JP2011041132A - Information processing apparatus and method of controlling the same, image forming apparatus, information processing system, program and recording medium - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To enhance user's convenience or security and reduce power consumption under the environment, wherein a plurality of identification information transmitting devices are present, by enabling an information processing apparatus communicable with an external device to calculate a relative distance with an identification information transmitting device, which wirelessly transmits identification information of a user or the like of the external device, and a temporal variation of the relative distance, and controlling operation of the information processing apparatus based on results of the calculation. <P>SOLUTION: A multi function peripheral (MFP) 2 stores a field strength of a transmission radio wave. When the user comes near the MFP 2, identification information transmitting devices 4-1, 4-2, that the user carries with them, receives a radio wave from the MFP 2, measures a field strength of the radio wave and transmits measured data to the MFP 2 together with identification information of the user. The MFP 2 calculates a relative distance between the MFP 2 and the identification information transmitting device 4 based on the stored transmission field strength, the received measured data and correlation data created/stored beforehand, further calculates a temporal variation thereof and controls operation based on calculation results. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2011,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an information processing apparatus that communicates with an external apparatus such as an information processing terminal connected via a network, a control method thereof, an image forming apparatus and an information processing system including the information processing apparatus, a program, and a recording medium.

  In an image forming apparatus provided with an information processing apparatus, for example, a printer connected to an information processing terminal such as a personal computer (hereinafter referred to as a PC) via a network, generally, a user operates the information processing terminal to output data and a print instruction. When the transmission is completed, the printing process is started upon completion of the reception, and the printed sheet is discharged to a discharge tray. Specifically, taking a printer shared in the office as an example, when a user prints on a specific printer, the user transfers data by specifying a print data file and an output destination printer using his / her PC or the like. To do. Upon receiving this print data, the printer internally executes print processing including image data generation, forms an image after image data generation is completed, and performs printing, paper discharge, and the like.

  Here, in such a printer, printing is not performed at a timing intended by the user and the printed material is not discharged, so that the printed material after the user moves to the printer can be seen by others or stolen. There is a danger of being struck. Therefore, conventionally, from the viewpoint of preventing theft of printed matter and improving security, data is received at any time, but the received data is not held and printing / discharge processing is not started until the user performs a predetermined authentication operation in front of the printer. A printer having a function of performing printing and paper discharge processing based on received data after authentication is used. Also, from the same point of view, a mechanism that discharges printed matter to the internal tray of the printer and prevents it from being taken out until user authentication is installed, and after user authentication, the printed matter is discharged to the external tray or the internal tray. There is also known a printer provided with a key mechanism that permits removal from the printer.

  However, in this user authentication, the user inputs identification (authentication) information such as an ID and a password by operating the operation screen of the printer, or an IC card held by the user is inserted in an IC card reader connected to the printer. In general, it is carried out by making it come into contact with reading. That is, in the conventional printer, the printing process is not started until the user moves to the printer and is authenticated by a predetermined operation or the like. Therefore, when frequently performing the printing process, the movement or the same operation is repeated each time printing or printing is performed. There is a problem that it is necessary to discharge the sheet, which is complicated and difficult to use, and that the waiting time for printing becomes long. In particular, in a thermal fixing type printer, the warm-up time until the start of printing is relatively long, and there is a tendency that the user is restrained in front of the printer for a long time until printing and paper discharge. In addition, the printer that discharges printed matter to the internal tray requires various dedicated mechanisms, and it is also necessary for each user to discharge and manage a separate tray. There is also a problem that the entire apparatus becomes large and the installation location is restricted.

  On the other hand, conventionally, when identification information is received by wireless communication from an IC card carried by the user, the user is identified from the identification information, a login name is automatically set, displayed on the operation panel, and a password is accepted. Thus, an image forming apparatus is known in which the user does not need to input a login name and the operation is simplified (see Patent Document 1).

  However, in this conventional image forming apparatus, since each operation such as printing is started after user authentication by inputting a user password, the time for the user to wait for printing / discharge in front of the image forming apparatus and the restraint time are almost shortened. And convenience cannot be improved sufficiently. Further, in this image forming apparatus, the contact / separation of the IC card is recognized from the change in electric field intensity (radio wave intensity) when the radio wave transmitted from the IC card side is received by the image forming apparatus side. When the strength is increased, the mutual distance is shortened, and when the strength is decreased, the relative distance is increased, and the approach and separation of the IC card are discriminated and recognized. However, the correlation between the electric field strength of the radio wave from the IC card and the relative distance between the radio wave transmitters and receivers is not constant due to factors such as fluctuations in the equipment on the IC card side, which is assumed to be portable. If a method of determining the contact / separation of an IC card by determining the relative distance based on a certain thing, it is difficult to obtain sufficient accuracy of the relative distance and accuracy of determination of contact / separation.

  In addition, in this conventional image forming apparatus, when there is no wireless communication response from the IC card for a certain period of time or when it can be determined that the IC card has left the vicinity of the image forming apparatus, the login screen displayed on the operation panel is turned off. Security is improved. However, in order to erase the login screen when the IC cards can be communicated with each other and the IC card is separated, a means for accurately detecting the distance to the IC card is required. It is difficult to accurately perform the security function of the device without having a proper detection means. In addition, the image forming apparatus simply performs control related to the display of the operation screen by wireless communication, and automatically shifts to or returns to the power saving mode for the purpose of reducing power based on the result of wireless communication or the data to be printed. With the detection of the approach of a user who does not have access rights to the user, there is no function to stop the printing operation or warn with a sound or a screen, and it is necessary to make further improvements from the viewpoint of energy saving and security.

  Therefore, for the purpose of correcting the change in electric field strength due to the fluctuation factor on the IC card side, the image forming apparatus and the IC card are arranged at a certain distance, and the measured value of the electric field strength on the image forming apparatus side at that time is used. It was considered to correct the correlation data between the electric field strength value and the relative distance (Japanese Patent Application No. 2008-125396: filed on May 13, 2008). However, since an operation for obtaining the electric field strength value is periodically generated in a state where the IC card is arranged at a certain distance from the image forming apparatus, it is not always easy for the user to use.

  Therefore, the image forming apparatus stores the field strength data of the transmission radio wave to the IC card, and the IC card adds the reception field strength data of the transmission radio wave when transmitting the response radio wave to the transmission radio wave from the image forming apparatus. In the invention of Japanese Patent Application No. 2008-125396, the image forming apparatus calculates an accurate relative distance from the electric field intensity data added to the response radio wave from the IC card and the electric field intensity data of the transmission radio wave. It has been considered that there is no need for correction processing of correlation data at a certain distance (Japanese Patent Application No. 2009-7527: filed on January 16, 2009).

  However, when there are a plurality of IC cards, it is not possible to determine which IC card holder is the operator of the image forming apparatus by only the relative distance, and only a person who is not intended to operate is near the image forming apparatus. Because there are problems such as being recognized, improvement is required.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above-described conventional problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide an identification information transmission device that wirelessly transmits identification information of a user of an external device by an information processing device that can communicate with the external device. The relative distance between them and the time variation of the relative distance can be calculated, and the operation of the information processing apparatus is controlled based on the calculation result. Or to reduce power consumption.

The present invention transmits / receives radio waves to / from an identification information transmitting apparatus for wirelessly transmitting means for communicating with an external device, identification information of the user of the external device or identification information of the external device, and field strength information of a received radio wave. Correlation data between the relative distance between the means and the identification information transmission device, the transmission electric field strength of the transmission radio wave to the identification information transmission device, and the reception electric field strength of the transmission radio wave at the identification information transmission device. Correlation data storage means for storing, transmission electric field intensity of the radio wave transmitted to the identification information transmitting device, received electric field strength information of the radio wave transmitted from the identification information transmitting device that received the radio wave, and the correlation data Based on correlation data stored in the storage means, distance calculation means for calculating the relative distance, and relative distance fluctuation based on time fluctuation data of the calculated relative distance. An information processing apparatus comprising: a relative distance fluctuation calculating unit that outputs; and an operation control unit that controls the operation of the information processing apparatus based on the calculation result of the relative distance and the calculation result of the relative distance fluctuation. It is.
According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image forming apparatus provided with the information processing apparatus, and the image forming apparatus and the image forming apparatus. And an identification information transmitting device that wirelessly transmits received field strength information of radio waves transmitted from the image forming apparatus using radio waves.
Furthermore, the present invention provides a means for communicating with an external device, and transmitting radio waves to an identification information transmitting device that wirelessly transmits user identification information of the external device or identification information of the external device and field strength information of received radio waves. A method for controlling the information processing apparatus, comprising: a step of measuring a transmission electric field strength of a transmission radio wave from the information processing apparatus; and a transmission method transmitted from the identification information transmission apparatus that has received the transmission radio wave. In addition, the step of receiving the reception field strength information of the transmission radio wave, the measured transmission field strength, the received reception field strength information, correlation data acquired in advance, and between the identification information transmission device Based on the relative distance, the transmission electric field strength of the transmission radio wave to the identification information transmitting device, and the correlation data of the transmission electric field strength of the transmission radio wave at the identification information transmitting device. Calculating the relative distance variation based on the calculated relative distance time variation data, and the operation of the information processing apparatus based on the relative distance calculation result and the relative distance variation calculation result. And an operation control step for controlling the information processing apparatus.
The present invention is a program for causing a computer to execute the steps of the control method of the information processing apparatus, and a computer-readable recording medium on which the program is recorded.

  According to the present invention, the relative distance between an information processing apparatus that can communicate with an external apparatus and an identification information transmitting apparatus that transmits identification information of a user of the external apparatus by radio wave, a measured value of received radio wave intensity, Calculated based on the correlation data between the acquired relative distance and the received radio wave intensity, and calculated relative distance fluctuation between the information processing apparatus and the identification information transmitting apparatus based on the time fluctuation data of the calculation result. By controlling the operation of the information processing device based on the calculation result and the calculation result of the relative distance fluctuation, the convenience and security of the user are improved or the power consumption is reduced in an environment where a plurality of identification information transmission devices exist Can be made.

It is a mimetic diagram showing a schematic structure of an information processing system of a 1st embodiment of the present invention. It is a block diagram which shows schematic structure of the information processing system of the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing of the table which shows the correlation with a transmission radio wave intensity | strength and reception radio wave intensity | strength, and relative distance. It is a figure which shows the time fluctuation data of a relative distance. It is a flowchart which shows the printing procedure by the information processing system of the 1st Embodiment of this invention.

  DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, an embodiment for carrying out the present invention will be described in detail with an information processing system as an example with reference to the drawings. The information processing system includes an image forming apparatus including an information processing apparatus that communicates with an external apparatus such as an external information processing terminal or a network apparatus used by the user, and the user of the external apparatus, and identifies the user or the like And an identification information transmitting apparatus that wirelessly transmits identification information for transmission to the image forming apparatus using radio waves.

  However, in each of the following embodiments, as an image forming apparatus, a digital multifunction machine called a multi function peripheral (MFP) having a plurality of functions such as a copy, a printer, a facsimile, and a scanner is taken as an example, and image formation is performed. Each process of the information processing apparatus will be described. An example in which a PC connected to a digital multifunction peripheral via a network such as a LAN (Local Area Network) is used as an external device, and printing or copy processing (operation) is executed by the digital multifunction peripheral by a user operation. Will be explained.

[First Embodiment]
FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of an information processing system according to the present embodiment.
As shown in the figure, this information processing system 1 is possessed by a digital multifunction device 2, at least one PC 3 (only one is shown here) connected to the digital multifunction device 2, and a user Y 1 of the PC 3. And an identification information transmission device 4-1 that can be carried and a identification information transmission device 4-2 that is carried by the user Y2 and can be carried around. Although two users are illustrated here for convenience, it goes without saying that there may be three or more users.

  The digital multi-function peripheral 2 has communication means (not shown) for communicating with the PC 3 and transmits / receives various data such as print data and control signals via the network cable N. In addition, the digital multi-function device 2 also has a built-in or externally connected wireless communication module 29 for wirelessly communicating with the identification information transmitting devices 4-1 and 4-2, and also functions as a wireless master device that transmits and receives predetermined data. As a result, the digital multi-function peripheral 2 wirelessly transmits its own identification information such as a preset device ID to the outside periodically by radio waves, and the radio waves wirelessly transmitted from the external identification information transmitting device 4 or the like. Receive.

  The identification information transmitting devices 4-1 and 4-2 are not passive type wireless communication means such as RFID (Radio Frequency Identification), but are active external wireless communication devices that are driven by a built-in power source such as a battery to transmit and receive radio waves. (Wireless slave unit), which transmits identification information used for identification of the user Y1, Y2, such as the ID of the own device or the user Y1, Y2. Here, the identification information transmission devices 4-1 and 4-2, for example, have a low power wireless data communication such as a specific low power wireless that consumes less power than the interface of the communication means via the network of the digital multifunction device 2. Means and can communicate with each other wirelessly even in a relatively remote state from the wireless communication module 29 of the digital multi-function peripheral 2. Further, the identification information transmission devices 4-1 and 4-2 are possessed for each of a plurality of users Y 1 and Y 2 using each PC 3, and regularly or in response to receiving identification information from the digital multi-function peripheral 2. Each identification information is transmitted, and predetermined wireless communication is performed when the users Y and Y2 approach a distance that allows wireless communication with the wireless communication module 29 of the digital multifunction device 2.

  The PC 3 is connected to the digital multi-function peripheral 2 via a network cable N constituting a LAN or the like, and receives the operations of the users Y1 and Y2 possessing the identification information transmitting apparatuses 4-1 and 4-2, and receives the operations of the digital multi-function peripheral 2 outputs image data, a print instruction, and the like.

  In the information processing system 1 configured as described above, each of the users Y1 and Y2 is associated with each of the users Y1 and Y2, and the identification information transmitting apparatuses 4-1 and 4-2 in which different identification information is set. Each of them is operated while the PC 3 is operated, or is held after the operation and moved toward the digital multifunction device 2 to cause the digital multifunction device 2 to execute a printing process or the like. As described above, the identification information transmitting apparatuses 4-1 and 4-2 here share the location with each of the users Y 1 and Y 2 at least when approaching the digital multifunction peripheral 2 (including a state in a nearby position). In response to the reception of the identification information, the digital multi-function peripheral 2 executes a predetermined operation to be described later according to a preset condition or the like. At this time, in the information processing system 1, the digital multi-function peripheral 2 calculates a relative distance between each of the identification information transmitting apparatuses 4-1 and 4-2 in a moving state or a separated state, and based on the calculation result. To control the operation. Hereinafter, each configuration of the information processing system 1 will be described in more detail.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the information processing system 1, and schematically shows functions and the like for each part of the system connected to each other.

  As shown in the figure, the PC 3 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 30 that performs various data processing and operations, and controls the entire PC 3, and a RAM (temporarily storing data necessary for the operation and processing of the CPU 30). Random Access Memory) 31 and a display unit 32 made up of a liquid crystal display or the like, which are connected to each other via a chipset N33. Further, the PC 3 includes a chip set S34 connected to the chip set N33, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 35 that stores a program to be executed by the CPU 30 in the chip set S34, and a keyboard and a mouse that receive input from the users Y1 and Y2. Are connected to a network I / F (interface) 37 and an HDD (hard disk drive) 38, which are communication means for communicating by connecting to a network.

  Therefore, the CPU 30 accesses each part of the PC 3 through these chip sets 33 and 34, reads, for example, a BIOS (Basic Input / Output System) program from the ROM 35 at any time, decodes and executes it, and displays the display part 32 and the input part. 36 etc. are controlled. Similarly, the CPU 30 reads and executes an OS (Operating System) program 38A and various application programs 38B stored in the HDD 38 as needed, and stores data to be stored in a predetermined area (data 38C) of the HDD 38. As described above, the CPU 30 accesses and controls various I / Os (input / output) inside and outside the PC 3 and also communicates with the digital multifunction peripheral 2 via the network I / F 37.

  The digital MFP 2 includes a CPU 10 that controls the entire digital MFP 2, a ROM 11 that stores programs, a RAM 12 that temporarily stores processing data of the CPU 10, and an information display screen (here, , For example, a display means having an operation screen such as a touch panel) and an operation panel 13 including a numeric keypad. The digital multi-function peripheral 2 also controls the scanner unit 14, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) 15 that converts the scanner signal, a video writing processing circuit 16, and an LD (laser diode) 17 that controls the LD. A control unit 18, an engine control circuit 19, an engine unit 20 and a power supply control unit 21 connected to the control unit 18 are provided. Further, the digital multi-function peripheral 2 will be described with reference to FIG. 1, an HDD 22 that stores various data, an ASIC 23 that controls communication with the outside, a network I / F 24 that constitutes network communication means connected to the ASIC 23, and FIG. 1. The above-described wireless communication module 29 is connected to each other through the system bus B or the like.

  The digital multi-function peripheral 2 reads out each program necessary for control and operation from the ROM 11 at any time by the CPU 10 and decodes and executes it. Data necessary for the operation (here, electric field strength data described later) and image data are stored. The data is temporarily stored in the RAM 12. Therefore, the CPU 10 and the like constitute a part of an information processing apparatus provided in the digital multi-function peripheral 2 and each means for controlling and executing each operation described later. On the other hand, in the HDD 22, in addition to the print data file 22A and the copy data file 22B, various setting data files 22C set via the operation panel 13 and the like, and data and management data necessary for the control described below. Is stored and read by the CPU 10 as needed.

  In addition, the digital multi-function peripheral 2 performs copying, printing, and the like by linking the respective units in the same manner as in the conventional apparatus. For example, during the copying operation, the image data read by the scanner unit 14 is subjected to various correction processes by the ASIC 15. Thereafter, it is temporarily stored in the RAM 12. On the other hand, when a plurality of copies are printed, the copy data of the image is temporarily stored in the HDD 22 (copy data file 22B). When printing on paper using this, first, the image data is video-written. The data is transmitted from the processing circuit 16 to the LD control unit 18. Next, an electrostatic latent image is formed on a photosensitive drum (not shown) by controlling the LD control unit 18 to blink the LD 17, and the engine unit 19 controls the timing while controlling the engine control circuit 19. In conjunction with the printer 20, normal copying operations such as electrostatic latent image development, transfer to paper, and fixing are executed.

  Further, in the digital multifunction peripheral 2, the network I / F 24 is connected to the network I / F 37 of the PC 3 by the network cable N, and communicates with the PC 3 via these to transmit / receive print data and the like. Accordingly, the digital multi-function peripheral 2 and the PC 3 are connected to each other by a network and can communicate based on a network protocol such as TCP / IP (Transmission Control Protocol / Internet Protocol) or UDP (User Datagram Protocol). However, the digital multi-function peripheral 2 and the PC 3 may communicate with each other using a dedicated interface, communication means using other protocols, or a wireless interface configured separately from the wireless communication module 29.

  In addition, in the digital multi-function peripheral 2, the wireless communication module 29 constitutes reception (wireless communication) means for receiving radio waves of identification information transmitted wirelessly from the identification information transmitting devices 4-1 and 4-2. Correspondingly, the same wireless communication modules 40-1 and 40-2 are also provided in the identification information transmitting apparatuses 4-1 and 4-2 of the users Y1 and Y2, respectively. While these two wireless communication modules 29, 40-1, and 40-2 are located within a predetermined range (distance), the identification information (ID information in this case) set to each other is transmitted and received by radio waves and notified.

  The digital multi-function peripheral 2 refers to the user information stored in the HDD 22 in advance or acquired from an external server (not shown) via the network from the identification information of the users Y1 and Y2 received in this way, The identification information transmitting apparatuses 4-1 and 4-2 are discriminated, and the users Y1 and Y2 are identified and specified and authenticated. Therefore, here, identification information such as an ID number set in the identification information transmitting apparatuses 4-1 and 4-2 and the owner (users Y 1 and Y 2) are specified in the HDD 22 as the user information file 22 F. The specific information such as the user name is set and stored in advance, and is read out by the CPU 10 and used for identification and authentication processing of the users Y1 and Y2.

  The digital multifunction peripheral 2 of the information processing system 1 transmits a radio wave to the surroundings, measures the electric field strength of the transmitted radio wave, and stores it in the RAM 12. The identification information transmitting devices 4-1 and 4-2 receive the radio wave transmitted from the digital multi-function peripheral 2, and identify the value obtained by measuring the received electric field strength value by an internal electric field strength measuring circuit (not shown). At the same time, it is transmitted to the digital multi-function peripheral 2. The digital multi-function apparatus 2 receives the received electric field strength data of the self-transmitted radio waves received from the identification information transmitting apparatuses 4-1 and 4-2, acquires in advance the electric field strength value of the transmitted radio waves stored at the time of self-transmission. Based on the correlation data, the relative distance between the transmission source identification information transmission apparatuses 4-1 and 4-2 (between the wireless communication modules 29, 40-1, and 40-2) is calculated. Therefore, the HDD 22 of the digital multifunction device 2 stores correlation (correspondence) data (here, these) indicating the correspondence between the relative distance between the identification information transmitting apparatuses 4-1 and 4-2 and the electric field strength of the received radio wave. The conversion table 22D) is preset and stored.

  FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a conversion table 22D for transmission field strength, reception field strength, and relative distance. As shown in the figure, the conversion table 22D includes a transmission field strength of 125 dBμV to 129 dBμV, a relative distance of 1.0 m when the reception field strength is 105 ± 5 dBμV, 3.0 m when 50 ± 5 dBμV, etc. When the transmission electric field strength is in the range of 120 dBμV to 124 dBμV, the relative distance is 1.0 m when the reception electric field strength is 98 ± 5 dBμV and 3.0 m when the reception electric field strength is 44 ± 5 dBμV. A plurality of (center column in the figure) and relative distance (right column in the figure) are acquired and set in advance by actual measurement or the like.

  Based on the stored correlation data (conversion table 22D), the digital multifunction peripheral 2 performs arithmetic processing by the CPU 10, and the field strength value of the self-transmitted radio wave and the transmitted radio wave identification information transmitting device 4-1, 4- The relative distance between the identification information transmitting devices 4 and 5 is calculated from the received electric field strength value on the second side. Further, the digital multi-function peripheral 2 compares the calculated relative distance with a preset specified distance to determine whether or not the identification information transmitting apparatuses 4-1 and 4-2 are closer than the specified distance or within a predetermined distance. It is determined whether or not it has moved (for example, within 1 m or 3 m), and the time variation of the relative distance is stored as data (22E), and the processing for which identification device is performed when there are a plurality of identification information devices. Determine whether to prioritize and process. As described above, the digital multifunction peripheral 2 determines, for example, the distance between the identification information transmission apparatuses 4-1 and 4-2, the mutual positional relationship, or the approach / separation based on the calculation result of the relative distance. Then, the operation is controlled by the CPU 10 according to the result and preset conditions, and a predetermined operation is executed.

  Here, the correlation between the measured electric field strength and the relative distance is based on the radio wave state and the power state of each device, particularly the mounting state of the identification information transmission devices 4-1 and 4-2 It may not be constant depending on the individual differences between the mobile phone and the mobile phone. Therefore, in order to accurately calculate the relative distance and use it for operation control, it is necessary to correct the correlation data (in this case, the conversion table 22D) for each of the identification information transmitting apparatuses 4-1, 4-2. However, in order to perform the correction, a process for fixing the distance and determining the electric field strength value is necessary. However, the correction is necessary because the power supply state and the mounting state of the identification information transmission apparatuses 4-1 and 4-2 are required. This is because the fluctuation factor can be eliminated. Therefore, the self-transmission level is measured by the wireless communication module 29 of the image forming apparatus 2, and the reception level from the image forming apparatus 2 is determined by the wireless communication modules 40-1 and 40-2 of the identification information apparatuses 4-1 and 4-2. The identification information apparatuses 4-1 and 4-2 transmit the reception level data together with the identification information to the image forming apparatus 2 as it is, thereby causing the transmission level fluctuation factors on the identification information apparatuses 4-1 and 4-2 side. A distance measuring means that is not affected is realized.

  Specifically, the digital multifunction peripheral 2 stores the field intensity value of the transmission radio wave on the RAM 12 when transmitting ID information to the identification information transmitting apparatuses 4-1 and 4-2. The identification information transmitting devices 4-1 and 4-2 measure the field strength value of the received radio wave when receiving the ID information from the digital multi-function peripheral 2, and transmit the value by adding the value when transmitting the identification information. The digital multifunction peripheral 2 receives the identification information and the electric field strength value from the identification information devices 4-1 and 4-2, and performs control based on the received identification information. The CPU 10 compares the field strength value at the time of transmission stored in the CPU 10 and calculates the relative distance by referring to the conversion table 22D in the HDD 22, and changes the control content based on the distance data.

  At this time, in the digital multi-function peripheral 2, when the users Y1 and Y2 move with the identification information transmitting devices 4-1 and 4-2, the predetermined distance (for example, 1, 3, It is possible to discriminate and recognize the approach and separation of the users Y1 and Y2 on the basis of one or a plurality of distances such as 5 m. Similarly, from the change in the relative distance calculation result as shown in FIG. 4, the moving speeds of the users Y1 and Y2 approaching and leaving can be calculated, and based on the result, the users Y1 and Y2 can use the digital multifunction device 2. It is also possible to discriminate whether it is approaching intentionally or simply passing by. In this way, the digital multifunction peripheral 2 determines the state of the users Y1 and Y2 by the CPU 10, for example, compared with a predetermined condition, enables or disables a specific function according to the approach of the users Y1 and Y2, and The operation is controlled based on at least the calculation result of the relative distance, such as no reaction in passing, and a predetermined operation is executed.

  In addition, here, the digital multi-function peripheral 2 uses a plurality of power modes with different power consumption, for example, a normal power mode in which a normal image forming operation can be performed, power supply to some components is stopped, and the like. It is possible to switch to one or a plurality of power saving modes in which the operation is partially reduced and the operation is partially limited. The digital multifunction device 2 has means for switching the power mode between a plurality of power modes with different power consumption based on the calculation result of the relative distance, and the power saving mode with less power consumption as the predetermined operation described above. Perform transition to or return to.

  Specifically, the digital multifunction peripheral 2 identifies and identifies the registered identification information transmission devices 4-1 and 4-2 (users Y 1 and Y 2) from the received identification information, for example, and from the users Y 1 and Y 2 Is stored in the HDD 22 or the like, or if the data is being received from the PC 3, the power mode is changed and the state is shifted to the print preparation state. At that time, if it is in the power saving mode, an instruction signal is transmitted to the power supply control unit 21 via the engine control circuit 19 to restart the power supply to the fixing unit (not shown) and the CPU 10 performs printing. Start the processing program and enter the print standby state. On the other hand, in the same state, the identification information transmitting devices 4-1 and 4-2 are separated, and the reception level (field strength level) of the identification information radio wave is lowered, and it is recognized that the calculated relative distance is equal to or greater than the predetermined distance. In some cases, activation of the print processing program by the CPU 10 is terminated, and the power supply control unit 21 is instructed to stop supplying power to the fixing unit and shift to the power saving mode.

  As described above, the digital multifunction peripheral 2 performs power mode switching control using the calculation result of the relative distance, and detects the approach of the identification information transmission apparatuses 4-1 and 4-2 and the entry into the predetermined distance. In response to this, a return from the power saving mode to the standby mode, an automatic transition to a state in which a printing operation is possible, and the like are executed. On the contrary, in response to detection of the separation of the identification information transmission devices 4-1 and 4-2 and movement outside the predetermined distance, the mode is shifted to the power saving mode, and a printing operation or the like is enabled only during use. The overall power consumption is reduced.

  Further, the digital multi-function peripheral 2 can set the display content (display screen) of the operation screen of the operation panel 13 as a display means for each user Yn (n = 1, 2,...) Based on the calculation result of the distance and the identification result of the user based on the above-described identification information, control for changing the display screen is also performed. That is, in this digital multi-function peripheral 2, a dedicated screen consisting of items displayed on the operation screen, operation contents, etc. can be set and changed in advance for each user as required. When identification information is received, user authentication is used. If the screen setting information dedicated to the user is registered in the HDD 22, the information is read out. Further, when the approach of the user Yn or the entry into the predetermined distance is detected from the calculation result of the relative distance, the operation screen is automatically switched to a screen dedicated to the specified user Yn. As described above, the digital multifunction peripheral 2 performs an operation of displaying the dedicated screen (image) of the user Yn on the operation panel 13 according to the identified user Yn of the identification information transmitting apparatus as the predetermined operation. To do. Further, in addition to the above processing based on the relative distance, when a plurality of users Y1 and Y2 are detected as the operable distances on the operation panel using the relative distance time variation data as shown in FIG. By analyzing, it is possible to discriminate between a user who is operating in front of the operation panel and a user who is moving nearby.

  Next, information processing procedures, operations, control methods, and the like by the information processing system 1 described above will be described by taking a case where printing is performed by the digital multi-function peripheral 2 as an example.

  FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a printing procedure by the information processing system 1, and for each identification information transmitting device 4-n (n = 1, 2,...) Possessed by the digital multifunction peripheral 2, the PC 3, and the user Yn. Shows the flow of each process.

  First, when the user Yn operates the PC 3 to perform data editing or the like, print data including image data and a print instruction is created (S101), and the printing process starts. As a result, the PC 3 is connected to the digital multifunction peripheral 2 via the network and communicates with each other, adds user information such as identification information of the user Yn to the print data, and the digital multifunction peripheral via the network I / F 37. 2 to the network I / F 24 (S102). Upon receiving this print data (S201), the digital multi-function peripheral 2 temporarily stores the print data in the RAM 12 via the ASIC 23, performs data compression, etc., and then stores it as a print data file 22A in the HDD 22 (S202). At the same time, the digital multifunction peripheral 2 searches for the identification information transmitting device 4-n (wireless communication module 40-n) that can communicate via the wireless communication module 29 under the control of the CPU 10.

  At that time, the digital multi-function apparatus 2 wirelessly transmits the identification information by radio waves at regular time intervals and stores the transmission electric field strength in the RAM 12 (S203), and the user Yn who operates the PC 3 receives the identification information transmission apparatus 4 By holding -n and approaching the digital multifunction device 2 (S301), the identification information transmission device 4-n receives radio waves including identification information from the digital multifunction device 2. The identification information transmitting device 4-n receives the radio wave from the digital multifunction device 2, measures the electric field strength (S302), and wirelessly transmits the measurement data to the digital multifunction device 2 together with the identification information of the user Yn ( S303).

  The digital multi-function peripheral 2 receives the identification information and received electric field strength data of the user Yn transmitted from the identification information transmitting device 4-n (S204). Then, the identification information transmission device 4-n of the transmission source is discriminated from the identification information to identify the user Yn, and the radio wave transmitted from the digital multi-function peripheral 2 is identified by the identification information transmission device 4-n from the received electric field strength data. Obtain the electric field strength data when received. Further, the conversion table 22D (see FIG. 3) described above is read from the HDD 22 and referred to (S205), the transmission electric field strength stored in the RAM 12, the reception electric field strength acquired from the identification information transmitting device 4-n, and the conversion table 22D. The relative distance between the digital multi-function peripheral 2 and the identification information transmitting device 4-n is calculated based on the correlation data written in the above.

  Based on the calculation result of the relative distance, the operation of the digital multifunction device 2 is controlled as described above, and executes a predetermined operation according to the set condition. Here, the digital multi-function peripheral 2 determines whether or not the identification information transmitting device 4-n is within a predetermined distance set in advance (S206), and while it is outside the predetermined distance (S206: NO), the identification is performed. The reception of information and field strength data and the calculation of the relative distance are repeated (S204 → S205). As a result, on the condition that the identification information transmitting device 4-n has approached within the specified distance (S206: YES), a predetermined operation (processing) such as switching the power mode between a plurality of power modes with different power consumption is performed. Execute (S207). Alternatively, when the display screen for each of the users Y1 and Y2 is set in advance on the operation panel 13, the digital multifunction peripheral 2 displays the display screen of the operation panel 13 based on the calculation result of the relative distance and the identification result of the user Yn. Is changed according to the user Yn.

  As described above, in the information processing system 1 according to the present embodiment, the identification information transmission device 4-n with respect to the correlation data between the relative distance between the digital multifunction peripheral 2 and the identification information transmission device 4-n and the electric field strength. Since it is not necessary to perform correction according to the level fluctuation factor of the transmitted radio wave on the side, it is possible to calculate an accurate relative distance in response to the influence of the difference between individual devices, the fluctuation factor, and the like. In particular, the electric field strength of the transmission radio wave of the identification information transmitting device 4-n assuming battery driving varies depending on the respective power supply state, secular change, and the like. With this function, the correspondence accuracy of the correlation data between the electric field strength and the relative distance is obtained. Can be maintained substantially constant, and the relative distance can be calculated with high accuracy over a long period of time. In addition, it is possible to control the operation of the digital multi-function peripheral 2 based on the calculation result of the relative distance, to enable / disable a predetermined function only under an intended condition, or to execute a predetermined operation. The convenience of the user Yn can be improved, and the accuracy of control based on the relative distance can also be improved.

  Furthermore, in order to change the power mode of the digital multi-function peripheral 2 based on the relative distance to the identification information transmission device 4-n, the power mode is automatically switched according to the separation of the user Yn to enter the power saving mode. The power consumption can be reduced by, for example, reducing standby power. In addition, before moving directly to the front of the digital multifunction peripheral 2 and directly operating it, it is possible to return from the power saving mode according to the approach of the user Yn to some extent, shortening the waiting time for printing, etc. It can improve more and can make it compatible with reduction of power consumption.

  In addition, the digital multifunction device 2 can change the display screen of the operation panel 13 in accordance with the approach of the specific identification information transmitting device 4-n and the like, and can display the dedicated display screen of the user Yn without any operation. In addition, the operability and convenience can be improved by supporting the user's operation. As a result, for example, a visually impaired person can move to the digital multi-function peripheral 2 to display a dedicated screen he / she is used to and can suppress operation mistakes. In recent years, screen customization services for the digital multi-function peripheral 2 and the like have been widely used, and can also be applied to a wide range of applications.

  At that time, the user Yn is identified from the identification information, the other identification information transmitting device 4-n owned by the user Yn is identified and specified, and the display screen is changed from a plurality of information. Also good. Specifically, for example, in addition to the identification information transmitting device 4-2 that identifies the user Y2 who has the authority to perform maintenance and system management, identification information in which specific identification information serving as a management key is set. By holding the transmission device 4-2 ′ and approaching the digital multifunction device 2, the digital multifunction device 2 receives both pieces of identification information. In this way, only when both devices 4-2 and 4-2 'enter within a predetermined distance, the screen on which the administrator menu is displayed is displayed on the operation panel 13, and the screen is switched to a screen that is not normally accessible. In addition, security can be improved and complexity associated with operation of the operation panel 13 can be avoided.

  Therefore, according to this information processing system 1, it is possible to accurately calculate the relative distance to the identification information transmitting device 4-n that wirelessly transmits the identification information of the user Yn, and to calculate the time variation of the relative distance in real time. As a result, it is possible to improve the accuracy of the relative distance and the accuracy of discrimination of contact / separation. Further, it is possible to improve the convenience and security of the user Yn or reduce the power consumption by controlling the operation based on the calculation result of the relative distance.

  Here, the identification information of the user Yn is wirelessly transmitted from the identification information transmitting device 4-n, but instead, identification information for use in identifying the external device (PC3 in this case) is transmitted. The identification result and the calculation result of the relative distance may be used in association with the data from the PC 3, or other identification information may be set and transmitted. As described above, at least the identification information of the external device user Yn or the external device is wirelessly transmitted from the identification information transmission device 4-n. In the first embodiment, as the predetermined operation based on the calculation result of the relative distance, the operation of the digital multifunction device 2 is controlled to switch the power mode or change the display screen. Depending on the function and the like of each digital multi-function peripheral 2, other operations and processes may be executed.

  Next, the information processing system 1 according to another embodiment that executes different predetermined operations in this manner will be described in order. Since they are basically configured in the same manner as the information processing system 1 described above, only the configuration different from the above of the digital multi-function peripheral 2 will be described below.

[Second Embodiment]
In the information processing system 1 according to the second embodiment of the present invention, the digital multi-function peripheral 2 calculates the calculation result of the relative distance from the identification information transmission device 4-n, the calculation result of the time variation of the relative distance, and the transmission source. Based on the identification result of the user Yn of the identification information transmitting apparatus 4-n, the process for the received data from the PC 3 of the user Yn is executed or the process for stopping the process is performed.

  That is, when the digital multifunction device 2 detects the approach from the relative distance between the identification information transmission device 4-n calculated from the electric field strength and the time variation of the relative distance, the user authentication function performs the same as described above. The identification information transmitting device 4-n (user Yn) is identified and specified from the received identification information. Further, the user information added to the print data received from the PC 3 is searched, and if the print data from the specified user Yn is received, it is detected that the identification information transmitting device 4-n has approached a predetermined distance. After that, the printing operation of the data is started, the printing process is executed, and output as printing paper or the like. On the other hand, when it is detected from the calculation result of the relative distance that the identification information transmitting device 4-n is more than a predetermined distance, the identification information transmitting device 4-n (user Yn) is identified from the identification information, and the user Yn's When printing data is being printed, the printing process is stopped and the operation is stopped.

  In addition, for example, the digital multifunction peripheral 2 receives print data from a plurality of users Y1 to Y4 and stores the print data in the HDD 22, and the predetermined user Y2 moves together with the identification information transmission device 4 to move to a specified distance (for example, 1 m). If it approaches, the print data of the user Y2 is printed by recognizing the user Y2 from the identification information. At this time, if communication is possible with any of the identification information transmitting apparatuses 4 of the plurality of users Y1 to Y4, the print data of the user Yn (here, n = 1, 2, 3, 4) determined to be the closest is displayed. The printing process is performed, or the printing data of the user Yn determined to be within a specific distance (for example, 3 m) gradually approaching and gradually approaching the relative distance is printed.

  On the other hand, in the digital multi-function peripheral 2, when the predetermined user Y2 is in the proximity position and printing processing is in progress, the identification information transmitting device 5 moves far and the specific distance (for example, 2 m) is calculated from the relative distance calculation result. If it is determined that the distance has been exceeded, the current print processing or processing for stopping the operation is executed. In addition, by switching the display screen dedicated to the user Y2 displayed on the operation panel 13 to another screen or hiding the screen, information leakage of the user Y2 can be prevented and the user Y2 can be re-entered. , The printing process is restarted (or continued when stopped) and executed.

  As described above, the digital multifunction peripheral 2 causes the digital multifunction peripheral 2 to perform image forming processing on the image data received from the PC 3 of the user Yn based on the calculation result of the relative distance and the identification result of the user Yn. Have means. Thereby, if the print data of the user Yn is received, the print data is printed and output. Further, the digital multifunction device 2 has means for stopping the image forming process by the digital multifunction device 2 on the image data received from the PC 3 of the user Yn based on the calculation result of the relative distance and the identification result of the user Yn. As a result, if the print data of the user Yn is being printed, the printing process and output are stopped.

  Therefore, according to the information processing system 1 of the present embodiment, for example, printing by the digital multi-function peripheral 2 can be started in response to the approach of the user Yn who has instructed printing, and if the printing instruction is issued in advance, the PC 3 Other processing can be executed, or the PC 3 can be turned off. Further, when the user Yn wants to receive a printed material, if the user Yn approaches the digital multi-function peripheral 2, printing is started and the printed material is obtained. Therefore, the waiting time for printing or the like can be shortened while improving convenience. At the same time, since printing is not performed until then, it is possible to prevent other people from seeing or taking away the printed matter, thereby effectively increasing security. Furthermore, when the user Yn leaves during printing, the printing process is temporarily stopped to prevent the printed material from being stolen by others, and the printing process can be resumed when the user Yn approaches again. Its convenience can be maintained.

[Third Embodiment]
In the information processing system 1 according to the third embodiment of the present invention, the digital multi-function peripheral 2 accesses the operation screen of the operation panel 13 and the access (operation) level for the data for each user Yn of the identification information transmitting device 4. (Accessible range) or access right setting means for setting permission / prohibition of access. In addition, the digital multi-function peripheral 2 thereby sets an access level or access permission / prohibition for each user Yn (identification information transmitting device 4-n) in advance, and displays an image such as a display image based on the setting data. The user Yn of the operation panel 13 whose state can be changed changes the operation screen used for the operation. Alternatively, a warning is generated by sound or light by a warning means for a user including a pronunciation warning means, a light emission warning means, etc. provided at a predetermined position.

  Specifically, the digital multi-functional peripheral 2 has a management unit that manages the access right of the user Yn, and based on the identification result based on the identification information, the user Y ′ who has no access or the predetermined access is prohibited, etc. When the approach is detected, the display content (display screen) of the operation screen is changed according to a preset condition. As a result, while the current user Yn is operating the operation screen, a warning screen is displayed on the operation panel 13 or the operation screen is scrambled by detecting another user Y ′ whose operation or data access is prohibited. To make the user Yn recognize the approach of the other user Yn ′. At the same time, it is possible to prevent a screen including a password, a set value, or an image thumbnail displayed on the operation screen from being read. On the contrary, in accordance with the approach detection of the user Yn having a predetermined access right, the operation screen in which the operation content is restricted is switched to the operation screen corresponding to the content of each access right.

  When the warning unit is provided, the digital multi-function peripheral 2 activates the warning unit in combination with or instead of the warning due to the change of the display screen based on the detection of the user Y ′ whose access is prohibited. Alerts to This warning is performed by a method that can be recognized by the user Yn, such as an output of a warning sound by a sound generation warning means such as a buzzer or a speaker, or a light blinking operation by a light emission warning means such as an LED (light emitting diode).

  Here, the digital multifunction peripheral 2 also receives access level information added to user information transmitted together with print data from the PC 3, and based on the identification information received from the identification information transmitting apparatus 4-n, the user Yn. In addition to identification and authentication, the access level information is also verified. Thereby, for example, the access level of the user Yn, which is set to be accessible to all data at level 1, for example, to be accessible only to some data at level 2, is grasped. As a result, when the user Yn of level 1 detects the approach of the user Y ′ of level 2 during the printing process in front of the digital multifunction peripheral 2, the operation screen of the currently displayed operation panel 13 is switched to a warning display. Or warning by other warning means to notify the user Yn of the approach of another user Y ′ having a low access level. Further, when the other user Y 'moves away, the digital multifunction peripheral 2 stops the warning by the warning means and switches to the display of the operation screen permitted for the current user Yn again.

  As described above, this digital multi-function peripheral 2 has access right setting means for setting an access level or access permission / prohibition for each user Yn, and an operation screen used for an operation by the user Yn. Each access right for data and data is set. Further, it has means for changing the operation screen in accordance with the access level of the user Yn or the setting of permission / prohibition of access based on the calculation result of the relative distance and the identification result of the user Yn. Change control is performed to display the screen according to the set access right, such as changing the screen state according to the approach of the user Y ′ whose level is restricted or access is prohibited. On the other hand, when the digital multi-function peripheral 2 has a warning means for the user Yn, the warning means according to the setting of the access level of the user Y ′ based on the calculation result of the relative distance and the identification result of the user Yn. For example, control is performed so as to warn in response to the approach of the user Y ′ whose access level is restricted or access is prohibited.

  Therefore, according to the information processing system 1 of the present embodiment, it is possible to prevent a user Y ′ whose access right is restricted from stealing an inaccessible operation screen or data, or to prevent such a user Y ′ from approaching. Since a warning or the like can be performed, security can be improved while allowing the current user Yn to recognize the surrounding situation. Further, when the user Yn does not have his / her own identification information transmission device 4-n, it is possible to improve security for data access such as prohibiting access to print data and preventing execution of printing.

  The information processing system 1 including the digital multifunction peripheral 2 and the identification information transmission device 4-n has been described above as an example. However, the present invention similarly describes a communication unit for communicating with an external device and an external device thereof. It can also be realized as an information processing apparatus including means for transmitting / receiving radio waves to / from an identification information transmitting apparatus that wirelessly transmits identification information such as user Yn of the apparatus and field strength information of received radio waves. In this case, the information processing apparatus has the function of calculating the relative distance based on the electric field strength values of the transmission and reception data and the correlation data table, similar to the digital multifunction machine 2 described above, and receives the reception data from the external apparatus. While processing, the operation is controlled based on the calculation result of the relative distance to the identification information transmitting device 4-n, and the specific operation is executed. In addition, this information processing apparatus is controlled to execute the same processes as the processes of the information processing system 1 (digital multifunction peripheral 2) described above. Therefore, the present invention can also be used as a method for controlling the information processing apparatus. Can be realized.

  Furthermore, the present invention can also be realized by describing each step (procedure) of the control method of the information processing apparatus in a general-purpose program language as a program to be executed by a computer. In addition, the program can be easily implemented by recording the program on an arbitrary computer-readable recording medium such as a flexible disk, CD-ROM, DVD-ROM, or MO, and causing the computer to read the program.

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Information processing system, 2 ... Digital compound machine, 3 ... PC, 4-1, 4-2 ... Identification information transmission apparatus, 10 ... CPU, 11 ... ROM, 12 ... RAM, 13 ... operation panel, 14 ... scanner unit, 15 ... ASIC, 16 ... video writing processing circuit, 17 ... LD, 18 ... LD control unit, 19 ... Engine control circuit, 20 ... Engine unit, 21 ... Power supply control unit, 22 ... HDD, 23 ... ASIC, 24 ... Network I / F, 29 ... Wireless communication module , 30 ... CPU, 31 ... RAM, 32 ... display unit, 33 ... chip set N, 34 ... chip set S, 35 ... ROM, 36 ... input unit, 37 ... Network I / F, 38 ... HDD, 40-1, 40-2 ... wireless communication module, N ··· network cable, Y1, Y2 ··· user.

JP 2007-122384 A

Claims (16)

Means for communicating with an external device;
Means for transmitting / receiving radio waves to / from the identification information transmitting apparatus for wirelessly transmitting the identification information of the user of the external apparatus or the identification information of the external apparatus, and the electric field strength information of the received radio wave;
Correlation for storing correlation data of a relative distance between the identification information transmission device, a transmission electric field strength of a transmission radio wave to the identification information transmission device, and a reception electric field strength of the transmission radio wave at the identification information transmission device Data storage means;
The transmission electric field strength of the radio wave transmitted to the identification information transmitting device, the received electric field strength information of the radio wave transmitted from the identification information transmitting device that received the radio wave, and the correlation stored in the correlation data storage means Distance calculating means for calculating the relative distance based on the data;
A relative distance fluctuation calculating means for calculating a relative distance fluctuation based on the calculated relative distance time fluctuation data;
Operation control means for controlling the operation of the information processing device based on the calculation result of the relative distance and the calculation result of the relative distance fluctuation;
An information processing apparatus comprising: The information processing apparatus according to claim 1,
The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the operation control unit includes a unit that switches a power mode between a plurality of power modes having different power consumptions based on the calculation result of the relative distance and the calculation result of the relative distance fluctuation. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1,
Means for identifying the user from the received identification information of the user, and a display means that can be changed by setting a display screen for each user,
The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the operation control unit includes a unit that changes a display screen of the display unit based on the calculation result of the relative distance, the calculation result of the relative distance variation, and the user identification result. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1,
Means for identifying the user from the received user identification information;
The operation control means is a means for executing processing for received data from an external device of the user based on the calculated relative distance and relative distance fluctuation and a user identification result, or stops processing for received data. An information processing apparatus comprising means. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1,
Means for identifying a user from the received user identification information, means for setting an access level or permission / prohibition of access for each user, and an operation screen used for operation by the user,
The operation control means changes the operation screen according to the access level of the user or the access permission / prohibition setting based on the calculation result of the relative distance, the calculation result of the relative distance fluctuation, and the user identification result. An information processing apparatus comprising means. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1,
Means for identifying the user from the received identification information of the user, means for setting the access level or access permission / prohibition for each user, and means for warning the user,
The operation control means, based on the calculation result of the relative distance, the calculation result of the relative distance fluctuation, and the user identification result, warns the warning means according to the access level of the user or the setting of permission / prohibition of access. An information processing apparatus having means for generating.   An image forming apparatus comprising the information processing apparatus according to claim 1. The image forming apparatus according to claim 7,
The means for executing the processing on the received data of the operation control means, or the means for stopping the processing on the received data, means for executing the image forming process by the image forming apparatus for the received image data, or for the received image data An image forming apparatus, which is means for stopping image forming processing by the image forming apparatus.   9. The image forming apparatus according to claim 7 or 8, the identification information of the external apparatus or the identification information of the user of the external apparatus, and the received electric field strength information of the radio wave transmitted from the image forming apparatus. An information processing system comprising: an identification information transmitting device that wirelessly transmits a radio wave using radio waves. Means for communicating with an external device; and means for transmitting / receiving radio waves to / from an identification information transmitting device for wirelessly transmitting identification information of a user of the external device or identification information of the external device and field strength information of a received radio wave. A control method of an information processing apparatus provided,
Measuring a transmission electric field strength of a transmission radio wave from the information processing device;
Receiving the received electric field strength information of the transmission radio wave transmitted from the identification information transmitting apparatus that has received the transmission radio wave;
The measured transmission field strength, the received reception field strength information, correlation data acquired in advance, and a relative distance between the identification information transmission device and transmission of a transmission radio wave to the identification information transmission device Calculating the relative distance based on the correlation between the electric field strength and the received electric field strength of the transmitted radio wave at the identification information transmitting device;
Calculating a relative distance variation based on the calculated relative distance time variation data;
An operation control step of controlling the operation of the information processing apparatus based on the calculation result of the relative distance and the calculation result of the relative distance variation;
A method for controlling an information processing apparatus, comprising: In the control method of the information processing device according to claim 10,
The operation control step includes a step of switching the power mode between a plurality of power modes having different power consumptions based on the calculation result of the relative distance and the calculation result of the relative distance fluctuation. Method. In the control method of the information processing device according to claim 10,
A step of identifying the user from the received identification information of the user, and a step of setting a display screen of the display means for each user,
The operation control step includes a step of changing a display screen of the display unit based on the calculation result of the relative distance, the calculation result of the relative distance variation, and the identification result of the user. Method. In the control method of the information processing device according to claim 10,
Identifying the user from the received user identification information;
The operation control step is a step of executing a process for received data from an external device of the user based on a calculation result of the relative distance, a calculation result of a relative distance variation, and a user identification result, or a process for the received data A method for controlling an information processing apparatus, comprising the step of stopping the process. In the control method of the information processing device according to claim 10,
A step of identifying the user from the received identification information of the user, and a step of setting an access level or permission / prohibition of access for each user,
The operation control step is used for an operation by a user according to the access level of the user or the access permission / prohibition setting based on the calculation result of the relative distance, the calculation result of the relative distance fluctuation, and the user identification result. A method for controlling an information processing apparatus, comprising: changing an operation screen to be displayed, or generating a warning to a user.   The program for making a computer perform each process of the control method of the information processing apparatus described in any one of Claims 10 thru | or 14. A computer-readable recording medium on which the program according to claim 15 is recorded.

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