JP2010103838A - Network device and connecting method thereof - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To facilitate setting for connection of a network system. <P>SOLUTION: A device has a first connecting unit 131 for connecting to a setting device 20a for setting data required for connection with the network system 1 to a network device 100, a second connecting unit 132 for connecting to the network system via a relay device 10, a support application storing unit 121a which stores a setting support application that functions by being read to the setting device when connected to the setting device via the first connecting unit, a setting data storing unit 126c for acquiring the setting data set by the setting device which has read the application through the first connecting unit and storing it, and a connection processing unit 110a for performing a process for connecting to the network system via the second connecting unit and the relay device using the setting data stored in the setting data storing unit. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2010,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a network device that facilitates connection setting with a network system, and a connection method thereof.

  Various network devices (hereinafter referred to as “devices” as appropriate) are connected to the network system. Typical examples of such devices include NAS (Network Attached Storage), scanners, and printers. The NAS is an auxiliary storage device that is used by connecting to a network system. The NAS includes a processing unit that executes various operations, a storage unit that stores various programs and data, and a communication interface unit that communicates with an external device.

  Each device needs to operate properly on the network system. Therefore, setting of the IP address and other setting data (that is, data required for connection with the network system) has to be performed by a person having knowledge of the network with reference to the instruction manual of the device. The setting data setting will be described below with reference to FIG. FIG. 9 is a connection configuration diagram of a conventional network device and a network system.

  As shown in FIG. 9, the network system 1 includes a relay device 10 and one or more terminal devices 20 (two in the example shown in FIG. 9) as connection means (for example, the LAN cable 30 shown in FIG. It is constructed by connecting with a wireless LAN device (not shown). The network system 1 may have a configuration in which the relay device 10 and a device (not shown) are connected via a communication network (not shown). The device 50 is connected to the relay device 10 of the network system 1.

  The device 50 includes a LAN port 52 for connecting to the relay device 10. In the LAN port 52, the jack on the other end side of the LAN cable 30 in which the jack on one end side is inserted into the LAN port 11 of the relay apparatus 10 is inserted. Here, the description will be made assuming that the device 50 is formed as the NAS described above. NAS supports various OSs such as “Windows (registered trademark)” and “UNIX (registered trademark)”, and can be easily connected to an existing network environment. NAS can share storage resources and improve the efficiency of centralized management and backup, can be connected to an existing LAN, is easy to install, and can share files among various servers / clients It has advantages such as a point and a point of supporting various OS environments.

Hereinafter, the configuration of the network system 1 will be described.
The relay device 10 is a device that relays data, such as a router or a hub.
The terminal device 20 is a device that executes various arithmetic processes such as a device management server, a DHCP server, a file server, and a user PC. The device management server is a server that manages devices connected to the network system 1. The DHCP server is a server in which several IP addresses are prepared (address pool) for a client (in this case, the device 50) in advance, and one address is allocated (leased) in response to a client request. is there. Note that DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) is a protocol that automatically assigns necessary data when a computer connects to a network (that is, connects to a network system). The DHCP server uses DHCP to simplify the allocation of the IP address to the device 50 and to prevent the IP address from being unnecessarily allocated to the device 50 that is not connected to the network. Are allocated to clients so that they do not overlap. A file server is a server installed to share files on a network such as a LAN or WAN. The NAS described above is a device that has a dedicated file server. The user PC is a terminal device used by the user of the device 50.

  Each terminal device 20 is configured as a computer including a processing unit that performs arithmetic processing and a storage unit that is used as means for storing data when performing arithmetic processing. The storage unit is configured by a RAM (Random Access Memory) or the like. The arithmetic processing function is realized by a processing unit configured by a CPU (Central Processing Unit) executing a program on the RAM.

  In the following description, among the terminal devices 20, a device provided with a function for setting setting data in the device 50 is referred to as a “setting device 20 a”. An apparatus used by the user of the device 50 is referred to as “user PC 20b”. Here, the user PC 20b is described as being a separate device from the setting device 20a. However, the user PC 20b may be integrated with the setting device 20a.

  Various application programs for setting setting data in the device 50 are installed in the terminal device 20 in advance via a recording medium such as a CD-ROM or a DVD. For example, the setting device 20a displays an application program for setting setting data in the device 50 (hereinafter referred to as “setting application”) or a setting screen on the display unit of the user PC 20b to display data to the user of the device 50. Application program (hereinafter referred to as “setting screen display application”) is installed. Here, data input by the user of the device 50 in accordance with the guidance of the setting screen display application is referred to as “unique data”. Specific data includes, for example, selection of “Windows (registered trademark) file sharing” (that is, selection of whether or not to use a function shared with a Windows (registered trademark) file) and selection of “DLNA media server function” ( That is, there is designated data for a service executed at the time of network connection (that is, relay connection via the relay device 10) such as selection of whether or not to have a function as a DLNA media server.

The setting device 20a communicates with the device 50 according to the setting application and sets setting data in the device 50. In setting the setting data, the setting device 20a displays a setting screen on the display unit of the user PC 20b in cooperation with the user PC 20b according to the setting screen display application (see FIG. 10). FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the setting screen. FIG. 10 shows an example in which “169.254.XX.XX, 00: A0: B0-XX XX XX, LANDISK-XXXX @...” Is input in the input column of “IP address, MAC address, device name”. ing. The user of the device 50 refers to the instruction manual of the device, and follows the setting screen to guide the unique data (eg, IP address, MAC address, device name, subnet mask, default gateway, presence / absence of firewall) Is input to the user PC 20b.
The unique data input by the user is transmitted from the user PC 20b to the setting device 20a, and further transmitted from the setting device 20a to the device 50.
In response to the setting data received from the setting device 20a, the device 50 stores the setting data in the storage unit. Thereby, setting of setting data to the device 50 is completed.

In recent years, a technique for automatically performing setting data setting has been disclosed (see Patent Document 1). Patent Document 1 discloses a technique for communicating with another device via a network and setting a control target device, a control range, a control procedure, and the like based on information held by the other device.
JP 2006-81062 A

  As described below, in the conventional network device, the case where the setting data cannot be properly set frequently occurs, so that a situation where the network system cannot be connected frequently occurs. ) The problem that it takes a lot of effort and time to support inquiries from users, (2) the problem that proper support may not be possible by telephone or e-mail, and (3) the user's device There was a problem of reducing the willingness to use and purchase.

That is, the network device needs to properly set setting data such as an IP address, a subnet mask, a default gateway, the presence / absence of a firewall, and a device name so that the network device can be properly connected.
In a network environment equipped with DHCP, an IP address is automatically assigned to a device simply by connecting the device to a network system. However, in a network environment that does not include DHCP, the user must operate and set the user PC. In this case, the user is required to have advanced knowledge about the network system for determining the IP address. However, many users do not have such knowledge. Therefore, there has been a case where the setting data cannot be set properly.
In addition, device instruction manuals created by device manufacturers are often difficult to understand, such as the presence or absence of DHCP (that is, with or without DHCP). Yes. For example, the setting data includes differences in network environments (for example, whether or not the network environment includes DHCP, and whether or not a firewall program installed in the setting device is valid (ie, operating). Depending on whether there is one device or multiple devices installed in the network system). However, although the instruction manual of the device describes examples of main setting procedures, the description may be insufficient depending on the network environment. For this reason, even if the user has sufficient knowledge of the network, there is a case where the setting data cannot be set properly because the certainty of the content is insufficient only from the description in the instruction manual.

As a result, devices frequently cannot connect to the network system.
For this reason, the user makes an inquiry to the device manufacturer about setting of the device setting data by telephone or e-mail. The device manufacturer provided support (in other words, answers by telephone or e-mail) in response to inquiries from this user. However, since the support requires a lot of time and effort, it is a heavy burden. It was.
In addition, in an environment in which the Windows (registered trademark) file sharing function can be used, the device data is a unique address determined by the Windows (registered trademark) file sharing function (for example, “http: // This can be confirmed by accessing the device using an address such as “/ landisk” or “¥¥ landisk”. However, when there are a plurality of devices installed in the network system, it is difficult to specify which device is which device even in a network environment equipped with DHCP. In such a case, the device manufacturer could not provide appropriate support by telephone or e-mail.
Furthermore, frequent occurrence of situations where the device cannot be connected to the network system places a psychological burden on the user (especially a novice user unfamiliar with the device), thereby reducing the user's willingness to use or purchase the device. There was a thing.

  In addition, the conventional network device may require advanced knowledge about the network system for the user, or may be set by repeating trial and error, and a storage medium such as a CD-ROM or DVD is used as a terminal device. Since it is necessary to set, there is a problem that a great burden is placed on the user.

  SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has as its main object to provide a network device that solves the above-described problems and facilitates connection setting with a network system.

In order to solve the above problems, the present invention is a network device connected to a network system via a relay device,
A first connection unit that connects to a setting device that sets setting data required for connection to the network system in the network device;
A second connection unit connected to the network system via the relay device;
A support application storage unit that stores an application for setting support that functions when read and functioned by the connected setting device when connected to the setting device via the first connection unit;
A setting data storage unit that acquires and stores the setting data set by the setting device that has read an application for setting support via the first connection unit via the first connection unit;
A connection processing unit that performs processing for connecting to the network system via the second connection unit and the relay device using the setting data stored in the setting data storage unit;
It is characterized by having.
Other means will be described later.

  According to the present invention, for the above-mentioned problem, that is, for the device manufacturer, (1) the problem that it takes a lot of time and effort to support the inquiry from the user, and (2) the telephone or e-mail is appropriate. The problem that there is a case where it is not possible to provide support, (3) the problem that the user's willingness to use or purchase is reduced, and the user needs advanced knowledge about the network system, In some cases, setting may be performed while repeating trial and error, and a storage medium such as a CD-ROM or DVD needs to be set in the terminal device. It is possible to provide a network device that facilitates connection setting.

  Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention (hereinafter referred to as “the present embodiment”) will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In addition, in each figure, about the same component or the same component, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected and those overlapping description is abbreviate | omitted.

<Configuration of network device>
The configuration of the network device according to the present embodiment (hereinafter referred to as “device” as appropriate) will be described below. First, the external configuration of the device of the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, and then the internal configuration of the device of the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 1 is a connection configuration diagram of the network device according to the present embodiment. FIG. 2 is a configuration diagram around the connection unit of the network device according to the present embodiment. FIG. 3 is an internal block diagram of the network device according to the present embodiment.
In addition, about the component similar to a prior art example (refer FIG. 9), the same code | symbol is attached | subjected and those description is abbreviate | omitted.

(External device configuration)
FIG. 1 shows the connection configuration of the device of this embodiment. Here, the setting device 20a will be described as being integrated with the above-described user PC.
As shown in FIG. 1, the device 100 of the present embodiment has a USB device port 131 in addition to the LAN port 132 as compared with the conventional device 50.
The USB device port 131 is a port into which a device-side jack of the USB cable 40 is inserted. In the device 100, the device-side jack of the USB cable 40 is inserted into the USB device port 131, and the host-side jack of the USB cable 40 is inserted into the USB host port 22 of the setting device 20a. Directly connected to 20a.
The USB device port 131 is a component corresponding to the “first connection unit” described in the means for solving the problem. The LAN port 132 connected to the relay device 10 such as a router or a hub is a component corresponding to the “second connection unit”.

FIG. 2 shows an example of the configuration around the connection portion of the device 100 of this embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 2, the device 100 includes, for example, a USB device port 131, a LAN port 132, a USB host port 133, a power cable 141, and a power switch 142 on the back of the apparatus.
The USB host port 133 is a port used when the device 100 is a host device and the device 100 is connected to a lower-level device (not shown). In the device 100, the host-side jack of the USB cable 40 is inserted into the USB host port 133, and the device-side jack of the USB cable 40 is inserted into a USB device port of a lower device (not shown). Directly connected to a lower level device not shown. Hereinafter, the USB host port 133 may be referred to as a “third connection unit”. The USB host port 133 is not always a necessary component and can be deleted.
1 and 2 show a configuration example in the case where the device 100 is formed as a NAS (Network Attached Storage) 100a. However, the device 100 is not limited to the NAS 100a as long as it can be connected to the network system 1, and may be formed as another type of device (for example, a device such as a scanner or a printer).

(Internal structure of the device)
FIG. 3 shows an example of an internal block of the device 100. FIG. 3 shows a configuration example when the device 100 is formed as the NAS 100a.
As illustrated in FIG. 3, the device 100 includes a processing unit 110 that executes various operations, a storage unit 120 that stores various programs and data, and a communication interface unit 130 that communicates by connecting to an external device. have.

  The processing unit 110 is configured by a CPU. The processing unit 110 includes functional units such as a connection processing unit 110a and a NAS processing unit 110b.

  The connection processing unit 110a is a functional unit that executes connection with an external device. When the device 100 and the setting device 20a are connected via the USB device port 131, the connection processing unit 110a acquires setting data from the setting device 20a and stores the setting data in a setting data storage unit 126c described later. In addition, when the device 100 and the relay apparatus 10 are connected via the LAN port 132, the connection processing unit 110a connects to the network system 1 using the setting data stored in the setting data storage unit 126c. . A series of operations of the connection processing unit 110a is defined by a support application described later.

  The NAS processing unit 110b is a functional unit that reads file data from the file data storage unit 121c, which will be described later, and writes file data to the file data storage unit 121c. The NAS processing unit 110b is a functional unit added for the device 100 to function as a NAS. The NAS processing unit 110b has a function of converting setting value data for a USB device into setting value data for NAS by referring to setting value conversion data stored in advance in a setting value conversion data storage unit 126d described later. Has been granted. This function is provided so that an external device can access the device 100 of this embodiment as if it were a USB device.

  Note that each functional unit of the processing unit 110 reads desired data from the storage unit 120 and performs processing with reference to the read data when performing arbitrary processing. In addition, when each function unit generates data, the function unit temporarily stores the generated data in the storage unit 120 so as to be read out. These series of operations are defined by a program (specifically, a support application described later) stored in the storage unit 120 so as to be readable. Hereinafter, detailed description of this point will be omitted.

The storage unit 120 includes an HDD and a RAM. Hereinafter, the storage unit configured by the HDD is referred to as “HDD storage unit 121”, and the storage unit configured by the RAM is referred to as “RAM storage unit 126”. The HDD storage unit 121 includes storage areas such as a support application storage unit 121a, a USB device data storage unit 121b, and a file data storage unit 121c. The RAM storage unit 126 includes storage areas such as a temporary support application storage unit 126a, a USB device data temporary storage unit 126b, a setting data storage unit 126c, and a setting value conversion data storage unit 126d.
For example, the storage unit 120 stores “autorun.inf” (that is, data specifying an application program to be automatically executed) in a storage area (not illustrated) of the HDD storage unit 121 in advance. When connected to the device 100 via the USB cable 40, the setting device 20a reads the application program specified in “autorun.inf” from the device 100 and automatically executes it. Hereinafter, the application program specified in “autorun.inf” is referred to as “auto-run application”. In the present embodiment, a setting application, a setting screen display application, and the like included in a support application described later are designated as an autorun application.

  The support application storage unit 121a is a storage area for storing in advance a setting support application program (hereinafter referred to as “support application”) that is read and functioning by the setting device 20a. This support application is a program that replaces a conventional application program installed in the terminal device 20 via a recording medium such as a CD-ROM or DVD. The support application includes a setting screen display application, a setting application for causing the setting device 20a connected via USB to automatically execute setting data for the device 100, and the device 100, and the setting device 20a to the device 100. A program for executing a function of storing the notified setting data in the setting data storage unit 126c, a function of performing a process of connecting to the network 1, a function of notifying a setting completion signal or a connection confirmation signal to the setting device 20a, which will be described later, and the like. It is out. The conventional setting application is affected by the network environment because the connection setting is performed via the LAN cable 30. However, since the setting application used in the present invention performs connection setting via the reliable USB cable 40, it is possible to eliminate the influence from the network environment such as the presence or absence of DHCP and the number of NAS.

  The USB device data storage unit 121b is a storage area that stores in advance data as a USB device associated with the device 100 (hereinafter referred to as “USB device data”). Examples of the USB device data include data representing the attributes of the device 100 (for example, data “landisco” when the device 100 represents a device that stores file data). The same applies to the case of functioning as a DAS described later.

  The file data storage unit 121c is a storage area for storing various file data used when the device 100 functions as a NAS.

  The support application temporary storage unit 126a is a storage area for temporarily storing the support application stored in the support application storage unit 121a in a readable manner. The support application temporary storage unit 126a is provided for the connection processing unit 110a to read a support application (particularly, a setting application or a setting screen display application therein) in a short time.

  The USB device data temporary storage unit 126b is a storage area in which USB device data stored in advance in the USB device data storage unit 121b is temporarily stored in a freely readable manner. The USB device data temporary storage unit 126b is provided for the connection processing unit 110a to read the USB device data in a short time.

The setting data storage unit 126c is a storage area for storing setting data of the device 100 acquired from the setting device 20a. In the present embodiment, the setting data is generated by the setting device 20a reading the setting application and the setting screen display application included in the support application from the device 100 and operating according to these applications.
The set value conversion data storage unit 126d is a storage area that stores in advance conversion table data for converting set value data for USB devices into set value data for NAS.

  The communication interface unit 130 includes the USB device port 131 as the first connection unit, the LAN port 132 as the second connection unit, and the USB host port 133 as the third connection unit.

  The device 100 shown in FIG. 3 can be said to be an apparatus in which a NAS and a USB device are integrally formed. Therefore, each component of the device 100 shown in FIG. 3 is classified into a component that realizes the function as the NAS, a component that realizes the function as the USB device, and a component shared by the NAS and the USB device. it can. The components that realize the NAS function correspond to the NAS processing unit 110b, the file data storage unit 121c, and the set value conversion data storage unit 126d. Also, the USB device data storage unit 121b and the USB device data temporary storage unit 126b correspond to the components that realize the function as the USB device. Further, the components shared by the NAS and the USB device correspond to the connection processing unit 110a, the support application storage unit 121a, the setting data storage unit 126c, and the communication interface unit 130.

<Operation of network device and network system>
Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 4 (A) to FIG. 4 (D), an outline of the operation of the device of this embodiment and the network system will be described, and then FIG. 5, FIG. 6-1, FIG. Referring to FIG. 7 and FIG. 7, the setting data setting operation (that is, the operation of the device 100 and the network system 1 of this embodiment performed between the procedures shown in FIGS. 4A to 4B). The details will be described. 4A to 4D are explanatory diagrams of a connection procedure between the network device and the network system according to the present embodiment, respectively. FIG. 5 is a transition diagram illustrating the overall operation of the network device and the setting apparatus according to the present embodiment. FIGS. 6A and 6B are flowcharts illustrating the individual operations of the network device and the setting device according to the present embodiment, respectively. FIG. 6A illustrates the operation of the network device according to the present embodiment, and FIG. 6B illustrates the operation of the setting device. FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a setting screen.

(Overview of connection operation)
4A to 4D show a connection procedure between the device 100 of this embodiment and the network system 1. FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 4A, the setting device 20a is connected to the relay device 10 via the LAN cable 30. For the setting device 20a, the host-side jack of the USB cable 40 is connected to the USB host port 22 of the setting device 20a. Further, the device-side jack of the USB cable 40 is connected to the USB device port 131 of the device 100. Accordingly, the setting device 20a and the device 100 are connected via the USB cable 40.

  When connected to the setting device 20a, the device 100 notifies (transmits) USB device data to the setting device 20a.

  On the other hand, the setting apparatus 20a recognizes the device 100 as a USB storage device, and reads “autorun.inf” stored in a storage area (not shown) of the HDD storage unit 121 of the device 100. As a result, the setting device 20a reads the setting application specified in “autorun.inf” included in the support application from the device 100 as an autorun application and starts it.

When the setting application is activated, in response to this, the setting device 20a generates setting data to be given to the device 100 and notifies the device 100 as shown in FIG.
When the device 100 acquires (receives) the setting data from the setting device 20a, in response thereto, the device 100 stores the acquired setting data in the setting data storage unit 126c.

  Thereafter, as shown in FIG. 4C, the jack on one end side of the LAN cable 30 is connected to the LAN port 11 (see FIG. 1) of the relay device 10, and the jack on the other end side of the LAN cable 30 is further connected. Connected to the LAN port 132 of the device 100. Thereby, the relay apparatus 10 and the device 100 are connected via the LAN cable 30.

  Thereafter, as shown in FIG. 4D, the USB cable 40 is detached from the setting device 20a and the device 100. As a result, the device 100 is connected to only the relay device 10.

(Details of setting data setting operation)
Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 5, 6-1, and 6-2, the setting data setting operation of the device 100 and the network system 1 according to the present embodiment (that is, FIGS. 4A to 4B). The details of the operation performed during the procedure shown in FIG. Here, the setting device 20a will be described assuming that functional means such as a setting processing unit and a data collection unit are built in the CPU by the setting application acquired from the device 100. The setting processing unit generates installation data to be set in the device 100. The data collection unit collects data serving as a basis for generating setting data (hereinafter referred to as “setting basic data”). The data collection unit represents, as setting basic data, for example, data used when the setting device 20a is connected to the network system 1 (hereinafter referred to as “network environment data”) or a set of unused IP addresses. Data (hereinafter referred to as “unused IP address group data”), the above-described unique data that the user of the device 100 inputs according to the guidance of the setting screen display application, and the like are collected.

  First, the setting device 20a and the device 100 are connected via the USB cable 30 as shown in FIG. At this time, the device 100 performs USB connection processing (that is, direct connection processing using the USB cable 40) as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6-1 (S101). At this time, the connection processing unit 110a of the device 100 illustrated in FIG. 3 reads out the USB device data (for example, attribute data of the device 100 such as “landisco”) from the USB device data temporary storage unit 126b and notifies the setting device 20a of the USB device data. (Send.

  As illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 6-2, the setting device 20a acquires (receives) USB device data from the device 100 (S21). In response, the setting device 20a stores the USB device data in the storage unit 120 of the device 100. “Autorun.inf” is read, and the setting application included in the support application is read from the device 100 as the autorun application specified in “autorun.inf” and activated (S22). When the setting application is activated, the setting device 20a is configured with a setting processing unit and a data collecting unit in the CPU, and thereafter operates according to the setting application. Hereinafter, detailed description of this point will be omitted.

  When the setting application is activated, the setting device 20a first collects setting basic data (S23). The setting basic data is collected when the setting processing unit instructs the data collecting unit to collect the setting basic data, and the data collecting unit operates in response thereto.

At this time, first, the data collection unit collects network environment data as setting basic data (S23a). The network environment data is stored in advance in a storage unit (not shown) of the setting device 20a. The collection of network environment data is performed by the data collection unit reading out the network environment data from the storage unit.
Subsequently, the data collection unit collects unused IP address group data as setting basic data (S23b). Note that unused IP address group data is collected using, for example, the “ARP” protocol. That is, this collection is performed by all the addresses leased (prepared) as IP addresses by the data collection unit of the setting device 20a (for example, “192.168.0.0” to “192.168.8.0. "255" is leased, all three addresses) are entered in the "ARP inquiry" packet with their own Ethernet (registered trademark) address, their own IP address, and the IP address of the communication partner. The address is broadcasted on the network, and an address for which there is no response to the “ARP inquiry” packet (“ARP response” packet) from the communication partner is regarded as an unused IP address.
When the data collection unit collects the network environment data and the unused IP address group data, the data collection unit notifies the setting processing unit in response thereto.

When the setting processing unit collects the network environment data and the unused IP address group data from the data collecting unit, in response to this, the setting processing unit reads the setting screen display application included in the support application as an autorun application from the device 100. Start up (S23c).
When the setting processing unit of the setting device 20a starts the setting screen display application, the setting display screen is displayed on the display unit of the setting device 20a. The user of the device 100 inputs unique data to the setting device 20a according to the guidance on the setting screen.
FIG. 7A to FIG. 7C show an example of the setting screen. FIG. 7A illustrates an example in which the name “LANDISK-FFFFFF” of the device 100 is input in the “LANDISK name” input field. FIG. 7B shows “Enable, automatic setting, automatic setting, automatic setting, automatic setting, automatic setting” in the input field of “DHCP function, IP address, subnet mask, default gateway, DNS server 1, DNS server 2”. An example in which is input. The setting can be changed by pressing a “detailed setting” key on the setting screen to display a setting screen for performing detailed setting on the display unit of the setting device 20a. FIG. 7C shows an example in which a check is input in the input fields of “Windows (registered trademark) file sharing” and “DLNA media server function” as the functions to be used.

  When the user of the device 100 inputs unique data to the setting device 20a, the setting device 20a acquires the unique data (S23d). Thereby, collection of setting basic data is completed. Note that the operations of S23c to S23d are not necessarily required operations, and can be deleted.

  When the collection of the basic setting data is completed, the setting processing unit determines an IP address (hereinafter referred to as “assigned IP address”) to be allocated to the device 100 in response to this (S24). The assigned IP address is determined by selecting an arbitrary one (for example, the top IP address) from the unused IP address group data collected in S23b.

  When the setting processing unit determines the assigned IP address, in response to this, the setting processing unit generates setting data to be set in the device 100 by combining the assigned IP address and the connection environment data, and notifies the device 100 (S25). . At this time, the setting processing unit stores the generated setting data in a storage unit (not shown) of the setting device 20a.

As illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 6-1, when the device 100 acquires the setting data from the setting device 20a, the device 100 stores the setting data acquired by the connection processing unit 110a in the setting data storage unit 126c in response thereto. (S102).
When the connection processing unit 110a stores the setting data in the setting data storage unit 126c, in response to this, the connection processing unit 110a generates a signal (hereinafter referred to as “setting completion signal”) indicating that setting of the setting data is completed. (S103).

  As illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 6-2, when the setting device 20a acquires the setting completion signal from the device 100, the setting device 20a responds to the network connection processing (that is, relay connection processing via the relay device 10). (S26, S27). At this time, the setting processing unit of the setting device 20a reads the setting data set in the device 100 from a storage unit (not shown) of the setting device 20a, and accesses the device 100 via the relay device 10 based on the setting data. To do.

  As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6-1, when a network connection is made with the setting device 20a, the device 100 responds to this by indicating that a signal indicating that a network connection process has been performed (hereinafter, referred to as “device connection process”). (Referred to as “connection confirmation signal”) is sent to the setting device 20a (S104, S105).

  As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6-2, when the setting device 20a acquires a connection confirmation signal from the device 100, in response to this, a setting completion process (for example, a shortcut (specifically, a display unit of the setting device 20a) is displayed. (A process for generating a LANDISK network drive (L :)) and a process for determining the setting data of the device 100 stored in the storage unit of the setting device 20a (not shown) (S28). , S29). Thereby, the setting of setting data to the device 100 is completed.

  The external device accesses the device 100 by regarding the device 100 as a USB device. Then, the device 100 converts the data for the USB device into NAS data (or data for a device that executes a specific function (for example, data for a scanner, data for a printer, etc.)).

According to the device 100, the first connection unit 131 directly connected to the setting device 20 a is provided separately from the second connection unit 132 connected to the network system 1, and setting is performed via the first connection unit 131. The setting data is set while being connected to the apparatus 20a. At this time, since the device 100 is directly connected to the setting device 20a, the influence from the network environment can be eliminated. Therefore, the device 100 can always set the setting data easily and appropriately by a single setting procedure even when the network environment is different.
For this reason, the device manufacturer can reduce the effort and time required for support for setting the setting data. In addition, it is possible to avoid a situation in which appropriate support cannot be performed. Furthermore, it is possible to prevent the user's willingness to use or purchase the device from decreasing.
On the other hand, the user does not have to wait for advanced knowledge about the network system. In addition, the setting is not repeated while repeating trial and error. Furthermore, since the support application is stored in the device 100 in advance, it is not necessary to set a storage medium such as a CD-ROM or DVD in the user PC.

In the present embodiment, the NAS device 100 is provided with a USB device port 131 and is simulated as a virtual USB storage device. Further, the device 100 stores a setting support application (that is, a support application) that is read out and functions by the setting device 20a. Therefore, this device 100 is a NAS connected to the setting device 20a in a one-to-n manner, but similarly to a DAS (Direct Attached Storage) connected to the setting device 20a in a one-to-one relationship, The connection is connected to the setting device 20a in a one-to-one relationship, and the support application stored in the device 100 is read and executed by the setting device 20a. Yes.
Therefore, according to this device 100, the user can introduce the device 100, which is a NAS, into the network system 1 by the same installation procedure as that of a general USB hard disk.
In addition, the device 100 acquires setting data from the setting device 20a via the USB device port 131 instead of via the LAN port 132. Therefore, according to the device 100, the setting data can be acquired with a highly reliable interface without using an interface that may not operate properly unless the setting data is set correctly.

  In the device 100, the first connection part 131 is preferably formed as a USB device port. Thereby, the device 100 can be easily connected to the setting device 20a by the USB cable 40 that is widely spread.

  The device 100 is preferably configured so that the connection processing unit 112 sends the basic setting data to the setting processing unit of the setting device 20a when the device 100 and the setting device 20a are connected via the first connection unit 131. It is preferable to collect basic setting data that is data to be generated, generate setting data based on the basic setting data, and then transmit the setting data to the device 100.

  In this device 100, preferably, the connection processing unit 112 sends, to the setting processing unit of the setting device 20a, connection environment data representing the connection environment of the network system 1 and unused IP address groups of the network system 1 as setting basic data. The unused IP address group data representing the IP address is collected, the assigned IP address assigned to the device 100 is determined based on the unused IP address group data, and the setting IP is generated by combining the assigned IP address and the connection environment data. It is good to let them.

The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various changes and modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the invention.
For example, the present invention can be applied to network drive allocation.
For example, in the example illustrated in FIG. 3, the device 100 is described as being formed as the NAS 100a. However, the device 100 may be formed as a device other than NAS (for example, a device such as a scanner or a printer). When the device 100 is formed as a device other than NAS, the configuration thereof is changed as appropriate. FIG. 8 shows an example of the configuration. FIG. 8 is an internal block diagram of a network device according to a modification. As illustrated in FIG. 8, the device 100 includes a unit (hereinafter, referred to as “unique function execution unit 140”) that executes a function unique to the device, such as an optical reading mechanism in a scanner or a printing mechanism in a printer. It has a configuration. Furthermore, the device 100 is configured to include a processing unit (hereinafter, referred to as “specific function processing unit 110c”) for controlling the specific function execution unit 140 instead of the NAS processing unit 110b. The unique function processing unit 110c refers to the set value conversion data stored in advance in the set value conversion data storage unit 126d, thereby using the set value data for the USB device to operate the unique function executing unit 140. Convert to setting value data. As a result, an external device can access the device 100 as if it were a USB device and operate the unique function execution unit 140 of the device 100.
Also, for example, programs such as a setting screen display application and a setting application can be excluded from the support application and placed on an arbitrary website. In this case, the support application of the device 100 is configured to function so that the setting device 20a accesses the website, downloads these programs, and automatically executes the programs. Thereby, the structure of a support application can be simplified.

It is a connection block diagram of the network device and network system which concern on this embodiment. It is a block diagram around the connection part of the network device concerning this embodiment. It is an internal block diagram of the network device which concerns on this embodiment. 4A to 4D are explanatory diagrams of a connection procedure between the network device and the network system according to the present embodiment, respectively. It is a transition diagram which shows the operation | movement of the whole network device and setting apparatus concerning this embodiment. It is a flowchart figure (1) which shows each operation | movement of the network device and setting apparatus which concern on this embodiment. It is a flowchart figure (2) which shows each operation | movement of the network device and setting apparatus which concern on this embodiment. FIGS. 7A to 7C are explanatory diagrams illustrating examples of setting screens. It is an internal block diagram of the network device which concerns on a modification. It is a connection block diagram of the conventional network device and a network system. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of a setting screen.

Explanation of symbols

1 Network system 10 Relay device (router, hub)
11 LAN port 20 Terminal device 20a Setting device 22 USB host port 30 LAN cable 40 USB cable 100 Network device (NAS, scanner, printer, etc.)
100a NAS
112 Connection processing unit 126c Setting data storage unit 131 USB device port (first connection unit)
132 LAN port (second connection part)

Claims (8)

In a network device connected to a network system via a relay device,
A first connection unit that connects to a setting device that sets setting data required for connection to the network system in the network device;
A second connection unit connected to the network system via the relay device;
A support application storage unit that stores an application for setting support that functions when read and functioned by the connected setting device when connected to the setting device via the first connection unit;
A setting data storage unit that acquires and stores the setting data set by the setting device that has read an application for setting support via the first connection unit via the first connection unit;
A connection processing unit that performs processing for connecting to the network system via the second connection unit and the relay device using the setting data stored in the setting data storage unit;
A network device characterized by comprising: The network device according to claim 1, wherein
The first connection unit is formed as a USB device port connected to a USB device,
The network device, wherein the second connection unit is formed as a LAN port connected to a LAN. The network device according to claim 1, wherein
Furthermore, a file data storage unit for storing various file data,
A network device comprising: a NAS processing unit that writes arbitrary file data to the file data storage unit or reads arbitrary file data from the file data storage unit. In a connection method of a network device connected to a network system via a relay device,
A first connection unit that connects to the network device setting data required for connection to the network system to a setting device that sets the network device; a second connection unit that connects to the network system via the relay device; A setting data storage unit for storing the setting data, and a connection for performing processing for connecting to the network system via the second connection unit and the relay device using the setting data stored in the setting data storage unit A processing unit is provided in advance,
The connection processing unit
The setting data set by the setting device is acquired via the first connection unit and stored in the setting data storage unit,
Furthermore, using the setting data stored in the setting data storage unit, processing for connecting to the network system via the second connection unit and the relay device is performed. Connection method. In the connection method with the network system of the network device of Claim 4,
In the network device,
A support application storage unit that stores a support application that functions by being read by the setting device and generates the setting data;
When the setting device is connected via the first connection unit, a file for automatic activation is stored that instructs the support application to be read and operated by the setting device via the first connection unit. And a file storage unit for automatic startup
The connection processing unit
When connected to the setting device via the first connection unit,
While allowing the setting device to read the automatic startup file via the first connection unit,
Further, the setting device according to the read file for automatic startup is caused to automatically execute by reading the support application via the first connection unit,
A method for connecting a network device to a network system, wherein the support application executed in the setting device generates setting data stored in the setting data storage unit. In the connection method with the network system of the network device of Claim 5,
The connection processing unit
By causing the setting device to read the support application stored in the support application storage unit, the setting device collects setting basic data that is a basis for generating the setting data, and the setting is performed. A method for connecting a network device to a network system, comprising: generating the setting data based on basic data; and transmitting the setting data to the network device. In the connection method with the network system of the network device of Claim 6,
The connection processing unit
The setting device collects connection environment data representing the connection environment of the network system and unused IP address group data representing an unused IP address group of the network system as the setting basic data, and the unused IP address group data. A method for connecting a network device to a network system, comprising: determining an assigned IP address to be allocated to the network device based on the information, and generating the setting data by combining the assigned IP address and connection environment data. In a connection method of a network device connected to a network system via a relay device,
A first connection unit that connects to the network device setting data required for connection to the network system to a setting device that sets the network device; a second connection unit that connects to the network system via the relay device; A support application storage unit that stores an application for setting support that is read and function by the connected setting device when connected to the setting device via the first connection unit; and the setting data A setting data storage unit to be stored; and a connection processing unit that performs processing for connecting to the network system via the second connection unit and the relay device using the setting data stored in the setting data storage unit in advance. Set up
The connection processing unit acquires the setting data from the setting device and stores the setting data in the setting data storage unit while being connected to the setting device via the first connection unit;
The connection processing unit is connected to the setting device via the first connection unit, and further connected to the network system via the second connection unit and the relay device. A step of transmitting a connection confirmation signal to the setting device via the relay device when receiving an access from the setting device;
In the state where the connection with the setting device via the first connection unit is disconnected and the network system is connected via the second connection unit and the relay device, the connection processing unit Performing a process of connecting to the network system via the second connection unit and the relay device using the setting data stored in a setting data storage unit;
A method of connecting a network device to a network system, comprising:

Images