information for identifying the wireless LAN network.

  WPS was developed to reduce the burden on users. In the wireless device 10 compatible with WPS, settings such as SSID and WPA are made by inputting a personal identification number (PIN) or pressing a dedicated button (PBC: Push-Button Configuration). By using such a wireless device 10 compatible with WPS, the user can easily construct a secure wireless LAN network.

  Here, when two wireless devices 10 connect using such WPS, their modes also need to be set. When the two radio apparatuses 10 are already activated, the base station mode and the terminal mode are already set for them. Since the setting of these modes may reflect the relationship with the other radio | wireless apparatuses 10, it is more preferable that it is the same state after a connection. In order to cope with this, the wireless device 10 according to the present embodiment sets the base station mode and the terminal mode so as to maintain the mode before and after the connection when performing the simple connection.

  The configuration of the wireless device 10 is the same type as that in FIG. Here, the difference from FIG. 3 will be mainly described. The wireless device 10 and the other wireless device 10 are arranged at a distance where they can receive each other's packet signals, and both buttons are pressed down, whereby a simple connection by WPS is executed between them. That is, in the wireless device 10, the user pushes down the button of the operation unit 34 when performing simple connection. When detecting that the button has been pressed, the control unit 32 performs simple connection by WPS with the wireless device 10 (not shown) via the wireless unit 26, the modem unit 28, and the data processing unit 30. In addition, since a well-known technique should just be used as a simple connection by WPS, description is abbreviate | omitted here.

  As described above, in the data processing unit 30, the AP processing unit 50 or the STA processing unit 52 is activated, and the storage unit 38 stores the information (hereinafter referred to as “mode information”). The control unit 32 exchanges mode information with another wireless device 10 before executing the simple connection. Here, there are two methods for exchanging mode information. One is a method in which the control unit 32 transmits mode information to another wireless device 10 via the data processing unit 30, the modem unit 28, and the wireless unit 26, and the other wireless device 10 determines the mode. is there.

  The other is that the control unit 32 receives mode information from another wireless device 10 via the wireless unit 26, the modem unit 28, and the data processing unit 30, and determines the mode. That is, the wireless device 10 or another wireless device 10 grasps both mode information and determines both modes. The determined mode is also notified to the counterpart wireless device 10. That is, the control unit 32 uses the AP processing unit 50 or the STA based on the exchange result of the mode information performed with the other radio apparatus 10 via the radio unit 26, the modem unit 28, and the data processing unit 30. The processing unit 52 is operated.

  Here, the mode determination rule is shown as follows, for example. (1) If both are operating in base station mode, the current setting is maintained. That is, communication between base stations (hereinafter referred to as “communication between APs” but used without distinguishing between both) is realized between the both. In addition, since a well-known technique should just be used as communication between base stations, description is abbreviate | omitted here. (2) When one side is already operating as the base station mode or when it is determined that the base station mode is set, one is set to the base station mode and the other is set to the terminal mode. (3) If both are operating in terminal mode and both do not change to base station mode, the terminal mode setting is maintained. That is, an ad hoc mode is realized between both. The case of not changing to the base station mode is when the user does not want to operate as the base station mode, when the remaining battery level is low, or when it is detected that the reception level has dropped and moved to another area. It corresponds to.

  The operation of the communication system 100 configured as above will be described. FIG. 5 is a sequence diagram showing a setting procedure in the communication system 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention. The button of the first radio apparatus 10a is pushed down (S40), and the button of the second radio apparatus 10b is also pushed down (S42). The first radio apparatus 10a transmits mode information as an information signal to the second radio apparatus 10b (S44). The second radio apparatus 10b determines the mode (S46). The second radio apparatus 10b transmits the determined mode as a notification signal to the first radio apparatus 10a (S48). The first radio apparatus 10a sets the mode (S50), and the second radio apparatus 10b also sets the mode (S52). The first radio apparatus 10a and the second radio apparatus 10b execute setting processing by WPS (S54).

  FIG. 6 is a sequence diagram showing another setting procedure in the communication system 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention. The button of the first radio apparatus 10a is pushed down (S70), and the button of the second radio apparatus 10b is also pushed down (S72). The first radio apparatus 10a transmits a request signal for mode information transmission to the second radio apparatus 10b (S74). The second radio apparatus 10b transmits mode information as an information signal to the first radio apparatus 10a (S76). The first radio apparatus 10a determines the mode (S78). The first radio apparatus 10a transmits the determined mode as a notification signal to the second radio apparatus 10b (S80). The first radio apparatus 10a sets the mode (S82), and the second radio apparatus 10b also sets the mode (S84). The first radio apparatus 10a and the second radio apparatus 10b execute setting processing by WPS (S86).

  FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the determination procedure in FIG. 5 or FIG. If both are in the AP mode (Y in S100), the control unit 32 of the wireless device 10 or the control unit 32 of the other wireless device 10 performs inter-AP communication (S102). If both are not in AP mode (N in S100) and one of them is in AP mode (Y in S104), one is determined as AP mode and the other is determined as STA mode (S106). If either one is not in AP mode (N in S104), execution of ad hoc communication is determined (S108).

  According to the present embodiment, the mode is adjusted when executing the simple connection, so that it is possible to smoothly shift to the communication state after the connection. In addition, since the mode used so far is used as much as possible, the influence on other wireless devices can be reduced.

4). Switching from AP mode to STA mode First, an outline will be described. The wireless device 10 operating in the base station mode may request switching from the base station mode to the terminal mode. For example, when the remaining battery level of the wireless device 10 is low. Even when the wireless device 10 is switched from the base station mode to the terminal mode, the communication system 100 is required to perform stable communication as before. In order to cope with this, the wireless device 10 according to the present invention acquires the state of the other wireless devices 10 in the vicinity, and selects any other wireless device 10. Further, the wireless device 10 requests the other selected wireless device 10 to switch to the base station mode.

  FIG. 8 shows another configuration of the wireless device 10 according to the embodiment of the present invention. The wireless device 10 of FIG. 8 is the same type as the wireless device 10 of FIG. Here, the difference will be mainly described. The control unit 32 includes a detection unit 40, a selection unit 60, and a switching unit 62. The detection unit 40 monitors the remaining amount of the battery 24 provided in the wireless device 10. When the AP processing unit 50 is operating, that is, when the base station mode is set, the detecting unit 40 selects that when detecting that the remaining amount of the battery 24 is lower than the threshold value. Notification to the unit 60.

  Upon receiving the notification from the detection unit 40, the selection unit 60 notifies the other radio apparatus 10 via the AP processing unit 50, the modem unit 28, and the radio unit 26 that the remaining battery level has been reduced as resource information. . After the notification, the selection unit 60 acquires resource information from the other radio apparatuses 10 via the radio unit 26, the modem unit 28, and the data processing unit 30. For example, the resource information includes information on the remaining battery level in the other wireless devices 10. The selection unit 60 selects another wireless device 10 whose remaining battery level is greater than the threshold value. When a plurality of other wireless devices 10 are applicable, the selection unit 60 selects another wireless device 10 having the maximum remaining battery level. The selection unit 60 instructs the selected other radio apparatus 10 to change from the terminal mode to the base station mode via the AP processing unit 50, the modem unit 28, and the radio unit 26. After outputting the instruction from the selection unit 60, the switching unit 62 stops the operation of the AP processing unit 50 and operates the STA processing unit 52. That is, the switching unit 62 switches the data processing unit 30 from the base station mode to the terminal mode.

  The operation of the communication system 100 configured as above will be described. FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a setting procedure in the wireless device 10. The detection unit 40 acquires the power status of the battery 24 (S120). When the remaining amount of the battery 24 is lower than the threshold value (Y in S122), the selection unit 60 notifies the resource information (S124) and acquires the resource information (S126). If there is a wireless device 10 with good AP operation conditions (Y in S128), the selection unit 60 requests the wireless device 10 to switch to the AP mode (S130). On the other hand, if there is no wireless device 10 with good AP operation conditions (N in S128), the selection unit 60 notifies that the AP mode cannot be continued (S132). Thereafter, the switching unit 62 performs switching to the STA mode (S134). When the remaining amount of the battery 24 is not lower than the threshold value (N in S122), the process is terminated.

  According to the present embodiment, when the remaining amount of the battery decreases, the base station mode is switched to the terminal mode, so that the battery consumption can be reduced. In addition, since switching to the base station mode is instructed to another radio apparatus before switching, it is possible to avoid a situation in which no radio apparatus operating in the base station mode exists in the network. In addition, since a situation where no wireless device operating in the base station mode exists in the network is avoided, stable communication can be maintained. In addition, since a situation where no wireless device operating in the base station mode exists in the network is avoided, communication in the switching mode can be maintained.

5. Switching from STA mode to AP mode First, an outline will be described. The trigger when the radio apparatus 10 switches from the base station mode to the terminal mode has been described. Here, a trigger when the radio apparatus 10 switches from the terminal mode to the base station mode will be described. As described above, the wireless device 10 set to the base station mode communicates with the plurality of wireless devices 10 set to the terminal mode. That is, generally, the processing amount in the radio apparatus 10 set to the base station mode is larger than the processing amount in the radio apparatus 10 set to the terminal mode. Therefore, among the plurality of radio apparatuses 10, there are radio apparatuses 10 suitable for the base station mode and radio apparatuses 10 not suitable for the base station mode.

  Therefore, the wireless device 10 detects whether or not it is suitable for the base station mode. Various aspects of the detection will be described below. First, when data to be transmitted to a plurality of other wireless devices 10 is generated, the wireless device 10 detects that it is suitable for the base station mode. As described above, the wireless device 10 set to the terminal mode cannot directly transmit data to other wireless devices 10. Therefore, data transmitted from the wireless device 10 set in the terminal mode is transmitted to a plurality of other wireless devices 10 via the wireless device 10 set in the base station mode. On the other hand, the wireless device 10 set to the base station mode can directly transmit data to a plurality of other wireless devices 10. Therefore, it can be said that generation of data to be transmitted to the plurality of radio apparatuses 10 is suitable for the base station mode.

  In addition, the switching to the terminal mode and the base station mode in the communication system 100 should be performed smoothly. Therefore, among the radio devices 10 set to the terminal mode, the radio device 10 suitable for the base station mode notifies the radio device 10 already set to the base station mode to switch to and receives permission. Then, the terminal mode is switched to the base station mode. In addition, the radio | wireless apparatus 10 already set to base station mode switches to terminal mode.

  FIG. 10 shows still another configuration of the wireless device 10 according to the embodiment of the present invention. The wireless device 10 in FIG. 10 is the same type as the wireless device 10 in FIG. Here, the difference will be mainly described. The control unit 32 includes a detection unit 110, a determination unit 112, a notification unit 114, a reception unit 116, and a switching unit 118.

  As described above, the AP processing unit 50 executes communication in the base station mode, the STA processing unit 52 executes communication in the terminal mode, and the AP processing unit 50 or the STA processing unit 52 is selected. Communication is performed using packet signals. The control unit 32 controls the data processing unit 30 so as to select the AP processing unit 50 or the STA processing unit 52. Here, it is assumed that the STA processing unit 52 is selected as a premise for explanation.

  The detection unit 110 monitors data generated by an application program processing unit included in the wireless device 10 or an application program processing unit (not shown) connected to the wireless device 10. Here, in particular, the data destination and the data amount are monitored. In addition, the detection unit 110 predefines a threshold “N” for the number of destinations and a threshold “M” for the data amount. The detection unit 110 compares the number of destinations with N, and compares the data amount with M. When the number of destinations is N or more, or when the data amount is M or more, the detection unit 110 detects generation of data to be broadcast to a plurality of other wireless devices 10 or generation of a large amount of data. The detection unit 110 outputs the detection content to the determination unit 112.

  When receiving the detection content from the detection unit 110, the determination unit 112 determines switching from the selection of the STA processing unit 52 to the selection of the AP processing unit 50. In other words, the determination unit 112 determines that the STA when the detection unit 110 detects the generation of data to be transmitted to N or more destinations or when the detection unit 110 detects the generation of data having a data amount of M or more. Switching from selection of the processing unit 52 to selection of the AP processing unit 50 is determined. When the determination unit 112 determines switching, the determination unit 112 outputs a message to that effect to the notification unit 114.

  The notification unit 114 receives the determination content from the determination unit 112. The notification unit 114 generates a packet signal including the content of the determination, that is, the switching determination. Further, the notification unit 114 notifies the packet signal to another radio apparatus 10 (not shown) set to the base station mode via the STA processing unit 52, the modem unit 28, and the radio unit 26. That is, the notification unit 114 notifies the switching decision to the other radio apparatus 10 set to the base station mode.

  The accepting unit 116 receives the packet signal from the other radio apparatus 10 set to the base station mode via the radio unit 26, the modem unit 28, and the STA processing unit 52 after the notification unit 114 notifies the switching. The packet signal includes permission for switching. This can be said to be a state in which switching from the selection of the STA processing unit 52 to the selection of the AP processing unit 50 is permitted by another wireless device 10 set to the base station mode. The accepting unit 116 outputs switching permission to the switching unit 118. The switching unit 118 switches the selection of the STA processing unit 52 to the selection of the AP processing unit 50. As a result, the operation of the STA processing unit 52 is stopped and the AP processing unit 50 is activated.

  The AP processing unit 50 notifies the packet signal including the fact that the mode has been switched to the base station mode via the modem unit 28 and the radio unit 26. Another wireless device 10 (not shown) recognizes the wireless device 10 in the new base station mode. In particular, the wireless device 10 that has been set to the base station mode until then switches to the terminal mode.

  The operation of the communication system 100 configured as above will be described. FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating a setting procedure in the wireless device 10. The STA processing unit 52 executes the STA mode (S200). When detecting unit 110 detects data to be transmitted to N or more wireless devices 10 (Y in S202), or does not detect data to be transmitted to N or more wireless devices 10 (N in S202), the data amount If M is greater than or equal to M (Y in S204), if there is an AP processing unit 50 (Y in S206), the determining unit 112 determines switching from the STA processing unit 52 to the AP processing unit 50. On the other hand, if the data amount is not M or more (N in S204), and if there is no AP processing unit 50 (N in S206), the process returns to step 202. The notification unit 114 notifies the wireless device 10 set to the AP mode of switching (S208). If the accepting unit 116 accepts the permission (Y in S210), the switching unit 118 executes a switching process from the STA mode to the AP mode (S212). On the other hand, if the receiving unit 116 does not accept permission (N in S210), step 212 is skipped.

  Another embodiment will be described next. In another embodiment, the condition for detecting whether or not it is suitable for the base station mode is different from that described above. Here, it is assumed that the timing of newly joining the communication system 100 is suitable for the base station mode. The radio apparatus 10 set in the base station mode over a certain period of time is executing high-load processing over that period. Therefore, in the case of battery driving, the remaining battery level is low, or the temperature of the housing is increased. On the other hand, since the radio apparatus 10 newly participating in the communication system 100 is not in such a situation, it can be said that it is suitable for the base station mode.

  FIG. 12 shows still another configuration of the wireless device 10 according to the embodiment of the present invention. The wireless device 10 in FIG. 12 is the same type as the wireless device 10 in FIG. Here, the difference will be mainly described. The control unit 32 includes a connection unit 120, a determination unit 112, a notification unit 114, a reception unit 116, and a switching unit 118.

  As described above, the AP processing unit 50 executes communication in the base station mode, the STA processing unit 52 executes communication in the terminal mode, and the AP processing unit 50 or the STA processing unit 52 is selected. Communication is performed using packet signals. The control unit 32 controls the data processing unit 30 so as to select the AP processing unit 50 or the STA processing unit 52. Here, it is assumed that the STA processing unit 52 is selected as a premise for explanation.

  The connection unit 120 performs processing for connection with another radio apparatus 10 set in a base station mode (not shown) via the STA processing unit 52, the modem unit 28, and the radio unit 26. Here, the process for connection corresponds to the above-described simple connection. Since the simple connection is the same as before, the description is omitted here. The connection unit 120 outputs the completion of the connection to the determination unit 112 when the connection is completed, that is, when authentication is received from another wireless device 10 set to the base station mode. When receiving the completion of connection from the connection unit 120, the determination unit 112 determines switching from selection of the STA processing unit 52 to selection of the AP processing unit 50. That is, the determination unit 112 determines switching from selection of the STA processing unit 52 to selection of the AP processing unit 50 when processing for connection is performed. Since the subsequent processing is the same as that described so far, description thereof is omitted here.

  The operation of the communication system 100 configured as above will be described. FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating a setting procedure in the wireless device 10. The STA processing unit 52 executes the STA mode (S230). When the connection unit 120 detects authentication OK from the wireless device 10 set to the AP mode (Y in S232), if there is the AP processing unit 50 (Y in S234), the determination unit 112 receives the AP from the STA processing unit 52. Switching to the processing unit 50 is determined. On the other hand, if the connection unit 120 does not detect the authentication OK from the wireless device 10 set to the AP mode (N in S232), and if there is no AP processing unit 50 (N in S234), the process returns to step 232. The notification unit 114 notifies the wireless device 10 set to the AP mode of switching (S236). If the accepting unit 116 accepts the permission (Y in S238), the switching unit 118 executes a switching process from the STA mode to the AP mode (S240). On the other hand, if the reception unit 116 does not accept permission (N in S238), step 240 is skipped.

  Another embodiment will be described next. In another embodiment, the condition for detecting whether or not it is suitable for the base station mode is different from that described above. Here, it is assumed that the time when the connection to the wired network is detected is suitable for the base station mode. If the wireless device 10 set in the base station mode is directly connected to the wired network, the other wireless device 10 can access the wireless device 10 set in the base station mode via the wired network via the Internet. Can be connected. That is, data transfer in the communication system 100 is reduced. Therefore, it can be said that the wireless device 10 directly connected to the wired network is suitable for the base station mode.

  FIG. 14 shows still another configuration of the wireless device 10 according to the embodiment of the present invention. The wireless device 10 in FIG. 14 is the same type as the wireless device 10 in FIG. Here, the difference will be mainly described. The communication execution unit 22 includes a wired communication unit 122.

  The wired communication unit 122 performs communication via the wired network by being connected to the wired network. For example, the wired communication unit 122 accesses the Internet via a wired network. Further, data is relayed between the wireless network and the wired network by the wireless unit 26, the modem unit 28, the AP processing unit 50, and the wired communication unit 122.

  The detection unit 110 detects that the wired communication unit 122 is connected to a wired network. A known technique may be used for detection. For example, when a signal is transmitted from the wired communication unit 122 to a predetermined address on the wired network and a response to the signal is received, the detection unit 110 detects a connection with a wired network. When detecting the connection, the detection unit 110 outputs the detection of the connection to the determination unit 112. Upon receiving connection detection from the connection unit 120, the determination unit 112 determines switching from selection of the STA processing unit 52 to selection of the AP processing unit 50. Since the subsequent processing is the same as that described so far, description thereof is omitted here.

  The operation of the communication system 100 configured as above will be described. FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating a setting procedure in the wireless device 10. The STA processing unit 52 executes the STA mode (S260). When the detection unit 110 detects that the wired communication unit 122 is connected to the network by wire (Y in S262), if there is the AP processing unit 50 (Y in S264), the determination unit 112 receives the STA processing unit 52 from the STA processing unit 52. Switching to the AP processing unit 50 is determined. On the other hand, if the detection unit 110 does not detect that the wired communication unit 122 is connected to the network by wire (N in S262) and if there is no AP processing unit 50 (N in S264), the process returns to Step 262. The notification unit 114 notifies the wireless device 10 set to the AP mode of switching (S266). If the accepting unit 116 accepts the permission (Y in S268), the switching unit 118 executes a switching process from the STA mode to the AP mode (S270). On the other hand, if the accepting unit 116 does not accept permission (N in S268), step 270 is skipped.

  Another embodiment will be described next. In another embodiment, the condition for detecting whether or not it is suitable for the base station mode is different from that described above. Here, it is assumed that the time when the connection with the AC power source is detected is suitable for the base station mode. As described above, the processing amount in the wireless device 10 set to the base station mode is generally larger than the processing amount in the wireless device 10 set to the terminal mode. For this reason, the wireless device 10 set to the base station mode consumes more power than the wireless device 10 set to the terminal mode. Therefore, it can be said that AC power supply driving is more suitable for the base station mode than battery driving.

  FIG. 16 shows still another configuration of the wireless device 10 according to the embodiment of the present invention. The wireless device 10 of FIG. 16 is the same type as the wireless device 10 of FIG. Here, the difference will be mainly described. The wireless device 10 is connected to an AC power source 124.

  The AC power supply 124 supplies power to the wireless device 10. The detection unit 110 detects the connection with the AC power supply 124, that is, the supply of power by the AC power supply 124. Since a known technique may be used for the detection, description thereof is omitted here. The determination unit 112 determines switching from selection of the STA processing unit 52 to selection of the AP processing unit 50 when a connection is detected by the detection unit 110. Since the subsequent processing is the same as that described so far, description thereof is omitted here.

  The operation of the communication system 100 configured as above will be described. FIG. 17 is a flowchart illustrating a setting procedure in the wireless device 10. The STA processing unit 52 executes the STA mode (S290). When the detection unit 110 detects that the AC power supply 124 is connected (Y in S292), if there is the AP processing unit 50 (Y in S294), the determination unit 112 moves from the STA processing unit 52 to the AP processing unit 50. To switch. On the other hand, if the detection unit 110 does not detect that the AC power supply 124 is connected (N in S292), and if there is no AP processing unit 50 (N in S294), the process returns to Step 292. The notification unit 114 notifies the wireless device 10 set to the AP mode of switching (S296). If the accepting unit 116 accepts the permission (Y in S298), the switching unit 118 executes a switching process from the STA mode to the AP mode (S300). On the other hand, if the accepting unit 116 does not accept permission (N in S298), step 300 is skipped.

  According to the present embodiment, when switching from the terminal mode to the base station mode is determined, if the permission is received from another wireless device set in the base station device, the switching is executed. Alternatively, the terminal mode can be set appropriately. Moreover, since it switches after accepting permission, switching can be performed smoothly. Further, since the switching is performed smoothly, the stability of the communication system can be maintained. When the generation of a packet signal to be broadcast to a plurality of other wireless devices is detected, switching from the terminal mode to the base station mode is determined, so that the packet signal can be transmitted efficiently. Further, since the packet signal is efficiently transmitted, it can be accurately detected that the packet signal is suitable for the base station mode.

  Further, since switching from the terminal mode to the base station mode is determined when newly connected to the communication system, a radio apparatus with a small amount of processing up to that time can be determined as the base station mode. In addition, since a wireless device with a small amount of processing until then is determined as the base station mode, it can be accurately detected that it is suitable for the base station mode. Further, since the switching from the terminal mode to the base station mode is determined when the connection to the wired network is detected, the number of packet signal transfers in the communication system can be reduced. Also, since the number of packet signal transfers in the communication system is reduced, it can be accurately detected that the packet signal is suitable for the base station mode. Further, since the switching from the terminal mode to the base station mode is determined when the connection to the AC power source is detected, the base station mode can be executed regardless of the remaining battery level. In addition, since the base station mode is executed regardless of the remaining battery level, it can be accurately detected that the base station mode is suitable.

  In the above, this invention was demonstrated based on the Example. This embodiment is an exemplification, and it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various modifications can be made to the combination of each component and each processing process, and such modifications are also within the scope of the present invention. .

Fig.1 (a)-(b) is a figure which shows the structure of the communication system based on the Example of this invention. 2A to 2B are diagrams showing another configuration of the communication system according to the embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure which shows the structure of the radio | wireless apparatus which concerns on the Example of this invention. 4 is a flowchart illustrating a setting procedure in the wireless device of FIG. 3. It is a sequence diagram which shows the setting procedure in the communication system which concerns on the Example of this invention. It is a sequence diagram which shows another setting procedure in the communication system which concerns on the Example of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the determination procedure in FIG. It is a figure which shows another structure of the radio | wireless apparatus which concerns on the Example of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the setting procedure in the radio | wireless apparatus of FIG. It is a figure which shows another structure of the radio | wireless apparatus which concerns on the Example of this invention. 11 is a flowchart illustrating a setting procedure in the wireless device in FIG. 10. It is a figure which shows another structure of the radio | wireless apparatus which concerns on the Example of this invention. 13 is a flowchart showing a setting procedure in the wireless device of FIG. It is a figure which shows another structure of the radio | wireless apparatus which concerns on the Example of this invention. 15 is a flowchart showing a setting procedure in the wireless device of FIG. It is a figure which shows another structure of the radio | wireless apparatus which concerns on the Example of this invention. 17 is a flowchart showing a setting procedure in the wireless device of FIG.

Explanation of symbols

  10 wireless devices, 20 antennas, 22 communication execution units, 24 batteries, 26 wireless units, 28 modulation / demodulation units, 30 data processing units, 32 control units, 34 operation units, 36 IF units, 38 storage units, 40 detection units, 42 fixed Mode reception unit, 44 switching mode reception unit, 46 switching unit, 48 maintenance unit, 50 AP processing unit, 52 STA processing unit, 60 selection unit, 62 switching unit, 100 communication system, 110 detection unit, 112 determination unit, 114 notification Section, 116 reception section, 118 switching section, 120 connection section, 122 wired communication section, 124 AC power supply.

Claims (5)

A communication unit that performs communication by selecting one of a base station mode that multiplexly connects a plurality of other wireless devices and a terminal mode that is connected to another wireless device set to the base station mode;
A control unit that controls operations related to the base station mode and the terminal mode in the communication unit;
The controller is
When the communication unit is set to the terminal mode, a determination unit that determines switching from the terminal mode to the base station mode;
A notification unit for notifying the switching determined in the determination unit to other wireless devices set in the base station mode via the communication unit;
And a switching unit that switches the communication unit to the base station mode when switching is permitted from another wireless device set to the base station mode after notifying the switching in the notification unit. apparatus. A detection unit that detects generation of a signal to be broadcast to a plurality of other wireless devices;
The radio apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the determination unit determines switching from a terminal mode to a base station mode when the generation of the signal is detected by the detection unit. Via the communication unit, further comprising a connection unit for executing processing for connection with another wireless device set to the base station mode,
The radio apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the determination unit determines switching from the terminal mode to the base station mode when processing for connection is performed in the connection unit. A detection unit for detecting connection to a wired network;
The radio apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the determination unit determines switching from the terminal mode to the base station mode when a connection is detected by the detection unit. A detection unit for detecting connection with an AC power source;
The radio apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the determination unit determines switching from the terminal mode to the base station mode when a connection is detected by the detection unit.

Images