JP2014078822A - Gateway device and network system - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a device and a system that allow a user to switch priority at any timing on the condition that the user learns communication contents of other terminals without inputting terminal information to set priority in advance.SOLUTION: A gateway device connects with a plurality of communication terminals that transmit frames. The gateway device connects with each communication terminal via multiple networks, and the multiple networks include a priority communication network. If the gateway device has accepted a setting request to start priority communication from a specified object communication terminal, it creates display data to display communication contents of the other communication terminals, identifies the object communication terminal referring to MAC address management information, and switches a network with which the identified object communication terminal is connected to the priority communication network.

Description

  The present invention relates to priority control of communication between a communication terminal and a network device. In particular, the present invention relates to a gateway device and a network system in which a user can change priority control settings.

  Recently, wireless LAN widely used as a hot spot for offices, homes, and the public, and IEEE802.11e are provided to support the QoS function of the IEEE802.11 standard.

  A method of performing priority control of data transmission based on a priority setting determined in advance at the time of data transmission in IEEE 802.11e is called an EDCA (Enhanced Distributed Channel Access) method.

  In the EDCA method, transmission frames are classified into four types of access categories (AC: Access Category), and priority control is performed by changing a priority parameter that is set for each AC.

  The four types of AC are associated with four different queues, and each frame is stored in a corresponding queue and then transmitted. The four types of AC are AC_VO (Voice: for audio), AC_VI (Video: for video), and AC_BE (Best Effort: for best effort) in descending order of the priority set as the initial setting value of the EDCA parameter. , And AC_BK (Background: for background traffic).

  The classification of frames into four different queues is associated with a User Priority field in the VLAN tag field of the IEEE 802.1Q standard and a ToS (Type of Service) field indicating the priority of the IP packet.

  Three types of EDCA parameters are prepared.

  The first is a parameter called AIFS (Arbitration Inter Frame Space). AIFS is a parameter that represents a transmission interval for each frame. If the AIFS interval channel is unused, frame transmission is possible. The AIFS (time interval) is set to be smaller (shorter) as the AC has a higher priority. As a result, an AC frame having a high priority is preferentially transmitted.

  The second is a parameter called CW (Contention Window), and the frame is in a transmission standby state by a value (time) set randomly in each transmission frame. The CW is set smaller as the AC has a higher priority. By combining AIFS and CW, an AC transmission frame having a high priority is preferentially transmitted.

  The third is a parameter called TXOP (Transmission Opportunity). TXOP is a parameter that represents a time during which continuous frame transmission is allowed for each AC. During the time set in TXOP, transmission frames classified into the corresponding AC are continuously transmitted.

  In the EDCA method, as described above, frames are transmitted using four different queues corresponding to each AC, and the frame transmission cycle is changed using different EDCA parameter values for each AC. Control is in progress.

  The EDCA parameter value can be changed. Specifically, the changed parameter value can be notified to the terminal by a Beacon signal transmitted for each SSID (Service Set Identifier) of an AP (Access Point). The Beacon signal is a signal transmitted by the AP, and thereby, information necessary for communication with the AP is notified to surrounding terminals. Based on the EDCA parameter included in the Beacon signal, the terminal updates the parameter value used when transmitting the frame.

  Therefore, the EDCA parameter can be controlled by the Beacon signal from the AP.

  In addition, when using a wireless LAN compatible with IEEE 802.11, an SSID (ESSID) is set as an identifier for each AP. By distinguishing APs for each SSID, it is possible to prevent communication interference between the AP and the terminal. Also, when one AP has a plurality of SSIDs, it is possible to set different security settings for each SSID.

  As described above, since the AP is distinguished by the SSID, communication using different EDCA parameters is possible for downlink communication from the AP to the terminal direction, and based on the Beacon signal transmitted for each SSID, Each terminal can perform communication using different EDCA parameters for uplink communication from the terminal in the AP direction.

  That is, priority control can be performed for both downlink communication from the AP to the terminal and uplink communication from the terminal to the AP direction.

  When a plurality of terminal devices are connected to a network via a relay device, a technique for automatically setting a priority in communication of each terminal device is known (for example, see Patent Literature 1 and Patent Literature 2). .

JP 2011-155462 A JP 2005-260415 A

  However, the conventional techniques such as Patent Document 1 and Patent Document 2 have the following problems that cannot be solved.

  The first problem is to grasp the information for identifying the terminal device such as the MAC address necessary for the user to determine the priority such as the MAC address of the terminal device, and to set the priority communication of the terminal device. It is necessary.

  In the techniques described in Patent Document 1 and Patent Document 2, it is necessary for the user or administrator to set information such as a MAC address. If the MAC address cannot be grasped, the setting for priority control is performed. I can't do it.

  The second problem is that the user cannot grasp the communication contents of other terminal devices under the relay device to which the terminal device is connected.

  For example, when the priority of the terminal device used by the user (parent) is set, it cannot be understood that the communication content of the terminal used by another user (child) is video viewing. In other words, since the user cannot present information for determining whether or not the priority setting is appropriate, a more detailed service cannot be provided.

  Patent Document 1 describes that a communication terminal is connected to a relay device of a network system. However, communication contents of other communication terminals connected to the same relay device from a specific communication terminal are described. It is not described about grasping.

  Patent Document 2 also does not describe that the communication terminal displays the contents of communication of other communication terminals and informs the user of the contents.

  The third problem is that the user cannot determine the timing for preferentially communicating with the terminal device over the communication with other terminals.

  In the existing technology, by registering the MAC address, the communication of the corresponding terminal is always automatically prioritized, and the user cannot determine the timing for changing the priority.

  Patent Document 1 describes that the priority of each communication terminal is automatically set, but does not describe that the user himself changes the priority. Patent Document 2 describes that information such as priority is registered in the switch by transmitting a frame including the priority of the communication terminal, but the user decides when to change the priority. Is not described.

  Due to the problems as described above, the prior art cannot provide more options to the user and the degree of freedom of the user is small. The present invention has been made in view of the above-described problems.

  That is, it is possible to provide a gateway device and a method in which a user does not need to know information such as a MAC address and can determine the timing for performing priority communication after confirming the communication content of another terminal connected to the AP. With the goal.

  A typical example of the invention disclosed in the present application is as follows. That is, a gateway device that connects a plurality of communication terminals that transmit frames, the gateway device including a processor, a memory connected to the processor, and a network interface connected to the processor, The plurality of networks are connected to the communication terminals via a plurality of networks, the plurality of networks including a priority communication network for transmitting and receiving the frame with priority, and the gateway device includes identification information of each network, and A communication control unit that holds control information associated with communication control parameter information in each network and controls communication between each communication terminal and each network, and the frame transmitted and received by each communication terminal A terminal information storage unit for storing the information of A terminal information acquisition unit that acquires the information of the frame from the end information storage unit and analyzes the information of the acquired frame, and a MAC address that associates the identifier of each communication terminal and the MAC address of each communication terminal Management information and a transmission / reception unit that transmits / receives the frame to / from each communication terminal, wherein the gateway device preferentially transmits / receives a frame to / from the target communication terminal from a predetermined target communication terminal Is received from the terminal information storage unit, the frame information of the other communication terminal connected to the gateway device is acquired, and the acquired frame information is analyzed. In order to display the communication content of the other communication terminal connected to the gateway device based on the analysis result of the frame information When first display data is generated, the first display data is transmitted to the target communication terminal, and the priority communication start request including the MAC address of the target communication terminal is received from the target communication terminal The target communication terminal is identified with reference to the MAC address management information based on the MAC address included in the priority communication start request, and the network to which the identified target communication terminal is connected is It is characterized by switching to a network for priority communication.

  According to the present invention, a user can change the priority of his / her communication terminal at an arbitrary timing after confirming the communication content of another communication terminal without specifying information such as a MAC address. . That is, priority communication can be performed with respect to its own communication terminal.

  Problems, configurations, and effects other than those described above will be clarified by the following description of embodiments.

It is a block diagram explaining the structural example of the network system in 1st Example of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows an example of the hardware constitutions of the wireless LAN router in 1st Example of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the MAC address management table in 1st Example of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the setting screen of the priority communication in 1st Example of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the list information in 1st Example of this invention. It is a sequence diagram explaining the flow of the process for starting the priority communication in 1st Example of this invention. It is a flowchart explaining the analysis process of the frame information in 1st Example of this invention. It is a sequence diagram explaining the flow of the communication switching process performed at the time of the setting of the priority communication of 1st Example of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the wireless LAN network when the priority communication in the 1st Example of this invention is set. It is a sequence diagram explaining the flow of the process performed at the time of completion | finish of the priority communication in 1st Example of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the pop-up screen displayed on the radio | wireless terminal in 1st Example of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the pop-up screen displayed on the radio | wireless terminal in 1st Example of this invention. It is a sequence diagram explaining the flow of the communication switching process performed at the time of completion | finish of the priority communication of 1st Example of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the system configuration | structure in the 2nd Example of this invention. It is a sequence diagram explaining the flow of the process performed at the time of the setting of the priority communication in 2nd Example of this invention. It is a sequence diagram explaining the flow of the process performed at the time of the setting of the priority communication in the modification of the 2nd Example of this invention. It is a sequence diagram explaining the flow of the process performed when the priority communication in the 3rd Example of this invention is set. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of a prior art. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of a prior art. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of a prior art.

(First embodiment)
FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a network system according to the first embodiment of this invention.

  The network system in the first embodiment includes a wireless LAN router 100 and a plurality of wireless terminals 150.

  The wireless LAN router 100 is a gateway device that connects the wireless terminal 150 and an external network 190. The wireless LAN router 100 is connected to a plurality of wireless terminals 150 via a wireless LAN (Local Area Network) network. The configuration of the wireless LAN router 100 will be described later.

  The wireless LAN router 100 can be connected to a plurality of wireless LAN networks (not shown). For example, it can be realized by using a multi-SSID function. In this case, each wireless LAN network is identified by the SSID. The multi-SSID function is a well-known technique and will not be described.

  In this embodiment, it is assumed that there is a wireless LAN network identified by three SSIDs of SSID1, SSID2, and SSID3. Also, SSID1 and SSID3 are assumed to have the same identification name, but the EDCA parameters in the wireless LAN networks of SSID1 and SSID3 are different.

  In this embodiment, it is assumed that different MAC addresses are associated with SSID1, SSID2, and SSID3.

  The plurality of wireless terminals 150 are devices having a communication function (wireless LAN communication function) for communicating via a wireless LAN network. As the wireless terminal 150, for example, a personal computer, a mobile phone, a smartphone, a touch panel type terminal device, and the like can be considered. Any device having a wireless LAN communication function and a display function may be used.

  The configuration of the wireless terminal 150 is well-known and will not be described here. As hardware for realizing the above-described functions, for example, a processor, a memory, a network interface, and an input / output device are included. The input / output device includes a display unit such as a display.

  In the example illustrated in FIG. 1, three communication terminals 1 (150-1), a communication terminal 2 (150-2), and a communication terminal 3 (150-3) are connected to the wireless LAN router 100.

  The wireless LAN router 100 includes a communication control unit 101, a terminal information acquisition unit 102, a transmission / reception unit 103, a screen control unit 104, a terminal information storage unit 105, a MAC address management table 106, and a configuration information storage unit 107.

  The communication control unit 101 controls processing of the entire wireless LAN router 100. In the present embodiment, the communication control unit 101 includes a communication function unit that controls communication of a wireless LAN network corresponding to each SSID. The wireless terminal 150 recognizes the communication function unit as one access point (wireless LAN router).

  The communication control unit 101 includes control information necessary for communication control in the wireless LAN network for each SSID. It is assumed that at least SSID and EDCA parameters are associated with the control information. The control information may include other information such as security information.

  The communication control unit 101 determines a wireless LAN network to be connected based on the SSID included in the frame, refers to control information corresponding to the SSID, acquires security information and the like, and communicates with each wireless terminal 150. To control.

  In this embodiment, since the wireless terminal 150 performs communication using EDCA parameters, the communication control unit 101 does not need to perform communication control using EDCA parameters. In addition, this invention is not limited to this, The communication control part 101 may perform communication control using an EDCA parameter.

  The terminal information acquisition unit 102 acquires frame information transmitted and received at each wireless terminal 150 from the terminal information storage unit 105. Further, the terminal information acquisition unit 102 analyzes the acquired frame information and outputs the analysis result. In this embodiment, the terminal information acquisition unit 102 generates statistical information for each priority class.

  Here, the priority class represents a class related to network transfer quality. In the present embodiment, the frames are classified based on the type of data included in the frames.

  Specifically, a frame including audio data is defined as an audio class, a frame including video data is defined as a video class, and a frame including best effort data is defined as an Internet class. Also, it is assumed that the priority order (transfer quality) of each class in the normal communication state is higher in the order of the audio class, the video class, and the Internet class.

  The transmission / reception unit 103 transmits / receives a frame to / from the wireless terminal 150 and transmits / receives a frame to / from the network 190. The screen control unit 104 generates screen information to be displayed on the wireless terminal 150.

  The terminal information storage unit 105 stores frame information of each wireless terminal 150 connected to the wireless LAN router 100. In the present embodiment, the communication control unit 101 periodically acquires frame information from the wireless terminal 150 connected to the wireless LAN router 100 and stores the acquired frame information in the terminal information storage unit 105.

  The MAC address management table 106 stores information such as the MAC address of the wireless terminal 150 connected to the wireless LAN router 100. Details of the MAC address management table 106 will be described later with reference to FIG.

  The configuration information storage unit 107 stores security information such as encryption settings and configuration information necessary for connection settings. For example, the configuration information storage unit 107 includes a plurality of records including SSID, encryption method, EDCA parameter value, user identifier, and user network address. The communication control unit 101 can hold information necessary for communication control by acquiring necessary information from the configuration information storage unit 107.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the communication control unit 101, the terminal information acquisition unit 102, the transmission / reception unit 103, the screen control unit 104, the terminal information storage unit 105, the MAC address management table 106, and the configuration information storage unit 107 mutually input data. Output.

  In the following description, a case where the communication terminal 1 (150-1) performs priority communication will be described.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of the wireless LAN router 100 according to the first embodiment of this invention.

  The wireless LAN router 100 includes a processor 201, a memory 202, and a network interface 203.

  The processor 201 executes a program stored in the memory 202. When the processor 201 executes the program, the function of the wireless LAN router 100 can be realized.

  The memory 202 stores a program executed by the processor 201 and information necessary for executing the program.

  In this embodiment, the memory 202 stores programs for realizing the communication control unit 101, the terminal information acquisition unit 102, the transmission / reception unit 103, and the screen control unit 104. The memory 202 also includes storage areas for realizing the terminal information storage unit 105, the MAC address management table 106, and the configuration information storage unit 107.

  Note that the wireless LAN router 100 may include other hardware such as a large-capacity nonvolatile storage medium.

  In the present embodiment, the communication control unit 101, the terminal information acquisition unit 102, the transmission / reception unit 103, and the screen control unit 104 are realized using a program, but may be realized using dedicated hardware.

  FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the MAC address management table 106 according to the first embodiment of this invention.

  The MAC address management table 106 includes a terminal ID 301, a MAC address 302, a nickname 303, a priority communication setting 304, and a priority communication time 305.

  The terminal ID 301 is an identifier for uniquely identifying the wireless terminal 150. The MAC address 302 is the MAC address of the wireless terminal 150.

  Note that the MAC address of the wireless terminal 150 is included in the MAC header of a transmission frame transmitted to the wireless LAN router 100. Therefore, the wireless LAN router 100 can obtain the MAC address of each wireless terminal 150 by referring to the MAC header of the transmission frame.

  The nickname 303 is a name arbitrarily set for the wireless terminal 150 corresponding to the terminal ID 301. For example, when the user sets an arbitrary name for the wireless terminal 150 using a predetermined user interface, the wireless LAN router 100 receives the nickname and stores it in the entry of the corresponding wireless terminal 150.

  The priority communication setting 304 is information indicating whether or not priority communication is valid for the wireless terminal 150 corresponding to the terminal ID 301. In the present embodiment, “ON” is stored in the priority communication setting 304 when the priority communication is valid, and “OFF” is stored in the priority communication setting 304 when the priority communication is invalid. Any information may be stored as long as it indicates whether priority communication is valid.

  The priority communication time 305 indicates the valid time of priority communication. The priority communication time 305 is a value that can be set even when the priority communication setting 304 is “OFF”. For example, the priority time set in advance in each wireless terminal 150 may be stored, or the priority time when the previous priority communication was performed may be stored.

  Here, the priority communication setting screen 400 for presenting information necessary for starting priority communication to the user will be described.

  FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a priority communication setting screen 400 according to the first embodiment of this invention.

  FIG. 4 is an example of a user interface screen for setting the priority communication of the wireless terminal 150, and the display format is not limited to this. The priority communication setting screen 400 is displayed on the display unit of the wireless terminal 150.

  The priority communication setting screen 400 includes a connection number display unit 401, a priority start button 402, a detail button 403, a cancel button 404, and a priority communication time setting unit 405.

  The connection number display unit 401 is a display area that displays the total number of wireless terminals 150 that are currently connected to the wireless LAN router 100.

  The priority start button 402 is an operation button for instructing the start of priority communication. The detail button 403 is an operation button for displaying communication contents of the wireless terminal 150 connected to the wireless LAN router 100. A cancel button 404 is an operation button for ending priority communication.

  When the user operates the priority start button 402, the wireless terminal 150 transmits a priority communication start request to be described later.

  When the user operates the detail button 403, the wireless terminal 150 transmits a display request for list information 500 (see FIG. 5) described later. Here, the list information 500 will be described.

  FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the list information 500 according to the first embodiment of this invention.

  The list information 500 is information indicating communication contents of the wireless terminal 150 connected to the wireless LAN router 100. The list information 500 includes a terminal ID 501, a nickname 502, a connection state 503, communication contents 504, a priority communication setting 505, and a priority communication time 506. The list information 500 may include other information.

  The terminal ID 501, nickname 502, priority communication setting 505, and priority communication time 506 are the same as the terminal ID 301, nickname 303, priority communication setting 304, and priority communication time 305 in the MAC address management table 106.

  The connection state 503 is information indicating a connection state between the wireless terminal 150 and the wireless LAN router 100. For example, the wireless LAN router 100 can acquire the connection state of the wireless terminal 150 by periodically monitoring the session state of the wireless terminal 150.

  The communication content 504 is information indicating the content of communication data being performed between the wireless terminal 150 and the wireless LAN router 100. Information stored in the communication content 504 is generated by the terminal information acquisition unit 102. By referring to the list information 500, the user can confirm the communication content 504 as information for determining whether to start priority communication.

  Returning to the description of FIG.

  When the cancel button 404 is operated, the wireless terminal 150 transmits a priority communication end notification to the wireless LAN router 100. Thereby, the priority communication can be terminated.

  The priority communication time setting unit 405 is an area for inputting an effective time of priority communication. In this embodiment, the effective time of priority communication is displayed by operating the pull-down button 406. The priority communication time setting unit 405 may be in a display format that can be directly input.

  Next, processing of the wireless LAN router 100 and the wireless terminal 150 in the first embodiment will be described.

  First, processing executed when setting priority communication will be described.

  FIG. 6 is a sequence diagram for explaining the flow of processing for starting priority communication in the first embodiment of the present invention.

  Each of the wireless terminal 1 (150-1), the wireless terminal 2 (150-2), and the wireless terminal 3 (150-3) executes connection processing with the wireless LAN router 100 (step S601). At this time, the wireless LAN router 100 analyzes the frame transmitted from each wireless terminal 150 and updates the MAC address management table 106 based on the result of the analysis.

  Specifically, the wireless LAN router 100 refers to the MAC address management table 106 and searches for an entry corresponding to the wireless terminal 150. If there is no corresponding entry, the wireless LAN router 100 generates an entry corresponding to the wireless terminal 150 and stores necessary information in the terminal ID 301, the MAC address 302, and the nickname 303 of the entry. The priority communication setting 304 and the priority communication time 305 of the generated entry remain blank.

  The wireless LAN router 100 may store the set nickname in the nickname 303 when a nickname is set by the user.

  If there is an entry corresponding to the wireless terminal 150, the wireless LAN router 100 updates information of the corresponding entry based on the analysis result. Further, when the communication of the wireless terminal 150 is completed (for example, when communication is not performed for a certain period of time), the wireless LAN router 100 deletes the entry corresponding to the wireless terminal 150 from the MAC address management table 106.

  In this embodiment, the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) connects to the wireless LAN network of SSID1 (step S602). Further, the wireless terminal 2 (150-2) and the wireless terminal 3 (150-3) are connected to the wireless LAN network (steps S603 and S604). The wireless terminal 2 (150-2) and the wireless terminal 3 (150-3) may be connected to any wireless LAN network of SSID1 or SSID2.

  When the user of the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) desires priority communication, the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) transmits a priority communication setting request to the wireless LAN router 100 (step S605).

  As a method of transmitting a priority communication setting request, a method in which a user activates a Web browser by operating the wireless terminal 150 and inputs a predetermined URL via the input / output device of the wireless terminal 150 can be considered. Note that the present invention is not limited to a method for transmitting a priority communication setting request.

  When receiving the priority communication setting request, the wireless LAN router 100 transmits data for displaying the priority communication setting screen 400 to the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) (step S606). In the following description, data for displaying the priority communication setting screen 400 is also referred to as first display data.

  When receiving the first display data, the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) displays the priority communication setting screen 400 on the display unit (step S607).

  The user can confirm whether or not there is a wireless terminal 150 connected to the wireless LAN router 100 by referring to the connection number display unit 401 of the priority communication setting screen 400. When the user confirms the communication content of the wireless terminal 150 connected to the wireless LAN router 100, the detail button 403 is operated (step S608).

  When the detail button 403 is operated, the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) transmits a display request for the list information 500 to the wireless LAN router 100 (step S609).

  Upon receiving the display request for the list information 500, the wireless LAN router 100 executes frame information analysis processing (step S610). As a result, data for displaying the list information 500 is generated. In the following description, data for displaying the list information 500 is also referred to as second display data. Details of the frame information analysis processing will be described later with reference to FIG.

  The wireless LAN router 100 transmits the generated second display data to the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) (step S611).

  When the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) receives the second display data, the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) displays the list information 500 on the display unit (step S612). In this embodiment, the list information 500 is displayed in the lower part of the priority communication setting screen 400 (under the priority communication time setting unit 405) in consideration of the user's visibility. Note that the present invention is not limited to the display method of the list information 500, and may be a display format that newly pops up as another display screen.

  By referring to the list information 500, the user can confirm the communication state and communication content of the other wireless terminal 150. The user can determine whether to start the priority communication of the communication terminal 1 (150-1) with reference to information such as the list information 500.

  On the other hand, there may be a case where the user starts the priority communication without confirming the list information 500. In this case, the detail button 403 is not operated by the user.

  When the user desires to start priority communication, the priority start button 402 is operated (step S613).

  The wireless terminal 1 (150-1) may cause the user to input a user ID or a password when the user operates the priority start button 402. This is because priority communication is meaningless if all wireless terminals 150 can perform priority communication. In addition, by setting in advance users who can perform priority communication, it is possible to prevent other users from performing priority communication. In the present embodiment, it is assumed that the user ID or password is communicated only to the main contractor of the communication line, and the password can be changed only by the contractor.

  When the priority start button 402 is operated, the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) transmits a priority communication start request to the wireless LAN router 100 (step S614). The priority communication start request includes the priority communication time set by the user. However, the priority time information is not necessarily included. In this case, a preset priority communication time may be used.

  When receiving the priority communication start request, the wireless LAN router 100 updates the MAC address management table 106 (step S615).

  Specifically, the wireless LAN router 100 changes the priority communication setting 505 of the entry corresponding to the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) from “OFF” to “ON”, and sets the priority communication time 506 of the entry. The value of the priority communication time included in the priority communication start request is stored. When the priority communication time is not included in the priority communication start request, the preset priority communication time is stored.

  After updating the MAC address management table 106, the wireless LAN router 100 transmits a response to the priority communication start request to the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) (step S616).

  Thereafter, the wireless LAN router 100 executes a communication switching process for switching the wireless LAN network (step S617). In this embodiment, the SSID1 wireless LAN network is switched to the SSID3 wireless LAN network. Details of the communication switching process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  Through the above processing, the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) is connected to the wireless LAN router 100 via the wireless LAN network of SSID3 (step S618), and starts priority communication.

  When the wireless LAN router 100 receives a priority communication setting request, the wireless LAN router 100 executes a frame information analysis process and displays the first display including the second display data on the wireless terminal 1 (150-1). Data may be sent. In this case, the detail button 403 on the priority communication setting screen 400 can be omitted.

  The wireless LAN router 100 may transmit display data for requesting input of a user ID or a password to the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) after the user operates the priority start button 402.

  FIG. 7 is a flowchart for explaining the frame information analysis processing in the first embodiment of the present invention.

  When the communication control unit 101 receives a display request for the list information 500 via the transmission / reception unit 103, the communication control unit 101 calls the terminal information acquisition unit 102 and instructs execution of analysis processing of frame information.

  First, the terminal information acquisition unit 102 selects one wireless terminal 150 to be processed, and acquires frame information corresponding to the selected wireless terminal 150 from the terminal information storage unit 105 (step S701).

  For example, the terminal information acquisition unit 102 can select the wireless terminal 150 to be processed by selecting one entry in the MAC address management table 106. At this time, the terminal information acquisition unit 102 acquires information of an entry corresponding to the selected wireless terminal 150 from the MAC address management table 106, and temporarily holds the information.

  The terminal information acquisition unit 102 generates statistical information based on the acquired frame information (step S702). Specifically, the terminal information acquisition unit 102 classifies the acquired frame information for each priority class, and calculates the data amount of each priority class.

  For example, the terminal information acquisition unit 102 analyzes the frame information of the wireless terminal 1 (150-1), classifies the frames into an audio class, a video class, and an Internet class, and calculates the data amount of each class.

  The terminal information acquisition unit 102 refers to the generated statistical information and determines whether there is a class having the same data amount (step S703).

  When it is determined that there is no class with the same data amount, the terminal information acquisition unit 102 selects the class with the largest data amount as the communication content of the selected wireless terminal 150 (step S708). Thereafter, the terminal information acquisition unit 102 proceeds to step S706.

  When it is determined that classes with the same data amount exist, the terminal information acquisition unit 102 compares the priorities of the classes with the same data amount (step S704), and gives priority to the communication content of the selected wireless terminal 150. The class with the highest degree is selected (step S705).

  The terminal information acquisition unit 102 generates second display data for displaying the list information 500 (step S706).

  Specifically, the terminal information acquisition unit 102 corresponds to the entry of the list information 500 based on the entry information acquired from the MAC address management table 106 and the class selected in step S705 or step S708. Is generated. At this time, the communication content 504 stores content corresponding to the class selected in step S705 or step S708.

  Thereby, the communication content of each wireless terminal 150 can be presented to the user. Thus, by presenting representative communication contents instead of detailed communication contents in the wireless terminal 150, a user without specialized knowledge can easily grasp the communication state of the wireless terminal 150. Become.

  Next, the terminal information acquisition unit 102 determines whether or not the processing has been completed for all the wireless terminals 150 connected to the wireless LAN router 100 (step S707).

  When it is determined that the processing has not been completed for all the wireless terminals 150 connected to the wireless LAN router 100, the terminal information acquisition unit 102 returns to step S701 and executes the same processing (steps S701 to S707). .

  When it is determined that the process has been completed for all the wireless terminals 150 connected to the wireless LAN router 100, the terminal information acquisition unit 102 ends the process.

  FIG. 8 is a sequence diagram illustrating the flow of communication switching processing executed when setting priority communication according to the first embodiment of this invention.

  FIG. 8 illustrates an example in which the connection of the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) is switched from the SSID1 wireless LAN network to the SSID3 wireless LAN network.

  In FIG. 8, each communication function part is represented using SSID. The wireless terminal 150 recognizes the communication function unit as one access point (wireless LAN router).

  The EDCA parameters (AIFS, CW, TXOP) in the SSID3 wireless LAN network are set so that the SSID3 wireless LAN network is preferentially handled over the other SSID wireless LAN networks. Specifically, the AIFS value and the CW value in the SSID3 wireless LAN network are set to be smaller than those in the other SSID wireless LAN networks, and the TXOP value in the SSID3 wireless LAN network is a continuous frame of the wireless LAN network. Are set to be transmitted.

  Of the frames transmitted and received via the SSID3 wireless LAN network, only the EDCA parameters of a specific class of frames may be set smaller than those in other SSID wireless LAN networks.

  After transmitting a response to the priority communication start request, the wireless LAN router 100 transmits a deauthentication frame to the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) in order to switch the connection of the wireless LAN network (step S801). As a result, the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) is temporarily disconnected from the SSID1 wireless LAN network.

  The wireless LAN router 100 periodically transmits a Beacon signal from the communication function units of SSID1, SSID2, and SSID3 to each wireless terminal 150 (steps S802, S803, and S804).

  The Beacon signal is generated by the communication control unit 101. Note that a known technique may be used as a method for generating the Beacon signal, and thus details thereof are omitted.

  In this embodiment, the Beacon signal includes SSID and EDCA parameters. However, the Beacon signal transmitted from the communication function unit of SSID3 is set so that SSID3 is not notified to the wireless terminal 150 by using the wireless stealth function.

  This is because, in the present embodiment, SSID1 and SSID3 are set to be the same, so that interference may occur in the communication of the wireless terminal 150.

  Here, the wireless stealth function is a function that prevents the SSID included in the Beacon signal from being notified, and is a function that is mainly used for security measures. As a result, the wireless terminal 150 cannot find the SSID 3 even if AP scanning is performed.

  The Beacon signal may include information other than SSID and EDCA parameters.

  After receiving the beacon from the communication function unit of each SSID, the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) transmits a Probe Request to inquire about the presence of an AP (here, the communication function unit of each SSID) (step S805). ).

  Here, it is assumed that a probe request is transmitted to the communication function unit (AP) of SSID 1 (unicast). Note that a probe request may be transmitted by broadcast to the communication function unit (AP) of each SSID.

  When receiving the Probe Request, the wireless LAN router 100 refers to the MAC address management table 106 based on the MAC address included in the Probe Request.

  When the priority communication setting 304 of the entry corresponding to the MAC address is “ON”, the wireless LAN router 100 determines that the wireless terminal 150 corresponding to the MAC address is the wireless terminal 150 that performs priority communication.

  Therefore, the wireless LAN router 100 continues the processing on the assumption that Probe Request has been transmitted to the communication function unit of SSID3. Note that the same processing is also executed when the Probe Request is transmitted by broadcast.

  Here, since the Probe Request is received from the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) that performs priority communication, the wireless LAN router 100 controls to respond from the communication function unit of SSID3. As a result, the probe response is transmitted from the communication function unit of SSID 3 to the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) (step S806).

  Note that there is a possibility that the Probe Request is transmitted a plurality of times from the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) to the communication function unit of SSID1. In this case, the wireless LAN router 100 performs control so that no response is made from the communication function unit of SSID1.

  In some cases, it may take several seconds until the wireless terminal 150 transmits the authentication. During this time, the wireless LAN router 100 controls the SSID3 communication function unit to transmit the probe response a plurality of times.

  After step S806, the communication function unit of SSID3 and the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) transmit and receive Authentication to each other in order to perform authentication (steps S807 and S808).

  Thereafter, the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) transmits an association request for requesting connection to the communication function unit of SSID3 (step S809).

  When the wireless LAN router 100 receives the association request, the wireless LAN router 100 controls the communication function unit of SSID 3 so as to transmit the association response to the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) as a response. As a result, the association response is transmitted from the communication function unit of SSID 3 to the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) (step S810).

  When the above processing is completed, the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) is connected to the wireless LAN network of SSID3 (step S811). That is, priority communication starts.

  When the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) is connected to the SSID3 wireless LAN network, the wireless LAN router 100 starts a timer. That is, counting of the priority communication time is started.

  Even after the start of priority communication, the communication function units of SSID1, SSID2, and SSID3 periodically transmit Beacon signals (steps S812, S813, and S814).

  The wireless terminal 150 can determine which AP (communication function unit) the Beacon signal is transmitted by referring to the MAC address included in the Beacon signal. Therefore, even if the SSID3 included in the Beacon signal transmitted by the communication function unit of SSID3 cannot be grasped, it can be identified as the Beacon signal transmitted from the communication function unit of SSID3. For example, this can be realized by the wireless terminal 150 holding identification information such as a MAC address set in each AP (wireless function unit).

  Note that the method for determining whether the signal is a Beacon signal transmitted from the communication function unit of SSID3 is not limited to the above-described method.

  Since the Beacon signal transmitted from the communication function unit of SSID3 includes an EDCA parameter for realizing priority communication, the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) uses the EDCA parameter when transmitting a frame. It can be held as a parameter.

  As described above, the priority communication in the downlink direction can be realized by switching to the wireless LAN network of the SSID for the priority communication of the wireless LAN router 100. Further, when the wireless terminal 150 uses the EDCA parameter included in the Beacon signal transmitted from the communication function unit of the SSID for priority communication, it is possible to realize the priority communication in the uplink direction. That is, preferential handling is possible for both downlink and uplink communications.

  FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a wireless LAN network when priority communication is set according to the first embodiment of this invention.

  In the example illustrated in FIG. 9, the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) is connected to the SSID3 wireless LAN network, and the wireless terminal 3 (150-3) is connected to the SSID1 wireless LAN network.

  Next, processing executed at the end of priority communication will be described.

  FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram illustrating the flow of processing executed at the end of priority communication in the first embodiment of the present invention.

  The wireless terminal 1 (150-1) performs priority communication by connecting to the wireless LAN network of SSID3 (step S1001). The wireless LAN router 100 continues the priority communication after the priority communication is started until the priority communication time elapses.

  When the priority communication time has elapsed, the wireless LAN router 100 transmits display data for inquiring whether to extend the priority communication to the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) (step S1002). In the following description, the display data for inquiring whether to extend the priority communication is also referred to as third display data.

  Here, after the priority communication time has elapsed, the wireless LAN router 100 transmits the third display data. However, before the priority communication time elapses (for example, three minutes before), the third display data is transmitted. Is desirable to send.

  When receiving the third display data, the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) displays a confirmation screen for selecting whether or not to extend the priority communication time on the display unit (step S1003). The confirmation screen preferably includes operation buttons such as “YES” and “No”.

  When the user performs an operation for extending the priority communication with reference to the confirmation screen described above, the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) transmits a request for extending the priority communication to the wireless LAN router 100 (step S1). S1004). For example, when the “YES” operation button is operated, a priority communication extension request is transmitted. The confirmation screen may include a display unit for changing the priority communication time.

  Upon receiving the priority communication extension request, the wireless LAN router 100 continues the priority communication (step S1005). At this time, the wireless LAN router 100 starts counting the priority communication time from the reception of the priority communication extension request.

  When the user performs an operation for ending the priority communication with reference to the confirmation screen described above, the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) transmits a priority communication end request to the wireless LAN router 100 (step S1006). ).

  When receiving the priority communication end request, the wireless LAN router 100 executes communication switching processing (step S1007). As a result, the priority communication ends. Details of the communication switching process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  When the confirmation screen is displayed before the priority communication time elapses, the wireless LAN router 100 may execute the communication switching process after the priority communication time elapses without performing any operation. Further, priority communication may be continued after the priority communication time has elapsed without performing any operation.

  When the communication switching process is executed, the connection of the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) is switched from the SSID3 wireless LAN network to the SSID1 wireless LAN network (step S1008).

  In FIG. 10, the confirmation screen is displayed after the priority communication time elapses or immediately before the priority communication time elapses, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the wireless LAN router 100 may transmit data for displaying a pop-up for ending priority communication periodically (for example, at intervals of 3 minutes).

  11A and 11B are explanatory diagrams illustrating an example of a pop-up screen displayed on the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) according to the first embodiment of this invention.

  Pop-up screens 1100 and 1110 include cancel buttons 1101 and 1111, respectively.

  The cancel buttons 1101 and 1111 are the same as the cancel button 404 in FIG. That is, when the cancel buttons 1101 and 1111 are operated by the user, the priority communication can be ended.

  Note that a pop-up screen may always be displayed on the display unit of the wireless terminal 150. In this case, it is desirable to display a small pop-up screen on the display unit.

  FIG. 12 is a sequence diagram illustrating the flow of communication switching processing executed at the end of priority communication according to the first embodiment of this invention.

  FIG. 12 illustrates an example in which the connection of the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) is switched from the SSID3 wireless LAN network to the SSID1 wireless LAN network.

  Before executing the communication switching process, the wireless LAN router 100 refers to the MAC address management table 106 based on the MAC address included in the priority communication end request, and identifies the processing target wireless terminal 150.

  The wireless LAN router 100 adds information indicating that the priority communication is completed to the entry of the wireless terminal 150 to be processed. For example, it is conceivable to change the priority communication setting 304 to information such as “ON (scheduled switching)”. Instead of adding information to the entry of the processing target wireless terminal 150, a method of storing the identifier of the wireless terminal 150 as the processing target business system 300 may be used.

  In the present invention, any method may be used as long as the wireless terminal 150 to be processed can be identified.

  After the process described above is completed, the wireless LAN router 100 starts a communication switching process.

  First, the wireless LAN router 100 transmits a Deauthentication frame to the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) in order to switch the wireless LAN network to which the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) is connected (step S1201). As a result, the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) is temporarily disconnected from the SSID3 wireless LAN network.

  The wireless LAN router 100 periodically transmits a Beacon signal from the communication function units of SSID1, SSID2, and SSID3 to each wireless terminal 150 (steps S1202, S1203, and S1204).

  After receiving the Beacon signal from the communication function unit of each SSID, the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) transmits a Probe Request (step S1205).

  Here, it is assumed that a Probe Request is transmitted to the communication function unit of SSID 3 (unicast). Note that a probe request may be transmitted by broadcast to the communication function unit of each SSID.

  When receiving the Probe Request, the wireless LAN router 100 refers to the MAC address management table 106 based on the MAC address included in the Probe Request.

  When information indicating that priority communication ends is added to the entry corresponding to the MAC address, the wireless LAN router 100 determines that the wireless terminal 150 corresponding to the MAC address is the wireless terminal 150 that ends priority communication. .

  Therefore, the wireless LAN router 100 continues the process on the assumption that a Probe Request has been transmitted to the communication function unit of SSID1. Note that the same processing is also executed when the Probe Request is transmitted by broadcast.

  Here, since the probe request is received from the wireless terminal 1 (150-1), the wireless LAN router 100 controls to respond from the communication function unit of SSID1. As a result, the probe response is transmitted from the communication unit of SSID1 to the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) (step S1206).

  In addition, there is a possibility that the Probe Request is transmitted a plurality of times from the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) to the communication function unit of SSID3. In this case, the wireless LAN router 100 performs control so that no response is made from the communication function unit of SSID3.

  In some cases, it may take several seconds until the wireless terminal 150 transmits the authentication. During this time, the wireless LAN router 100 controls the SSID1 communication function unit to transmit the probe response a plurality of times.

  After step S1206, the communication function unit of SSID1 and the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) transmit and receive Authentication to each other for authentication (steps S1207 and S1208).

  Thereafter, the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) transmits an association request for requesting connection to the communication function unit of SSID3 (step S1209).

  When receiving the Association Request, the wireless LAN router 100 controls the communication function unit of SSID1 so as to transmit the Association Response to the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) as a response. As a result, the association response is transmitted from the communication function unit of SSID1 to the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) (step S1210).

  When the above processing is completed, the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) is connected to the wireless LAN network of SSID1 (step S1211). That is, the priority communication ends.

  Even after the end of the priority communication, the communication function units of SSID1, SSID2, and SSID3 periodically transmit a Beacon signal to surrounding wireless terminals 150 (steps S1212, S1213, and S1214).

  When the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) receives the Beacon signal transmitted from the communication function unit of SSID1, the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) transmits a frame using the EDCA parameter set in the Beacon signal.

  In the first embodiment, the identification names of SSID1 and SSID3 are the same, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the identification names of SSID1 and SSID3 may be different. In this case, it is not necessary to use the wireless stealth function for the Beacon signal transmitted from the communication function unit of SSID3.

  As described above, the priority communication in the downlink direction is canceled by switching to the SSID wireless LAN network for normal communication of the wireless LAN router 100. Further, when the wireless terminal 150 uses the EDCA parameter included in the Beacon signal transmitted from the communication function unit of the SSID for normal communication, the priority communication in the uplink direction is also released. That is, priority communication can be canceled for both the downlink and uplink communications.

  In the first embodiment, the case where only one wireless terminal 150 performs priority communication has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. There may be two or more wireless terminals 150 capable of priority communication, or a new user interface screen may be prepared so that the user can set the number of wireless terminals 150 capable of priority communication. .

  In this case, if the number of wireless terminals 150 capable of priority communication is increased, the communication of the wireless terminals 150 may be congested. Therefore, an upper limit is set for the number of communication terminals that can be added, and a larger number of wireless terminals. You may display so that addition of 150 may not be advanced.

  Here, the effects of the first embodiment will be described based on the prior art.

  17, FIG. 18 and FIG. 19 are explanatory diagrams showing an example of the prior art. FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of Patent Document 1. In FIG. 18 and 19 are explanatory diagrams showing the configuration of Patent Document 2. FIG.

  First, the invention described in Patent Document 1 will be described.

  As shown in FIG. 17, a network system 1700 in Patent Document 1 includes a product server 1710, a manufacturing department data storage unit 1720, a service department data storage unit 1730, an Internet 1740, a gateway 1750, and a relay device arranged for each communication terminal manufacturer. 1760 and a plurality of communication terminals 1770.

  The product server 1710, the manufacturing department data storage unit 1720, the service department data storage unit 1730, and the Internet 1740 are connected via an access line 1780. The gateway 1750 and the Internet 1740 are connected via an access line 1780. The gateway 1750 and the relay device 1760 are connected via a LAN cable 1790. The relay device 1760 and the communication terminal 1770 are connected via a LAN cable 1790.

  The product server 1710 is a server managed by a manufacturer / seller of the communication terminal 1770, and holds a terminal information database that stores communication terminal information such as the MAC address and priority of the communication terminal 1770 sold by the manufacturer. The product server 1710 searches the terminal information database in response to the communication terminal information inquiry from the relay device 1760 and returns the result.

  The manufacturing department data storage unit 1720 is a database of a manufacturer's manufacturing department, and stores product information such as product type and MAC address range of manufactured products.

  In the product server 1710, terminal information needs to be registered in advance in order to respond to an inquiry about communication terminal information from the relay device 1760. Patent Document 1 describes that when registering terminal information in the product server 1710, the terminal information is registered by transmitting the communication terminal information from the manufacturing department data storage unit 1720 to the product server 1710.

  In this case, first, it is necessary to store information on a terminal to be manufactured in the manufacturing department data storage unit 1720, and a user or an operator needs to upload the terminal information to the manufacturing department data storage unit 1720. When uploading terminal information, the user or worker needs to know information such as the MAC address of the communication terminal and then register terminal information such as priority for priority control.

  Next, Patent Document 2 will be described.

  As shown in FIG. 18, the invention described in Patent Document 2 describes a network relay device including a transmission source MAC address table 1820 and a priority determination unit 1810 that automatically performs priority control for each communication terminal. ing.

  The source MAC address table 1820 stores the MAC addresses of communication terminals that transmit data preferentially. The priority discriminating unit 1810 automatically performs priority control for each communication terminal using the transmission source MAC address table 1820 registered in advance as a determination criterion based on the MAC address of the communication terminal that is the transmission source of data to be relayed. Thereby, priority control is realized.

  FIG. 19 shows a block diagram of the Ethernet switch 1910 (Ethernet is a registered trademark, the same applies hereinafter). This is described using an Ethernet switch 1910 as an example of a network relay device.

  It is necessary to register the MAC address of the communication terminal in the Ethernet switch 1910 in advance, and Patent Document 2 describes a method of registering the transmission source MAC address from the communication terminal 1920 to the Ethernet switch 1910.

  In Patent Document 2, the communication terminal 1920 inputs a MAC address registration command, a MAC address to be registered, and a priority of the communication terminal having the MAC address in the data area of the Ethernet frame 1930, and the source MAC address Is input with the MAC address of the communication terminal 1920 and transmits an Ethernet frame 1930 for MAC address registration.

  Patent Document 2 does not disclose how a user registers a terminal for which priority communication is desired in the Ethernet switch 1910. Further, in order to register with the Ethernet switch 1910, the user needs to perform registration after grasping information such as the MAC address of the communication terminal.

  On the other hand, in the first embodiment, the priority communication of the wireless terminal 150 is performed after grasping the information for identifying the terminal device necessary for the user to determine the priority of the terminal device such as the MAC address of the wireless terminal 150. There is no need to make settings. Further, the user can start the priority communication at an arbitrary timing after grasping the communication content of the other wireless terminal 150 under the wireless LAN router 100 connected to the wireless terminal 150 used by the user.

(Second embodiment)
In the first embodiment, the priority communication setting screen 400 is displayed by inputting a URL from a Web browser. In the second embodiment, a specific application (priority setting application) is executed. The difference is that the priority communication setting screen 400 is displayed.

  Hereinafter, the difference from the first embodiment will be mainly described. In addition, the same code | symbol is provided to the same structure as a 1st Example, and description is abbreviate | omitted about the same structure.

  FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing a system configuration in the second embodiment of the present invention.

  In the second embodiment, a method in which a user downloads a priority setting application to the wireless terminal 150 will be described as an example.

  In the second embodiment, the application server 1310 arranged in the upper network 1300 and the wireless terminal 150 are connected so as to communicate with each other.

  Although details of the application server 1310 will not be described, it is assumed that a hard-air configuration includes a processor (not shown), a memory (not shown), an HDD (not shown), and a network interface (not shown).

  The application server 1310 stores a priority setting application 1350, and the priority setting application 1350 can be downloaded in response to a request from the wireless terminal 150.

  The user downloads the priority setting application 1350 from the application server 1310 by operating the wireless terminal 150.

  In this case, the priority setting application 1350 icon may be displayed on the display unit of the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) so that the application can be easily distinguished, and the user can easily download the priority setting application 1350. You may do it. For example, when the user operates an icon displayed on the display unit of the wireless terminal 1 (150-1), the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) may download the priority setting application 1350.

  FIG. 14 is a sequence diagram illustrating the flow of processing executed when setting priority communication according to the second embodiment of this invention. For simplicity of explanation, the wireless terminal 2 (150-2) and the wireless terminal 3 (150-3) are omitted.

  The second embodiment is different in that a download process of the priority setting application 1350 is added before the connection process with the wireless LAN router 100 (step S601) is executed.

  Specifically, the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) transmits a download request to the application server 1310 (step S1401). When receiving the download request, the application server 1310 transmits the data of the priority setting application 1350 to the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) (step S1402).

  In the second embodiment, the process for transmitting the setting request for priority setting (step S605) is different. Specifically, the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) activates the priority setting application 1350, and the priority setting application 1350 transmits a priority communication setting request to the wireless LAN router 100.

  Other processes are the same as those in the first embodiment.

  According to the second embodiment, the priority setting application 1350 for transmitting a priority communication setting request is downloaded in advance, so that the user does not need to input a specific URL using a Web browser, and the user's operation is convenient. Can be improved.

(Modification of the second embodiment)
Next, a modification of the second embodiment will be described.

  The modification of the second embodiment is different in that the activation time of the priority setting application 1350 is set in advance.

  FIG. 15 is a sequence diagram for explaining the flow of processing executed when priority communication is set in a modification of the second embodiment of the present invention. For simplicity of explanation, the wireless terminal 2 (150-2) and the wireless terminal 3 (150-3) are omitted. Also, the processing from step S614 to step S618 is omitted.

  After receiving the data of the priority setting application 1350 from the application server 1310, the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) activates the priority setting application and sets a time for displaying the priority communication setting screen 400 (step S1501). At this time, the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) stores the set time in the memory 202.

  For example, a format in which a pop-up screen for the user to set a time (timer) is displayed on the display unit of the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) can be considered. Using the pop-up screen, the user can set the time for displaying the priority communication setting screen 400, that is, the start time for starting the priority setting application 1350. Note that the user may set a specific date and time, or may set a start cycle.

  Note that the priority setting application 1350 does not operate once the time setting process is completed. However, the priority setting application 1350 periodically synchronizes with the wireless terminal 150 by providing a clock function. As a result, the priority setting application 1350 can be activated when the set time is reached. Here, a state in which only the clock function of the priority setting application 1350 is operating is referred to as a sleep mode.

  When the set time is reached, the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) changes the priority setting application 1350 from the sleep mode to the normal mode (step S1502). As a result, the priority setting application 1350 is activated.

  The wireless terminal 1 (150-1) determines whether it is connected to the wireless LAN network (step S1503). This is because when the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) is not connected to the wireless LAN network, a priority communication setting request cannot be transmitted.

  When it is determined that the wireless terminal 1 is not connected to the wireless LAN network, the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) periodically checks whether it is connected to the wireless LAN network. This process is realized by the priority setting application 1350.

  If it is determined that the wireless terminal 1 is connected to the wireless LAN network, the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) transmits a priority communication setting request to the wireless LAN router 100 (step S605).

  Since other processes are the same as those in the first embodiment, the description thereof is omitted.

  According to the modification of the second embodiment, the priority communication setting process can be started at a time desired by the user.

(Third embodiment)
Next, a third embodiment will be described.

  In the third embodiment, it is assumed that the wireless LAN network for setting priority communication is provided as a pay network such as a public wireless LAN. In this case, the priority communication service is provided only to the user who has paid the service usage fee.

  However, even if the user does not pay the service usage fee for some reason, if the priority setting application 1350 is downloaded, the priority communication service is provided using the priority setting application 1350. there is a possibility.

  Therefore, in the third embodiment, the payment status of the service usage fee is confirmed to determine whether the priority communication setting screen 400 can be displayed. Further, when the service usage fee is not paid, the priority communication setting screen 400 is not displayed even if the user operates the priority setting application 1350.

  Hereinafter, the difference from the first embodiment and the second embodiment will be mainly described. In addition, the same code | symbol is provided to the same structure as a 1st Example and a 2nd Example, and description is abbreviate | omitted about the same structure.

  The network system according to the third embodiment includes a service management server 1600 (not shown) that manages a user service charge. The service management server 1600 includes a processor (not shown), a memory (not shown), an HDD (not shown), and a network interface (not shown), and holds management data for managing the service usage fee payment status. The present invention is not limited to the data format of management data.

  FIG. 16 is a sequence diagram for explaining the flow of processing executed when setting priority communication in the third embodiment of the present invention. For simplicity of explanation, the wireless terminal 2 (150-2) and the wireless terminal 3 (150-3) are omitted. Also, the processing from step S607 to step S618 is omitted.

  Here, since a public wireless LAN network is assumed, the wireless LAN router 100 in FIG. 14 is equivalent to a public wireless LAN access point (hot spot).

  The wireless LAN router 100 executes the connection process (step S601), whereby the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) is connected to the wireless LAN network (public LAN network) of the wireless SSID1 (step S602).

  The wireless LAN router 100 accesses the service management server 1600 and transmits a confirmation request for the service class of the user of the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) (step S1601).

  Upon receiving the confirmation request, the service management server 1600 transmits service class information corresponding to the user as a response (step S1602).

  The service class information includes the payment status of the service usage fee of the user, the service class to which the user subscribes (service rank corresponding to the service content that can be provided to the user), and the like.

  When receiving the service class information, the wireless LAN router 100 confirms the service class regarding the availability of the service, and stores the service class and the MAC address of the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) in association with each other (step). S1603).

  In this embodiment, since priority communication in the public wireless LAN is assumed, the wireless LAN router 100 holds the service class information of the wireless terminal 150 for a predetermined period. As the predetermined period, for example, holding for one day (24 hours) can be considered.

  The wireless terminal 1 (150-1) activates the priority setting application 1350 manually or when the timer elapses, and transmits a priority communication setting request to the wireless LAN router 100 (step S605).

  Upon receiving the priority communication setting request, the wireless LAN router 100 refers to the MAC address included in the priority communication setting request and identifies the service class of the wireless terminal 1 (150-1). Further, the wireless LAN router 100 determines whether or not the user using the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) can use the priority communication service based on the specified service class (step S1604).

  When it is determined that the user of the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) can use the priority communication service, the wireless LAN router 100 transmits the first display data to the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) (step S1). S606). Since the processing after step S607 is the same as that of the first embodiment, the description thereof is omitted.

  If it is determined that the user of the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) cannot set the priority communication, the wireless LAN router 100 transmits a rejection response to the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) (step S1605). Specifically, display data indicating that the priority communication service cannot be used is transmitted.

  When receiving the rejection response, the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) displays a predetermined rejection screen (not shown) (step S1606). The rejection screen displays that the user has not subscribed to the service, that the service usage fee has not been paid, or that the service cannot be used.

  As a result, the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) cannot perform priority communication.

  In the third embodiment, when priority communication cannot be set, the priority communication setting screen 400 is not displayed on the wireless terminal 1 (150-1). However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the wireless terminal 1 (150-1) displays the priority communication setting screen 400, but does not accept the priority communication setting operation when an operation for starting the priority communication is executed. But you can.

  Although the wireless LAN router 100 has acquired management data from the service management server 1600, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the wireless LAN router 100 may include a storage device that holds management data.

  According to the third embodiment, when the priority communication setting service is provided for a fee, the service class indicating whether or not the service can be used is confirmed. It is possible to display the priority communication setting screen 400 on the terminal 150.

  The present invention has been described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, but the present invention is not limited to such a specific configuration, and various modifications and equivalents within the spirit of the appended claims. The configuration is included.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 Wireless LAN router 101 Communication control part 102 Terminal information acquisition part 103 Transmission / reception part 104 Screen control part 105 Terminal information storage part 106 MAC address management table 107 Configuration information storage part 150 Wireless terminal 190 Network 201 Processor 202 Memory 203 Network interface 400 Setting screen 401 Connection number display section 402 Priority start button 403 Details button 404 Cancel button 405 Priority communication time setting section 406 Pull-down button 500 List information 501 Terminal ID
502 Nickname 503 Connection state 504 Communication content 505 Priority communication setting 506 Priority communication time 1310 Application server 1350 Priority setting application 1600 Service management server

Claims (14)

A gateway device that connects a plurality of communication terminals that transmit frames,
The gateway device includes a processor, a memory connected to the processor, and a network interface connected to the processor,
The gateway device is connected to the communication terminals via a plurality of networks;
The plurality of networks include a network for priority communication for preferentially transmitting and receiving the frame,
The gateway device is
A communication control unit that holds control information associated with identification information of each network and communication control parameter information in each network, and controls communication between each communication terminal and each network;
A terminal information storage unit for storing information of the frame transmitted and received by each communication terminal;
A terminal information acquisition unit that acquires information of the frame from the terminal information storage unit and analyzes the information of the acquired frame;
MAC address management information in which the identifier of each communication terminal is associated with the MAC address of each communication terminal;
A transmission / reception unit for transmitting / receiving the frame to / from each communication terminal;
With
The gateway device is
When a setting request for starting priority communication for preferentially transmitting / receiving a frame to / from the target communication terminal is received from a predetermined target communication terminal, another terminal connected to the gateway device from the terminal information storage unit Obtaining frame information of the communication terminal;
Analyzing the acquired frame information;
Based on the analysis result of the information on the frame, generate first display data for displaying the communication content of the other communication terminal connected to the gateway device,
Transmitting the first display data to the target communication terminal;
When receiving the priority communication start request including the MAC address of the target communication terminal from the target communication terminal, the MAC address management information is referred to based on the MAC address included in the priority communication start request. Identify the target communication terminal,
A gateway apparatus characterized in that the network to which the identified target communication terminal is connected is switched to the network for priority communication. The gateway device according to claim 1,
The gateway device is
Select the communication terminal to be analyzed, obtain information of the frame of the selected communication terminal,
For each priority class in transmission / reception priority control, distribute information on frames transmitted / received in the communication terminal, and calculate the data amount for each priority class,
Based on the calculated amount of data for each priority class, determine the type of communication that the selected communication terminal is performing,
The gateway apparatus characterized by generating said 1st display data containing the MAC address of each said communication terminal, and the classification of communication determined with respect to each said communication terminal. The gateway device according to claim 2,
The identification information of each network is an SSID,
Based on the SSID corresponding to the priority control network, refer to the control information, and generate a beacon signal including the SSID corresponding to the priority communication network and the parameter in the priority communication network,
The gateway apparatus characterized by transmitting the generated beacon signal to the target communication terminal. The gateway device according to claim 3,
When the setting request is received, the second communication data for setting the priority communication time that is the effective time of the priority communication is transmitted to the target communication terminal,
When the set priority communication time has elapsed when the priority communication network has been switched to, the target communication terminal was connected before the target communication terminal was switched to the priority communication network. A gateway device characterized by switching to a network. The gateway device according to claim 4,
When switching the network to which the target communication terminal is connected, disconnect the currently connected network,
When a connection request is received from the target communication terminal, the gateway apparatus switches the network to which the target communication terminal is connected by connecting to a new network. A network system comprising a plurality of communication terminals that transmit frames, and a gateway device that connects the plurality of communication terminals,
The gateway device has a first processor, a first memory connected to the first processor, and a first network interface connected to the first processor;
Each of the communication terminals has a second processor, a second memory connected to the second processor, and a second network interface connected to the second processor,
The gateway device is connected to the communication terminals via a plurality of networks;
The plurality of networks include a network for priority communication for preferentially transmitting and receiving the frame,
The gateway device is
A communication control unit that holds control information associated with identification information of each network and communication control parameter information in each network, and controls communication between each communication terminal and each network;
A terminal information storage unit for storing information of the frame transmitted and received by each communication terminal;
A terminal information acquisition unit that acquires information of the frame from the terminal information storage unit and analyzes the information of the acquired frame;
MAC address management information in which the identifier of each communication terminal is associated with the MAC address of each communication terminal;
A transmission / reception unit for transmitting / receiving the frame to / from each communication terminal;
Have
The predetermined target communication terminal is
Display a setting screen for sending a setting request for priority communication that preferentially transmits and receives frames to the target communication terminal,
When an operation via the setting screen is accepted, the gateway device is sent a setting request for the priority communication,
The gateway device is
When receiving the setting request for priority communication, from the terminal information storage unit, obtain information on the frame of the other communication terminal connected to the gateway device,
Analyzing the acquired frame information;
Based on the analysis result of the information on the frame, generate first display data for displaying the communication content of the other communication terminal connected to the gateway device,
Transmitting the first display data to the target communication terminal;
Based on the received first display data, the target communication terminal displays the communication content of the other communication terminal connected to the gateway device and an instruction unit for instructing the start of the priority communication. And
The gateway device is
When receiving the priority communication start request including the MAC address of the target communication terminal from the target communication terminal, the MAC address management information is referred to based on the MAC address included in the priority communication start request. Identify the target communication terminal,
A network system, wherein the network to which the identified target communication terminal is connected is switched to the priority communication network. The network system according to claim 6, wherein
The gateway device is
When generating the first display data, select the communication terminal to be analyzed, obtain information of the frame of the selected communication terminal,
For each priority class in transmission / reception priority control, distribute the frames transmitted / received in the communication terminal, calculate the data amount for each priority class,
Based on the calculated amount of data for each priority class, determine the type of communication that the selected communication terminal is performing,
The network system, wherein the first display data including a MAC address of each communication terminal and a type of communication determined for each communication terminal is generated. The network system according to claim 7,
The identification information of each network is an SSID,
The gateway device is
Based on the SSID corresponding to the priority control network, refer to the control information, and generate a beacon signal including the SSID corresponding to the priority communication network and the parameter in the priority communication network,
Transmitting the generated beacon signal to the target communication terminal;
The target communication terminal is
The network system, wherein the frame is transmitted using the parameter included in the received beacon signal. The network system according to claim 8, wherein
The gateway device is
When the setting request is received, the second communication data for setting the priority communication time that is the effective time of the priority communication is transmitted to the target communication terminal,
When the network is switched to the priority communication network and the set priority communication time has elapsed, third display data for inquiring whether or not to continue priority communication to the target communication terminal is generated,
Transmitting the third display data to the target communication terminal;
When receiving a response to continue the priority communication from the target communication terminal, continue the priority communication,
When receiving a response from the target communication terminal to end the priority communication, the network connected before the target communication terminal is switched to the priority communication network from the priority communication network A network system characterized by switching to The network system according to claim 9, wherein
The gateway device is
When switching the network to which the target communication terminal is connected, disconnect the currently connected network,
When a connection request is received from the target communication terminal, the network system is characterized by switching the network to which the target communication terminal is connected by connecting to a new network. The network system according to claim 10, wherein
The target communication terminal is
When the instruction unit is operated, an authentication screen for requesting input of authentication information for performing the priority communication is displayed,
A network system, wherein when the authentication information is input via the authentication screen, the priority communication start request is transmitted. The network system according to claim 10, wherein
The network system includes an application server that holds an application for displaying the setting screen,
The target communication terminal is
Obtaining the application from the application server;
A network system, wherein the setting screen is displayed by activating the acquired application. The network system according to claim 12, wherein
The target communication terminal is
After obtaining the application, display a display screen for setting the startup time of the application,
A network system, wherein the acquired application is started after a startup time set via the display screen has elapsed. The network system according to claim 10, wherein
The gateway device is
Holding service management information indicating whether or not the user using each communication terminal can perform the priority communication;
When receiving the priority communication setting request, referring to the service management information based on the MAC address included in the priority communication setting request,
Determine whether a user using the target communication terminal can perform the priority communication;
The network system, wherein the setting screen is displayed when it is determined that a user using the target communication terminal can perform the priority communication.