JP6354348B2 - Wireless communication apparatus, wireless communication apparatus connection method, and program - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a wireless communication device, a method for connecting a wireless communication device, and a program.

  Conventionally, a device that can be used jointly such as a printer device, but can be connected only to a single device at each moment (hereinafter simply referred to as “shared device”) is shared by a plurality of information processing devices. . In such shared use, during the period in which one information processing apparatus is connected to the shared apparatus, another information processing apparatus cannot be connected to the shared apparatus, and the shared apparatus cannot be used.

  However, the timing at which each of the plurality of information processing devices desires to use the shared device is independent. For this reason, it is desirable to be able to manage the shared use of a shared device by a plurality of information processing devices.

  Therefore, a technique has been proposed in which a server device that manages the shared use of a shared device by a plurality of information processing devices is separately installed (see Patent Document 1: hereinafter referred to as “conventional example”). In this conventional technique, a plurality of information processing apparatuses and server apparatuses are connected to a network. A plurality of information processing apparatuses can use the shared apparatus under the management of the server apparatus.

  In addition, although the example in which communication between devices is wired communication is shown in the conventional example, the technical idea in the conventional example can also be applied to wireless communication such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) communication between devices. .

Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 11-134139

  In the above-described conventional technology, it is necessary to separately prepare a server device in addition to a plurality of information processing devices and shared devices. However, since it is preferable that the number of devices is small, it is preferable to realize shared use of a shared device by a plurality of information processing devices without separately preparing a server device.

  Therefore, it is conceivable to implement the function of the server device in the shared device. However, when the function of the server device is implemented in the shared device, particularly when it is assumed that wireless communication with a large number of information processing devices is performed, as a calculation means such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) provided in the shared device, It is necessary to adopt a high processing capability. It is also necessary to increase the capacity of the storage means provided in the shared device. As a result, the shared device cannot be downsized or made inexpensive.

  The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and it is possible to realize shared use of a shared device without separately preparing a server device or mounting the function of the server device in the shared device. An object of the present invention is to provide a wireless communication device, a wireless communication device connection method, and a program.

A wireless communication apparatus according to a first aspect of the present invention is a wireless communication apparatus that performs connection with an external device by wireless communication, and includes a determination unit that determines whether connection with the external device is possible, and the determination unit Therefore, when it is determined that connection with the external device is possible, the wireless communication device is set to a highest master mode that operates as a highest master for connection with the external device; In the upper master mode, connection advice information that advises connection between the external device and at least one other wireless communication device that desires connection to the external device is transmitted to the other wireless communication device. It includes an information transmitting unit that, the said information sending device, as the connection advice information, shows the timing at which the other wireless communication device is connectable to the external device Calculating the connection timing information and transmits the calculated connection timing information to the other radio communication apparatus, a wireless communication device comprising a call.
A wireless communication apparatus according to a second aspect of the present invention is a wireless communication apparatus that performs connection with an external device by wireless communication, and includes a determination unit that determines whether connection with the external device is possible, and the determination unit Therefore, when it is determined that connection with the external device is possible, the wireless communication device is set to a highest master mode that operates as a highest master for connection with the external device; When in the upper master mode, information for supporting connection between at least one other wireless communication device that desires connection to the external device and the external device is transmitted to the other wireless communication device. Information transmitting means, wherein the information transmitting means is in the uppermost master mode, and if the lower master selection condition is satisfied, the information transmitting means The selected wireless communication apparatus, transmits the information to the effect that the lower master is a wireless communication apparatus according to claim.
A wireless communication apparatus according to a third aspect of the present invention is a wireless communication apparatus that performs connection with an external device by wireless communication, and includes a determination unit that determines whether connection with the external device is possible, and the determination unit Therefore, when it is determined that connection with the external device is possible, the wireless communication device is set to a highest master mode that operates as a highest master for connection with the external device; When in the upper master mode, information for supporting connection between at least one other wireless communication device that desires connection to the external device and the external device is transmitted to the other wireless communication device. And transmitting information to the other wireless communication device that disconnects the wireless communication with the external device after the connection with the external device is completed. To, is a wireless communication apparatus according to claim.

A wireless communication device connection method according to a first aspect of the present invention is a wireless communication device connection method for establishing a connection with an external device by wireless communication, and determining whether or not connection with the external device is possible And mode control for setting the wireless communication apparatus to the highest master mode that operates as the highest master for connection with the external device when it is determined that the connection with the external device is possible in the step and the determining step And, when in the highest master mode, connection advice information that advises connection between the external device and at least one other wireless communication device that desires connection to the external device. It includes an information transmitting step of transmitting to the wireless communication device, wherein the information transmission step, as the connection advice information, the another wireless communication apparatus before Calculating the connection timing information indicating a timing to be connectable to an external device, and transmits the calculated connection timing information to the other wireless communication device, a connection method of the wireless communication device comprising a call.
A wireless communication device connection method according to a second aspect of the present invention is a wireless communication device connection method for establishing a connection with an external device by wireless communication, and determining whether or not connection with the external device is possible And mode control for setting the wireless communication apparatus to the highest master mode that operates as the highest master for connection with the external device when it is determined that the connection with the external device is possible in the step and the determining step And, when in the highest master mode, information for supporting connection between the external device and at least one other wireless communication device that desires connection to the external device. An information transmission step for transmitting to a wireless communication device, wherein the information transmission step is in the highest master mode and a lower master selection condition is set. If the plus, the wireless communication apparatus selected from among the lower-level wireless communication apparatus, transmits the information to the effect that the lower master, it is a connection method of the wireless communication apparatus according to claim.
A wireless communication device connection method according to a third aspect of the present invention is a wireless communication device connection method for establishing a connection with an external device by wireless communication, and determining whether or not connection with the external device is possible And mode control for setting the wireless communication apparatus to the highest master mode that operates as the highest master for connection with the external device when it is determined that the connection with the external device is possible in the step and the determining step And, when in the highest master mode, information for supporting connection between the external device and at least one other wireless communication device that desires connection to the external device. An information transmission step for transmitting to a wireless communication device, wherein the information transmission step disconnects wireless communication with the external device after connection with the external device is completed. It transmits the information indicating that to the other radio communication apparatus, it is the connection method of the wireless communication apparatus according to claim.

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a program for determining whether or not a computer of a wireless communication apparatus that is connected to an external device by wireless communication can be connected to the external device. When it is determined that connection with an external device is possible, mode control means for setting the wireless communication device to the highest master mode that operates as the highest master for connection with the external device, and the highest master When in the mode, information transmission for transmitting connection advice information that advises connection between the external device and at least one other wireless communication device that desires connection to the external device to the other wireless communication device It means, to function as the information transmitting means, as the connection advice information, data to the other wireless communication device is connectable to the external device Calculating the connection timing information indicating a timing to transmit the calculated connection timing information to the other wireless communication device, a program characterized and this.
According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a program for determining whether or not a computer of a wireless communication apparatus that is connected to an external device by wireless communication can be connected to the external device. When it is determined that connection with an external device is possible, mode control means for setting the wireless communication device to the highest master mode that operates as the highest master for connection with the external device, and the highest master When in the mode, information transmission for transmitting information for supporting connection between the external device and at least one other wireless communication device desiring to connect to the external device to the other wireless communication device The information transmitting means is in the highest master mode and when the lower master selection condition is satisfied, the lower wireless communication mode is set. The wireless communication apparatus selected from among the device transmits the information to the effect that the lower master is a program, characterized in that.
According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a program for determining whether or not a computer of a wireless communication apparatus that is connected to an external device by wireless communication can be connected to the external device. When it is determined that connection with an external device is possible, mode control means for setting the wireless communication device to the highest master mode that operates as the highest master for connection with the external device, and the highest master When in the mode, information transmission for transmitting information for supporting connection between the external device and at least one other wireless communication device desiring to connect to the external device to the other wireless communication device And the information transmitting means transmits information indicating that the wireless communication with the external device is disconnected after the connection with the external device is terminated. And transmits to the communication apparatus, a program, characterized in that.

  In the wireless communication apparatus of the present invention, the determination unit determines whether or not connection with an external device is possible. For example, based on the content of the response of the external device to the connection request to the external device issued by the wireless communication device, the determination unit determines whether connection with the external device is possible. Here, when the response of the external device is an affirmative response, the determination unit determines that the connection with the external device is possible. On the other hand, when the response of the external device is a negative response, the determination unit determines that connection with the external device is not possible.

  When the determination unit determines that the connection with the external device is possible, the mode control unit sets the wireless communication device to the highest master mode that operates as the highest master for connection with the external device. In this way, when the highest master mode is set, the information transmission stage transmits information for supporting connection to the external device by at least one other wireless communication device that desires connection to the external device to the other wireless communication device. Send. As a result, the wireless communication device functions as a server device that manages the connection between the other wireless communication device and the external device during the period when it is the highest master.

  Therefore, according to the wireless communication device of the present invention, it is possible to jointly use external devices by a plurality of wireless communication devices without separately preparing a server device or implementing the server device function in a shared device. Can be made.

  In the wireless communication device connection method of the present invention, when it is determined in the determination step that the connection with the external device is possible, the wireless communication device is connected to the highest level relating to the connection with the external device in the mode control step. Set to the highest master mode that operates as a master. When the highest master mode is set in this way, in the information transmission step, information for supporting connection with the external device by at least one other wireless communication device that desires connection to the external device is transmitted to the other wireless communication device. Send. As a result, the wireless communication device functions as a server device that manages the connection between the other wireless communication device and the external device during the period when it is the highest master.

  Therefore, according to the wireless communication device connection method of the present invention, it is possible to jointly connect external devices by a plurality of wireless communication devices without separately preparing a server device or implementing a server device function in a shared device. Can be used

  The program of the present invention causes the computer of the wireless communication device to function as the determination unit, the mode control unit, and the information transmission unit in the above-described wireless communication device of the present invention. Therefore, it is possible to cause the wireless communication apparatus to execute the wireless communication apparatus connection method of the present invention.

It is a figure for demonstrating the example of operating environment of the radio | wireless communication apparatus which concerns on 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the schematic structure of the radio | wireless communication apparatus of FIG. FIG. 2 is a diagram (part 1) for explaining an example of a network configured by a wireless communication device; FIG. 3 is a diagram (part 2) for explaining an example of a network configured by a wireless communication device; FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a network configuration that is configured after the highest-level master device is removed from the network configuration of FIG. It is a figure which shows the transition of the operation mode of the radio | wireless communication apparatus of a structure of FIG. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the process by the process control part of FIG. It is a flowchart for performing the highest master mode process of FIG. FIG. 9 is a flowchart for explaining a new network construction process of FIG. 8. FIG. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the slave mode process of FIG. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the 1st slave mode process of FIG. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the 2nd slave mode process of FIG. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the standby mode process of FIG. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the low-order master mode process of FIG. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the control processing of the low-order apparatus of FIG. It is a figure which shows the transition of the operation mode of the radio | wireless communication apparatus of a modification.

  Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. In the following description and drawings, the same elements are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions are omitted.

[Constitution]
FIG. 1 shows an example of the operating environment of the wireless communication devices 10 ₁ to 10 _{N according} to the first embodiment. In the example of the operating environment shown in FIG. 1, the wireless communication devices 10 ₁ to 10 _N are located in the vicinity of the printer device 20 and are capable of Bluetooth communication with each other and with the printer device 20. That is, each of the wireless communication devices 10 _j (j = 1 to N) is a Bluetooth compatible device.

  The printer device 20 can be connected to only one Bluetooth compatible device at each time point. Only a Bluetooth (registered trademark) compatible device connected to the printer device 20 can perform printing using the printer device 20.

  If the printer device 20 receives a connection request when it is not connected to any Bluetooth-compatible device, it returns an affirmative response to the Bluetooth-compatible device that issued the connection request, and communicates with the Bluetooth-compatible device that issued the connection request. It is in a connected state. In addition, when the printer device 20 receives a connection request when connected to any of the Bluetooth compatible devices, the printer device 20 returns a negative response to the Bluetooth compatible device that issued the connection request, and connects to the currently connected Bluetooth compatible device. The state is to be maintained.

<Configuration of wireless communication device 10 _j >
Each of the wireless communication devices 10 _j includes a processing control unit 11 and a BT communication unit 12 as shown in FIG.

  The processing control unit 11 includes a central processing unit, a storage element, and a peripheral circuit. By executing the program, various processes are performed to realize various functions including functions of a determination unit, a mode control unit, and a connection control unit. The processing control unit 11 is connected to an input unit (not shown), and issues a connection request to the printer device 20 when a print command is input to the input unit.

  In addition, the process control unit 11 executes a network (communication network) construction process for using the printer device 20. Details of the network construction process will be described later.

An example of a network constructed by the network construction process executed by the process control unit 11 is shown in FIGS. Here, the example shown in FIG. 3, the radio communication device 10 _1, as well as a top-level master device in the network, directly below the wireless communication device 10 _1, the radio communication operates as a wireless communication device 10 ₁ of the slave device Devices 10 ₂ to 10 ₄ are connected.

In the example illustrated in FIG. 4, the wireless communication device 10 ₁ is the highest-level master device in the network, and operates as a slave device of the wireless communication device 10 _{1 at} a lower level than the wireless communication device 10 _1. In the example, 10 ₂ to 10 ₈ are connected hierarchically. In the example illustrated in FIG. 4, wireless communication devices 10 ₂ to 10 ₅ are connected immediately below the wireless communication device 10 ₁ . Among these, the wireless communication devices 10 ₃ and 10 ₅ are lower master devices. Then, the wireless communication device _{106, 107} directly below the wireless communication device ₁₀₃ is connected, the radio communication device ₁₀₈ is adapted to be connected directly below the wireless communication device _105.

Further, in FIG. 5, there is shown an example of a network that is built after the wireless communication device 10 ₁ has left the most significant master device from the network shown in Figure 4. In the example shown in FIG. 5, the wireless communication device _103, along with the most significant master device in a network, the lower of the wireless communication device _103, the wireless communication apparatus operates as a wireless communication device ₁₀₃ of the slave device 10 ₂ , 10 ₄ to 10 ₈ are connected in a hierarchical manner. In the example shown in FIG. 5, wireless communication devices 10 ₂ , 10 ₄ , 10 ₆ , and 10 ₇ are connected immediately below the wireless communication device 10 ₃ . Among these, the wireless communication device 10 ₆ is a lower master device. The wireless communication devices 10 ₅ and 10 ₈ are connected directly below the wireless communication device 10 ₆ .

  Returning to FIG. 2, the BT communication unit 12 communicates with peripheral Bluetooth compatible devices according to the Bluetooth standard. During such communication, the BT communication unit 12 receives transmission data from the processing control unit 11. Then, the BT communication unit 12 assembles a packet having the transmission data as data content, and transmits the assembled packet to peripheral Bluetooth compatible devices according to the Bluetooth standard.

  The BT communication unit 12 receives a packet transmitted from a peripheral Bluetooth compatible device according to the Bluetooth standard. Then, the BT communication unit 12 disassembles the received packet and sends the data included in the received packet to the processing control unit 11.

[Operation]
Next, the operation of the wireless communication apparatus 10 _j (j = 1 to N) configured as described above will be described mainly focusing on the network construction process executed by the process control unit 11.

<Operation Mode of Processing Control Unit 11>
First, prior to description of network construction processing, an operation mode of the processing control unit 11 at the time of network construction will be described.

  FIG. 6 shows the operation mode of the processing control unit 11 and the transition of the operation mode when the network is constructed. As shown in FIG. 6, the operation mode of the processing control unit 11 includes an initial mode, a highest master mode, first and second slave modes, a standby mode, and a lower master mode.

  The “initial mode” is an operation mode in which a connection request to the printer device 20 can be issued spontaneously without being controlled by the highest master device. In the “top master mode”, the wireless communication device that is desired to participate in the network while connected to the printer device 20 or the wireless communication device and the printer that are participating in the network. This is an operation mode for controlling the connection with the apparatus 20 in an integrated manner.

  The above “first slave mode” is an operation in a state where the uppermost master device exists and the printer device 20 is desired to be used, but connection timing information described later cannot be received. Mode. Further, the above-mentioned “second slave mode” is in a state in which the subordinate master mode operation is not specified by the wireless communication apparatus in the highest master mode, although it is participating in the network and holds connection timing information. It is an operation mode.

  The “standby mode” is an operation mode in a state in which connection timing information is retained although the network does not participate. The “lower master mode” is an operation mode in a state where the lower master mode operation is designated by the wireless communication device in the highest master mode. The “lower master mode” is a new wireless communication device connection process (hereinafter also referred to as “lower device connection process”) immediately below on the network configuration, and information sent from the upper side on the network configuration. This is different from the above-mentioned “second slave mode” in that the transfer processing to the lower side of the network and the transfer processing to the upper side of the information sent from the lower side in the network configuration are further performed.

  Hereinafter, the first and second slave modes, the standby mode, and the lower master mode are collectively referred to as “slave mode”. The wireless communication devices operating in the slave mode are collectively referred to as “slave devices”.

  In the present embodiment, the initial mode can transit to the highest master mode or the first slave mode. From the highest master mode, a transition can be made to the initial mode. From the first slave mode, a transition can be made to the initial mode or the second slave mode.

  In the present embodiment, the second slave mode can transit to the highest master mode, the first slave mode, the standby mode, or the lower master mode. From the standby mode, a transition can be made to the initial mode or the second slave mode. From the lower master mode, a transition can be made to the highest master mode, the first slave mode, or the standby mode.

  Note that FIG. 6 outlines the conditions for transition between operation modes, but the conditions for transition between operation modes will be described in more detail in the description of the network construction process executed by the processing control unit 11 below. explain.

  Further, when transmitting information from the highest master device to another wireless communication device participating in the network, when the other wireless communication device is connected directly under the highest master device. The information is directly transmitted from the highest master device to the other wireless communication device. On the other hand, when the other wireless communication device is connected directly below the lower-level master device, the information is transferred from the highest-level master device via the one or more lower-level master devices to the other one wireless communication device. Sent to the device.

  Further, when transmitting information from another wireless communication device participating in the network to the highest master device, when the other wireless communication device is connected directly under the highest master device. The information is directly transmitted from the other wireless communication device to the highest master device. On the other hand, when the other one wireless communication device is connected directly under the lower master device, the information is transferred from the other one wireless communication device via one or more lower master devices. Sent to the device.

<Network construction processing executed by the processing control unit 11>
Next, a network construction process executed by the process control unit 11 will be described.

  Note that at the beginning, the wireless communication device including the processing control unit 11 is in a state in which the use of the printer device 20 is not desired. This state is a part of the initial mode operation period.

  In the network construction process, as shown in FIG. 7, first, in step S <b> 11, the process control unit 11 determines whether or not a print command is input to the input unit described above. If the result of the determination in step S11 is negative (step S11: N), the process of step S11 is repeated.

  When a print command is input to the input unit and the result of determination in step S11 is affirmative (step S11: Y), the process proceeds to step S12. In step S <b> 12, the process control unit 11 issues a connection request to the printer device 20.

  Next, in step S13, it is determined whether or not the response of the printer device 20 to the connection request is an affirmative response. If the result of the determination in step S13 is affirmative (step S13: Y), the process control unit 11 changes the operation mode to the highest master mode. Then, the process proceeds to step S14.

  In step S14, the process control unit 11 executes the highest master mode process. When the process of step S14 ends, the process returns to step S11. Details of the highest master mode process in step S14 will be described later.

  If the result of the determination in step S13 is negative (step S13: N), the process control unit 11 changes the operation mode to the first slave mode. Then, the process proceeds to step S15.

  In step S15, the process control unit 11 executes a slave mode process. When the process of step S15 ends, the process returns to step S12 or step S14. Details of the slave mode processing in step S15 will be described later.

  Thereafter, the processes of steps S11 to S15 are repeated. As a result, the network construction process by the process control unit 11 is continuously executed.

<< Top Master Mode Processing in Step S14 >>
Next, the highest master mode process in step S14 will be described.

  In the highest master mode process, as shown in FIG. 8, first, in step S <b> 19, the process control unit 11 starts a print process to the printer device 20. As a result, the printer device 20 starts a printing operation according to the print data transmitted from the processing control unit 11 to the printer device 20. Then, in parallel with the printing process, the process control unit 11 executes the following steps S20 to S26 until the printing process is completed.

  In step S20, the process control unit 11 determines whether or not the next network configuration is designated by the previous highest-level master device. If the result of the determination in step S20 is negative (step S20: N), the process proceeds to step S22 described later.

  If the result of determination in step S20 is affirmative (step S20: Y), the process proceeds to step S21. In step S21, a network having a configuration designated as the next network configuration is constructed. Then, the process proceeds to step S22.

  When a network having a designated configuration is constructed, communication connection and lower master device settings are sequentially performed from the upper side to the lower side in the network having the designated configuration.

  In step S <b> 22, the process control unit 11 determines whether the print process has been completed. If the result of the determination in step S22 is negative (step S22: N), the process proceeds to step S23.

  In step S23, it is determined whether or not the processing control unit 11 has received a network participation request newly broadcast by a wireless communication apparatus that has not participated in the network. If the result of the determination in step S23 is negative (step S23: N), the process returns to step S22.

  If the result of the determination in step S23 is affirmative (step S23: Y), the process proceeds to step S24. In step S24, the process control unit 11 executes a process for constructing a new network for allowing the wireless communication apparatus that broadcasts the network participation request to participate in the network. The new network construction process in step S24 will be described later.

  Next, in step S25, it is determined whether or not usage mode information of a wireless communication apparatus newly joined to the network has been received. Such usage mode information includes identification information of the wireless communication apparatus that has transmitted the usage mode information, print contents (designation of data size, paper size, monochrome printing / color printing, etc.), desired print priority, processing load, and the like. It is.

  If the result of the determination in step S25 is negative (step S25: N), the process of step S25 is repeated. When new usage state information is received and the result of determination in step S25 is affirmative (step S25: Y), the process proceeds to step S26.

  In step S <b> 26, the processing control unit 11 determines the printer device by the other wireless communication device based on the usage status information of each of the other wireless communication devices participating in the network and the progress status of its own print processing. After determining the use order of 20, the connection timing information of each of the other wireless communication devices is calculated. In the present embodiment, the connection timing information includes a connection timing estimated that the other wireless communication device can connect to the printer device 20, and the other wireless communication device starts the printing process. The printing waiting time estimated to be required until the completion is included.

  In this embodiment, the order of use of the printer device 20 by another wireless communication device is such that the average turn-around time for printing of the other wireless communication device is as short as possible while respecting the print priority. The connection timing of each wireless communication device is calculated. Further, the connection timing is calculated based on a clock common to the wireless communication devices participating in the network.

When the connection timing information is calculated, the process control unit 11 transmits the calculated connection timing information to each of the other corresponding wireless communication devices. When the process of step S26 is thus completed, the process returns to step S22. Then, the processes in steps S22 to S26 are repeated until the printing process is completed.
In step S26, information indicating the order in which each of the other wireless communication devices can be connected may be transmitted to each of the corresponding other wireless communication devices.
In addition, the other wireless communication device that has received the connection timing information transmitted from the highest-level master device or the information indicating the order in which connection can be performed is the connection timing information received on the display unit (not shown) included in the wireless communication device, You may make it display the information which shows the order which becomes connectable.

  When the printing process is finished and the result of determination in step S22 is affirmative (step S22: Y), the process control unit 11 disconnects the communication connection with the printer device 20. Then, the process proceeds to step S27.

  In step S27, the process control unit 11 determines whether there is another wireless communication apparatus participating in the network. If the result of the determination in step S27 is negative (step S27: N), the process proceeds to step S30 described later.

  If the result of the determination in step S27 is affirmative (step S27: Y), the process proceeds to step S28. In this step S28, the processing control unit 11 calculates the next network configuration in which all of the other wireless communication devices participating in the network at the present time participate after the withdrawal from the network. When calculating the next network configuration, the processing control unit 11 makes the wireless communication device whose use order of the printer device 20 is the earliest among the other wireless communication devices as the next highest-level master device. Determine.

  Next, in step S29, the processing control unit 11 transmits the next network configuration information to the next highest master device, so that the next highest master device is sent to the next highest master device. Specify the device and the following network configuration. Then, the process proceeds to step S30.

  In step S <b> 30, the process control unit 11 transmits a communication disconnection request to devices constituting the current network other than itself. As a result, the network up to now is demolished.

  In the present embodiment, the processing control unit 11 transmits a communication disconnection request by broadcast. The communication disconnection request is also information indicating to other wireless communication devices participating in the network that the communication connection between the highest-level master device and the printer device 20 has been disconnected.

  When the communication disconnection request is transmitted, the process control unit 11 changes the operation mode to the initial mode, and the process of step S30 ends. As a result, the process control unit 11 withdraws from the network. When the process of step S30 is thus completed, the process of step S14 is terminated, and the process returns to step S11 of FIG.

(New network construction processing in step S24)
Next, a new network construction process in step S24 will be described.

  In the process of constructing the new network, as shown in FIG. 9, first, in step S31, whether the processing control unit 11 connects the wireless communication apparatus that has broadcast the new network participation request directly below. Determine whether or not. This determination is performed by determining whether or not the processing load on the processing control unit 11 is low and there is room to take on a new communication processing load.

  If the result of the determination in step S31 is negative (step S31: N), the process proceeds to step S32. In step S32, the process control unit 11 determines whether a new lower-level master device is necessary. This determination is performed by determining whether or not all the lower-level master devices are in a processing load state in which there is no room for taking on a new communication processing load at the present time.

  If the result of determination in step S32 is negative (step S32: N), the lower-level master device having the most processing load among the lower-level master devices having room to take on a new communication processing load is determined. The wireless communication apparatus that broadcasts a new network participation request is selected as a lower-level master apparatus that is directly connected. And a process progresses to step S34 mentioned later.

  If the result of the determination in step S32 is affirmative (step S32: Y), the process proceeds to step S33. In step S33, the process control unit 11 selects a wireless communication apparatus operating in the second slave mode that has the most processing load. Then, the process control unit 11 transmits a transition command to the lower master mode toward the selected wireless communication device. As a result, the operation mode of the selected wireless communication device transitions to the lower master mode. Then, the process proceeds to step S34.

  In step S34, the process control unit 11 transmits a new network participation request to the lower-level master apparatus to which the wireless communication apparatus that has transmitted the new network participation request is to be connected. Send connection processing request. Upon receiving this connection processing request, the lower-level master device executes connection processing with the wireless communication device that broadcasts the network participation request. As a result, a new wireless communication device is connected immediately below the lower master device, and a new network in which the new wireless communication device participates is constructed.

  When the process of step S34 is thus completed, the process of step S24 is terminated. And a process progresses to step S25 of FIG. 8 mentioned above.

  If the determination result in step S31 described above is affirmative (step S31: Y), the process proceeds to step S35. In step S35, the process control unit 11 executes a lower apparatus connection process for connection to the wireless communication apparatus that has transmitted a new network participation request. As a result, a new wireless communication device is connected immediately below the processing control unit 11, and a new network in which the new wireless communication device participates is constructed.

<< Slave Mode Processing in Step S15 >>
Next, the slave mode process in step S15 will be described.

  In the slave mode process, as shown in FIG. 10, first, in step S41, the process control unit 11 executes the first slave mode process. The first slave mode process executed in step S41 will be described later.

  When the process of step S41 ends, the process proceeds to step S42 or returns to step S12 of FIG. 7 described above. Here, in the case of proceeding to step S42, in step S41, after the process control unit 11 changes the operation mode to the second slave mode, the process proceeds to step S42. When returning to step S12, in step S41, the process control unit 11 changes the operation mode to the initial mode, and then the process returns to step S12.

  In step S42, the process control unit 11 executes the second slave mode process. The second slave mode process executed in step S42 will be described later.

  When the process of step S42 ends, the process proceeds to step S43 or step S44, or returns to step S41 or step S14 of FIG. 7 described above. Here, in the case of proceeding to step S43, in step S42, after the process control unit 11 changes the operation mode to the standby mode, the process proceeds to step S43. When the process proceeds to step S44, in step S42, the process control unit 11 changes the operation mode to the lower master mode, and then the process proceeds to step S44.

  Furthermore, when returning to step S41, in step S42, after the process control unit 11 changes the operation mode to the first slave mode, the process returns to step S41. When returning to step S14, in step S42, the process control unit 11 changes the operation mode to the highest master mode, and then the process returns to step S14.

  In step S43, the process control unit 11 executes a standby mode process. The standby mode process executed in step S43 will be described later.

  When the process of step S43 ends, the process returns to step S42 or step S12. Here, when returning to step S42, in step S43, after the process control unit 11 changes the operation mode to the second slave mode, the process returns to step S42. When returning to step S12, in step S43, the process control unit 11 changes the operation mode to the initial mode, and then returns to step S12.

  In step S44, the process control unit 11 executes the lower slave mode process. The lower slave mode process executed in step S44 will be described later.

  When the process of step S44 ends, the process proceeds to step S43, or returns to step S41 or step S14. Here, in the case of proceeding to step S43, in step S44, after the process control unit 11 changes the operation mode to the standby mode, the process proceeds to step S43. When returning to step S41, in step S44, after the process control unit 11 changes the operation mode to the first slave mode, the process returns to step S41. When returning to step S14, in step S44, the process control unit 11 changes the operation mode to the highest master mode, and then returns to step S14.

(First slave mode processing in step S41)
Next, the first slave mode process in step S41 will be described.

  In the first slave mode process, as shown in FIG. 11, first, in step S51, the process control unit 11 broadcasts a network participation request. Subsequently, in step S52, the process control unit 11 determines whether or not a connection request transmitted from the highest-order master device or the lower-order master device that is the latest higher-order master device has been received.

  If the result of the determination in step S52 is negative (step S52: N), the process proceeds to step S53. In step S53, the process control unit 11 determines whether or not a first predetermined time has elapsed from the broadcast transmission time of the network participation request.

  If the result of the determination in step S53 is negative (step S53: N), the process returns to step S52. Thereafter, the processes of steps S52 and S53 are repeated until the result of determination in either of steps S52 and S53 becomes affirmative.

  If the result of determination in step S53 is affirmative before the result of determination in step S52 is affirmative (step S53: Y), the process control unit 11 changes the operation mode to the initial mode, and End the process. And a process returns to step S12 of FIG. 7 mentioned above.

  If the result of determination in step S52 is affirmative before the result of determination in step S53 is affirmative (step S52: Y), the process proceeds to step S54. In step S54, the process control unit 11 performs a connection process with the wireless communication apparatus that has transmitted the connection request. As a result, a connection is established with the nearest master device of the wireless communication device that has transmitted the connection request, and the wireless communication device joins the network.

  Next, in step S55, the process control unit 11 transmits its usage mode information to the nearest higher-level master device. Subsequently, in step S56, the process control unit 11 determines whether connection timing information has been received.

  If the result of the determination in step S56 is negative (step S56: N), the process proceeds to step S57. In step S57, the process control unit 11 determines whether or not the second predetermined time has elapsed from the transmission time of the usage mode information.

  If the result of the determination in step S57 is negative (step S57: N), the process returns to step S56. Thereafter, the processes in steps S56 and S57 are repeated until the result of determination in any of steps S56 and S57 becomes affirmative.

  If the result of determination in step S57 becomes affirmative before the result of determination in step S56 becomes affirmative (step S57: Y), the process control unit 11 changes the operation mode to the initial mode, and in step S41. End the process. And a process returns to step S12 of FIG. 7 mentioned above.

  If the result of determination in step S56 becomes affirmative before the result of determination in step S57 becomes affirmative (step S56: Y), the process control unit 11 changes the operation mode to the second slave mode. Then, the process of step S41 is terminated. And a process progresses to step S42 of FIG. 10 mentioned above.

(Second slave mode processing in step S42)
Next, the second slave mode process in step S42 will be described.

  In the second slave mode process, as shown in FIG. 12, first, in step S61, the process control unit 11 determines whether or not it has received its own connection timing information transmitted from the highest master device. . If the result of the determination in step S61 is negative (step S61: N), the process proceeds to step S63 described later.

  If the result of the determination in step S61 is affirmative (step S61: Y), the process proceeds to step S62. In step S62, the process control unit 11 holds the received connection timing information therein. Then, the process proceeds to step S63.

  In step S63, the process control unit 11 determines whether or not it has received a transition command to the lower master mode transmitted from the highest master device. If the result of the determination in step S63 is negative (step S63: N), the process proceeds to step S64. In step S64, the process control unit 11 determines whether or not information for the next highest master device has been received.

  If the result of the determination in step S64 is negative (step S64: N), the process proceeds to step S65. In this step S65, it is determined whether or not a communication disconnection request (that is, a network disassembly notification due to withdrawal of the highest master device) sent from the highest master device has been received.

  If the result of the determination in step S65 is negative (step S65: N), the process returns to step S61. Thereafter, the processes in steps S61 to S65 are repeated until the determination result in any of steps S63 to S65 becomes affirmative.

  If the result of determination in step S63 becomes affirmative before the result of determination in steps S64 and S65 becomes affirmative (step S63: Y), the process control unit 11 changes the operation mode to the lower master mode, The process of step S42 ends. And a process progresses to step S44 of FIG. 10 mentioned above.

  If the result of determination in step S65 becomes affirmative (step S65: Y) before the result of determination in steps S63 and S64 is affirmative (step S65: Y), the process control unit 11 changes the operation mode to the standby mode. Then, the process of step S42 is terminated. And a process progresses to step S43 of FIG. 10 mentioned above.

  If the result of determination in step S64 is affirmative before the result of determination in steps S63 and S65 is affirmative (step S64: Y), the process proceeds to step S66. In this step S66, it is determined whether or not a communication disconnection request sent from the highest master device has been received. If the result of the determination in step S66 is negative (step S66: N), the process of step S66 is repeated.

  When the communication disconnection request is received and the result of determination in step S66 is affirmative (step S66: Y), the process proceeds to step S67. In step S <b> 67, the processing control unit 11 issues a connection request to the printer device 20.

  Next, in step S68, it is determined whether or not the response of the printer device 20 to the connection request is an affirmative response. If the result of the determination in step S68 is affirmative (step S68: Y), the process control unit 11 changes the operation mode to the highest master mode and ends the process of step S42. Then, the process returns to step S14 described above.

  If the result of the determination in step S68 is negative (step S68: N), the process control unit 11 changes the operation mode to the first slave mode, and ends the process of step S42. Then, the process returns to step S41.

(Standby mode processing in step S43)
Next, the standby mode process in step S43 will be described.

  In the standby mode process, as shown in FIG. 13, first, in step S71, it is determined whether or not the connection timing in the connection timing information held inside has been reached. If the result of the determination in step S71 is negative (step S71: N), the process proceeds to step S72. In step S72, the process control unit 11 determines whether or not a connection request transmitted from the highest master device or the lower master device that is the latest higher master device has been received.

  If the result of the determination in step S72 is negative (step S72: N), the process returns to step S71. Thereafter, the processes in steps S71 and S72 are repeated until the result of determination in any of steps S71 and S72 becomes affirmative.

  If the result of determination in step S71 becomes affirmative before the result of determination in step S72 becomes affirmative (step S71: Y), the process control unit 11 changes the operation mode to the initial mode, and in step S41. End the process. And a process returns to step S12 of FIG. 7 mentioned above.

  If the result of determination in step S72 is affirmative before the result of determination in step S71 is affirmative (step S72: Y), the process proceeds to step S73. Thereafter, in steps S73 to S76, processing similar to that in steps S54 to S57 of FIG. 11 described above is executed.

(Lower master mode processing in step S44)
Next, the lower master mode process in step S44 will be described.

  In the lower master mode processing, as shown in FIG. 14, first, in step S81, control processing of a wireless communication device (hereinafter also referred to as “lower device”) lower than itself in the network configuration is performed. The control process for the lower device in step S81 will be described later.

  Next, in step S82, the process control unit 11 determines whether or not it has received its own connection timing information transmitted from the highest master device. If the result of the determination in step S82 is negative (step S82: N), the process proceeds to step S84 described later.

  If the result of the determination in step S82 is affirmative (step S82: Y), the process proceeds to step S83. In step S83, the process control unit 11 holds the received connection timing information therein. Then, the process proceeds to step S84.

  In step S84, the process control unit 11 determines whether information for the next highest master device has been received. If the result of the determination in step S84 is negative (step S84: N), the process proceeds to step S85. In this step S85, it is determined whether a communication disconnection request sent from the highest master device has been received.

  If the result of the determination in step S85 is negative (step S85: N), the process returns to step S81. Thereafter, the processes in steps S81 to S85 are repeated until the result of determination in any of steps S84 and S85 becomes affirmative.

  If the result of determination in step S85 becomes affirmative before the result of determination in step S84 becomes affirmative (step S85: Y), the process control unit 11 changes the operation mode to the standby mode, and in step S44. The process ends. And a process progresses to step S43 of FIG. 10 mentioned above.

  If the result of determination in step S84 is affirmative before the result of determination in step S85 is affirmative (step S84: Y), the process proceeds to step S86. Thereafter, in steps S86 to S88, processing similar to that in steps S66 to S68 of FIG. 12 described above is executed.

((Control processing for subordinate device in step S81))
Next, the control process for the lower device in step S81 will be described.

  In the control process for the lower level device, as shown in FIG. 15, in step S91, the processing control unit 11 determines whether or not the connection processing request sent from the highest level master device has been received. If the result of the determination in step S91 is negative (step S91: N), the process proceeds to step S95 described later.

  If the result of the determination in step S91 is affirmative (step S91: Y), the process proceeds to step S92. In step S92, the process control unit 11 determines whether or not it is a connection process request to itself.

  If the result of the determination in step S92 is negative (step S92: N), the process proceeds to step S93. In step S93, the processing control unit 11 transfers the connection processing request to the lower master device located directly on the path to the lower master device for which the connection processing is requested. Then, the process proceeds to step S95.

  If the result of the determination in step S92 is affirmative (step S92: Y), the process proceeds to step S94. In step S94, the process control unit 11 executes a lower-level device connection process. Then, the process proceeds to step S95.

  In step S95, the process control unit 11 determines whether the usage mode information transmitted by the lower-level device has been received. If the result of the determination in step S95 is negative (step S95: N), the process proceeds to step S97 described later.

  If the result of the determination in step S95 is affirmative (step S95: Y), the process proceeds to step S96. In step S96, the process control unit 11 transfers the received usage mode information to the nearest higher-level master device. Then, the process proceeds to step S97.

  In step S97, the process control unit 11 determines whether or not the connection timing information of the lower device has been received. If the result of the determination in step S97 is negative (step S97: N), the process of step S81 ends. Then, the process proceeds to step S82 in FIG.

  If the result of the determination in step S97 is affirmative (step S97: Y), the process proceeds to step S98. In step S98, the process control unit 11 transfers the received connection timing information to the lower level device corresponding to the connection timing information.

  When the process of step S98 ends, the process of step S81 ends. Then, the process proceeds to step S82 in FIG.

As described above, in the present embodiment, when the processing control unit 11 included in each of the wireless communication devices 10 _j (j = 1 to N) receives a positive response to the connection request to the printer device 20. It is determined that connection to the printer device 20 is possible. In this way, when it is determined that the connection with the printer device 20 is possible, the processing control unit 11 operates as the highest-level master device in the network for joint use of the printer device 20 and connects to the printer device 20. Information for controlling connection with the printer device 20 by at least one other wireless communication device that is desired is transmitted to the other wireless communication device. As a result, the wireless communication device that has become the highest-level master device functions as a server device that manages the connection between the other wireless communication device and the printer device 20 during the period of being the highest-level master device.

  Therefore, according to the present embodiment, the shared use of the printer device 20 by a plurality of wireless communication devices can be appropriately performed without separately preparing a server device or implementing the server device function in the printer device 20. Can be realized.

  In the present embodiment, the processing control unit 11 of the highest-level master device obtains usage mode information including the desired usage time, printing contents, printing priority, etc. of the printer device 20 for each of the other wireless communication devices. To do. Then, the processing control unit 11 calculates connection timing information including a timing at which each of the other wireless communication devices can connect to the printer device 20 and a printing waiting time, based on the acquired usage mode information, The calculated connection timing information is transmitted to the other wireless communication device. For this reason, each of the other wireless communication devices can know the timing at which the printer device 20 can be connected.

  Further, in the present embodiment, when the processing control unit 11 of the highest-level master device determines that the selection condition for selecting the lower-level master device is satisfied based on its own processing load status or the like, Information indicating that it should become a lower-level master is transmitted to a radio communication device selected from the lower-level radio communication devices. For this reason, the process control unit 11 suppresses an increase in the communication processing load of the process control unit 11 due to an increase in the number of other wireless communication devices that desire to connect to the printer device 20, and the process control unit 11 can The connection between the wireless communication device and the printer device 20 can be controlled.

  In the present embodiment, the processing control unit 11 of the highest-level master device disconnects the wireless communication with the external device after the connection with the printer device 20 is finished, and information indicating that the wireless communication with the external device is disconnected. Is transmitted to another wireless communication device, the wireless communication device in the highest master mode can be notified that the operation of the highest master mode has been completed.

Further, in this embodiment, when the processing control unit 11 included in each of the wireless communication devices 10 _j (j = 1 to N) determines that the response to the connection request to the printer device 20 is a negative response, the printer device 20. It is determined that connection to cannot be made. In this way, when it is determined that the connection with the printer device 20 is not possible, the processing control unit 11 is the highest level whose connection with the printer device 20 is managed by the highest level master device in the network for joint use of the printer device 20. It becomes a slave device of the master device. For this reason, it is possible to prevent a useless connection request from being issued to the printer device 20.

  In the present embodiment, when the wireless communication device is a slave device, the wireless communication device is connected to the nearest higher-level master device under the control of the highest-level master device. For this reason, the processing load of each wireless communication device is prevented from being excessively controlled by the control of the highest master device.

  Further, in the present embodiment, when the wireless communication device participates in a network for joint use of the printer device 20 as a slave device of the highest master device, information indicating that the next highest master device is to be obtained. After receiving the notification that the highest-level master device has withdrawn from the network, it immediately issues a connection request to the printer device 20. Therefore, the wireless communication device in the first order determined by the wireless communication device that has been the highest master until then can be connected to the printer device 20, and the wireless communication device that has not joined the network is the highest. The probability of becoming a higher-level master device can be suppressed.

[Modification of Embodiment]
The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications are possible.

  For example, in the above embodiment, the usage mode information includes the identification information of the wireless communication apparatus that has transmitted the usage mode information, the print content, the desired print priority, and the processing load. On the other hand, the desired print priority may be omitted, or other information indicating the usage mode of the printer device of the wireless communication device may be included.

  In the above embodiment, the use timing information includes the connection timing and the print waiting time. On the other hand, the print waiting time may be omitted, or other information that can contribute to the convenience of the user of the wireless communication apparatus may be included.

  In the above embodiment, when the highest-level master device withdraws from the network, the network having the next network configuration determined before the withdrawal by the highest-level master device is constructed. On the other hand, the highest-level master device may not determine the next network configuration prior to withdrawal from the network and may not construct a network having the next network configuration. In this case, processing related to the construction of the network having the next network configuration can be omitted.

  FIG. 16 shows a transition mode of the operation mode in the wireless communication apparatus according to the modification. As can be seen by comparing FIG. 16 with FIG. 6 described above, in the case of this modification, the transition from the second slave mode and the lower master mode to the first slave mode, the second slave mode and the standby mode to the first mode. The transition to the higher master mode and the transition from the standby mode to the second slave mode do not occur.

Further, in the above embodiment, when the communication connection between the wireless communication device that operates as the highest-level master device and the printer device is disconnected, the wireless communication device that operates as the slave device automatically issues a connection request to the printer device. Although it is issued, information indicating that the wireless communication apparatus is disconnected is displayed on the display unit (not shown), and the user who sees this information inputs a print command to the input unit and issues a connection request manually. You may make it do.
In the above embodiment, the printer device is a device that is shared by a plurality of wireless communication devices. However, the present invention is also applied to a case where a plurality of wireless communication devices share a device other than the printer device. Can do.

  In the above embodiment, the present invention is applied to a wireless communication device that performs wireless communication in accordance with the Bluetooth communication standard. However, the present invention is also appropriately applied to a wireless communication device that performs wireless communication in accordance with a communication protocol other than the Bluetooth communication standard. Can be applied.

The invention described in the scope of claims attached to the application of this application will be added below.
The item numbers of the claims described in the appendix are as set forth in the claims attached to the application of this application.

[Appendix]
<Claim 1>
A wireless communication device for connecting to an external device by wireless communication,
Determining means for determining whether or not connection with the external device is possible;
When the determination means determines that connection with the external device is possible, mode control means for setting the wireless communication apparatus to a highest master mode that operates as the highest master for connection with the external device; ,
When in the highest master mode, information for supporting connection between the external device and at least one other wireless communication device desiring to connect to the external device is sent to the other wireless communication device. Information transmitting means for transmitting to
A wireless communication apparatus comprising:
<Claim 2>
The information transmitting means includes
Transmitting connection advice information for advising connection between the other wireless communication device and the external device to the other wireless communication device;
The wireless communication apparatus according to claim 1.
<Claim 3>
The information transmitting means includes
As the connection advice information, calculating connection timing information indicating a timing at which the other wireless communication device can connect to the external device,
Transmitting the calculated connection timing information to the other wireless communication device;
The wireless communication apparatus according to claim 2.
<Claim 4>
When it is in the highest master mode, it further comprises usage mode information acquisition means for acquiring usage mode information including a desired usage time of the external device from each of the other wireless communication devices,
The information transmitting unit transmits information for controlling connection between each of the other wireless communication devices and the external device based on the usage mode information acquired by the usage mode information acquiring unit. Send to device,
The wireless communication apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the wireless communication apparatus is a wireless communication apparatus.
<Claim 5>
The wireless communication apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the usage mode information further includes a connection priority with the external device.
<Claim 6>
The information transmitting means includes
As the connection advice information, the connection order information indicating the order in which each of the other wireless communication devices can be connected to the external device is transmitted to the other wireless communication device.
The wireless communication apparatus according to claim 5.
<Claim 7>
The information transmission means becomes the lower-level master in the wireless communication device selected from the lower-level wireless communication devices when in the highest master mode and satisfies the lower-level master selection condition The wireless communication device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein information indicating power is transmitted.
<Claim 8>
The information transmission means transmits information indicating that wireless communication with the external device is disconnected to the other wireless communication device after the connection with the external device is completed. The wireless communication device according to any one of 7.
<Claim 9>
The mode control means, when the determination means determines that connection with the external device is not possible, sets the wireless communication device to a slave mode that operates as a slave related to connection with the external device. The wireless communication apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein:
<Claim 10>
The wireless communication apparatus according to claim 9, further comprising a connection control unit that connects to a wireless communication apparatus that is the latest higher-order master in the slave mode.
<Claim 11>
When receiving information indicating that wireless communication with the external device has been disconnected from the highest-level master wireless communication device in the slave mode, the connection control means, after releasing the slave mode, The wireless communication apparatus according to claim 9 or 10, wherein a connection request is made to the external device.
<Claim 12>
After receiving information indicating that it should be the next highest master from the wireless communication device of the highest master, and receiving information indicating that wireless communication with the external device has been disconnected from the wireless communication device of the highest master. The wireless communication apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the connection control unit immediately issues a connection request to the external device.
<Claim 13>
A method of connecting a wireless communication device for connecting to an external device by wireless communication,
A determination step of determining whether or not connection with the external device is possible;
When it is determined that the connection with the external device is possible in the determination step, the mode control step for setting the wireless communication device to the highest master mode that operates as the highest master for connection with the external device;
When in the highest master mode, information for supporting connection between the external device and at least one other wireless communication device desiring to connect to the external device is sent to the other wireless communication device. An information sending step to send to
A method for connecting a wireless communication apparatus, comprising:
<Claim 14>
A computer of a wireless communication device that connects to an external device by wireless communication,
Determination means for determining whether or not connection with the external device is possible,
When the determination means determines that the connection with the external device is possible, the mode control means for setting the wireless communication device to the highest master mode that operates as the highest master for connection with the external device, as well as,
When in the highest master mode, information for supporting the connection between the external device and at least one other wireless communication device desiring to connect to the external device is sent to the other wireless communication device. Information transmitting means for transmitting,
A program characterized by functioning as

10 wireless communication device 11 processing control unit (determination means, mode control means, connection control means)
20 Printer device (external device)

Claims (15)

A wireless communication device for connecting to an external device by wireless communication,
Determining means for determining whether or not connection with the external device is possible;
When the determination means determines that connection with the external device is possible, mode control means for setting the wireless communication apparatus to a highest master mode that operates as the highest master for connection with the external device; ,
When in the highest master mode, connection advice information for advising the connection between the external device and at least one other wireless communication device desiring to connect to the external device is sent to the other wireless communication device. and a data transmitting means for transmitting to,
The information transmitting means includes
As the connection advice information, calculating connection timing information indicating a timing at which the other wireless communication device can connect to the external device,
Transmitting the calculated connection timing information to the other wireless communication device;
Wireless communication device comprising a call. A wireless communication device for connecting to an external device by wireless communication,
Determining means for determining whether or not connection with the external device is possible;
When the determination means determines that connection with the external device is possible, mode control means for setting the wireless communication apparatus to a highest master mode that operates as the highest master for connection with the external device; ,
When in the highest master mode, connection advice information for advising the connection between the external device and at least one other wireless communication device desiring to connect to the external device is sent to the other wireless communication device. Information transmitting means for transmitting to
Wherein if it has been uppermost master mode, from each of the other wireless communication device, Bei example and a use mode information acquiring means for acquiring usage mode information including the desired usage time of the external device,
The information transmitting unit transmits information for controlling connection between each of the other wireless communication devices and the external device based on the usage mode information acquired by the usage mode information acquiring unit. Send to device,
Radio communications device you wherein a. The wireless communication apparatus according to claim 2 , wherein the usage mode information further includes a connection priority with the external device. The information transmitting means includes
As the connection advice information, the connection order information indicating the order in which each of the other wireless communication devices can be connected to the external device is transmitted to the other wireless communication device.
The wireless communication apparatus according to claim 3 . A wireless communication device for connecting to an external device by wireless communication,
Determining means for determining whether or not connection with the external device is possible;
When the determination means determines that connection with the external device is possible, mode control means for setting the wireless communication apparatus to a highest master mode that operates as the highest master for connection with the external device; ,
When in the highest master mode, information for supporting connection between the external device and at least one other wireless communication device desiring to connect to the external device is sent to the other wireless communication device. Information transmitting means for transmitting to
The information transmission means becomes the lower-level master in the wireless communication device selected from the lower-level wireless communication devices when in the highest master mode and satisfies the lower-level master selection condition Send information to the effect,
Radio communications device you wherein a. A wireless communication device for connecting to an external device by wireless communication,
Determining means for determining whether or not connection with the external device is possible;
When the determination means determines that connection with the external device is possible, mode control means for setting the wireless communication apparatus to a highest master mode that operates as the highest master for connection with the external device; ,
When in the highest master mode, information for supporting connection between the external device and at least one other wireless communication device desiring to connect to the external device is sent to the other wireless communication device. Information transmitting means for transmitting to
The information transmitting means transmits information indicating that wireless communication with the external device is disconnected to the other wireless communication device after the connection with the external device is completed.
Radio communications device you wherein a. A wireless communication device for connecting to an external device by wireless communication,
Determining means for determining whether or not connection with the external device is possible;
When the determination means determines that connection with the external device is possible, mode control means for setting the wireless communication apparatus to a highest master mode that operates as the highest master for connection with the external device; ,
When in the highest master mode, information for supporting connection between the external device and at least one other wireless communication device desiring to connect to the external device is sent to the other wireless communication device. Information transmitting means for transmitting to
The mode control means, when it is determined by the determination means that the connection with the external device is not possible, the wireless communication device is set to a slave mode that operates as a slave related to the connection with the external device ,
When in the slave mode, further comprising a connection control means for connecting to a wireless communication device that is the latest upper master,
Radio communications device you wherein a. A wireless communication device for connecting to an external device by wireless communication,
Determining means for determining whether or not connection with the external device is possible;
When the determination means determines that connection with the external device is possible, mode control means for setting the wireless communication apparatus to a highest master mode that operates as the highest master for connection with the external device; ,
When in the highest master mode, information for supporting connection between the external device and at least one other wireless communication device desiring to connect to the external device is sent to the other wireless communication device. Information transmitting means for transmitting to
The mode control means, when it is determined by the determination means that the connection with the external device is not possible, the wireless communication device is set to a slave mode that operates as a slave related to the connection with the external device,
If that is the slave mode, the if the wireless communication device the topmost master receives the information of the disconnect the wireless communication with the external device, after releasing the previous SL slave mode, with respect to the external device Further comprising connection control means for making a connection request.
Radio communications device you wherein a. A wireless communication device for connecting to an external device by wireless communication,
Determining means for determining whether or not connection with the external device is possible;
When the determination means determines that connection with the external device is possible, mode control means for setting the wireless communication apparatus to a highest master mode that operates as the highest master for connection with the external device; ,
When in the highest master mode, information for supporting connection between the external device and at least one other wireless communication device desiring to connect to the external device is sent to the other wireless communication device. Information transmitting means for transmitting to
The mode control means, when it is determined by the determination means that the connection with the external device is not possible, the wireless communication device is set to a slave mode that operates as a slave related to the connection with the external device,
In the slave mode, after receiving information indicating that it should become the next highest master from the highest master wireless communication device, the wireless communication with the external device is performed from the highest master wireless communication device. Upon receiving the information of the disconnect the communication, immediately, further comprising connection control means for a connection request to the external device,
Radio communications device you wherein a. A method of connecting a wireless communication device for connecting to an external device by wireless communication,
A determination step of determining whether or not connection with the external device is possible;
When it is determined that the connection with the external device is possible in the determination step, the mode control step for setting the wireless communication device to the highest master mode that operates as the highest master for connection with the external device;
When in the highest master mode, connection advice information for advising the connection between the external device and at least one other wireless communication device desiring to connect to the external device is sent to the other wireless communication device. anda information transmission step of transmitting to,
The information transmission step includes
As the connection advice information, calculating connection timing information indicating a timing at which the other wireless communication device can connect to the external device,
Transmitting the calculated connection timing information to the other wireless communication device;
Connection method of the wireless communication device comprising a call. A method of connecting a wireless communication device for connecting to an external device by wireless communication,
A determination step of determining whether or not connection with the external device is possible;
When it is determined that the connection with the external device is possible in the determination step, the mode control step for setting the wireless communication device to the highest master mode that operates as the highest master for connection with the external device;
When in the highest master mode, information for supporting connection between the external device and at least one other wireless communication device desiring to connect to the external device is sent to the other wireless communication device. An information transmission step for transmitting to
The information transmission step becomes the lower-level master in the wireless communication device selected from the lower-level wireless communication devices when the upper-level master mode is satisfied and the lower-level master selection condition is satisfied. Send information to the effect,
A wireless communication apparatus connection method. A method of connecting a wireless communication device for connecting to an external device by wireless communication,
A determination step of determining whether or not connection with the external device is possible;
When it is determined that the connection with the external device is possible in the determination step, the mode control step for setting the wireless communication device to the highest master mode that operates as the highest master for connection with the external device;
When in the highest master mode, information for supporting connection between the external device and at least one other wireless communication device desiring to connect to the external device is sent to the other wireless communication device. An information transmission step for transmitting to
The information transmission step transmits information indicating that wireless communication with the external device is disconnected to the other wireless communication device after the connection with the external device is completed.
A wireless communication apparatus connection method. A computer of a wireless communication device that connects to an external device by wireless communication,
Determination means for determining whether or not connection with the external device is possible,
When the determination means determines that the connection with the external device is possible, the mode control means for setting the wireless communication device to the highest master mode that operates as the highest master for connection with the external device, as well as,
When in the highest master mode, connection advice information that advises connection between the external device and at least one other wireless communication device that desires connection to the external device is sent to the other wireless communication device. Function as an information transmission means to transmit ,
The information transmitting means includes
As the connection advice information, calculating connection timing information indicating a timing at which the other wireless communication device can connect to the external device,
Transmitting the calculated connection timing information to the other wireless communication device;
Program which is characterized a call. A computer of a wireless communication device that connects to an external device by wireless communication,
Determination means for determining whether or not connection with the external device is possible,
When the determination means determines that the connection with the external device is possible, the mode control means for setting the wireless communication device to the highest master mode that operates as the highest master for connection with the external device, as well as,
When in the highest master mode, information for supporting the connection between the external device and at least one other wireless communication device desiring to connect to the external device is sent to the other wireless communication device. Function as an information transmission means to transmit,
The information transmission means becomes the lower-level master in the wireless communication device selected from the lower-level wireless communication devices when in the highest master mode and satisfies the lower-level master selection condition Send information to the effect,
A program characterized by that. A computer of a wireless communication device that connects to an external device by wireless communication,
Determination means for determining whether or not connection with the external device is possible,
When the determination means determines that the connection with the external device is possible, the mode control means for setting the wireless communication device to the highest master mode that operates as the highest master for connection with the external device, as well as,
When in the highest master mode, information for supporting the connection between the external device and at least one other wireless communication device desiring to connect to the external device is sent to the other wireless communication device. Function as an information transmission means to transmit,
The information transmitting means transmits information indicating that wireless communication with the external device is disconnected to the other wireless communication device after the connection with the external device is completed.
A program characterized by that.